| Everyone remembers having parties from an early | | | | you are planning a meal, then make it buffet style, |
| age. Some went off without a hitch and some | | | | this serves for better socialization and you can make |
| were just a big bomb. So what makes the | | | | some pasta dishes and put them over some sterno |
| difference between an okay party and a great one? | | | | to keep them warm while people mingle. This will |
| Well, honestly most of the issues of a party occur in | | | | save you from having to run back and forth to the |
| the planning stages. When planning a party, often | | | | kitchen. Decorate to the theme, but don't go over |
| times people think bigger is better, and they over | | | | board. A nice touch is having something festive in |
| think each menu item, guest on the list, and even | | | | the entry way and in the party room itself. If you |
| each decoration. Planning is an important part of the | | | | over do, once filled with people, they really won't |
| process; however, trying to force a party to be | | | | appreciate the hard work you put in. A festive |
| exquisite doesn't always work. The following are | | | | themed centerpiece works great as well as having |
| some tips to planning a perfect party. | | | | everyone dress the part. If you do this, your |
| THE GUEST LIST, INVITATIONS & THEME: | | | | guests themselves will be the decorations, which will |
| These are three very important items. First decide | | | | save you time and money. |
| what type of theme you want for your party, or if | | | | KEEP IT STRUCTURED: Music is an excellent |
| you even want one. If you are not sure, go online | | | | atmosphere enhancer. Choose music that is theme |
| and look up themes, there are some really great | | | | appropriate, yet not too loud. It should be heard, |
| ideas on the web, and not only will they provide you | | | | but not necessarily noticed. As host, you will be |
| with some great party ideas, but also decoration and | | | | responsible for breaking the ice by making |
| food options as well. Keep it simple, just start with | | | | introductions between those who haven't met. And |
| a basic theme and then move on to the guest list. | | | | be prepared for those scary lulls that sometimes |
| Choosing guests who all know each other, can be a | | | | happen. Try to have some simple ideas to |
| big mistake. If you can invite some people from the | | | | jump-start the crowd up your sleeve just in case |
| different areas of your life, it tends to make for a | | | | you need to. |
| much better party. In other words, don't just try to | | | | Overall, planning is the key to having a successful |
| get the perfect combination of people, try and mix it | | | | party, so think it through and be sure not to make |
| up a bit. This will usually make for a much better | | | | the party too long, a great party has a start and an |
| party. Choose your invitations according to your | | | | ending, so people can anticipate when it is time to roll |
| theme. | | | | out. Making a party too long, can turn a good party |
| DECORATIONS & FOOD: Again, be sure to | | | | south quickly so be sure that you make your party |
| keep it simple. If you get too elaborate, what will | | | | span from about two to four hours and I assure you |
| happen is you will spend too much time working to | | | | that if you follow these simple tips you will have an |
| pull the party off and not enough time enjoying the | | | | absolutely wonderful party. Not only that but you |
| party and the people. Finger foods are great for a | | | | will be able to relax and enjoy the party. |
| party. This way everyone can pick as they go. If | | | | |