Why Host a Party at Home?

Why I love hosting a party at home:

I designed this mantel in early February to enjoy for Valentine's nearly a MONTH before my daughter's February 27th Alice in Wonderland Tea Party. It saved me so much time to piggy back a holiday and much of the "Queen of Hearts" decor was on sale.

• Budget: Ummmm, hate to point out the obvious but it’s FREE! Available all day, all night, and the day before at no extra charge.
• Set-up:You can get the space set up a day or even TWO days ahead of time. That has saved my sanity more than once. Anything that doesn't affect daily life or have the potential to get destroyed should be set up as early as possible. This can be as early as the week prior or in cases of coordinating holiday themes even a month early.
• No Travel: When you travel to a venue you have to touch EVERYTHING 4-5 extra times before its final placement. You have to pack it, take it to the vehicle, take it into the venue, unpack it, and finally place it. Add in travel time and it SERIOUSLY cuts into your prep time. Not to mention damage potential for floral arrangements or centerpieces during transport.
• Level of Decor: If you care about hosting a nice party, you probably have a cute home décor. Your styled space is way more inviting than a hotel banquet room, and less party decorations are necessary. Choose 2 or 3 focal points to decorate all out with the party theme. Critical focal points are the food table and eating tables. Optional areas include fireplace mantels, entryways, or porches.
• Indoor/Outdoor: An outdoor party has an emergency indoor option in case of inclement weather. Again, no extra charge.
• Did I mention it’s free?

Downsides of a house party:

• Cleaning: You have to clean before and after – but you can wait until waaaay after to clean up!
• Life: You live there and items can get mussed pre-party, especially if you have children “helping” you. {wink}
• Available Space: Your guest list is limited to the size and layout of your living space.
• Entertainment: You have to entertain guests.

How to rock this party no matter what!

During my son's Construction Party for his 3rd birthday I was able to keep the activities easy and age appropriate. It's amazing how much smoother it went by keeping it simple!

• Cleaning Crew: Hire a house cleaner before or after the party {you will be tired!}
• Babysitter: The day of your party, get the kids OUT! Ideally they can also hang out somewhere else the day before, to reduce collateral damage by your little “helpers.” Plus it’s amazing how much work you can get done in 6 hours without interruptions every 10 minutes.
• Open House: Keeping your guest list trim is a blessing as it keeps the activities, party favors, and food-prep manageable. Which also keeps your budget in check. If you absolutely HAVE to invite more people, try an open house format to stagger guest arrival times.
• Simple Entertainment: There is a misconception that hosting a party means providing lavish entertainment. For adults, you need great food and ample seating. People just want to talk. For children, simple is better when it comes to activities! I’ve wasted hours {and dollars} planning failed activities because kids spent all their time digging in the sand pit or kicking the balloons.

BriannaA

I’m Bri of Halfpint Design. I’m a mother to three crazy awesome kids, interior designer, & party planning junky. I love reading, globe trotting, and frozen yogurt. And I’m bringing classy back to children’s parties, one birthday at a time!