Planning a party 101
Getting Started
So You've Decided to Throw a Party
Your loved one is celebrating a birthday, your best friend is getting married, your co-worker is having a baby, or your parents have reached a milestone anniversary. Whatever the reason, you have decided to throw a party. Your initial reaction is excitement. A house filled to the brim with friends eating, drinking and making merry, but then reality hits. You have to plan, organize, and and host this function and whether there are five or fifty-five guests the thought of all the work involved can be overwhelming and may make you regret opening your mouth and saying " we can have the party at my house". Trying to live up to the standards of Martha and pulling off the perfect function can seem impossible at times, and a very pricey undertaking, but don't worry, putting together a memorable party within a reasonable budget is a goal easier to reach then you would expect.
Once you have decided to host a party, pull out your personal organizer and set the date. Weekends are usually best as most people are able to attend, but keep in mind during peak party seasons, such as Christmas, you may have to plan on holding your party well before, or even after the holiday so as many guest as possible can attend. Keep in mind your work schedule. If you can plan it around your holidays, or take a couple of days off before the party date, you will have more time to dedicate to party matters. A good party doesn't have to be expensive but it does take time to prepare so you can make your party the event of the season.
If you can, recruit some friends or family members to help you host. Fellow bridesmaids in a wedding party can be a great help in throwing a shower for the bride, or co-workers may be interested in pitching in for a fellow employee's baby shower. Talk to siblings or cousins when planning parties for parents, and if you are just throwing a gathering at your home start preparing your 'honey-do' list for your significant other. Some guys are great at party planning, but for the most part they are not genetically programmed to think about decor and party favours. They can however, in most cases, follow direction and do any heavy work or running errands.
Think about a theme for your party. Themes make decorating, setting menus, and deciding on drink selections all a little easier. A theme allows you to be in a "zone" for your party so you can narrow down the types of food to serve and the variety of beverages available at the bar. You will find that this will lessen your overall prep-time and make you life much easier.
Always remember, you want to enjoy your party along with your guests. You don't want to spend your time stressing about details and complaining about everything that has gone wrong. You want your guests to remember their wonderful host and your fabulous event.