Pro Party Planner Keren Precel's Go-To Tips and Tricks

With plenty to celebrate this season, Keren Precel of professional event planning firm Keren Precel Events dishes her tips and tricks for the ultimate East End event.

What stands out in a Keren Precel party? Maya Angelou once said, “People will forget what you do; they’ll forget what you said, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel.” A Keren Precel party stands out in its meticulous attention to every facet of guests’ experience—from arrival to departure and even well after. We pride ourselves on adapting and personalizing each guest’s experience on the fly. Whether adjusting the menu to suit the crowd’s palate better, suggesting a different cocktail to the adventurous guest or facilitating introductions between like-minded attendees, every action is taken to make each person feel special. It’s not about the grandeur of the setting or the quality of the entertainment but the thoughtful, individualized experiences that make each guest feel valued and wonderfully surprised.

How would you describe your aesthetic? My aesthetic can best be described as a blend of classic elegance and contemporary edge. I adore mixing timeless elements with unexpected, modern twists to create spaces and experiences that feel both familiar and fresh. Regarding palette, I gravitate toward soft, muted tones punctuated with bold accents to create depth and interest.

What made you get into the event industry? Growing up, I immersed myself in every design facet I could—from fashion and art history to graphic and interior design. My career trajectory has always been rooted in the service industry. I began as a server in my favorite local bar, moving through roles including front-of-house in restaurants, a stint as a flight attendant and, later, roles that edged closer to my passion for design—an in-house creative for a large catering company and an account manager at various design and event agencies. I founded a design-driven event planning rm where I could channel my passion and expertise into crafting bespoke, unforgettable experiences.

What do you see for parties this summer in the Hamptons? On the one hand, there’s a move toward the bespoke and extraordinary—each event offers a unique and custom experience explicitly tailored to the tastes and interests of the guests (think personalized themes, custom cocktails and interactive experiences). On the other hand, there’s the resurgence of laid-back, relaxed and luxurious gatherings. It’s about casual backyard barbecues, spontaneous beach bonres and simple sunset gatherings. is trend celebrates the joy of togetherness without the frills, proving that the best memories are sometimes made from being together in a beautiful setting.

What makes a party successful in your eyes? A party’s success hinges on its ability to evoke emotion and create connections. It’s about crafting an atmosphere that captivates and a setting that inspires. Beyond the visual spectacle, attention to the finer details—like the ambient lighting, the quality of the music and the culinary offerings—genuinely enriches the guests’ experience. Moreover, a successful party leaves a lasting impression on attendees’ memories long after the last guest departs.

What are your favorite spots in the Hamptons? My absolute favorite spot is Moby’s—something about its casual yet authentic atmosphere, the effortless service and the delicious food resonates with me. Bostwick’s is unbeatable for the best lobster roll in town, while Armin & Judy in Bridge is my go-to for breakfast. When dining out with friends or enjoying a night out, the Bell & Anchor and Lulu in Sag Harbor and Highway in East Hampton are my top choices. When renting a venue is necessary, we prefer locations like the Madoo Conservancy, with its lush gardens and serene atmosphere. We love working in Topping Rose House and the Parrish Art Museum, which offers a grand setting surrounded by contemporary art, making it a truly spectacular choice.

“A Party success hinges on its ability to evoke emotion and create connections. It’s about craing an atmosphere that captivates and a setting that inspires.” –KEREN PRECEL

Keren Precel embeds her detail and creativity into each of her parties.

What advice would you give someone trying to enter the industry? My foremost advice is to embrace a strong work ethic and an unwavering commitment to your goals. Aim for the stars—set high aspirations and strive to achieve them—and stay grounded. You need to be prepared to work harder than anyone else, often behind the scenes, where the glamour fades into long hours and meticulous planning. Stay curious, continually educate yourself, and constantly seek ways to innovate and improve. e rewards, while hard-earned, are incredibly fulfilling and worth every ounce of effort you put in.