How to Host a Party

Posted on May 24th, 2009 by Carmelia

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Hosting party is a fun job, but it’s also a challenging one. If you’re up to the challenge of hosting a party, here are some things you need to know about this particular role.

Planning for the Party

A party has to be fun, but the fun doesn’t come if your party is poorly organized. Here are the things you need to consider when planning for a party.

Guests. The number of guests you’re inviting to the party dictates the budget later. Don’t feel pressured to invite people you don’t like (such as the significant others of your friends). Be specific when addressing the invitations
Invitations. Make sure that you include a map and a contact number where your guests can RSVP to.
Budget. Make a budget plan for the food, invitations, decorations, drinks and other miscellaneous items you might need for the party. Make sure that you also have extra cash for those unexpected guests and for items you might have forgotten to budget for.
Shop and cook the food ahead of time. Follow a schedule you set yourself when preparing for a party.

Hosting the Party

Set the mood for the party. Coordinate the lights, decorations and music.
Prepare the house. Plan the layout and how your furniture will be rearranged, if your party will be held at home. Lock the rooms that you don’t want people going into. Make sure that your bathroom has hand wash soap, tissue paper and other necessities for your guests. There should also be a designated area for coats. Have the buffet table set up. Have the number of a cab company ready to help intoxicated guests reach home safely.
Make sure that the drinks and snacks are all within easy reach.
Dress well. Make sure that you don’t blend in. Wear a bright color or put a flower in your hair. That way, the guests can spot you more easily. And you don’t want to get outdone in your own party!
Greet your guests as they come in. Make sure that they have drinks as soon as possible.
Introduce guests to one another.
Have a friend help you out by emceeing for the party. This could really get the part started, especially in activities and party games. You can mention one interesting tidbit about the guest when introducing him or her to another guest, such as what school they attended, their jobs, hobbies, etc.
Make sure that every guest looks comfortable and wanting for nothing. Just pay close attention to their facial expressions, body language and if they are talking to anyone.
Hire help if you’re having a big party. It’s understandable that you won’t be able to tend at all things at once.
Most importantly, have fun. A party with a harassed host is an uncomfortable party.