Party Planning: The Big Day
Should I greet my guests as they arrive?
Greeting your guest at the door is one of my biggest tips. I always feel that when that door opens and you're there to greet somebody with a warm handshake and a good hug changes them instantly. Smiles appear on their face. I cannot emphasize this enough. Doctor Abraham Maslow talks about his hierarchy of needs: right smack in the middle is the sense of belonging. When you welcome someone into your event, you've welcomed them into your home.
What are 'party games'?
Party games are a way to keep your guests interested in the party. Also, it's a way to keep the party interactive. It also opens up conversation among guests. And keep one thing in mind- when some guests are actively involved in the game, other guests are rooting them on, so it creates and continues the energy of the party.
Should I have party games at my party?
Depending on the type of party you're having, party games are highly recommended. If it's an informal party, absolutely. Party games get that energy going and keep the energy going.
What party games should I have at my party?
Some examples of party games - one of my favorite is as guests walk into the party, you'll put on their back a celebrity, and then as they walk into the party the guests have to give them some clues as who the celebrity is without mentioning the name.
Should I ask for volunteers to help at my party?
Volunteers is a great way to keep your cost down at a party. But remember, folks, they are volunteers so don't expect them to put in an 8-hour day.
What is the best way to deal with an unruly guest at my party?
One of the best ways to deal with an unruly guest at the party is find out who they came with. Most likely they'll listen to that person.
What is a 'coat check'?
A coat check is an area that's specifically designed to put garments. If the weather's inclement, you want to have an area that's specifically designed for this.
Should I have a coat check at my party?
I always recommend having a coat check at a party if the weather is foul. Keep one thing in mind: you can set up an area in a spare bedroom for coats, or you can rent a coat rack with hangers, and guests can help themselves. If it's a large party, you may want to think about hiring an attendant and having some numbers on the hangers. This way, everybody gets the right coat at the end of the night.
What can I do to make my party 'green'?
Nowadays, being environmentally friendly is extremely important. At every event, I recommend putting out bins that let people know where to recycle. And believe me, if you have it out there, they will, because everyone wants to do their part.
What preparations should I make to the bathroom before a party?
In preparing your bathroom for the big day, it's important to make sure there's plenty of extra tissue around. Keep it underneath the sink, or just in an area that you know people will look. Also, believe it or not, put a little plunger in the bathroom, because if your toilet starts to back up, the person in there will use the plunger. If it's not there, the next person coming in the bathroom, beware! It will overflow, you'll have a mess on your hands. Have plenty of soap, a candle lit in the bathroom, and some deodorizing spray.
What are some tips for dealing with the stress of a big party?
Work with a very complete list. When you have a 'things to do' list, it calms the mind. Go over your things to do, see what has to be done, and work with a timeline. When you're prepared and you're clear on what you're doing, stress level gets low. Keep one thing else in mind: nothing, and I mean nothing, is ever perfect. Don't try to be Mr and Mrs perfect, just enjoy yourself. If you enjoy yourself, your guests will enjoy themselves, and you'll have a successful party.
