Should your Party have a Theme?

To theme or not to theme, that is the question. When you’re throwing a party, do you really need a theme, and if so, how do you decide which theme is right for your party? Here are a few things to keep in mind to help you decide.

1. Size of the Party. A larger party typically does need a theme. It will help keep people interested and excited. A smaller party or get together is fun with a theme, but certainly doesn’t need one.
2. Location of the Party.
   1. Some party locations don’t need a theme. If you’re having a party at Whirly Ball (so fun!), then the entertainment at the party should be enough for your event.
   2. Some locations ARE your theme. Having a birthday at the zoo? You’ll want a zoo theme. A Mexican restaurant? A fiesta theme!
   3. Some locations do need a theme. A hotel ballroom or party center is purposely designed to be neutral for people to design their party however they like. So, choose ANY theme for these locations.
3. Type of Party. A backyard barbecue for family and friends or a pub crawl probably does not need a theme, but a birthday party, retirement party, Bar or Bat Mitzvah or a kids party (ok, any special occasion event) can all benefit from having a theme. A theme helps you decide how to decorate and makes your party about you or the guest of honor!
4. Date of the Party. A 4^th of July party calls for a Patriotic party and a Christmas party, of course, calls for a Christmas theme. This doesn’t mean you can’t be creative with your theme, but do keep the holiday in mind when planning.
5. You! You might be the type of person who loves a theme party. If so, then go for it regardless of the size of the party or the location. Hate themes? Then relax and have a great party without a theme. 
   

   

Ok, so if you’ve decided to host a theme, how do you decide what theme to use? I can’t tell you how many people have come in the meet with me and the Party Girl over the years with no idea what theme to use for their party. I’m always amazed that after a short conversation with the Party Girl they ALWAYS leave thrilled with a theme that fits their tastes and wants for their party. (She’s amazing, really!) Here are some tips to help you decide.

• Interests. If the party is celebrating a person (a birthday, Bar or Bat Mitzvah or anniversary, for example), then ask yourself what the celebrant likes. Does your child love Mickey Mouse? Then have a Mickey Mouse Clubhouse theme party. Is your friend a scrapbooker? Then why not throw her a scrapbook theme Bridal shower?
• You can also combine interests for your party theme! We met with a child who had so many interests she couldn’t decide on a theme for her Bat Mitzvah. She loved using AOL though, so we turned her party into EOL for Elyssa Online and had each table a different website named for one of her interests. Using one central theme is the best way to tackle many interests. It keeps the party from seeming like a mish mash of ideas.
• Location. Again, think about where the party will be held. We planned a party in a beautifully renovated barn. It was perfect for a Western theme party.
• Something you like! You don’t have to theme your party for anything at the party. Why not have a luau theme birthday party or a casino theme anniversary party. A fun theme that you like will excite your guests and help make the event even more fun!

Bottom line, it’s up to you if you want to have a theme for your party. There are no firm rules about this one. Pick a theme that is fun, fits the guest of honor and that you’ll enjoy.

Three great reasons to have a theme party:

1. It makes decorating easier. You’ll have plenty of decorations to choose from that all work together to create a great atmosphere for your event.
2. It makes planning games and activities easier. Watching Uncle John try to limbo at a luau party is worth the price of admission!
3. Most importantly, it lets you personalize the party and put full attention on the guest of honor.
   

Have a wonderful party! - Amy

Comments

[Andews Hayes]

Yes, every party should have its own theme. A retirement party, for example, usually doesn't have a theme, and that can make the event less fun. It's important for parties to have a theme to make the event more fun.

[Stacy]

Who has been to a 60's Theme Party?

[Larry A.]

This is really great stuff! Hosting a theme party adds that extra touch, letting your guests know that they are special.

Keep up the great writing!

[Envelope Printing]

Excellent post! It really depends on the celebrant if he/she would prefer to have a theme. Themes are great because it helps tie the whole celebration together, but depending on your interests and choices, it isn't really necessary.

[Kasey]

We have tons of theme parties in our neighborhood. They're so much fun to plan and attend. Thanks for your tips!