How to Plan a Surprise Party

Surprise parties can be a small gathering of friends for dinner and dessert or a grand affair with lots of guests, decorations and entertainment. The most important factor is keeping the party a secret from the person or people you wish to surprise. Get ready to play a double agent as you plan and carry out your surprise party mission!

Instructions

1. Determine the type of party. The types of parties include a surprise theme party, surprise birthday party or surprise anniversary party.

2. Create a party budget, keeping in mind venue and rental fees, decorations, food and beverages, invitations, music and/or entertainment. Allot funds to the areas that will have the most impact, such as the food and music.

3. Select a location that accommodates your type of surprise party. Consider restaurants, ballrooms, bars and lounges or community centers.

4. Make or purchase invitations that include the theme of the party. Convey to your guests the importance of keeping the party a secret from the guest(s) of honor. Include all party details: the location, date, preferred arrival time, RSVP contact, and parking information. Most importantly include the time of arrival for guest(s) of honor.

5. Send invitations three to four weeks prior to the party. Request an RSVP approximately three to five days before the party so you can plan for food and beverages.

6. Arrange for the guest(s) of honor to arrive after the attendees. You may have to manufacture an alternate reason for the guest(s) of honor to participate. For example, the guest(s) of honor may believe that the event or a party is for someone else.

7. Determine your menu and caterer. Reflect your party's theme in your food and beverages while keeping to your budget. Buffet-style or heavy Hors d'Oeuvres are appropriate for large gatherings and often less expensive than sit-down dinners.

8. Purchase decorations and select a DJ or band that will fit the theme and style of your party and location.

9. Confirm catering, music, venue reservations and arrangements approximately three to five days prior to the party. Also, confirm the arrangements for bringing the guest(s) of honor to the party.

10. Recruit some assistance for party setup and clean up. An extra set of hands will help with party logistics so that you are able to enjoy the party too.

Tips & Warnings

• When determining the date to put on the invitation, be sure to allow a little extra time for attendees to arrive before the guest(s) of honor receiving the surprise.

• Be sure the facility will accommodate menu requirements, such as alcoholic beverages. Facilities must carry a license to serve these beverages. Employees or contracted bartenders may serve the alcoholic beverages at that facility.

• Coordinate a collective welcome from the attendees to the guest(s) of honor upon arrival such as "Surprise!" or "Happy Birthday!"