So you say you’re planning a big get-together and you want to be the host with the most? It doesn’t matter if it’s for a birthday, class reunion, or work function, here are four of the most important steps to follow if you want to throw a party that people won’t soon forget.
- Pick the perfect venue
Location, location, location. That’s the name of the game. Many an event-planner has seen their hard work undone by underestimating the importance of nailing down that perfect venue. If you don’t want the same fate to befall you, start scouting early and make sure you know your needs.
What kind of party are you throwing? Big or small? Casual or professional? Quiet or loud? Find a venue that suits your shindig, has all the facilities and accommodations you require, and is easy for your guests to find with little fuss or travel.
- Don’t skimp on snacks
No one is having any fun on an empty stomach, so make sure your partygoers have plenty of fuel to keep them stuffed and smiling. Hiring professional caterers will save you a lot of time and stress, but you can take a more hands-on approach if you like.
Just remember, not everyone likes the same things you like. It’s always best to offer lots of options both savory and sweet. Most importantly, make sure not to forget about any attendees who are vegan/vegetarian or have health or allergy related dietary restrictions.
- Hire live entertainment
Plugging your smartphone into the speaker system and putting Spotify on shuffle might seem like an easy low-effort option. But low effort means low memorability. If you really want to throw a party that’s sure to be remembered, don’t cut corners when it comes to entertainment.
Whether your guests like music or magic, comedy or cabaret, finding the right performers is as easy as Googling “dancers for hire near me.” No matter what your location or budget, the internet is your best friend when it comes to finding anything and everything you’re looking for.
- Cater to multiple tastes
We’re not just talking about the menu here (although this goes for that, too). Some partiers will want to boogie on the dancefloor all night long, while others need a quiet place to sit down and enjoy a quiet conversation, and others still prefer games or other activities.
Throwing a truly unforgettable party requires keeping a lot of different people occupied and sending everyone home satisfied. If you want to be a great host, put your guests’ needs first. Depending on how many you’ve invited, those needs can be surprisingly diverse.