3 Party Themes to Avoid

April 18, 2011

Hello Everyone! Party Planner and Social Media Guru Ryan here to warn you about the pratfalls of throwing certain parties.

There are always ideas which seem good in your head, but are a fright to behold when executed.

1. 'Black' Parties No, I'm not talking about the fun color themed parties where everyone dresses in certain colors and the decor matches. Those are fabulous in any color: white, blue, green, etc. I'm talking about parties which encourage guests to dress up as African Americans. It doesn't matter how hilarious anyone may think it would be, it's not funny. It's a theme idea which is based off of stereotypes and can bring out the worst in people. Don't ever consider this idea and certainly don't throw a party which has any sort of racial or other prejudices as part of its theme.

2. 'Bring Your Friends'/'Everyone Welcome!' Be wary of making your party open to all comers. It may seem like 'the more the merrier', but you never know just who may end up in your home/personal space. Even if you trust your friends, do you trust your friends' friends? Or another degree of friends beyond that? It can be a slippery slope when you say that all are welcome. This is an avenue of party themes which is best avoided. From worries over theft, to fire hazards from overcrowding, and stains on your rug (just to name a few), I advise against parties for everyone.

3. Anything that Involves Sand I love beach themed parties just as much as anyone. That is, I love going to beach themed parties. Hosting such an event can get a little hairy . . . or sandy, depending on how far you intend to take it. If you've got a great outdoors space and the time of year/weather is on your side, by all means, bring in sand by the truck load and use it out there. But if it's winter and you are longing for a luau, I advise against even the most careful use of sand inside. It doesn't matter if you pile it up on tarps or other plastic barriers, inevitably, sand will find its way to your floor. And the fun really begins if you have carpets or rugs. Clean up can be a nightmare if your sand gets out of control. Just a trip to the beach can leave the inside of your car a mess, so exercise caution if you really intend to bring piles of sand inside your home.