I love to give parties! I try to have at least one or two a year.
When planning a party I look at the date, theme, guest list, menu, and location.
Date: I look for a date when most of my friends will be available. For example, I give a July party but try to avoid the weekend of the 4th. Many people would have conflicts then and have to make a hard choice – go to Uncle Clyde’s barbecue or go to Jonda’s annual July party.
Theme: The theme of the party will hold everything together. The theme will determine the invitations, the food, the decorations, and any games or activities. I feel a different theme for each party keeps the parties fresh. Regular guests often ask me months ahead if I have decided on a theme yet for the next party.
Guest List: This is an important component. I love to invite a diverse group of people who will enjoy each other’s company. I usually have a core group that I hope will attend every party and then add some new friends that I think everyone will enjoy.
Menu: The menu usually follows the theme. My guest have food preferences and restrictions and because I love my guests, I try to accommodate them. I like to see that everyone has at least a couple of things they can nosh on and drink. My house is small so I don’t have room for sit down affairs. Because of that, my menu consists of easy things to eat if you are standing or sitting with your plate on your lap.
Location: Usually my parties are at my home but I have had some great ones at other locations. Again, the theme tends to determine the location. When giving a party at my place, I go for “clean enough” so that the board of health won’t be concerned but I do not stress over having the place “party perfect.”
Once I have decided on the five biggies, I put together a timeline. I list every task that mush be done from setting the date and making the guest list to laying out the food table right before the guests arrive. Every task has a “do” date and that is what keeps me sane. I know exactly when I plan to send out the save the date emails, make the actual invites and mail them, put together the shopping lists, and setting the table.
When the date and time arrives, I want to enjoy my party as much as my guests. Did I mention that I love to give parties?
Jonda S. Beattie Professional Organizer