Step 6: Sending invitation to guests

 This is the most crucial step. As we often find people not turning up for the party because either they did not receive the invite on time or they checked the invite late. Send the invites a week in advance followed by a personal call after three days and requesting an RSVP (it’s an abbreviation of a French phrase, répondez s’il vous plaît, meaning please respond) by a specified date. You can choose to send either printed invites or e-mail invites. Always ensure to send a personal invite to everyone, if sending through e-mail, Do not send a bulk mail marking BCC to everyone on the same e-mail.

Please mention clear details on the invite about the day, date, time, venue details (with map, if possible) and dress code, if it’s a theme party. Also some hotels have strict dress code norms, so please check with the hotel and mention the same on the invite.

Step 7: Plan games, surprises, good music, etc

 Guests expect something different and unique at the party. You can plan something unique like a counter for manicure for ladies, a gaming zone for men, etc. Also add some fun games, where people get to win prizes. Keeping in mind the theme, one can decide on the music whether instrumental (formal party), or peppy music (informal party).

Step 8: Reach before time

Familiarize yourself with the staff and managers of the venue, often we find the staff of the hotel (serving dishes) not aware as to who is the host of the party. It is best to reach a little early and acquaint yourself with the staff so that they know whom to contact in case of any questions or otherwise. Also it’s always good to reach before time to supervise, if everything is under control.

Step 9: Give personalized attention to all

Avoid standing with one group with whom who you have an acquaintance with during the party, as  other guests will feel left out, so as a host always move around in the party and interact with each guest and make them feel comfortable.

Step 10: Thank you note

It’s always a nice gesture to give or send a handwritten or personalized thank you note to the guests after the party.

There can possibly be no greater feeling of triumph than knowing that the party you hosted was a success.