Let people know if they can bring their families or friends with a “plus one” or “family and friends invited” attached to the email, card, or event notification. Consider the type of party you want when sending invitations. If you want close conversation, you may want to limit it to 8-12 people. If you want a big, raging party you’ll go much bigger.
For example, if you’re throwing a Halloween party, most people appreciate knowing upfront if they should wear a fancy dress costume or not. You don’t have to be obvious with the dress code. Describing the party as an “evening to catch up and share a nice dinner” clearly lets people know that they shouldn’t wear glitter and a crop top, unless they want to. [1] X Research source
Make sure there is ample seating for everyone unless you’re having a rave up dance party or an outdoor picnic party. Decorations aren’t required for a good party, but they help create the party atmosphere. If you’re going to put them up, however, make sure they are up well in advance. If you’re throwing a big party, remove anything delicate or breakable in advance to avoid costly and embarrassing mishaps. [2] X Research source
Don’t put out all of your food at once. Fill up a few bowls, then refill them as the party needs. Anticipate any dietary restrictions in advance. If you’re unsure, make sure you have a gluten-free, (like veggies or rice crackers) kosher food and vegetarian substitutes available. Consider anything containing nuts is labelled for those with nut allergies. If you’re cooking, give yourself ample time to prepare, and always cook more food than you think you’ll need. Plan for an extra 2-3 guests to prevent running out. [3] X Research source Display the food by type so you have salads and sides together, proteins, breads, and sauces. Also, make sure you keep hot and cold items away from each other. It’s a good idea to label all of the food as well. [4] X Expert Source Rachel WeinshankerCertified Event & Wedding Planner Expert Interview. 14 February 2020.
Depending on the type of party, you may want to think about where the drinks go. It is often best to keep hard alcohol out of sight but accessible, with less alcoholic beverages like beer open and in plain sight to prevent over-drinking too early. [5] X Research source
A good way to mix up groups is to ask someone for some help with something. You can then steer them to a new group when you’re done, or make space for someone else to move in. Enlist very shy friends as assistants. Ask them to help keep the food filled with you or prepare a dish for dinner. They’ll appreciate the attention. [10] X Research source
Cleaning usually signals to others that the party is wrapping up and it is time to go. This could be a nice, subtle way to start pushing people out the door. [11] X Research source
90’s Hip-Hop and RnB: If the party is younger-skewing, this is almost always the right move. Motown and Soul: There are very few people, of any generation, that won’t get down to some Temptations or Stevie Wonder. Best for a varied, larger crowd. Big-Band Jazz and Swing: If you’re having a classy dinner or conversational party, Frank Sinatra and Count Basie will get you through every course with aplomb. [12] X Research source
If you can double up your lighting with some nicely scented candles, the smell factor will enhance your party mood even more.
Tasting tests or contests with the appetizers. Introducing people who may have not before. A set-aside dance floor near the speakers. Truth or Dare, Never Have I Ever, Desert Island, and similar conversational games.
