“PLANNING A PARTY”

Do you enjoy throwing and planning parties? Not only is throwing a party fun, but it can also be a learning experience. You can improve the following skills, which are budgeting, food preparation, socialization and organization. There are many different types of parties that can be planned like a Halloween party, 4th of July party, New Year’s Eve party or a simple barbecue. Anybody can throw a party. Being the host of a party can be a lot of fun. Even if you have never planned or thrown a party, all that you need to do is follow these simple steps. However, planning a party can be a lot of hard work, so don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed. Here are some steps to ensure that your party goes well.

DIRECTIONS:

Steps: Decide on a date and time to throw your party. Decide whether the party will be an indoor or outdoor party. If it is an outdoor party, be sure to have either a rain date or a backup plan. Also decide whether the party will be casual or formal. Depending on what type of party you are planning, the party may be an afternoon or night party. The time of an afternoon party usually ranges from about 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. An evening party usually ranges from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. This all depends on what type of party that you are planning and the amount of money that you are willing to spend.

Decide on a theme for the party (optional). Some examples of different theme parties are a costume party, holiday theme or a luau. Also decide whether you will play party games and hand out prizes.

Make a party budget. Depending on the number of people attending, prices vary but usually range from $75 to $250. Then sit down and make a list of all needed items (invitations, thank you cards, decorations, food, drinks, food utensils, camera).

Buy invitations and send them out. Send invitations out one month before your party.

Remember to put a specific date on the invitation for people to respond by. Also include directions card, what to bring (such as food, costume, etc.).

Divide responses into two piles people who are attending and people who will not be attending. Call any people who did not respond to your invitation one week before the party to see if they plan to attend.

Count how many people will be attending party. This will allow you to estimate how much food to buy and cook.

Make a list of items to purchase so you stay on your party budget.

Go shopping for food, decorations and utensils. Make a mental or written schedule of when to serve what, games, photos, etc.

Decorate for the party. Prepare a little early so that you are relaxed from the start. Delegate duties to family, close friends (like cooking, cleanup, bartending, etc.).

Prepare food-snack items, beverages, ice, cake, and main course.

Set up the tables. Ensure that you have enough plates, napkins, cups, utensils, chairs, etc.

Relax and enjoy the party. Remember to take plenty of pictures so that you will remember your day. Take a group photo of all guests.

Send out thank you notes if necessary; include a copy of the group photo as a bonus.

Planning a party is a great way to interact and work as a team. By following these simple steps, your party is sure to be fun and a success. So relax and have a great time. Don’t forget to ask for help in planning and enjoying your party.