Top Ideas for Throwing a Themed Party
In previous guides I have outlined some sure winners when it comes to throwing an outdoor or dinner party – from ensuring a lovely ambience such as by hanging Chinese lanterns to making your guests comfortable with the right music.
If you want that added stroke of flair however, there’s nothing like a themed party to make a get-together more fun. With a little creativity and forethought, you can make it an unforgettable night.
To help you get a good kick start, in the next few guides I will suggest some of the most successful themed party ideas to choose from. See Part 1, 2 and 3 for further ideas.
16 – Shipwrecked Island
Aim – the creative idea here would be “What were you wearing when the ship sank?” rather than how do we go about building a shelter!
Ideally the evening weather would be nice enough to try imitating a deserted island in your garden, such as with palm tree decorations and a large bonfire as well as lit torches. Even if you’re limited to indoors, the fun is all about having your guests come dressed in rags along with anything they managed to salvage when the ship went down…
The food will be easily taken care of with a BBQ or grilled meat and fish, plus keep plenty of coconuts and pineapples on hand for colourfully tropical cocktails.
17 – 70s Flashback
Aim – time to get nostalgic by travelling back to the era of Saturday Night Fever and the Bee Gees, complete with disco balls and swanky John Travolta suits.
If you prefer a little more edge, you could think Velvet Underground and Led Zeppelin. You’ll want plenty of lava lamps, flares, music and incense, along with guests awash in psychedelic clothing.
The perfect seventies party food would be a fondue – bread etc. dipped in warm cheese or even chocolate – this still happens to be a fabulous party nibble even though it has gone out of fashion in contemporary times.
18 – At the Races
Aim – generate gambl.ing excitement by playing recorded horse racing events. Make race meeting cards and appoint a bookmaker. Players can bet on each race using Monopoly money.
To further add to the fun, recreate Ascot high-style by asking the guests to dress formally, with females simulating the famous Ladies Day by wearing elaborately ornate hats.
The occasion will certainly call for glamour, so definitely opt for champagne and strawberries. For food, you would be traditionally in line by going for either ornate canapés or by keeping it cheerfully simple with fish & chips.
Conclusion
You can add real spice into an evening by making it a themed event. This is not as tricky as many people might think – the right flair to create an unforgettable atmosphere need not be expensive, such as buying warmly inviting decorations like Chinese Lanterns. And with a little effort from your guests in terms of wearing a suitable outfit to match the occasion, you can host a truly extraordinary event.
About the Author: Jasmine Chu: decorator and independent retailer of Chinese Lanterns.