What's the Occasion?

Start planning your party by focusing on the occasion. It will determine what type of party works best. A toddler's birthday party may be as simple as cake and ice cream in the kitchen, but a lavish holiday open house may involve hiring a caterer, renting tables and chairs, and, perhaps, bringing in strolling musicians. Consider these points.

 

From simple to lavish, this is the
place to start your party.

• Important occasions -- such as a wedding reception, 50th anniversary party, or dinner for a valued client -- require more formal settings; occasions such as an after-work cocktail party, a weekend brunch, or having some buddies in to watch the game will be more casual.
• A sit-down dinner party at home is best suited for a group of six or eight, while a buffet is better for larger numbers. Also, moving the party outdoors may be the best way to handle a kids' party or a family reunion.
• If you're a first-time host, begin with a simple party. Have friends in for snacks and drinks or dessert and coffee. Or, plan a potluck or picnic. These types of parties allow you to keep planning and work to a minimum, but at the same time gain experience and confidence.
• If you're more experienced, you'll probably feel comfortable with most types of parties, and you may even want to tackle a formal dinner or an elegant cocktail party.
• Choose the date carefully. Make sure it doesn't conflict with other celebrations. For example, you probably don't want to schedule a 25th-anniversary reception for the same day your state university is going to a bowl game.
• Select a party theme that suits the occasion you're celebrating.