Aside from a pen and a paper or a computer monitor and the keyboard, what else do you need in party planning? When it comes to planning a party, you have to remember one thing and one thing only: make it a fun experience for everybody.
And that includes the guests, the celebrant and well, you.
But here comes the burst-your-bubble-news (which I'm sure you've heard a million times before): You cannot please everybody.
Yes, I've given you two very contradicting reminders in less than five sentences.
Sounds bad? Well read on and let me show you a list on how to ensure that your main mission will be fulfilled.
So you've decided to throw a party, eh? Willingly or not, you already have that task.
The task to plan, prepare and execute a party.
So what to do next? First is to get yourself a party planning notebook.
It is important that you take down some notes or reminders as you go on and about planning this party.
In this notebook, you will have to write down the details of the party from time, venue, meals, guests (and the expected number of guests) and some other information.
There should also be a page on this notebook that serves as the party's schedule or an approximate timetable for the party.
It should be divided into three parts: Before, during and after the party.
The "Before" category will obviously be the longest or most jam-packed with information.
You should include here things like booking a caterer (or finding recipes for the party), finding a venue, sending out invites and shopping for decorations.
Now on the "During" category, you have to write down your planned activities for the party.
You've decided to have games, eh? Take note of the game's name, number of players, the mechanics and prizes.
Other things that fall here are last minute check ups like food, drinks and decorations.
Yes, you should also be prepared for what happens after the party.
Here you may write the guest list and check the names who you would want to send "Thank You" Notes to.
But basically, this category is the evaluation page.
Beforehand, you should write what you predict your party would be like and if it actually did happen.
This part is important so that the next time you throw a party, you will know what to improve on or what kind of tricks your guests might like.