19 Sep THE TOP FOUR SECRETS TO THE PERFECT PARTY
Whether you’re throwing a party for family, friends, or getting all the kids in the neighborhood together – here are a few secrets that will guide you to success!
Make it Easy
To set guests at ease make it super easy for them to find their way to the main event. Consider balloons on the mailbox or a sign on the door saying the party is around back — whatever works best for your party to let everyone know where to enter. If the event is in your home and you have a no-shoe policy go ahead and put that on the sign as well! It’ll save you from being the awkward shoe police later. Apart from clear instructions, food nearby and a drink in hand help to make people comfortable so make sure the refreshments are clearly visible from the entrance.
Focus on Entering and Exiting
No, we’re not suggesting you make a break for it if things go south. What people remember most about parties and events are what happens when they arrive, the high point of the event, and when they leave. That being said, make sure you’re available close to the entrance to welcome your guests and orient them with where things are. By giving guests an introduction to the event they are aware of their options and will feel more comfortable since they won’t have to open every door searching for the bathroom. Your high point will depend on the party you’re throwing – singing happy birthday and cutting the cake, getting everyone together to bust open a pinata, or giving a heartfelt toast – all are good! There’s no wrong answer to the highlight of the party, make it your own! As for exiting, thank guests where possible and send them on their way with a fun little party favor.
Plan in Transitions
While some free spirits claim to be anti-structure, having a few milestones planned out for your party will help avoid awkward standstill situations. If you plan appetizers in one location, dinner and dessert in a different area, and then games or something fun in yet another location, people will be more likely to stay longer. For those who like to leave after the first hour, or after dinner, it will also create natural times for people to leave as they feel comfortable.
Get Everyone Together
Chances are good that you’ll throw a party at some point where not everyone knows each other. Apart from playing hostess and making introductions, having a group activity can help your guests bond. Here are a few ideas for your next get together:
Bonding Food. Sometimes conversations can feel forced at a party where you don’t know everyone. Providing an activity that bonds your guests together and doesn’t necessarily require talking can make things more comfortable. Think roasting s’mores or eating fondue – something communal, low-key, and delicious.
Play Games. This doesn’t have to mean board games around a table. It can be something as simple as challenging everyone to find the one person who just moved to the neighborhood, the trinket you hid in the backyard, or to track down the person who just got back from backpacking through Europe. This gets everyone on board to engage in conversation and have something to break the ice. You can, of course, also have more structured games available as well.
Props & Favors. Sure, you can have a photo booth with props if that works into your theme but also consider having a guest book, a sign on the bathroom door, or party poppers. Favors aren’t just for kids’ parties! Guests often rate and discuss an event right after they leave. If you want them to remember leaving on a high note consider passing out favors as guests leave. You can also provide them in a bowl by the exit for guests to grab on their own. This will encourage them to focus on the fun they had!
At the end of the day, the best advice for throwing a party is to relax. Prepare as much as you can and then make sure you enjoy it too!