Don't even think about doing it on your own. Whether a
toddler's birthday party, a sweet sixteen, an award's
banquet...get help.
List all the tasks you will have to do, and delegate them.
Yes, follow up, double check, but delegate.
You might want to hire a caterer or servers, or people to
clean up after. Don't make hosting a function a debacle.
Plan Everything and Plan for Everything
Sit down and write your list. Start with where this function
is going to take place. If it is outside, have an inside
alternative. If you are relying on some sort of speaker or
entertainer, give yourself an option in case the first fails.
Decorate
Decorations are important to get the mood right. If you're
doing it at home, move breakables and personal objects out
of danger. There's no sense in showing off your crystal vase
when the likelihood it will be knocked over is live.
Food
It is better to have a buffet of lots of different things to
cater for all tastes. Many people don't eat pork and so,
having a pork dish might send guest through the door. Unless
everyone you have invited eats it, expect others to eat
nothing.
Music
If you are planning on background music, get a few CDs to
avoid having to get up to change the music. These should
be fairly bland, instrumentals. If you are having a dance,
hire a D.J. with his own collection. Always have quiet places
where people can talk. If the music is too loud people will
simply leave.
Follow Traditions
People have expectations as to what is served at certain
times in certain places. You can have a few originals but
don't invite people to a Thanksgiving party and serve
barbecue. It simply is not going to work.
Have Friends Come Early
Most people have a lateness habit. The function is to begin
at six they arrive at seven, if not later. Have your close
friends arrive at five to dress with you and you can enjoy
their company. As the guests begin to arrive one of them can
run out and greet them and then you can make your entrance.
Don't Punish Early Arrivants.
People who show up on time should not be starved while
waiting for the majority to wander in. Serve them, let
them eat the canapes, don't tell them to 'wait' until
others show up. It is insulting.
Know When to Call it a Night
The best functions always seem to end early. The 'party'
is just getting started as far as some are concerned.
If the majority are still there at midnight go to one. As
soon as the crowd starts to thin, thank them for coming
and in a few minutes lock off the music and start cleaning
up.
Some people don't know when to leave, teach them.
It is embarrassing when you have booked a venue from nine to
midnight and the staff is virtually throwing you out. Watch
the clock and start bringing the proceedings to an end at
least thirty minutes before the booking expires.
Study Your Guest List Twice
Try to invite as many interesting and lively people as you
can to carry off the evening. Nothing is worse than everyone
sitting down looking at each other. You may not like someone
but their personality will make your party bubble.
