Organising a successful party involves a huge amount of planning and attention to detail. So whether it’s a birthday celebration, a casual get-together, or a fancy cocktail soirée, here are some essential tips that we thought you might find useful when organising your shindig to make memories. Remember to plan ahead as it does take a considerable amount of time and effort to put together a great event!

Theme your party:

This is the most important part, knowing what type of event you're planning and a theme to match. Of course you're not going to have everyone turn up in beach gear at a dinner party, even though you might think its a good idea, it probably isn't it. Matching the event type to a theme is key. This way people will know what to wear and what sort of atmosphere to expect.

Setup a Budget:

Costs can easily get out of hand. Prepare a budget within your means, its so easy to overspend, but remember you don't have to break the bank in order to entertain people. Most people enjoy good food and drink options, good company and some form of good entertainment. Venue and decor should also be taken into consideration. Unless you have deep pockets, all that jazz is not as important as you may think! Keep it fun and enjoyable for guests, simple! Food will cost between £15-£25 a person and drinks, when bought from us, between £7-£12 a person. Stick to your budget and don't overspend.

Location, Location, Location:

Choosing a good location makes for a memorable event. Even though everyone would love to hire the Ritz for their event, this just isn't feasable. Do some solid research in the area where you're planning to host and negotiate with the venue directly. You'll always get a good deal if you plan well ahead. Put down a small deposit, so the venue knows you mean business! Weekends can be expensive, but bank holidays and Thursday evenings as well as out-of-term week nights also work well.

Guest List and Invitations:
Create a guest list. Without a good crowd, let's be honest, your event will be rubbish. Invite all your contacts that are fun, humourous and full of life. All the normans, will thank you for it! Ensure to send out your invitations via mail, email, or whatsaspp. Becareful when posting on social media, as you could accidently create a road block! Make sure to include essential details like the date, time, location, and RSVP information. This will give you a clear idea on whos coming and the catering costs.

Entertainment:
Depending on the theme, set up lighting, music, and any other elements that enhance the party atmosphere. For larger events, a DJ or Band is always a good idea. To avoid your crowd from dispersing elsewhere best not to let Uncle Jack loose on your spotify account.

Food and Drinks:
Plan a menu that suits the occasion. Finger foods, appetizers, and easy-to-eat dishes work well for most parties. Hiring a good caterer for large events is a must. Drinks, well we've got you covered. Use our planner above and ensure to submit your enquiry.

Now, let’s talk drinks!

We have a lot of choice for events, but we need to keep things in perspective. Its no good having rose wine at a bachelor party or whisky at a baby shower. We'll help you to select the right stuff for the occasion.

For most occasions and venues that don't have a bar, you can simply let your guests help themselves. If you do have a caterer, ask them to provide a bartender, they don't have to be like Tom Cruise in Cocktail, but just someone competent enough to pour a drink or open a bottle of beer.

We've put together some ideas below, which, from experience, have all gone well with our customers.

Formal Events:

For events such as receptions and corporate events Champagne and sparkling wines work well, as well as quality still wines and bottled beers. A sophisticated cocktail like a Vodka Martini or French 75 are also a nice treat (if you have a bartender).

Outdoor Events:

Sangrias, beers and easy-to-drink wines work well for these occassions. Ready-to-drink cocktails are also suited, but ensure you have a cooler or ice box.

General Parties (until the early morning):

For parties that go on for a while with plenty of music and dancing, spirits and mixers are best served. You'll also need shots and plenty of them! But take it easy, and ensure you also serve plenty of water, as these type of events lead to dehydration pretty quickly.

Children's Party:

Uh no, we recommend you best to stick to juice. Fizzy drinks ruin your kid's teeth and booze is not a great idea unless you want to be sneered at during pick-up times.

Essentials list: