- Think about how many people you want to invite. The number will determine what type of party you organise and how much food and drink you’ll need to suply.
- Don’t invite more people than would be comfortable in the space, if it is outdoors, think up a Plan B in case the weather goes against you.
- Send out the invitations between two weeks and a month beforehand. Don’t forget to put the date, time and place on the invitation and if there is anything extra to point out (fancy dress, theme…), and ask for confirmation of attendance. These days there are different ways of inviting people electronically that enable you to keep track of, and control the attendance simply.
- Depending on the space available, the number of guests confirmed and the theme that you want at your party, you should choose between a more formal meal, or informal buffet style food. Don’t forget something sweet to finish off with. Make sure you have enough plates, glasses, cutlery and napkins, and all the better if they’re not disposable making the party more ecologically friendly.
- On the question of drinks, go for variety and don’t forget those who don’t drink alcohol. You should calculate half a litre of drink (alcohol free) per person, but if it is hot or the party goes on longer, you’ll need more. The drinks must be cold, so besides the fridge think about ice trays or platters with ice and salt as solutions.
- Music is absolutely essential for any party. The type of guests and celebration (only background music or for dancing, or both) will set the tone. You can programme a playlist on your mobile or computer so that the music plays on and on, without having to actively choose each song on the night, so one you control the volume, you can relax and enjoy.
Tricks for organising a successful party at home
