CINDY ELLEN RUSSELL / CRUSSELL@STARBULLETIN.COM FLORA AND FOOD: Karen Miyano, also known as "The Reluctant Caterer," uses plants from her botanical garden to embellish the presentation of the food she cooks. Guava Glazed Lamb with Snow Peas on tri colored sweet potato swirls begs to be eaten in her outdoor dining area. CLICK FOR LARGE

Extreme parties

Splurging on the spectacular

» Three party planners offer a sampling of what's available on Oahu

PARTIES ARE so much more fun when you don't have to do all of the work! The good news is that there are talented people out there who can plan the menu, prepare the food and help make your event -- whether it's a large affair or just a few special friends at your home -- everything you hoped it would be.

Hiring a private chef, event planning company or caterer also gives you time to properly visit with your guests instead of worrying about the soufflé falling, and fulfill the most important role of all: Host.

Prices per person vary dramatically, depending on your budget and what you plan to serve. But remember that you get shopping, planning and cleanup services in addition to an event with a spread you probably could not prepare or buy. And while contracting with a nearby restaurant to supply the grinds may be a good solution on many occasions, refining individual details with a private chef adds a level of specialty that you and your guests won't forget.

GOURMET COOKING HAWAII COOKING WITH A CELEBRITY CHEF: Gourmet Cooking Hawaii plans parties that invite guests to help prepare the entree with celebrity chefs such as Chef Mavro. From left to right: Executive Chef Kevin Chong, guest Shannon Vrechek, Chef Mavro, guest Reginald Perry. CLICK FOR LARGE

RICHARD WALKER / RWALKER@STARBULLETIN.COM YOUR OWN PRIVATE CHEF: One of two different preparations of Roasted Pesto Chicken served over sticky coconut rice with ripe mango tamarind sauce, made by Peter Foster, chef/owner of Memoirs, a private catering service. CLICK FOR LARGE