Party planning tips

The ingredients to a great party are simple; good food, good people, and a host who knows how to plan ahead. These party planning tips will ensure you are ready for your next event, big or small. If you take the time to prepare and organize your party, you might even have a chance of enjoying it yourself. A hostesse’s duties are not done until the last guest leaves but the stress load can be minimized with the right preparation. Your guests will be delighted with the small touches that you add to your event with these suggestions, from the place settings to the food, every detail is important.

Guest list

Depending on the type of party you are having, the guest list will vary in size. The number of guests is not important, the mix of people is. Aside from family functions where you risk hurt feelings if someone is not invited, you have control over who makes the list. There are many things to consider when planning a guest list, including personalities. It is important to invite guests you know will get along. Do not invite co workers who constantly jab at each other, this will only create a tense situation. When guests are uncomfortable they are less likely to talk freely and relax.

Menu planning

Choosing the food for your party will be much easier if you choose a theme. A theme can be anything from a fiesta to a favorite color. Pick foods that compliment your theme. As a rule, parties with more than 10 people should be cocktail style, with free flowing drinks and plenty of finger foods. Add some unique touches including a signature cocktail drink station. Finger foods should be in a different location and need to be replenished often. To end the party on a high note, have coffee and small desserts ready for guests. Planning should begin at least one week in advance. Make a list of everything you will need before shopping. Prepare as much food as possible the night before and the remainder should be completed well before guests arrive.

Decorating

Walking into a nicely decorated house makes guests feel like the party is ready to begin. Be detailed when it comes to embellishments, with unique touches such as themed soaps and towels in the bathroom. Ensure all seating is strategically placed and allows for mingling comfortably. Chairs lining a wall are not conducive to talking but small clusters of chairs placed around the house are. A gorgeous tablescape should be the center of the room. Depending on your theme you can use items such as candles, fruits, or flowers. Begin shopping for some decorations two weeks in advance. The night before the party you can begin setting up the smaller decorations and create a run through of what your table will look like, including food platters. This will give you an opportunity to fix any possible disasters.

Shortcuts

Try to take as many shortcuts as possible. Out of all the party planning tips, this is the most useful. Pick one area where you really shine and do it from scratch, whether its food or decorating. The rest should be done with as many pre-prepared items as possible. If you are not a cook feel free to buy all the food prepared and transfer it into your own dishes to make it unique. Decorating not your thing? Your local craft store will have a great selection of pre-made centerpieces.