Big Birthdays: The Party Planner Celebrates Life's Milestones

A party planner to the stars, Tutera presents a semi–how-to entertaining book with guides for celebrating 10 landmark birthdays: the first, fifth, 16th, 25th, 30th, 40th, 50th, 65th, 75th and 100th. Each chapter includes notes and ideas in a variety of categories, which change from chapter to chapter but generally include such entries as "the look," "the texture," "the taste" and "the sound." The 200 color photographs are lush and appealing; the prose is tinged with fabulousness. Many suggestions are fleshed out with step-by-step instructions (e.g., a personalized baby blanket and whitewashed farm tables), but most readers would be better served with more practical information, such as recipes for more recommended menu items—of which there aren't many in this volume. However, Tutera (The Party Planner ; A Passion for Parties ) includes many recipes for cocktails, such as Lunar Lemon Quencher and Blazing Red Martini, and they're fun, inventive and easy to follow. Even if several—or most—aspects of these parties are over-the-top and often unrealistic, the book is gorgeous and inspiring for anyone hoping to throw unforgettable bashes. (Apr.)