How to Prepare for a Release Party

Release parties sometimes introduce new music.

A release party or launch party is a way to celebrate the introduction of a new item. It may be the release of a new CD, a new book or even the release of a new website or product. The party introduces the new item to a group of people who may or may not have heard about it before. Long before you actually throw the party, you need to prepare for the event by focusing on the little details.

Instructions

1. Set a budget for the release party. The budget determines the size of your party, the number of guests and the type of decorations or theme you use. Spend as much as you can afford to spend on the event, as this is the initial way to introduce the product to a new base of customers.

2. Pick a date for the party. It's important that you set a date close to the date of the actual release of the product. Books, CDs and movies may be pushed back depending on the publishing company, but the party itself should only take place when the product is ready. Have copies on hand to show party guests what it looks like or what it does.

3. Write a press release describing the reason for the party. A press release describes the product in glowing terms and explains why someone would want it. Send copies of the press release to newspapers, magazines and websites related to the product to generate early buzz about the release party.

4. Send invitations to guests. Get guests excited about the party by making custom invitations that mimic the product. For example, if you're throwing a CD release party, place invitations inside CD cases. For a book release party, tuck the invitation inside a book or make the invitation into a bookmark.

5. Order tables and other furnishings a few weeks before the event. Buy your decorations and decide on gifts for guests. Keep in mind that some furnishings may be on back order and take longer to arrive. Give yourself extra time to buy or order the right things. Order small gifts that you pass out to guests at the party as a thank you gift for attending.

Tips & Warnings

• Get help from a professional party planner if you don't have experience throwing parties or if you have a large guest list. The planner is responsible for ordering the decorations and food, decorating the space, sending out invitations and handling any press.

References

• Spiral Marketing: How to throw a big fat red carpet launch party
• The Bounce Down: How to Throw a Successful CD Release Party