How to Select a Location for a First Communion Party

When planning a First Communion party location, you want room enough for all your guests to feel comfortable. It's important to assess locations that will meet the needs of the party, particularly for food, games and mingling.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Select A Location For A First Communion Party

1. Calculate your needs. Think about how many people are invited and how much room will they need. You'll also want to consider whether you want a separate room for the children to play in, a dance floor or room for a performance of some kind. This will give you a good idea of how much room you'll need.
2. Set limits. If you do not have much space in your home and cannot afford to rent a large room, then the party will have to be a small one. If you do plan to rent a room, don't assume that the most expensive is best. Define your needs, meet them and stop.
3. Think about what facilities you will need as you select. Ask yourself how many bathrooms you need, whether there will be a live band or presentation that will require a lot of electrical outlets, if you need a place to cook or to keep food warm and how many tables and chairs are available.
4. Ask your pastor or priest about using the church meeting hall. If you are a member of the church, you should be able to use it at little or no charge. Many churches give a reception for first communion recipients after the ceremony.
5. Find out what venues are open to you, if you are not holding the party at the church, your home or someone else's house. Price the banquet halls at local restaurants, hotels and organizations. You can also call your city or county park and recreation service to reserve a location for a barbecue or picnic, often at no cost.
6. List the factors that are most important to you in a location such as price, nearness to the church or home, a bright room, carpet or no carpet or kitchen facilities. Compare the venues you have researched with your list to find the closest match. The SafeKids website has a list of questions you should ask any potential venue, as well as a handy safety concerns reference sheet (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Let your fingers do the walking. Call prospective locations and ask about the criteria you have decided on. Only after you have eliminated unsuitable venues can you start start visiting places in person.
• Don't skimp on space. You may enjoy crowded, noisy parties, but such an atmosphere may not be healthy for children.

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