Throwing a party is like putting on a show, and we all want a standing ovation, not a comedy of errors. There are just so many things you need to consider to execute a successful party, and knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do! I may have gone a tad overboard in some of my past party exploits (see exhibits here, here, and here, for starters!), so trust me that I have come across nearly all the party mistakes you can make! Doesn’t matter whether you are hosting a birthday bash, cozy dinner party, or even just a group of friends for game night – the devil’s in the details, and missing them can quickly turn your soirée sour. Get my checklist for avoiding the party planning pitfalls, ensuring your next shindig is nothing short of spectacular.
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BUDGET? WHAT BUDGET?
First up, the all-too-common slip of forgetting to set a budget. (Guilty!) It’s sooo much fun to dive headfirst into planning, but without a financial roadmap, it gets really easy to find yourself overspending. Before you start picking out those cute decorations in the Target aisles or gourmet appetizers, crunch some numbers. Think about your guest list size, munchies, drinks, tunes, and those extra touches that make a party pop. A budget isn’t a buzzkill; it’s your blueprint to party planning peace of mind.
THE LATE INVITATION TANGO
Timing is everything, especially when it comes to invitations. Waiting too long to send them out is like throwing a surprise party for yourself – nobody shows up. Aim to dispatch those invites at least two weeks ahead of time, giving your guests a fair chance to clear their calendars. Planning something grand? A save-the-date sent five to six weeks in advance with a follow-up invite is your golden ticket. You can design some really fun invitations on free sites like Canva and Picmonkey, and of course Evite. You can also get plenty of themed invites on Amazon.
A MENU FOR THE MASSES
Chips and Dip? Cheeseboards? Charcuterie trays made from fruits, meats, even desserts? (Or tacos . . . .mmmmm, tacos…. 🌮) In today’s culinary landscape, assuming everyone’s cool with a meat and potatoes spread is a recipe for disaster. Dietary restrictions and preferences are as varied as your Spotify playlists. When sending out invitations, make it easy for guests to share their dietary dos and don’ts. That way, you can cater a menu that’s as inclusive as it is delicious, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
THE HUNGER GAMES: PARTY EDITION
A party without enough food or drinks? That’s a plot twist nobody enjoys. Avoid the horror of empty platters and parched guests by planning your provisions prudently. Overestimate rather than underestimate – having leftovers is a far better tale to tell than running out. And remember, offering a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages keeps everyone in high spirits. I have several yummy mocktail recipes over on the ‘gram! Plus, a good spritz is a highlight; who’s going to say no to that?
MINDING YOUR MANNERS
Every party has its unwritten rules, and etiquette is the secret sauce for a smooth-running event. Whether it’s a kiddo’s birthday bash or an elegant adult affair, knowing and respecting these social niceties ensures everyone’s on the same page. Brush up on your party protocol to host a gathering that’s as respectful as it is raucous.
THE GREAT RENTAL RIDDLE
Lastly, don’t let the logistical nightmare of not enough chairs, tables, or entertainment dampen your party spirit. Assess your needs and rent accordingly. My family hosted a 50th wedding anniversary for my aunt and uncle last year, and we made sure to rent the tent, tables, chairs, even linens to accommodate what turned out to be a full family gathering at our family farm. And if you’re catering to a crowd that spans generations, consider entertainment that crosses age barriers. Inflatables aren’t just for kids; when you rent the right type of inflatable they’re a surefire way to inject some fun and keep guests bouncing with joy.
REMEMBER, THE BEST PARTIES ARE THE ONES WHERE MISTAKES ARE JUST PART OF THE BEHIND-THE-SCENES MAGIC. WITH A BIT OF PLANNING PROWESS AND A DASH OF CREATIVITY, YOU’RE WELL ON YOUR WAY TO HOSTING A BASH THAT’LL BE REMEMBERED FOR ALL THE RIGHT REASONS. HERE’S TO YOUR NEXT PARTY BEING AS FLAWLESS AS YOUR TASTE IN MOVIES! 🥂
DOWNLOAD YOUR OWN PARTY PLANNING CHECKLIST HERE!
