The Oscars are almost here, and if your viewing party consists of microwaved popcorn and sweatpants, honey, we need to talk. You don’t just watch Hollywood’s biggest night—you celebrate it. And who better to help us roll out the red carpet than Steve Kemble, America’s Sassiest Lifestyle Guru?
Steve has planned events for everyone from Oprah to the Presidents (yes, plural), and if anyone knows how to throw a fabulous, full-glam soirée, it’s him. So, whether you’re hosting a black-tie extravaganza or just want a few fun ideas to make your Oscars night more than a snooze-fest, we’ve got you covered.
Oh, and once the last award is handed out, don’t miss Steve’s post-Oscars fashion recap on WFAA’s Daybreak at 6:30 a.m. and Fox4’s The Ten at 10 a.m., where he’ll be serving up the best and worst dressed with his signature wit and style.
But first, we sat down with Steve to get his expert tips on throwing a fabulous, over-the-top Oscar party.
If we want our living room to scream Hollywood glamour on an everyday budget, what’s the one décor trick that gives the biggest bang for the buck? (And how much glitter is too much? Trick question—there’s never too much!)
Darling, glitter is essential, not optional. To create instant Hollywood glamour, stick to gold, black, and red. Roll out a red carpet (yes, even if it’s from Amazon). Drape gold and black curtains for an elegant backdrop. Add faux Oscar statues, director clapboards, and framed classic movie posters. Use gold-rimmed plates and crystal stemware—because paper cups? Not on my watch. And for drama, ostrich feather centerpieces in tall vases. Instant Old Hollywood opulence.
What’s the ultimate over-the-top entrance for guests—are we talking red carpet, flashbulb moment, or something even grander?
This is the Oscars, not a casual Netflix night, so your guests need to make an entrance. Roll out that red carpet. Frame the doorway with gold and black drapery. Set up spotlights to mimic the glow of a real movie premiere. And, for the ultimate A-list moment, hire an emcee to announce guests as they arrive. If you really want to go for it, bring in a “paparazzi” crew to snap photos, and hang a marquee sign that says something fabulous, like “Live from [Your House], It’s Oscar Night!”
Every A-lister needs a signature cocktail—what’s the champagne-soaked, gold-rimmed drink we should be serving to make our guests feel like Oscar winners?
A Golden Martini with edible gold glitter is a must—because sparkle belongs in the glass and on your cheekbones. A Red Carpet Fizz (champagne with a raspberry or strawberry garnish) adds that classic Hollywood touch. And for those skipping the booze, a sparkling lemonade with a gold sugar rim keeps things elegant and festive.
Popcorn is cute and all, but we need a show-stopping, star-worthy snack spread—what’s an easy yet extra way to elevate movie night munchies?
Forget basic popcorn—this is an event. Caviar-topped deviled eggs (because EGGS are everything right now), mini crab cornbread muffins, and sausage-stuffed fried olives bring the fancy without the fuss. Parmesan pastry puffs and pimento cheese canapés add a little Southern charm. And for something sweet? Champagne Chantilly shooters—layers of champagne-infused cream and fresh berries in mini glasses. If you’re a true theme queen, match your menu to a nominated film. Conclave? Serve Italian wine and antipasti.
The Oscars can be long (hello, bathroom break), so how do we keep the vibe fun and fabulous all night? Any Steve Kemble-approved games or interactive fun?
This is not the time for guests to scroll Instagram. Keep things lively with a “Thank the Academy” speech contest where guests perform their own dramatic or hilarious acceptance speech (bonus points for fake tears). Encourage costumes and host a Dress as Your Favorite Nominee contest. And of course, Red Carpet Fashion Ratings—because if we’re judging the stars, we might as well do it properly.
We’re making an Oscar ballot, but let’s spice it up—what’s the most dramatic way to reveal winners and crown our in-home award champs?
Announce your winners live on social media—because what’s the point of winning if no one knows? Have winners give a mini speech (over-the-top tears encouraged), and create a party hashtag so everyone can follow along. Make it feel big, bold, and full of drama—just like Hollywood itself.
Full black-tie glam or “Hollywood Slumber Party” chic? (And if we’re dressing up, what’s the easiest way to look like a million bucks without spending it?)
Black tie, all the way. Tuxedos, gowns, sequins, bow ties—the more fabulous, the better. Make it clear on the invite: “Dress to impress, because life’s too short to look basic.” If you need an instant glow-up without breaking the bank, statement accessories—a bold lip, a great earring, or a little sparkle—go a long way.
We need a playlist that sets the tone—what are the must-have songs to play before, during, and after the show to keep the energy high?
Start with red carpet classics like 2001: A Space Odyssey and Hooray for Hollywood. Transition into pre-show favorites like Shallow, Skyfall, and Unchained Melody. And when it’s time to party, turn up Lose Yourself, Footloose, and Bohemian Rhapsody. Questlove’s 2021 Oscars playlist on Spotify is also a fabulous go-to.
What’s one Oscar party faux pas that people make every year—and how do we avoid it so our party stays flawless?
Boring parties are a crime. Keep guests engaged with Oscar Bingo—squares like “winner thanks their pet,” “presenter struggles to open envelope,” or “acceptance speech interrupted by music” will keep everyone locked in. Also, test your sound and visuals before the show starts. A buffering screen during Best Picture? Unacceptable.
If Steve Kemble were throwing this party (or showing up as our VIP guest!), what’s the one thing that would make it legendary?
A Hollywood-level production. A red carpet entrance, flashing lights, and a photo area with fun props. A sleek black-and-white color scheme with touches of gold. Live performances of famous movie soundtracks. Hollywood lookalikes mingling with guests. Signature cocktails, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, and chic lounge seating. If we’re doing this, we’re doing it right.
And that’s how you throw an Oscars party worthy of a standing ovation! A huge thank you to Steve for sharing his party-planning genius! Don’t forget to catch him the morning after the Oscars on WFAA’s Daybreak at 6:30 a.m. and Fox4’s The Ten at 10 a.m., where he’ll be dishing out Best and Worst Dressed realness like only he can. Until then, grab your gold glitter and start planning—Hollywood isn’t ready for your level of fabulous.
