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Plan a Party
As we get older, our schedules become busier and busier. We find ourselves not having as much leisure time to spend with friends. We must intentionally set aside time with those who support us with their friendship.
Planning a party is a good way to reconnect with friends. Sometimes going out to a movie or dinner just doesn't seem to provide the appropriate setting or enough time to catch up with friends. So instead of having girls' night out, why not have girls' night in?
Here are a variety of party themes including menus, decorating tips, activity ideas and sample invitations to get you started on planning a party that fits your needs and resources.
Basic Planning Tips
Try to do as much food preparation and decorating the night before the party so that you can enjoy the time with your guests. Frantically cleaning and cooking just hours or even minutes before your party is stressful and makes it hard to give your full attention to your guests.
Don’t be afraid to ask your guests to bring a specific food or beverage. They are usually more than happy to help share the cost of the party.
Remember that a party is about quality, not quantity. In fact, some parties are better with a smaller number of people. Often, when parties include more than five people, it is difficult to connect with everyone.
The menu items included here can be found in basic cookbooks like Joy of Cooking or Betty Crocker. Or, you could look up recipes online at allrecipes.com, bettycroker.com or ichef.com.
Remember that the simpler the event, the better. Don't spend too much time or energy planning the event so that the party preparation is enjoyable. Pick a party that fits your interests, schedule and budget. Though planning a party does take more time than going out to a movie or dinner, the personal touch you put on the event will make the time you spend with your guests even more meaningful.
Also, don't let your activities overwhelm the natural interaction of your guests. Remember why you are throwing the party in the first place—to spend time with friends.
