The Basics

• 1). Set the budget. Your budget will influence every decision you need to make, so it helps to establish one upfront.
  
  
• 2). Decide on the type of party you want. Do you want a large catered affair, an elegant evening on the town or something more casual? Will there be a formal dinner, a buffet, or just finger foods and munchies? Will it be an intimate gathering of a few close friends, a mixed party or a large group of friends and family? These decisions will set the tone for the entire party.
  
  
• 3). Choose a theme, if you've decided to have one. The theme will guide you through the rest of the planning process, from invitations to entertainment and food. Choose a theme that reflects your interests and personality, such as a Hawaiian luau, the 1980s or a night on the town.
  
  
• 4). Find a venue. This might be as simple a decision as your house or backyard. The type of party you've decided on might dictate another choice, such as a hall or party room, a restaurant or even a park. Book early --- some venues fill up well in advance.
  
  
• 5). Set the date and time. Your choice in venue might require some flexibility on your part, so it's best not to set these details in stone until you've firmed up the location.
  
  
• 6). Decide on the guest list. Your venue and budget will guide you regarding numbers. Now it's time to decide who will make the final cut.
  
  

Food and Entertainment

• 1). Plan the entertainment. Again, this may be decided (or at least suggested) by the type of party or the theme you've chosen. Often, you'll just need to book a DJ or burn a selection of mixed CDs, but you might want to consider some party games or other entertainment, such as a caricaturist or juggler.
  
  
• 2). Create a time line. You won't likely want the party to be a highly structured, scheduled event, but having a rough idea of when the main events of the party (dinner, cake, games, etc.) will take place will help keep the party running smoothly.
  
  
• 3). Plan the menu. Your budget, the type and theme of the party, and your tastes (sophisticated or simple) will help you set the menu. If the party is casual, teen staples such as pizza are always a good choice.
  
  

Finishing Touches

• 1). Choose your invitations. The invitations will set the scene for the guests, so be sure your choice reflects the tone and theme of the party. Don't forget to include an "end" time with the details. Send the invitations out two to three weeks before the party, and be sure to request an RSVP.
  
  
• 2). Find decorations. You'll want to avoid streamers and balloons, as they're more appropriate for a children's party, but that doesn't mean you can't get creative. The theme might suggest some decorations, such as leis and bright flowers for a luau theme.
  
  
• 3). Purchase party favors. You may have outgrown loot bags, but your guests will still appreciate a memento from you party. Keep the theme in mind when choosing party favors: a lei and shell anklet for a luau, or a bud vase for a more elegant affair.