Sometimes the best ideas unfold with the least amount of time to plan them. Ever thrown a baby shower for a friend when no one else stepped up to the plate? How about entertaining old friends who suddenly announce they are making a visit? Many a destination-wedding bride and groom decide at the last minute to celebrate with friends and family once they’ve returned home.
There are a lot of scenarios for last minute parties. You don’t have to cut corners to do them well. Here’s some quick tips for fast, 24-hour turnaround party-throwing:
Venue Booking a last minute location can be tricky. A baby shower or neighborhood gathering may be better suited to a private home than an eleventh-hour wedding reception or reunion. Check with area restaurants or hotels for banquet facilities to accommodate larger numbers. If budget is boss, consider parks, churches, community centers or local service organizations who might loan their facilities in exchange for a donation. Choose an off-time, such as a Friday evening or Sunday afternoon, or even mid-week if guest are local.
Food Think carefully about times to set for the party. A backyard barbecue for visiting friends or family is easy. But feeding a 40-plus guest list is a challenge. Think outside of mealtimes like early or late afternoon. Finger foods are simple to prepare and a BYOB is perfect for many occasions. If money is not an issue (maybe co-hosts will chip in), find a caterer with an open schedule and stick to standard offerings.
Invitations Email, Facebook and even Twitter can help spread the word, but there is simply no substitute for printed invitations to garner the attention a special occasion deserves. Remember also that you are creating memories for your guest(s) of honor, and a printed invitation is a tangible keepsake. The Internet provides many quick invitation options, including Do-It-Yourself websites and sites that will print and ship invitations fast -but at a cost.
If you don’t have time or patience for DIY and you want to ensure a high quality invitation, browse LookLoveSend.com’s growing collection of professionally designed party invitations. In addition, LookLoveSend is running a promotion to print and ship within 24 hours for orders placed between Sundays through Thursdays, at no additional charge. Just write “24 Hour Turnaround” in the special instructions box appearing at the end of the order process.
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