How to Make Party Planning a Little Easier

publication date: Jul 17, 2007

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author/source: Jennifer Tankersley

Whether they are indoors or out, planned or surprise, fancy or fun, parties are a great way to celebrate a special event and connect with friends and family!  Birthdays, bridal or baby showers, or neighborhood block parties are all opportunities that will put your party-throwing skills to the test, but all can run smoothly if you are prepared with budgets, lists, and timelines. 

Being prepared for a party does not just mean you have all the best ingredients.  Gifts, activities, special meals, and entertainment all cost money.  A party should be a way to show someone that they are cared for and appreciated, but the measure of love is not how much you spend! It is vital that the first thing you do before making any purchase is to come up with a budget to let you know just what you can afford.  You may need to do a little research to find out what things cost, but this step will prepare you for the type of party you are able to throw.  A party budget  is designed to help you work out how much you will need to save up in order to do all of the things that you feel would be most appropriate for your loved one's special day.   Some areas to consider would be food and drinks, party goods (plates, silverware, invitations, decorations, etc.), entertainment, rentals (restaurant, inflatables, etc.). 

Choosing the theme for a party can be one of the best parts of the special day.  Whether you plan to have a party or just want to show someone how much he/she is loved, a theme can set the tone and give you some direction when beginning your plans.  There are 2 ways to go about choosing a theme for your loved one's special day:
1) ask him/her what their choice would be.  Sit down and brainstorm together to decide what most interests the party recipient.
2) make it a surprise!  This means you get to pick the theme.  It also means you bear the responsibility in the case that the party recipient is bored or unhappy.  There are so many themes to choose from.  Be creative. Try something new, not just the familiar or favorite. 

Another great way to get the most out of a party is to prepare a timeline of the day's events.  Maybe you want to prepare a big breakfast.  Maybe you want to give the birthday boy/girl a chance to sleep in.  What activities do you have planned?  What will you eat?  When will the party take place?  When will the presents be opened?  What time will the clean up begin?  The day may slip away unless you have a plan. 

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