It is not easy throwing a party. After sending out the invitations, planning the menu, and timing everything just right, you just hope that the weather cooperates, the guests show up, and the food doesn’t run out. It always seems to work out, and everyone has a good time, and you’ve wondered why you’ve wasted so much sweat.
With that in mind, I’m going to add another addition to your party planning list. I promise… these ideas are not hard. And, really… these suggestions do not have to cost a lot of money, or take a lot more effort. You can plan some of these little touches way in advance. They may not seem like much, but they will be really noticed by your guests.
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At everyone of our family events, I try to make a little take away gift for the family. This bag is practical and will live on as a reminder of our time together. While I had these canvas bags made locally here in Phoenix, websites like CafePress, Zazzle, or Shutterfly can quickly produce t-shirts, mugs or other items for your special event.
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Make a little gift bag for your guests. For a beach or pool party, put together some sun tan lotion, bug spray, zinc and wrap in towel or bandana… or just place in a small gift bag. Wrap some wet naps in a bandana, napkin or bibs for a BBQ. Maybe you can add a print out of American BBQ styles and recipes. For a spring garden party, how about placing some seeds in a little inexpensive ceramic pot as a giveaway. Talk about easy!
Fly a Kite. On a nice and breezy day, buy some kites. And, before the party starts, get one up in the air, tie it up, and place the rest around the party. I’m pretty sure that a few of your guests will give one a try. The flying kite is also a good landmark for guests trying to find your home.
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Our nephew Alex had a great idea for one of our sunset gatherings! He purchased Chinese paper lanterns at a local fireworks stand which we lit and released over Lake Michigan. Releasing them in pairs, we each made wishes. Seeing a dozen of these over the water was a memory that I will not soon forget. My mom’s smile was priceless.
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Roll out the Red Carpet. This is the perfect idea for hosts with a bored teenager handy. Literally, roll out a red carpet on the way to the party, and have your handy teenager (or someone who is a camera buff) shoot photos of everyone as they arrive. Upload them to a computer, then print them out and place in frames for the guests at the end of the event. Now I know that this may seem like a lot of work, but this job is perfect for those kids who might otherwise be bored at an “adult” party. Or you could just find a neighborhood teen who might want to make a little bit of cash.
Make your home an Art Salon. If you know an talented aspiring artist, invite them to show their work in your home. Your guests can chat with the artist, learn a little about art, and the artist might even sell a piece! How about a talented writer? Have a book signing party and have a reading. You can help your artistic friends out, and you’ll be the talk of the creative community!
See your future. I envision a party with a palm reader or tarot card reader. Hire one for a couple of hours (for only about $25 or $50 an hour). Maybe you can foresee your future as a perfect host!
Celebrate. Live well.
Happy Labor Day!
—chris
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