A Guy's Guide To Hosting The Perfect Party

Mark Maynard-Parisi knows how to throw a party. As the Managing Director of Operations at Union Square Events, he's Danny Meyer's right-hand man for the company's catering and events arm.

Click here to see the Guy-Friendly Crash Course to Hosting the Perfect Party Slideshow.

Whether he's in charge of a gala for hundreds of corporate clients or hosting his buddies for a Sunday football game, he uses the same core principles for entertaining. They are key for any guy, like myself, who feels comfortable cooking the meal, but needs a little help rounding out the décor, design, and room setting. These are the kind of tasks I often delegate to my girlfriend because she has a better "eye" for them and, quite frankly, I have no idea what I'm doing in that department.

Enter the direction of Maynard-Parisi. "For me it's about being really thoughtful and organized up front, even if you want it to feel like an ad hoc party," he says, "You want it to be well planned, so everyone can enjoy the party, including yourself the host." With input from his colleagues, he's helped us compile a go-to checklist that guys should consider before they throw their next party.

Click here to see the Guy-Friendly Crash Course to Hosting the Perfect Party Slideshow.