I love throwing parties. Big, little, in between. They are a lot of fun. I love getting to serve my family and friends and I love getting to try new ideas. But to throw a party, you have to have a reason. Birthdays and holidays are the usual suspects, but you can also just want to hang out with friends and have an impromptu backyard BBQ. Whatever the case, you should always have a reason.
For instance, last year, my husband and I hosted or helped with parties of all different sizes. One night in the middle of the summer we decided we wanted to BBQ and wanted some friends to join us. It was a last minute thing and we asked our friends to BYOB (bring your own beef) and a side dish for all to share. We had about 14 people show up (on a Tuesday!) and had a great time. We also threw a more organized, larger party for my sons first birthday (more on that later).
No matter the size, the time or money, you can have a great party so long as you have a reason and reasonable expectations.
Picking your reason: Do you want to have a birthday party for yourself, a family member or a friend? Are you throwing a Bridal or Baby Shower? Are you wanting to have friends over and just have a good time? Do you want to have a tea with some women? Are you having a Super Bowl party? Pick a reason and that will give you the direction and focus you need to see your party through until the end.
Reasonable Expectations: Realize that about 10% of the people who RSVP they are coming probably won’t make it. If people don’t RSVP, expect that they won’t make it. Take into account that adults eat more then kids (I can’t tell you how much this helps! I have done a few parties and did a head count not figuring this in…let’s just say there was money spent that could have been saved or used elsewhere and we were eating leftovers for some time!) Things are not always going to go as planned. Be flexible! The most important thing is that you and your guests have a good time. The other stuff is just filler. People don’t know what you do and don’t have planned so if something doesn’t make it out, don’t freak. They have no idea!
The biggest reason that you should have for throwing a party? To have a good time! That’s it. If you are not going to enjoy it, don’t waste your time and money. It makes no sense. Just take your child to something that you can both enjoy or your spouse to a nice dinner. No one likes a grouchy host/hostess.
If you decide that you want to have a great party on a budget, this is the place for you!