Party planning like the pros

There are so many different reasons to throw a party. From birthdays to bar mitzvahs, the reasons to celebrate are many. Some people are seasoned experts at planning and executing the perfect party, while others are more apprehensive about hosting. However, with a little guidance, anyone can successfully host a memorable party.

Whether you're planning an intimate cocktail party for a few friends or a large-scale event for a baptism or anniversary, some simple tips can reduce the stress involved in being a party host.

Step 1: Create a budget

Planning the perfect event starts with establishing a clear budget. Above all else, setting a firm budget will help set limits as to what and how much you can buy for the event. It will also then help you make your lists and details accordingly.

Be sure to list the main components of the party first: including food, beverages and invitations. It's important to allocate more of your budget to those items and use the remaining funds to decorate and set the mood.

Step 2: Decide on a location

Knowing where you will be having your party -- usually dictated by how much you can spend -- will help pave the way for other decisions. For example, if you are having a party at a restaurant, all you may need to handle are providing favors and bringing a cake. But if you are renting out a room or having the party at home, your workload will increase. There are many different places you can have a party, even some unconventional locales. Therefore, if you are coming up with roadblocks based on the cost of venues, think outside the box. Look to churches, restaurant back rooms or even schools for an empty room.

Step 3: Make your shopping list

Once you've established your budget and location, it's time to make your shopping list. List all of the foods you plan to make and then separately list the ingredients that need to go into each recipe. Purchase the necessary ingredients if you are having mixed drinks. An easier idea is to simply offer soft drinks, wine and beer because guests can serve themselves. You can shop for nonperishable items, like utensils and decorations, early on. Save perishable foods for a few days before the party.

Step 4: Get help

Hosting a party can be a lot of work, so it can benefit you to have a friend or family member lend a hand. Perhaps he or she can work on party favors while you're putting the finishing touches on the meal or the dessert. If the budget allows, some people like to hire a service to wait on guests and cleans up during and after the party. This is beneficial to hosts who want to mingle with guests and not worry about collecting soiled dishes and beverage glasses.

Step 5: Decide on personalization

Although there may be the temptation to have a theme party, sometimes these can come off as immature. Instead, think about putting your own personal touch on the party planning. For example, if you're a budding artist, decorate with pieces you have made and other inexpensive works of art. Think about having a decorative item as a centralized theme, such as crystal vases or birdhouses. Maybe the party will be dazzling because of a particular color scheme. Figure out what you like and then go with that instead of a preconceived concept from a party store.

Professional party planners make their money by creating one-of-a-kind events for their clients. You, too, can host a party that will be magical with just a little organization.