Everyone loves a good house party, and you might have one coming up where you want to do a bit more than blow up a few balloons or toss around some streamers.

Not that there’s anything wrong with simple, but sometimes it’s fun going the extra yards for a special night, so how about a foam machine or a cocktail slushy maker?

Or you could install a slide into the pool and maybe even get a bouncing castle!

All great ideas. You’ll find plenty of other crazy-fun options if you head to your local party hire store or party supply store. The party experts will be happy to lend you both ideas and a helping hand.

Before you get that far though, there are a few things to consider.

Location

A garage/backyard combo is great because it opens up so many options to you (cue bouncy castle).  If you’re restricted to an indoor event, think about moving valuables or the fish tank out of the way for the night.

Timing

Make sure you consider the time of year (important for outdoor parties) and pick a date way ahead of time, which gives people at least a couple of week’s notice to lock it in their diary and make preparations, particularly for themed parties.

About a week before  your party, inform the neighbours about what’s going to happen (especially if you haven’t invited them…maybe you should as a courtesy, even if you think they’ll say no.) Try to speak to them in person, and it might be a good idea to leave them a note with your name, number, address, and the date and time of your party so they can contact you if they have any concerns or if things get a bit noisy on the night. Let’s face it, some parties do!

Party Style or Theme

Party goods these days range from themed invitations to party decorations such as lasers and other lighting effects. Most caterers don’t supply house parties with nibbles (although you can always do a search for caterers who do!), but if you do decide to put out chips and dips, you can get containers from your local party supplier, as well as plates and glasses and other bits and pieces such as napkins and swizzle sticks!

You will also need a good sound system to pump out the tunes all night long…well, at least until the wee hours of the morning, at which point you’ll turn it down so the neighbours stay friendly, right? And don’t forget to make up some mix CD’s or to program your computer or smartphone’s playlist and hook it up to a moderate-sized PA.

If you’re struggling at any point, or are worried you forgot something, your local party supply store is the place to go if you haven’t already been there. Have a walk around with the owner – you’ll be amazed at what else you will find to add an extra zing to your party!