10 really simple steps to a rocking party

Just how can you throw a really successful party? Harnoor Channi Tiwary lists out ten really simple steps! Read on!

New Year is right around the corner and prices for couple tickets to any party are sky rocketing. Have no plans yet? Don't worry about it. The perfect solution -- have your own house party!

Too little time to plan one? Here is a quick checklist that can take care of all your woes and make sure your party is a super hit.

Image: Used for representational purposes only.

Photograph: Courtesy the Lonely Hearts Club

Step 1. Venue

Your house is the best place to throw a party. No prior reservation needed and you can stay up as late as you want.

Illustration: Uttam Ghosh

2. Invitees

First things first, decide how many people you want to invite. The venue plays a major role here. If you're having the party in your living room or rooftop, it may only be able to accommodate a certain number of people.

Once you have the number in mind, it can help you draw up a list of people you want to invite. An average attendee rate of 70 per cent can be taken as some people may already have their own plans.

3. Food

This is usually the most tedious part but here is how you can simplify your life. Have a pot luck! Ask everyone to get one dish each. You can categorise people into appetizers, main course and desert. This way, you will have a great spread and no one person will be burdened with the task of making food for all!

4. Drinks

Stock up in advance from the local wine shop. Get a variety of mixers to cater to all kinds of drinks (coke, sprite, tonic water, soda and some juices).

5. Music

Almost everyone has a friend who has a great music collection in his computer. Get him to get his ipod or laptop along. If you don't, don't worry at all. Just tune into an online music player and take turns DJing.

6. Activity

The best way to liven up a party is to have a central activity. Karaoke is a great way to get everyone to loosen up. If you don't have a karaoke system, your party game could be Dumb Charades, drinking or dancing games, Antakshri or even Teen Patti. Once everyone is enjoying themselves and have broken ice with these activities, throw open the dance floor.

7. Decor

Don't worry about decoration. This isn't a birthday party. Just get lots of candles/ tea lights and place them all over your venue. These and dim lamps give just the right feel for the party.

8. Invitations

Spending too much time over invites is a waste. Download a fun photo off the internet, write the venue, timing and address details on it and send it out as an invite to all your invitees. Ask them to RSVP so that you know how many people are turning up.

9. Outdoor

If your party is outdoor or if you have a balcony that you will be throwing open for people to hang around, arrange for a tiny bonfire there. The night may get cold but there is nothing cosier than chatting around a bonfire!

10. Relax

It's all done! Go pick your outfit for the evening, run through the checklist once to make sure you haven't missed anything and enjoy yourself. It's party time!