Let’s Party!

My mom was the hostess with the mostest! She knew how to throw down a good time for any occasion. Growing up, we had a finished basement, and she managed to transform that room into a backdrop for any party theme. From fairy tale birthdays to disco dances, poker night, or political election parties, she had them covered with decorations, food, and fun. The best thing is she did all of it herself, on a budget, and it always turned out perfect.

I learned a lot about hosting a good party from her. As I got older, I picked up ideas and tips to pair with hers to make each party successful. The most important thing is to be organized.

Get Organized

• Pick your Date and Time.
  • Take a good look at the calendar and make sure you are selecting a date and time that will give you prep time and clean-up time. You don’t want to throw a Friday night party if you are working all week (no prep time) and have a full Saturday of plans (no clean-up time).
• Select your theme.
  • Make a two-column list. One column will be an inventory of your decorations, and the other column will be what you need. The reason for the “what you have” column is a reminder of what you have on hand. If you are like me, you get to the party supply store and can’t remember!
• Who’s invited
  • Make your guest list and get your invites out.
• What are you serving?
  • Is this a simple appetizer and hors d’oeuvres pick-up party? Cake and ice cream? Or are you serving a full meal?
  • Make your grocery list.
  • Inventory your serving plates, bowls, napkins, etc.
• Activities and extras?
  • Will there be any games played? Will you want background music?
  • Write down what you need for any extra activities, music, prizes, etc.

Prep Ahead of Time

I’m a big believer in prepping. Food that can be prepared ahead of time, do it!! Are you using a party room (like that good old basement)? Go ahead and decorate a few nights before. You will be glad you did when party day comes. Gather everything you need for the games, activities, etc., and put them together in a box or clothes basket. This is your chance to inventory once more and ensure you have everything you need. The last thing you want to do on the day of the party is to run around town gathering items you forgot.

Another great tip, if you can swing it, is to hire help for party time. They can take guests’ coats, pick up empty plates and glasses, bartend, and assist in cleaning up at the end. If your budget does not allow for this, maybe a friend or family member would be willing to help.

Party Time

The last thing is to relax and have a good time! If something goes wrong, no one will know but you, so just go with it and party like a rockstar!