Q: Hello I am surprising my parents with a 25th wedding anniversary party and I am not sure if I should be making it as a theme party or just a get together with friends and family. I was thinking about making it into a Hawaii theme as this is where their honeymoon was spent. Then does this make it formal or not, do we just decorate the hall, all guest, or as simple as getting a couple of lays (the flowers!!) for MOM & DAD. And how else could we make this an occasion to remember without alcohol?

A: Hi Julie: The beauty of hosting your own function is that you have the power to make it as formal or casual as you'd like it to be. I'd say the easiest way to make a Hawaiian Theme LOOK like a Hawaiian them is to invite guests in proper dress code--that is Hula Skirts or Hawaiian Shirts. Lays for each guest are a really nice touch too. The halls decorating can be a matter of buying some decorations (i.e inflatable palm tree) at a Party Shop. Also, when buying things for this theme, think vibrant colors. It's OK to throw greens with reds, pinks with yellows...that's the point! Food could be authentic Hawaiian Cuisine, or if the guest list has finicky eaters, try "Canadian" cuisine, but add a pig roast. Depending on your budget, you may want to hire a couple hula dancers to entertain the audience during dinner. Most specialty dancers charge per hour. In replacing alcohol, how about using some non-alcoholic punch? Check out our recipe section for punch with some kick, no alcohol necessary. Serve in coconut cups for that special exotic effect! Best of luck with your function!