Decorations & Theme Ideas for Parties
Overview
Whether you're having a party for children or adults, it can be hard to decide on a theme. That's especially true when your mind gets overwhelmed with all of the other planning duties. If you're looking to make the party enjoyable for the largest variety of people, it's good to choose a theme and decorations that are appropriate for all ages and suitable for both genders.
Step 1
Plan a Hawaiian party. A Hawaiian party is very appropriate for the summer months, but it can be just as good to get people's minds off of a long, cold winter. Decorations are pretty easy. Most party stores stock both plastic and flowered leis. They have inflatable and light-up palm trees. Torches are put in the lawn. Don't forget the limbo stick.
Step 2
Consider a southwestern fiesta. This party can be a lot of fun to plan, especially for people who love spicy food and salsa music. Decorate with sombreros, mini piñatas and hot chili pepper themed dishes. Cacti can also make for good accents (best to go fake if there are kids involved to avoid the prickle factor). Also buy one bigger piñata that you can hang from a tree in the yard. Fill it up with small toys or candy. Let blindfolded guests beat it with a stick. If the party is for adults, try small liquor bottles instead.
Step 3
Have a Viking party. A more offbeat theme will give your guests something to talk about. For decorations, go nautical. Decorate with fishing net, paper seahorses, turtles, fish, and plastic crustaceans. Don't forget the classic horned helmets and fake jewels to represent the Vikings' treasures. If you have extra money in your budget, buy a Kubb game set. See the Resources section for more information.
Step 4
Go for a '50s party. Who doesn't love an old fashioned sock hop? Decorate with records, plastic musical notes and lots of images of Elvis. "Grease" memorabilia is always welcome. Don't forget the checkered tablecloths to transform your living room into a classic diner. Also consider picking up a jukebox. You may be able to find one for rental if you don't want it to become a staple in your home. Choose one guest to be the dancing judge. Supply him with some "cool" '50s shades so that he looks the part.
Step 5
Throw a disco party. Since the era was pretty far out, you can go a little crazy with the decorations. Grab the brightest flowers you can find. Place them in vases all over the house. Cover doorways with beaded curtains. Provide the requisite disco ball, whether it's hanging from the ceiling or sitting on a tabletop. Spend any extra funds on a couple of lava lamps. Spread your message of peace and love with a happening party.
skill
2
tip
Plan a party budget before setting out to purchase decorations. You don't want to get overexcited and blow too much money at the party store. Those little items, like balloons and coasters, tend to add up fast.
Make a list before you go shopping so you don't forget anything.
warning
If you're going to have children or alcohol at your party, use caution with decorations that involve fire.
Consider neighborhood sound ordinances when deciding on music for your party. For example, a live band probably won't work in the middle of the suburbs.
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Resources