When I was younger and wanted to throw a party, I could tell my mother and the rest was taken care of. All I had to do was show up. Then came college. If I wanted to throw a party, I could create an event on Facebook and invite everyone in my world and tell them what to bring. This is called a “college budget” party! Now that I am in the “real world” there seems to be a much higher level of expectation when throwing a party. Here is a list of things to consider while planning a party:

1. Type of Party: First, you will need to know what type of party that you are going to throw. Is it for a birthday, neighborhood get together, surprise party, holiday event, achievement, new endeavor, dinner party, etc… After you decide what type of party you are having, you will need to pick a date for your event. If you are planning a large party, pick a date that works best for you. If you start asking all your guests, you will get a headache trying to find a date that works for everyone. If you are having a small party, it might be a good idea to see what dates work best with everyone.

2. Budget: This is the most important thing you will need to decide. I think it’s very important that no matter how big or small the budget is, you have a budget in mind and stick with it. Don’t be afraid to ask a friend if you don’t have a certain item. You would be surprised how many people have made the same mistake and ended up with 100 extra plates for a graduation party. Most people would be happy to part with these items that have been sitting in a pantry forever.

3. Invitations: If you want to save money, you can always send out an e-vite online, create a facebook event, or use word of mouth. There are many websites where you can create your own invitation without having to go to a store. Also, don’t forget to indicate on the invitation if children are welcome. If so, make sure to have something to entertain them at the party.

4. Decorations/Food: Be fun and creative with decorations. This does not mean it has to be too expensive, but there are many creative ways you can decorate. Some of the most popular things people use to decorate are: balloons, streamers, candles, flowers, or pick a single theme (Mexican, 50’s, holiday, etc). You can save money on food by making your own fruit/vegetable tray instead of buying one that is already made. It is very important that you get a final count of guests attending your party at this point so you will know how much food to prepare. Remember, it’s always better to have too much food, than not enough.

5. Entertainment: It’s always good to have upbeat music playing to help people loosen up and feel more comfortable. Try to think of a couple of fun games that involve everyone (Catch-phrase, Apples to Apples, Taboo). Sometimes just good conversation at your party is enough.

Always remember to thank your guests for coming! Then comes the most dreaded part of throwing a party — having to clean up the mess! If you have a spouse that can help, you should be able to tackle this problem in no time. Then, you can kick back and relax after a fun evening.

Author Bio: Lindsay Crawford is a writer for Wholesale Event Solutions, a company offering discount wedding and event planning supplies including ostrich feathers, eiffel tower vases, bulk flameless candles, and much more!

Category: Entertainment
Keywords: weddings, relationships, parties, wedding planning, event planning, party planning, centerpieces