Party planner checklist

Here’s an overview of all the things to consider when putting together the perfect party

Birthdays, christenings, engagements, reunions... you name it, parties are a great way to celebrate a special occasion. If you want your celebration to go without a hitch, you have to pay attention to the details.

The date

Before you set a date, check with the 10 most important people that they will be able to attend. There’s little point celebrating grandma’s 60th if her one and only son can’t make that date.

Also, if possible, avoid obvious busy times like Bank holidays or high summer, when many people expect to go away. Also avoid days when big sporting events are taking place, times when other gatherings may be happening and weekdays, if most of your guests work long hours.

Numbers

Work out the number of people you wish to invite and can realistically afford to cater for. As a rough guide, for every 50 people, expect about five not to attend.

Venue

Large events need large venues and many of these get booked up fast. So one of your first jobs should be to find somewhere for the celebration that can cater for the numbers on the date you require.

If you’re intending to hold the party at home, remember it’s not just a matter of enough space -- you’ll also need extra plates, cutlery, glasses and so on. Beg, steal and borrow from neighbours or the caterer.

Try browsing our venues database, where you can search a huge number of venues by region or criteria.

Theme

If the party is to be a surprise or a have special theme, make that clear right from the start -- there’s nothing worse than turning up to a party to find it’s fancy dress and you weren’t told, and you don’t want anyone blurting out the secret if it’s a surprise.

Theme parties can work well (anything from toga or pyjama parties to murder mysteries and 70s nights), but bear in mind your guests’ likely response to such invites. For example, an older relative may be less than keen to dress up as a St Trinian’s schoolgirl.

Pick a great theme and it can really make a party, as well as providing you with a great collection of photos.

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