When I am planning for a party or an event I usually write down what I want to accomplish or have my party/event provide. Getting it out of my head and on paper (in Word) is key. I usually have multiple lists going that include: what is my ultimate goal of the event (fun, education, celebration, honoring someone, networking, etc)
WHEN and WHAT time will the event/party be held
WHERE
WHO to invite
FOOD and DRINKS
Do I need/want DECORATIONS
Do I need ENTERTAINMENT
WHAT IF… a contingency plan.
There are so many components that go into an event of any kind. Each one of those components have layers.
Today I want to talk about the first point on my list – WHAT do I want this event or party to achieve?
For most of us when we have an event it is usually a party of some sort. A birthday celebration, a shower, hey let’s have the neighbors or some of our friends over, super bowl, or Thanksgiving. These are just a few reasons we have parties. My main goal when I have a party is FOR EVERYONE TO HAVE A GREAT TIME WITH GREAT FOOD AND DRINKS! One of the things I have learned over the hundreds of “parties” I have had is, if the hostess (or host) is not relaxed and having a good time – neither will the guests.
Do you enjoy going to a party when the hostess is still in the kitchen cooking or preparing plates? (I have been guilty of that!) Or the host is still setting up chairs or walking around picking up trash and cleaning up during the party? Obviously the answer is no – as a guest you may feel obligated to help or awkward that the host is cooking or cleaning up during the party.
So if you are OCD about trash, setting up and cleaning up your party etc, what can you do to avoid “working” during your party?
- Plan, plan, plan and more planning. Make your lists and set realistic timelines for getting things done ahead of time.
- Ask a friend or relative to “help you host” or “help” the host
- Hire help for the kitchen, bar, and serving
- Hire help to clean up as guests are finished eating and drinking
With solid planning and preparation and additional help you can relax and enjoy your guests and they can enjoy you!
