Are you a party planner? With all the great ideas out there on blogs and Pinterest, I sometimes feel like I could party plan any occasion. I think the teacher in me loves the opportunity to theme and craft to my heart’s delight. But when it comes down to it, party planning takes a ton of time, effort, and organizational skill.
If you are not inclined to themes, complimentary colors, and such, no worries! I have some tips to help you stream-line your work, bachelorette, baby or birthday party. Do not get me wrong, I love details. I’m just suggesting you pick your details carefully. When party planning, it is important to keep your “eye on the prize” and not get too crazy or overwhelmed by details. I like to focus on three guiding details to carry through the party. It helps to create unity (and keeps you sane in the process).
Three Things to Consider When Planning a Party
1. Color
You can pick colors that compliment each other (like purple and orange), colors inspired by school or work, or colors that fall in the same category.
I had a joint bachelorette party with Nicole this summer and the theme was black, white, and diamonds. She and I wore white and the other ladies in the party wore black. The brides-to-be were obviously the ones wearing the diamonds.
Color theme: Black and White Bachelorette Party
Color can also dictate how you select your party food. Perhaps the mom-to-be you are celebrating is loving orange-flavored foods during her pregnancy. You could serve all things orange: orange soda, sorbet, candy, cheddar popcorn, Dorittos, etc.
It is great to use the color in both decor and food. I will often get color inspiration in the scrapbook paper aisle at my local craft store. I enjoy layering paper to see how various colors look together. It is easy to frame a piece of paper in cheap frames. You can write notes about food and drink or write names to place guests at tables.
2. Texture, pattern, or image
Polka dots, plaid, monograms, oh my! Like color, texture and pattern can help you to bring a sense of theme or cohesiveness to an event. Perhaps your bride, boss, or new mom has a favorite shirt, necklace, skirt, or designer. Use such items to inspire your party decor.
This is a photo of my girlfriend’s bachelorette party… Theme: Preppy and Plaid!
3. Signage
I had been doing research for a one-stop-shop to order party signage and Nicole mentioned we were contacted by Signazon.com- a company that has tons of options for all of this. Perfect timing!
Wall signs are a great way to (literally) spell out what your clients or guests need to know. You can label cars, rooms, tables, and so much more! Many events are in multiple locations, for example, progressive dinner parties, corporate training, bar crawls and surprise birthday parties. These events always run smoother when your guests know where to go! Don’t hesitate to turn ordinary business signs into a live event itinerary to keep your guests/clients informed. Signs can tie in your information, invitations, color, and patterns into one tidy package.
Another party planning idea that I found on Pinterest was giving your guests an “itinerary to go.” Using pretty business cards to do this is a thoughtful detail that allows your guests to bring all the party details in their pocket or purse. This is especially helpful and appreciated for events where alcohol and surprises are involved…!
So, for the party planner in you, don’t forget to consider color, texture and signage at your next event. No matter what events you get to plan this year, I hope these suggestions make your life a little easier and your attendees a little happier!
Now I want to hear from you!
What have you done when planning showers, parties and events that has worked well?
What DIDN’T work so well?
Please share!
