While it’s really nice to throw parties for birthdays, anniversaries, and family reunions, it’s totally okay to plan a party just because you want to. Parties and celebrations are perfect because they add spice to everyday life. There’s nothing quite like getting together to enjoy good food, fun, and good company. Whether you’re used to throwing parties or looking for ways to make your first gathering amazing, there are plenty of ways to make the event extremely memorable and fun. Consider some of the following tips to get started.
1. Set a Theme
Who doesn’t love a fun theme? Whether you’re hosting a costume party or a simple barbeque, it can be a lot of fun to have a theme. If it’s a simple summer soiree, create lovely centerpieces with items that represent the summer months. Floating candles, ornate floral arrangements, and interesting photobooth backdrops can make the party look and feel inviting. So many people love to post photos on social media platforms that share their experiences. Oftentimes, a good visual aesthetic can make a party even more memorable and fun.
2. Plan the Flow of the Night
The flow of the night really matters. Even though you don’t want to become neurotic regarding the details of the night, there’s nothing worse than a lot of lag time at a party. If people want to hang around and talk after the festivities are over, that’s different. That’s actually ideal. However, you don’t want tons of people leaving in the middle of the party. To avoid this, make sure the entertainment acts are lined up and ready to go. As soon as one activity is over, it’s time for the next one. Activities don’t necessarily need to be a ton of games. Hire entertaining acts like a stilt-walker, an acrobat, and a juggler. Have different stations available where people can enjoy features like a giant chocolate fondue fountain, a candy bar, and interactive games. Musical acts, guessing games, and fun prizes are great options. If you have a lot of guests who love to dance, make sure there’s a dance floor in the middle of the room. That’s always a great way to connect people to each other and fun.
3. Develop a Team for Execution
If you’re someone who works well behind the scenes, place a person in charge of managing the guests on the day of the party. Set someone in charge of making sure the party flows. A DJ can fill in gaps with great music to engage the crowd as well. If you’re not the most organized person, it’s helpful to find someone who can monitor the time, make sure the vendors get paid, and that the Brooklyn party rentals or wherever you rented them from are returned. Never forget about the clean-up crew. The last thing you want is to get stuck cleaning up the venue by yourself. Even if the venue is your home, cleaning up after a party can be exhausting. By placing people in charge of food, clean-up, and other tasks, you’ll free yourself to be more present for the party.
4. Prioritize Excellent Food
When the food tastes good, it serves as another incentive for people to stay longer. Good food won’t make a party amazing. It can’t be the sole component you rely on in order to make a party great. However, when your guests are already having a great time, great food just serves as the cherry on top. You get to decide what you’d like to have on the menu since you’re throwing the party. However, it’s always helpful to be mindful of dietary restrictions. If you have a number of guests who are known vegans, don’t leave them out. Instead, provide variety by having options for vegans, vegetarians, and meat-eaters. If you don’t want to provide a ton of entrees, it’s okay to provide lots of appetizers. A large taco bar will always be a hit as well.
One of the best ways to make sure your party goes seamlessly involves planning ahead. This is especially true when you’re looking to reserve locations, book caterers, and send out invitations. When you plan ahead, you’re able to prepare for any potential hiccups and enjoy a great time. If you’re not used to throwing parties, it’s okay to be nervous. Take your time, execute your steps, and know that it’s a party. You don’t have to take things seriously. The whole point is to have a good time.
