You could say that I go to parties for a living and a fun living it is. I’ve been to so many soirees, luncheons, teas and banquets that I think, by now, I know what makes a good party.
This is the time of year for having fun. The main ingredients of any party are: people, food, beverage and music. We have all heard the saying, “life of the party,” that’s the person who makes the party fun, the joke teller, the dancer, the attention getter. We all want him or her at our party or at least at our table. If you don’t have that person then interject some fun things into your event, interactive games, a theme, and good prizes.
Try something different, even if you are giving your run of the mill banquet.
Here is where I describe run of the mill: you arrive at an event, eat cheese, crackers and hope you can soon sit down. You proceed to your table take a seat, eat the meal of fish, chicken or beef, and cheesecake for dessert. Then you do two line dances and you go home. Now what can we do to liven up the event? I’ve seen one group do what is called an “ice breaker” you get a list of questions and you have to go around the room and find someone who can answer the question and then they sign their name next to it. The person who has completed all the answers is entered for a prize. A part of that ice breaker involves telling jokes. The ice breaker game relies on the planners and the participants. If you have a bunch of “kill joys” then the game is not fun. I went to a party this season where I was required to sing with a group, we were judged and the best group won a prize. It was so much fun.
Another way to inject fun into your event is to try an unexpected meal; ask the banquet manager if they can do something different. Perhaps an indoor picnic or winter picnic, how about breakfast at night and have everyone wear pajamas and crazy slippers. At least we don’t have to wear those high heels and break our ankles. Have a “candy bar” set up where you have bowls of different kinds of candy for your guests or have the bar create a signature drink and the person who can guess the ingredients wins a prize. Cool centerpieces help to set the tone for an evening as well as the music.
If you want certain music make sure you have a deejay that is agreeable. Most deejays will encourage requests, but they really don’t like you to high jack their play list. Have a talk with the deejay ahead of time to see if he will accept your list, if they say yes, get the list together prior to the party don’t wait until the day before. All I’m saying is try something new and have fun while raising funds.
(Email the columnist at debbienorrell@aol.com)
