As someone who has hosted (as well as attended) hundreds of parties, I have it pretty dialed in when it comes to throwing a good bash.
I have hosted or been to parties for football games, celebrations, musical showcases of local musicans and bands, themes such as the Oscars and St. Patrick’s Day and just-for-the-heck-of-it parties.
Still, it’s always good to hear the thoughts of a professional expert. Renee Patrone Rhinehart actually does party hosting for a living with her Party Host Helpers, a national resource that provides extra hands and expertise for parties big and small. She shared her Top 5 party hosting tips with PubClub.com. Even allowing for the fact that Rhinehart does gets a bit carried away a bit with the explanation points, she offers good advice for party hosts.
1.) Keep it simple when it comes to drinks! I like to serve beer, wine, hard selters and then one signature cocktail that ties nicely into the theme/occasion of your party! For example on New Years Eve I serve a champagne cocktail and for spring/Easter gatherings I serve a berry bramble or a Peeps martini! So delicious and your guests will be in aw!
2.) When it comes to décor and theme – run to Pinterest and then run to the dollar store! If you are even the least bit crafty, you can come up with some super easy décor and food ideas. Even great favors!
3.) Include something interactive to engage your guests! Anything from a DIY mimosa bar to a Hot chocolate bar works. I recently had a waffle cart at a galentines day party I threw and it was a huge hit! My guests could choose their toppings for the waffle and they had fun indulging in it!
4.) Set the music mood! If you’re throwing a party and you want a killer playlist ask your guests on the invite to send you their favorite party songs. This is great especially around the holidays. Your guests will feel special when they hear their song being played AND it will make your dance floor fill up fast!
5.) Hire Party Host Helpers.
More Party Hosting Tips
Good stuff Renee. To these, I have a few tips myself based on my extensive party hosting and party attending experiences:
• Have plenty of ice. Ask guests to bring more ice. You can never have too much ice at a good party.
• Invite your neighbors. That way, even if they don’t attend, they are aware of the party and usually appreciate the invitation. By doing this, they are less likely to call the cops on you. Unless they are a really crabby neighbor, of course.
• Have a plan in case the cops do come. Rehearse speaking points so you’ll come across in control, such as “yes, we will turn down the music, yes we notified the neighbors, what is the specific complaint,” etc.
• Have a backup plan if you run out of booze. Does your liquor store deliver? Will friends pitch in and make a liquor/beer run for you? Have a plan because in PubClub.com’s world when you run out of booze is the end of the party.
• Keep an eye out for moochers and party crashers.
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