Planning a party can be exciting and also a bit overwhelming. The pressure is high to get everything right, especially if it’s a special occasion. The number of expected guests can also make the situation complicated. However, doing your research in advance can make the whole party planning process easier, more convenient, and even fun. Here are several useful tips to plan a great party suitable for all ages:
Send Invites Early
Nothing is more disappointing than a party where most of the guests don’t show up. Some guests need to be notified of the event well in advance. Remember, everyone is busy working and planning things of their own. So if you send a 30th birthday invitations card a week before the party, not everyone will be able to make it. Therefore it’s highly recommended to send invites at least a month in advance. If you know someone to be quite busy, invite them even earlier. Also, don’t forget to email or text reminder invites when the date gets closer.
Make a Checklist
Checklists make things easy for everyone. You should sit down and write up everything that needs to be bought or done for the party. This will enable you to break down big tasks into smaller ones and get them done in a timely manner. If you plan the party without a checklist, you will be more likely to forget things and be stressed out at the last minute.
Decide What to Buy and What to Make at Home
When you have your checklist in hand, you will be able to determine exactly what you need for the party. Before you go on a shopping spree, decide what things you can do at home without buying. For example, do you really want to order a cake, or can someone at home make it? If you are on a budget, you might want to comb through the attic for old party decorations before buying new ones. Likewise, deciding in advance will save time and money.
Choose a Good Menu
More often than not, it’s the food that makes the party great. Therefore, choose the party snacks and treats carefully. Ask your guests in advance if they have any allergies or special dietary requirement like meat-free or gluten-free food. It’s best to have special vegetarian and gluten-free options just in case. Don’t be lazy when it comes to being innovative with the servings. For example, instead of serving devilled eggs, you can serve flavoured devilled eggs. Combine the usual party treats like mini hotdogs and finger sandwiches with unusual options like guacamole and crackers, quinoa salad, shrimp cocktail, and so on. Remember, food served fresh is the best.
Let Guests Dress Casually
It’s fun to have guests wear costumes to go with the theme of the party. However, if you have a large guest list, not everyone will have the time or the commitment to wear a costume. So let your guest be themselves at your party and let them dress casually. It’s a party, so no formal wear is needed. If it’s a kid’s party, warn guests to wear clothes that can tolerate spills.
If you follow the above tips, you will be able to throw a great party. Be calm and patient when it comes to planning the party. It’s supposed to be fun!
