Hey there! Are you gearing up for an upcoming party or perhaps in the midst of planning one? Wondering what you need to make your party an absolute hit? Well, fret not! I'm here to lend a helping hand and provide you with some invaluable insights that will guarantee a successful and memorable event.
Essential Party Supplies
Let's dive right in with the must-have party supplies that should be on your checklist:
- Cups for drinks
- Drinks - both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options
- Small plates for snacks (optional)
- An assortment of simple snack foods like nuts and chips
- Name tags - you'd be surprised by how important these are!
- Handwritten welcome and information signs to guide your guests
- A trusty black marker for labeling cups and name tags
Sending Out Invitations
Whether your party is formal or informal, sending out invitations is a crucial step. Invitations help set the tone for the event and provide essential details for your guests. Be sure to include the date, time, and location of your party.
Now here's a pro tip: Don't forget to ask for RSVPs! Trust me, collecting RSVPs can significantly boost your party's attendance rate. There are some fantastic free party RSVP platforms available that can streamline this process for you.
Picking the Perfect Venue
Choosing the ideal venue for your party is key to creating the right atmosphere. Consider a location that suits the type of event you have in mind and can comfortably accommodate your guest list.
While it's tempting to ensure everyone has a seat, I personally believe that standing and mingling fosters better connections and conversations. So, don't stress too much about seating arrangements.
If you're looking for a warm and inviting setting, hosting your party at home is always a fantastic choice. It creates a comfortable atmosphere where guests feel welcomed, and it adds a generous touch to your event.
Delicious Food and Drinks
The menu for your party largely depends on the type of event you're hosting. However, here's a piece of advice from someone who's hosted countless parties: people tend to eat and drink less than you might expect!
It's easy to go overboard with food and drinks at your first party, so keep it simple. Here's a list of snacks and drinks that are easy to manage for a cocktail party:
- Fruits and vegetables such as grapes, baby carrots, and hummus
- Classic chips like potato chips and salted tortilla chips. Don't forget the guacamole!
- Nuts like cashews and mixed nuts, or even salted peanuts
- A cheese plate with pre-sliced or cubed cheese (add some salami if you'd like)
- Alcoholic drinks: red and white wine, rose, and a bottle of hard alcohol like vodka or tequila. Hard seltzers are also a popular choice!
- Non-alcoholic drinks: sodas, diet sodas, lots of seltzers, and juices
Must-Have Party Supplies
If you're bringing together different groups of friends, name tags are an absolute must. They eliminate the awkwardness of forgetting someone's name and make introverted and shy individuals feel more at ease. Here are my favorite name tag options:
- Cualfec "HELLO my name is" Name Badge Stickers
- Avery 5154 Name Badge Labels
Name tag is one of the things you need for a party
Also, don't forget to grab a thick black marker for writing the names on the tags. You want them to be easily readable from a distance.
Now, while there are other general party supplies like plates, cups, napkins, and snacks/drinks, I don't often recommend decorations. They can add unnecessary stress during setup and take away from the overall enjoyment of the event.
Informative Party Signs
Handwritten party signs not only add a personal touch to your gathering but also help guests navigate your home. Here are a few signs you should consider creating:
- Welcome sign
- Bathroom locations
- Trash can and recycling instructions
- Other helpful party signs like "Shoes off" or "Coat rack near the front door"
If you need some inspiration, check out the amazing signs created by readers of my party-hosting handbook.
Cleaning Supplies
Every party eventually comes to an end, and that means cleaning up afterwards. You'll want to have the necessary cleaning supplies on hand to tackle any mess. Make sure to stock up on extra trash bags for easy disposal. And don't forget about paper towels in case of spills. A scented candle or air freshener in the bathroom will keep your home smelling fresh and clean.
In Conclusion
Planning and preparing for a gathering can seem daunting, especially if it's your first time hosting. But fear not! With these seven tips and tricks, you'll appear as though you've been hosting fabulous events your entire life.
Remember, the key elements to ensure a successful party are:
- Party invitations
- The perfect venue
- Delicious food and drinks
- Must-have party supplies
- Informative party signs
- Cleaning supplies
By following these guidelines, your party is bound to be an absolute hit! And hey, if you ever need any additional tips or have questions, feel free to shoot me an email. I'm more than happy to help you out on your journey to becoming a party-hosting pro.
Cheers to unforgettable celebrations! -Nick Gray, author of The 2-Hour Cocktail Party
