Organizing a 4th of July Party
Organizing a 4th of July Party can seem like a lot of work for one afternoon or evening. But you don’t have to spend hours laboring over planning a party. Use these simple ideas to make your plans and party come off without a hitch.
* Determine the specifics for your party. Obviously Independence Day isn’t always going to fall on a weekend. If holiday falls on a weekday, plan for a different day. You’ll also want to decide if the party will be held at your home or some other location. Don’t forget to set a specific time for the party so guests know when to arrive.
* Plan a budget for the party and stick to it. Think about all of the things you will need and include those on the budget – invitations, decorations, food and beverages are common party needs. What else will you need?
* Send out invitations. Times have changed and people rarely send formal written invitations through the mail anymore. Make telephone calls or send invitations through email or an online invitation service. Be sure to ask guests to respond if they are coming or not so you know how many to plan for.
* Create a basic menu for the event. Ask friends and family to help by bringing a dish to share. Be sure to make a list of who is bringing which foods so you won’t have everyone bringing deviled eggs or potato salad. If you notice that you need something specific, don’t be afraid to ask someone to bring that item. You may want to ask each person or family to bring beverages they like to ensure everyone has something they will drink.
* Don’t forget the ice! You can use ice in the bottom of a large bowl which will have a smaller bowl of food placed inside it to keep the food cool. You will also want to have ice for beverages.
* Have extra propane or charcoal if you’re cooking out. No one wants to run out of propane or charcoal before the food is finished cooking. Take time to pick up an extra tank of propane or a couple of bags of charcoal to ensure this doesn’t happen at your party.
* Make a list of other items needed. Some things to consider are decorations, paper products (plates, cups, napkins, eating utensils and table cloth). If you can’t find exactly what you want, go to a dollar store and purchase red, white and blue solids that can be mixed and matched to show your patriotism. Don’t forget to stock up on 4th of July decorations after the holiday so you’ll be prepared for next year’s party.
* Clean up the party area and decorate the night before. This will enable to you enjoy the party. If you need extra seating, you may want to check with a party supply company, local church or recreation center to see if you can rent or borrow them.
* Prepare food ahead of time. Don’t wait until the day of the party to begin making food. Do what you can in the week leading up to the party and put the items in the refrigerator. This will make it possible for you to enjoy the party.
After you have spent the time organizing a 4th of July party, don’t forget to have fun. Your guests will not remember if everything is perfect but they will remember if they were able to spend time with you. Get out there and mingle and have a great time!
