subject: Tips for Planning a Good Party [print this page] Tips for Planning a Good Party Tips for Planning a Good Party
The very first thing that you should do when you are planning on having a party is to have a theme decided. If you decide the theme first it helps you figure out what you will be serving, your decorations, and also your music. Your menu will be the most important part of your party, so choose wisely. Start your planning about four weeks in advance, to get all you will need and give your guests ample notice.
Once your menu is set, checking the Internet for theme ideas can be very useful. Most parties offer finger foods, and you should as well. Never forget your budget, and make sure to give yourself enough time to plan ahead. Homemade dip and relish recipes are also available online. Be sure to test them first, before serving, to see if you like them.
The night before the party you should think about setting up the table. It is very attractive to serve platters on different levels. Creating a slightly elevated platform in the center of your table surrounded by decorations adds a nice touch.
The day of the party will force you to bring everything you have planned together. Final preparation and cleaning should begin about 30 minutes before guests arrive. Getting the lighting and music set before guests arrive is a good idea. Don't forget to leave that last hour for you.
Platters of food will easily stay warm if you use hot plates, and this will grant you less to have to worry about. Don't be in a big hurry to clear off the table it is a big party bummer if this is done quickly. Ask your friends to bring their digital cameras to help capture the fun.
Afterwards, your guests will show their appreciation for your hard work. You will look over your digital slr pictures for many weeks to come. All of the people that had been there will remember how great of a party it was and will be talking about it for months, until the next one.
