celebrate

Things to Consider for Parties

By Sherry Wells

For the ‘Annual Party Guide’ edition, we’ve come up with some great ideas for hosting an unforgettable get-together that you can enjoy just as much as your guests do. Afterall, this is a celebration for everyone, including you!

Determine your budget

The first step to successful party planning is to decide how much you want to spend. Be realistic and concentrate on where you’d like to splurge and save. If you don’t have a lot of time, you can spend more money to get things done for you. If you don’t have a big budget, plan to spend more time on DIY projects to get the party you’re looking for.

Invite plenty of people

There’s no magic number of guests; it depends on the personalities and the space. Fifteen may feel crowded; 40 may feel sparse. You just don’t want it to feel empty. Send your invites about three weeks before the party to avoid people making conflicting plans.

Plan your menu

a virtuoso performance by a kitchen goddess, it requires a communal effort by a group of friends. Divide the meal into categories— appetizer, drink, salad, vegetable, bread, fruit — and assign one to each guest.

A DIY dessert bar is the best way to keep party guests entertained and happy as they gather a plate of sophisticated sweets. This will encourage guests to munch, mingle—and you get to stay out of the kitchen.

When it comes to drinks, keep it simple: one signature cocktail, water and a nonalcoholic drink. Make sure there’s plenty of ice.

Keep Kids Occupied

A designated kids’ area ensures any party runs smoother. Cover the table with brown Kraft paper to create a doodle-and spill-proof surface. Stock the table with a ready supply of tasty treats and art supplies so the kids can craft and munch the night away.

Music sets the mood

While most people are pretty good at keeping a conversation going, you can help your guests by creating a mood by setting the music to an appropriate level and selection.

Set your stage

Even if you’re the type of person who picks up a bunch of carnations, throws them in a vase and calls that decorating, you can create a Pinterestworthy party space without stressing out.

Scent the Room—carefully

There’s a fine line between catching a whiff of a subtle, minty aroma and feeling like you’re being suffocated.

Welcome your guests

Remember you’re here to party as well! Welcome your guests with a smile and enthusiasm to set the tone for the rest of the night. So long as you’re organized before, there shouldn’t be many issues that arise during the party, so try to relax and enjoy it yourself.

Document the event

Everybody loves looking back at pictures from a party, but unless you’re lucky enough to have one of those friends who brings a camera to every party and does the work for you, documenting the event can be a pain.

Consider the Photo Booth option. Tell your guests to grab a prop, strike a pose and the hashtag to use to share.

How to Make Your Own DIY Photo Booth

1. Find a Space for Your Photo Booth 2. Create Your Photo Booth Backdrop 3. Buy or Make Some Playful Photo Booth Props 4. Add Some Lighting 5. Use Cell Phone Camera 6. Get Guests to Share the Photos

Still not sure you are up to the task...check out the party places in this section and let them do all the work for you!

Sonny Acres Farm offers endless possibilities to make your next event unforgettable, boasting 22 acres of space, making it the perfect option for just about any occasion. From breathtaking weddings set amidst one of our scenic backdrops to large scale corporate events, family reunions, kids birthday parties and more, the customization options are flexible and pair perfectly with any occasion. Treat your guests to our seasonal offerings including access to amusement rides, petting zoo, hayrides and much more. Visit www. sonnyacres.com [See our ad on the Back Cover.] Hosting a summer event and want to have Tropical Sno there? Call today and book your event! We also are available for car shows, farmers markets, festivals, block parties, back to school events, high school dances, athletic concessions, corporate events and so much more. Our location in Palos Heights is open all year long with indoor seating and a warm tropical fun atmosphere. For more information about Sno Daze Tropical Sno visit our website at http://www.tropicalsnodaze.com WhirlyBall Naperville is a non-stop family fun party venue in Naperville! Plan your kids’ birthday party, family outing, bachelor party, or even rehearsal dinner! WhirlyBall is the most fun you can have going 4 miles per hour! In addition to WhirlyBall, there’s a LaserTag arena, 12 bowling lanes, and party rooms. Offering an elevated dining experience featuring fresh takes on the classic pub menu, a craft beer bar, and refreshing signature cocktails. Book today! WHIRLYBALL NAPERVILLE, 3103 ODYSSEY CT, 630-9324800, www.WhirlyBall.com/Naperville [See our ad on Page 3.]

Fleetwood Roller Rink (established 1957) is a family-owned business. Our venue hosts public skating, birthday parties (our specialty) privates and fundraisers. We promote family fun for all ages plus for “health sake, roller skate” Come visit us and join in our fun. Instruction available every Saturday at 1 pm Check for our ongoing specials and public skating times. Located at 7231 West Archer Ave., Summit. 708-458-0300. www.fleetwoodrollerrink.com

Trails Entertainment Centers offers three amazing venues – Enchanted Castle Family Entertainment Center in Lombard, which is an all-indoor facility, and Haunted Trails Family Entertainment Centers located in Burbank and Joliet, which feature both indoor and outdoor attractions. Each location offers a unique variety of games, miniature golf, gokarts, amusement rides and other special attractions. Special discounted rates are available for birthday parties, group outings and corporate picnics & events. For more information visit www.trailsfunparks.com.

Safari Land is the ultimate, INDOOR entertainment center, plus home of the largest year-round indoor roller coaster in Illinois. Open seven days a week, offering eight amusement rides, over 100 arcade games and 12 lanes of bowling. Ride wristband includes: Tilt-A-Whirl, Bumper Cars, Merry-Go-Round, Monkey Jump, Soft Play Area, Max Flight Simulator, Roller Coaster & Kiddie Go-Karts. Free parking and a perfect spot for birthday parties! For more information visit www. safarilandfun.com or call 630-530-4649.

at Katherine Legge Memorial Park

Unique and elegant celebrations happen at The Lodge at Katherine Legge Memorial Park! Built in 1927, this historic venue located in Hinsdale is surrounded by 52 acres of beautifully appointed parkland. From weddings and birthday parties to memorials and corporate events, The Lodge is the perfect setting for any occasion. The outdoor patios and tented events provide a great outdoor option for guests to celebrate under the stars. For more information contact (630) 789-7095 or visit www.klmlodge.com or https://www.facebook.com/KLMLodge.

Celebrate under the stars!

The Lodge at Katherine Legge Memorial Park

A Village of Hinsdale Property 5901 County Line Road Hinsdale, IL 60521

Ph: 630-789-7095 Fax: 630-789-7093 www.klmlodge.com