Many people don’t throw parties simply because they don’t want to do a ton of work and then end up missing all of the fun because they are stuck in the kitchen or running around the house doing last minute necessary things.  However, this doesn’t have to be the way it is!  You can throw a party and enjoy it at the same time.  The trick to hosting a party where you can enjoy yourself is called organization.  If you are organized then you can run your party without it running you ragged.   Make sure you follow the tips already listed in this book.  And here are some final tips to help you out:

Party Planning Tip – Decide if you will be making your own food or buying it prepared.  Some things, like veggie trays, meat trays, and even cakes can be purchased inexpensively from stores like Costco for about what you could make them for.  Decide early in the process if you will be making your food or buying it ready made to save time.  Look at the actual costs as well as your time when you are making the decision.

Party Planning Tip –   Take advantage of anyone’s offer to bring something for the party.  Having many people bringing just one simple dish to share can save you a ton of time and energy.  If your party will be all good friends and family you can even suggest they bring something with them if they have a signature dish that everyone in attendance just loves.

Party Planning Tip – If you do not have table linens, but don’t want to use the paper ones, sheets work very well as alternatives.  Also, make sure to place some felt or other heavy material under your table linens so your tables will not be damaged by heat or moisture.

Party Planning Tip – If you hate to clean your house, or your party is approaching and you are running out of time, arrange to have your home professionally cleaned the day before your party.  In addition walk around your home and remove any unnecessary clutter from shelves and other surfaces.

Party Planning Tip – Let your spouse and children help you prepare for the party.  Assign each a task and then simply make sure that it was completed.  Remember that your guests are not coming over to inspect your home; they are coming over to enjoy your company.

Party Planning Tip – If you have a pet, make sure that you have plans for how to handle their needs during your party.  For a cat, you may wish to close a door to their favorite room and allow them to stay away from your guests.

Once the big day of your party arrives, if you find yourself running around and not enjoying yourself, start delegating out tasks to people who ask if they can help you, or to your spouse or children – don’t try to do everything yourself!

As you can see, the key to an enjoyable party is to organize, do the best you can, and then let others help you when they ask.  Follow these simple tips and you will have a great party that even you as the host can enjoy.