
When you’re planning a party do you ever feel overwhelmed with everything that has to be done???
The food, the drinks, the decorations, the games, the guest list, themes and colours to name a few.
I know I do! I’ve helped plan a number of parties over the years, but it’s easy to get overwhelmed, especially at the very beginning of the planning process.
So where to start???
I have to slow down and remind myself to take it one step at a time. There are a few things I have found that help me stay organized and on track.
Tip #1 - “Brain dump” all of your party ideas
Make a list of all of your ideas, thoughts, and #Pinspiration so that it’s all in the same place. Write it all down. Even if it doesn’t all make sense together or if you’re not sure it’s something you actually want to use – write it down anyway.
Gather all of your favourite elements onto one piece of paper and you can review it later.
Tip #2 - Figure out your party budget
This is the most important piece of the puzzle. Everything you do from here on out will revolve around the budget you set for your party. It’s important to always set a budget and try your best to stick to it! Granted, sometimes you may go a little above or even below, so it’s also a good idea to give yourself some wiggle room.
A good way to decide how much money you’d like to spend on an event is by categorizing things like number of guests you want to invite, food, decor, and must-haves (whatever is important to you, favours or special desserts, music or maybe a photography backdrop) and then setting a monetary amount for how much you feel comfortable spending on each category. This will help you come up with an estimated budget.
Tip #3 - Create the perfect party menu
Food is an integral part of any party, so, it’s important to spend a little extra time and thought into what you plan to serve.
Some parties begin by a host’s desire to serve a certain cuisine! It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive to leave your guests impressed.
I do recommend checking with your guests first to ask about any potential food allergies they may have. It’s also a good rule of thumb to offer at least one vegetarian option in your menu.
For a bigger type of event, you may want to look into caterer and we can recommend local suppliers from a pizza trailer to a buffet or hot meal. Or you could involve your guests to help you with making homemade dishes depending on your budget and how many people are helping you plan the party.
At Lydeard Farm Bush Camp & Lodges we have a stunning outdoor space with BBQ area and camp fire so why not assemble the items for a BBQ!
Tip #4 - Break it down into organized lists
Once you’ve decided on an overall budget for the party and have an idea of what food you want to serve, start breaking it down into separate lists so it doesn’t all run together. As I finish a task or buy something on my list, I check it off.
These are the lists I typically make:
Guest list.
Drink
Decor
Shopping list
On the day.
Tip #5 - Delegate!
If you have people willing to help you with a party let them! Don’t try to take it all on by yourself if you can help it because it can definitely be a daunting task. Decide what you want to do yourself and what others are able/willing to help with, then pass off those tasks and let them take care of it. And hey, since you’re making lists, just go ahead and make a list of who’s doing what!
Tip #6 - Make a “don’t forget to bring…” list
This will help ensure that you bring everything you need with you. Think of the little things you may need ahead of time like scissors, ribbon, pens or markers, etc
Be sure to think about these things as you’re making your packing list. You don’t want to get to the party and realize you’ve forgotten something important. I try to mentally go through the party in my head as I’m making the list – how am I planning on setting everything up? What will I need to make this happen? How will my table(s) be laid out? What will my food be served on? Be sure and check through your list one more time just before you head out the door to be sure you’ve got everything and your party is sure to be perfect!
Finally, have fun with it! Remember that your guests are there to celebrate with you, and no one will pay attention to the small details that didn’t go as planned. No one knows what the party was supposed to look like except for you, so whatever the end product, it will be beautiful! Your guests will love your party no matter what, and it’s important for you to take a step back and enjoy all the hard work you put into planning your big day!
Ready to plan your perfect party at Lydeard Farm Bush Camp & Lodges???
Get in touch today as we now booking for 2025 for dates between March - November. Minimum party number 8 in one lodge up to 56 guests across 5 lodges with extra capacity with camping. Minimum 2 night stay.
Whether you are planning a family birthday, wedding, stag or hen party there are plenty of options to make the space your own. Why not add some archery or air riffles for some day time fun. Plus don't forget the indoor skittles and big jenga!
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