So you want to throw a party. Well, join the club! Everyone is attracted to the idea of hosting an event that brings people together for a good time. Anyone with space and resources has a chance to do so. However, the ability to throw a really good party requires a little bit of thought beforehand. Here are some tips for those considering throwing a shindig of their own:
1. Think through your guest list. We love to get together with those we love, but not everyone we love loves each other. It would perhaps not be a good idea to invite your best friend's four ex-girlfriends, knowing that none of them like each other, or him for that matter. When party planning, you want to have a healthy mix of people that will be able to enjoy each other's company without starting drama.
2. Once you have a guest list, think through the timing. If your friends are all college students, a Thirsty Thursday gala might be just the ticket. However, if you are the only one still living like a frat boy, you might want to take into account the schedule of your potential guests during the party planning process. You need to make sure you're scheduling the party for a time where most of your invitees will be available and interested in coming out.
3. Pick a theme. I know, I know, I can hear your complaints now, but hold them off for just a second. I am not saying that every time you want to throw a party that you'll need to decorate the house from top to bottom and require costumes. However, people are more likely to come out if there is a call to action. Host an ugly sweater party, a potluck or a party for watching the season finale of your favorite show. It doesn't really matter what the theme is itself, but having one is going to motivate your guests by giving them something to get excited about. Besides, half the fun of party planning actually planning something.
4. Get enough refreshments. You don't need to spend an arm and a leg, and if you notify your guests beforehand, you can even take up a collection for things like beer and booze. However, you are more likely to get people to come, and keep them there, if there are tasty beverages to sip on. Underage? Well, don't risk getting busted. Make a delicious bowl of punch. It may seem lame right now, but going to jail for underage drinking is even more lame. Party planning requires responsibility
5. Take lots of pictures. If you have visual memories that people can revisit from your last successful party, your future parties will have similar success, if not more. The caveat to this is knowing how to distribute these visual memories. Social networking websites like Facebook and Myspace may provide a very public place to reminisce about good times, but if your friends are building careers, you may want to save the more scandalous material for private viewing. People who are good at party planning must also be good at keeping party secrets.