HOW TO THROW A PARTY WORTH CELEBRATING

As the founders of one of the newest and most popular ways to celebrate events, we are constantly asked by our friends and family to share some of our favorite party planning and celebration tips. As we get ready for World Party Day on April 3rd, we thought we would combine the advice we give to our loved ones in one place for others who love to throw a good party!

 

Be a strategic planner. As moms turned CEOs, we can tell you that being smart and thoughtful when it comes to planning your party or event is going to give you the results you want with as little stress as possible. Before we throw any event, we sit down and write out the goal, the type of event, our top wants and must-haves and deadlines and timelines for each task.

 

Menu is key. If your family and friends are anything like ours, the food will be key to your guests enjoying themselves. Once you determine the type of party you’re throwing, determining multiple options for food is paramount to a successful shindig. These days, with so many different dietary restrictions, a buffet style table with several platters allows everyone to fill their plate with something. Just don’t forget, even at a child’s birthday party, parents need to eat too! If a more formal event, be sure to pick more than one entree choice to provide to your guests.

 

Master the music list. The number one thing to consider here is what age group you will be entertaining. Are you playing background music, or is it meant to keep the energy up? If conversation is a priority, keep it quiet. If you’re doing something later in the day, keep the music upbeat so people don’t get sleepy! Regardless, curating playlists in advance on your preferred music streaming platform will set the exact vibe you want your guests to experience.

 

Make a bold statement. We are proud Texans, and as they say, “everything is bigger in Texas!” A great way to celebrate an event with a more custom approach, but also a unique and bold approach, is to book a Card My Yard. The whole neighborhood can celebrate someone’s birthday with a creative and colorful large yard “Happy Birthday” sign or your own special message. A yard sign can also help guests find your location and super-sized frames make for a perfect photo op!

 

Set the scene. Depending on the event, you may be able to go “all out” with a theme. If that is the case, we have found that you can save money—and these days, shipping times—by shopping or ordering from a local business or franchise. Additionally, repurposing outfits, and researching and creating your own indoor party decor, can be great ways to personalize an event. If there isn’t a theme, and it is an adult party, detailed but simple, is a safe way to go—especially if you are planning on a shorter timeline. Things like personalized name cards, table decor or a signature drink can ensure your party is memorable.

 

If you’re throwing a kids party, ask yourself if your little guy or gal is really into a certain movie? Or does he want to play with cars all day? We have found decorations are what awes children the most and leave a lasting impression. Make the party feel like a scene from Frozen or even a racetrack. Children also tend to be mesmerized by their heroes; consider dressing up as your kiddos’ favorite character. Even if it's not the most authentic costume, they won’t notice!

 

Make more memories. Pictures and videos are the greatest way to capture the memories made at your event. Having a way for guests to snap a few photos is always a great idea, especially in today’s world of social media. Options include renting a Polaroid instant-print camera, creating an event-specific hashtag or setting up a D-I-Y photo booth. As moms, we know the value of being present, especially if throwing a party for someone in your family. Consider hiring a photographer or videographer. Often, local colleges or high schools may have more affordable opportunities for their talented students to gain experience.

 

We hope whatever celebration you create brings you great joy and that these tips make planning it a little simpler.

 

Amy Arnold and Jessica Stanley are the founders of Card My Yard. Founded in 2014, Card My Yard is America’s premier yard greetings service with 450+ franchise locations in 45 states and a national headquarters in Austin, Texas. Catering to special occasions, events and milestones, the company has transformed celebrations across the country and continues to make a positive impact in communities nationwide. For more information, visit www.cardmyyard.com and stay connected @cardmyyard.

 

 

 

 

Guest Post:  Amy Arnold, co-founder and chief brand officer, and Jessica Stanley, co-founder and chief marketing officer of Card My Yard.