At some time in most of our lives, we have hosted a party that has not been the greatest success. A party is a time for people to get together, eat and drink and have a good time, and it is up to the host to choreograph it so that it actually works. So what makes some parties successful when others are just humdrum? It all comes down to the planning. You will need to consider the theme, the menu, the guest list, and even decorations. There is a fine line, though, between hosting a great party and having an over planned event that isn't a success. Here are some helpful tips for your next great event.

THE GUEST LIST, INVITATIONS & THEME: These are three very important items. First decide what type of theme you want for your party, or if you even want one. If you are not sure, go online and look up themes, there are some really great ideas on the web, and not only will they provide you with some great party ideas, but also decoration and food options as well. Keep it simple, just start with a basic theme and then move on to the guest list. Choosing guests who all know each other, can be a big mistake. If you can invite some people from the different areas of your life, it tends to make for a much better party. In other words, don't just try to get the perfect combination of people, try and mix it up a bit. This will usually make for a much better party. Choose your invitations according to your theme.

DECORATIONS & FOOD: Again, be sure to keep it simple. If you get too elaborate, what will happen is you will spend too much time working to pull the party off and not enough time enjoying the party and the people. Finger foods are great for a party. This way everyone can pick as they go. If you are planning a meal, then make it buffet style, this serves for better socialization and you can make some pasta dishes and put them over some sterno to keep them warm while people mingle. This will save you from having to run back and forth to the kitchen. Decorate to the theme, but don't go over board. A nice touch is having something festive in the entry way and in the party room itself. If you over do, once filled with people, they really won't appreciate the hard work you put in. A festive themed centerpiece works great as well as having everyone dress the part. If you do this, your guests themselves will be the decorations, which will save you time and money.

KEEP IT STRUCTURED: Be sure to include in your planning some ice breaking activities at the beginning to let people get to know each other. Also, be sure to have some music, on theme, and ready to turn on to help create the atmosphere. Also, be sure to have some simple activities planned and on the side, that you can quickly pick up if there is a lull in the party. If you don't need them, don't use them, but the successful host or hostess is always prepared for whatever comes there way.

All parties should have a scheduled beginning and ending time. The best time to address this is on the invitations. This helps people know what to expect and when it is time to leave. If your party is too long, it will start to drag and you want to it end on an upbeat tone. Making your party about two to four hours long is usually a good formula for success. Overall, the key to success lies in the planning. Consider these ideas and you're sure to pull off a great event.