People who love to socialize never need a reason to entertain and welcome guests into their homes or hit the town with family or friends. Opportunities to socialize run the gamut, from birthdays to holiday celebrations to casual get-togethers with friends. While each occasion is unique, the common thread linking social engagements of all sizes is the need to plan.

 

Event planners are certainly a unique breed of organized individuals, but everyday hosts and hostesses can borrow from planners' tried-and-true techniques to help parties run smoothly from start to finish.

 

Begin with the venue

 

A great party starts with a good venue. In fact, the right venue can make a party, while the wrong one can break it. Consider the type of event and the size of the guest list when shopping for a venue. If the goal is to provide guests with an intimate setting to mingle, avoid large spaces. If you want guests to dance and plan to provide additional entertainment options, choose a venue that has a dance floor and a stage.

 

Size is not the only thing to consider when choosing a venue. The location of a venue is important as well. The venue should be easily accessible to guests and convenient for guests traveling by car and public transportation. Have a contingency plan if the venue is outdoors and weather may interrupt the festivities. Remember, the venue is the foundation upon which the rest of the party will be situated, so take extra time to find the right party spot.

 

Make a checklist

 

Take some time to jot down a list of what will need to be done for the party. Relying on your memory alone is not sufficient, as you're bound to forget some details as the party draws nearer.

 

Purchase a planner to help you keep track of details and payment deadlines. Store receipts in your planner, and keep it with you at all times so you can jot down ideas as they come to you. Don't just jot down the things to do. Assign specific deadlines to each task so you will stay on track.

 

Get help when you need it

 

It's easy for hosts and hostesses to feel overwhelmed when planning a party. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you begin to feel overwhelmed. Delegate tasks based on your helpers' talents and experience. Catered food is ideal for those who do not like to cook. If a friend is crafty, put him or her in charge of decorations or the layout of the venue. If the budget allows, hire professionals to create the right ambiance for the party. Store-bought supplies are shortcuts that can keep you on schedule. The more help you have, the less stressful the planning can feel.

 

Focus on food and entertainment

 

When guests walk away from a party, their thoughts tend to linger on food and fun. Spend time planning the menu and testing foods that will be served, and hire entertainment that suits the mood you are aiming to create.

 

Planning a party is a significant undertaking. Employ some helpful tips to lessen the burden of hosting.

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