3...2...1...HELP!

In exactly three months, GILT will be on bookstore shelves, ready to face the world.  I think I'm similar to all writers in feeling that this is a dream come true.  An event similar to a birth or a wedding.

Which calls for a party.

I love parties.  I spent nine months planning my own wedding -- not because I was bridezilla, but because I couldn't wait to celebrate with my husband, my family, and my friends.  I feel the same way with this launch.

The problem is, I haven't been to many launch parties.  In fact, I can count them on one finger.  So I'm  not entirely sure what to expect, what's expected of me, or what to plan.  I'm full of questions:

Do I have it on a weeknight?  A weekend afternoon?
Do I serve food?  Nibbles?  Cake?
Should I provide wine?  Sparkling cider?   Both?
Do I want to do a reading?  Give a speech?
Do I have door prizes?  Gift baskets?  Tons of swag?
Should my party have a theme?  Should I wear a costume? (please say no.)
Should we have decorations?
Do I have an after party?
Where?
Do I provide food there?  Themed food?  Open bar?
Invitations!  E-vites? Postcards?  Do I send them to local schools and libraries?


As you can see, I need your help.  Yes, yours.  Give me tips and anecdotes!  Ideas from launches you've attended or planned.  If you were me, what would your dream launch party look like?