I fancy myself a party planner. It has been a most enjoyable hobby of mine for about five years. I’ll admit that my ideas are not always original, but I believe I have a knack for organizing large gatherings and pulling them off without a hitch while adding my own personal flair. My current undertaking is the annual summer party that my hubby and I throw with the financial and logistical assistance of my parents – a joint venture, we call it. This year it’s a Beers and Ears Party. Corn on the Cob and an eclectic array of beers is the main event of this soiree; although more filling foods will be served, including a bread pudding for dessert. Absolutely everyone we all know – family, friends, colleagues and ball-park mommies – will be invited and treated to a buffet of corn “condiments”, if you will.

The idea is to provide an assortment of flavors and textures so guests can “Adorn their Corn.” I will set up a menu board with some suggested corn recipes, but the key to a successful Beers and Ears party is variety and interaction. Everyone should feel that their favorite flavor is represented (beer, corn or otherwise) and everyone MUST peel the husk from their own corn, dress it, wrap it in foil and throw it on the grill.

Example – The Mexican Corn:

• butter or garlic butter
• cheddar or Parmesan cheese
• chives
• cilantro
• chili powder
• salt and pepper to taste
• a squeeze of lime

You could also provide olive oil, lemon, cayenne, any fresh herbs you can get your hands on, store-bought dried seasonings, bacon bits, the possibilities are endless. Throw in a couple of outdoor party games and your night is set.