From ideation to execution, throwing a party takes quite a lot. Everything from deciding on the vision to planning out the guestlist – sometimes the smaller details are overlooked. And when we say details, we don’t mean place cards or gift bags. Most of the common party problems are when common sense gets lost in the excitement. Next time you are hosting a party of any scale, be sure to avoid these festive faux pas and have your party remembered for all the right reasons.
Lack of entertainment
When it comes to parties, entertainment extends far past your local band or DJ. in fact, these days you can curate an incredible playlist and satisfy your attendees all night long – so start there. Another popular idea is to hire a photobooth in Sydney as it will take the pressure off you planning another form of entertainment that may or may not hit the mark with all the guests. A photo booth will lend hours of entertainment to your guests and will dispel any boredom. Find a supplier that has great props so that your party guests can snap photos with different friends and prop combinations.
Not enough or too many refreshments
We’ve all been to that party where you have to visit the drive thru on the way home because the party did not produce the goods. But let’s not forget the party where you can’t chat to your friend for more than one minute without being offered another tray of food! Nailing the right amount of food and drink per guest is not an easy job, but a good rule of thumb is five portions of tapas per guest and six standard drinks per guest. Think back to the parties where you left well fed and watered. These dishes don’t need to be 5 star quality, in fact most of your guests will probably go for comfort food over foie gras anyway.
Ambiguous invitations
Your invitation etiquette is a way to convey the theme and vision of your soiree. Although at its core, it is an informative tool to let your guests know the who, what, when and where. Don’t get too bogged down in markets and font styles, because you may leave out that it’s a BYO event, there is a cost per head, or the event is only a short and sharp get together. Also be very clear if there is a theme. Your animal print invites might not let everyone know that it is a jungle themed party. You want your guests arriving on the same page, ready to celebrate you or your company exactly as you intended them to.
Restrictions venues
You may not have too much control over the venue of your party, and it may even be at your own home. A common mistake is not putting yourself in your guests shoes and expecting they have a local understanding of your neighbourhood or side of town. To boost attendance, let your attendees know the best public transport routes, parking options and landmarks to look out for when they arrive. If you are booking a venue, be sure to ask all the questions about last call, noise restrictions, and whether you will be sharing the space with another group or the greater public.
Planning for your party goes well beyond the decorations and guestlist, you must also have those plans in place to mitigate complication and boredom for your guests. Having a photobooth and a great playlist will take a lot of the pressure off, but failure to supply the right amount of food and beverage, or clearly outlining the details of the party? Won’t end in a great result for you or the party-goers.
