Stage 1
Time and place.
One of the things in the first stage of planning a summer bash is figuring out exactly when and where this party is taking place. It could be on a weekend or weekday, in the afternoon or at night. The options are almost endless. Having multiple options is ideal so that the most people that are invited can go.
Guests
The next thing to do is the guest list. It could be an exclusive event with only 5 people or a bigger party with upwards of 15. The most important part of this process is making sure that people RSVP or say if they can go or not. This part is vital for the next stage of planning.
Stage 2
Food and drink
When the number of guests is known the next part of planning a party is figuring out if food and drinks are going to be a part of the party or not. And if they are, what kinds of foods and drinks will be there. Although this part sounds easy it can be more complicated than it appears. A nice checklist to use is 1. Is there anyone with dietary restrictions and if so what are they 2. What type of party is it going to be 3. What is the budget? All of these things are a part of the process to figure out what will be available, for example if the party is a picnic then a cartcutarty board is cute. But if it’s a movie party, a popcorn bar, sodas and chips is a classic pick. Remember chips and sodas are relatively cheap and are great party foods for most parties.
Activities
Activities are the thing that bring home the party. They can be the thing the party revolves around or can be something fun that’s included. Activities range from water balloon or gun fights, watching a movie, board games, video games, dancing, cake decorating, and many more. Although having activities is a good thing, having too many can be overwhelming so planning 1 through 3 activities is recommended depending on the time and scope of the activity and party.
Optionals
Gift bags
Although gift bags are completely optional they can add a bit of pizzazz to the end of the party. They are not rational for a large party with a small budget; they can be fun for a smaller party. A great place to get cheap but fun stuff is the Dollar Tree.
