There’s really nothing like a great party, right? No matter what you’re celebrating – from a birthday to a wedding or just because, having all your favorite people in one spot, is the best. JR and I recently threw a birthday bash for our friend and brother Joseph “Fat Joe” Cartagena, and the results couldn’t have been more amazing. The most important thing was to have all the people we love in one room having a great time. But there are definitely some key tips that will help make the celebration great for everyone in attendance. If you’re ready to throw a bash, here are six tips for putting together a great party. And, if all else fails, all you really need is great friends and you’re good to go. Have fun!
6 Tips for Throwing a Great Party
#1. Invite the perfect number of people. Think about the time of year – will the party goers mostly spend their time inside your house or out on the back patio? Are you hosting the party on a boat or in a restaurant? Your venue and the number of invites go hand in hand. You don’t want the party to feel too small, but you also don’t want to be over capacity. Find your sweet spot on invitees and go from there.
#2. Find the perfect party spot. Are you thinking of hosting the party at your house or will you find an alternate location? Do you have a boat or a favorite restaurant in mind? Think about the vibe of the party, what exactly are you going for – something casual and laid back or something more formal and refined. Your venue can very easily influence the vibe – so be sure you pick the perfect spot.
#3. Be sure to have the perfect lighting. From string lights across the backyard to a candlelit table, lighting can make or break the mood…so keep it in mind. If you’re going for a backyard vibe, don’t forget that you will need some light once it gets dark – string lights, lanterns, candles – all great options to keep it moody, festive and fun even when the sun goes down.
#4. Make everyone feel welcome. Don’t forget, when you’re the host, you are responsible for greeting each and every one of your party guests. It’s simply part of the job. Making your guests feel welcome is the first step when it comes to setting the tone of a party and getting it off to the right start. Greet your guests by immediately asking them what they’d like to drink or even handing them a welcome cocktail. It’s festive, fun and will help get the party started right.
#5. Music. Music. Music. No matter what type of party you’re throwing – from a small dinner party to an all-out bash, having music in the background is a must. And, if you have a musical crowd…get them all singing or dancing – you’ll have a blast. If you’re going for that refined and classic vibe, mellow jazz is a great option and if you’re there to whoop it up in celebratory fashion, go for some great hip hop or dance tunes.
#6. Offer some great eats. Keeping it simple when it comes to food is always the best policy – that way you know you’re offering something for everyone. But simple can also be absolutely delicious. Think about what you can do food wise to be sure everyone is feeling great, but also not over the top. Small finger foods, perfect for eating while standing is often the way to go. Think awesome appetizers, easy to eat sandwiches and a huge charcuterie platter – classics.
How about you? Are you ready to throw your next big bash?
