Daily Party Dish

Foam Party Basics: What You Need to Know in Organizing a Foam Party

Photo - surfzone [CC-BY-2.0], via Wikimedia Commons
Today's post is written by guest blogger Aileen Pablo.

Whether you’re hosting your 8-year-olds birthday party or organizing a graduation bash for your fellow college students, a foam party can be a great way spice things up and create a memorable event for everyone involved.

If you’re new to foam parties, or even to party planning in general, it can seem a bit daunting at first. But with the right team and a good plan, it doesn’t have to be complicated.

First of all, let’s look at what a foam party actually is. A foam party includes most of the same elements that a regular party would; music, drinks, dancing and possibly even games. The only difference is that with a foam party, the dance floor and other surfaces will be covered in soapy bubbles, which as you can imagine, gets people into party mode pretty quickly.

Here are a few tips and things to keep in mind when planning your first foam party:

Selecting a venue

Before you plan anything else, you need to know where you will be holding your foam party. There are a number of factors to consider when choosing the venue, including the time of year (weather conditions) age of party goers, number of party goers and water resistance of the party hall/room.

During the summertime, the easiest and most logical solution would be to hold the party outdoors. This leaves less mess to be cleaned up later and there is no risk of water damage.

If you do choose to hold your foam party in an outdoor setting, you will either need a hard surface such as a patio or driveway, or you could spread out a plastic sheet on a lawn to spare the grass and preserve the bubbles for as long as possible.

For kids foam parties, a bouncy castle can be a great addition, as it provides you with a way to contain the bubbles in a closed off area and also gives kids a safe environment to jump and play without the risk of slipping and banging their head on a hard surface.

During colder months, you will, of course, need to find a suitable indoor venue, as wet and slippery conditions coupled with cold weather make for a miserable party.

For indoor parties, make sure you inform the property/venue owner what you will be using it for, as they may object to the foam idea if they feel it could ruin their floors or walls.

You will need to find a location that is large enough to accommodate the number of guests you will have at your party, as too many people crowded into one small area and surrounded by foam can get unpleasant pretty quickly. 

What you will need

Obviously, the first thing you will need to organize for your foam party is the foam machine. You may have heard that it is possible to make your own foam without the help of a machine, and while this is certainly true, using a foam machine is just easier and far less messy.

Speak to a party planner or do some research online to find out where you can rent one in your area. You will also need a large plastic sheet that is big enough to cover the whole ground, or if you can’t get your hands on one that is big enough, you could use several.

Just make sure you attach them securely with duct tape so that the foam can’t seep between the cracks and cause water damage. You may also want to consider covering the walls with a protective plastic, depending on what type of venue you have picked out.

Electrical sockets and plugs must be properly covered as well, and any speakers or DJ equipment should be set up well away from the “foam pit.”

You will also need furniture that won’t be damaged by the foam, so plastic lawn chairs and tables are your best bet during such an event.

Safety tips

As fun as foam parties are, they also present some safety risks due to the wet and slippery nature of foam. In order to ensure the safety of your guests, it is important that you follow a few basic safety tips:

Choose the right soap

Most foam parties simply use dish soap, as it tends to foam up quite well. However, using plain dish soap could cause irritations and rashes in those with sensitive skin, which certainly isn’t a pleasant way to end a party.

Dish soap may also get into people’s eyes, which can sting or burn. Consider using a hypoallergenic or at least mild shower soap or bath foam that is made for using on the skin and won’t be as irritating.

Advise your guests to wear shoes

People may be inclined to show up at a foam party in flip flips or even bare feet, but this is not ideal in wet and slippery conditions. For one thing, flip flops are likely to get lost in the foam, but another problem is that the foam will be covering people’s feet, which means that the likelihood of feet getting trodden on is quite high.

Don’t allow sliding and skidding

While it is certainly tempting to have a quick slide or skid on the slippery floor, this can lead to collisions and neck or back injuries. For some reason guys also often feel the need to pick up the girls or even their own friends, but this could also be risky if the person doing the carrying slips and falls.

To play it safe, put some rules in place to prevent people from getting too wild and purposely skidding on the floor or trying out other stunts.

Use plastic cups and plates

Because foam parties tend to get a little bit more rowdy than regular parties, it is not a good idea to use glass cups or plates that can shatter and leave sharp pieces on the floor. The foam will cover the evidence of a broken glass, which could cause others to cut their feet or ankles.

Have people leave cell phones and electronic devices at home

Foam machines do use water and things tend to get pretty damp by the end of the night, so for obvious reasons, it is best to leave all electronic devices like cell phones, tablets, iPods or what have you at home.

If some people would like to bring cell phones along for later or to use in case of an emergency, you should consider providing a safety deposit box or at least have a locked room to stash these valuables during the party.

 

Visit Party411.com for more theme party ideas!

Aileen Pablo is a Filipina Event Management blogger from Open Colleges, one of the pioneers of Online education in Australia and one of the leading providers of event management courses.  If you want to feature her on your blog, drop a line at aileen (at) oc.edu.au.

Party Event: SimchaPalooza

This Sunday on November 14th will be SimchaPalooza the "Premier Party and Event Planning Expo" in Cleveland. We have been involved from the beginning and we're really excited for the event and want to let you know what to expect.

You have your date, you’ve fashioned a checklist of sorts, and now it’s time to start planning the big day. With lots to do and little or no time to do it all, you realize you need some help. Anxiety abounds as you wonder … Where should I have the event? Who has the best invitations? How do I pick my caterer? A photographer or videographer or both? And what about activities?

Wonder no more. Whether you’re taking the DIY route (trying to do everything yourself) or hiring someone else to do it, you’ll find the answers to these questions and more at SimchaPalooza on Sunday, Nov. 14 — all in one place, all at one time.

You’ll meet face-to-face with experienced vendors, see their products up close, and find out what’s new and different to make your event spectacular (and within your budget). In fact, many of our vendors are offering discounts and special packages so you’ll want to take advantage of this one-day-only sale.

You’re invited to capitalize on our exhibitors’ expertise, sample some of Cleveland’s best caterers, and try out some of the many interactive activities that are now available. You won’t be sorry. And you’ll get much further ahead in your planning than you ever could have imagined!

3rd Annual SimchaPalooza Party Planning Expo and 16th annual Bar/Bat Mitzvah Showcase

11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cleveland Marriot East
Weddings – Bar/Bat Mitzvahs – Galas – Milestone celebrations – Corporate Events

5 Reasons MLB Playoffs are a Good Reason to Party

I love a great baseball party so I’m a little prejudiced but I have 5 good reasons you should consider a baseball theme party. This will work as an end of summer party or for the MLB Playoffs.

1. They work inside or outside. A beautiful fall afternoon or evening gives you one more day on the deck or patio and if it rains it’s easy to move the party inside.
2. The pace of the game is slow.  I know this is a reason that many people don’t like baseball but it’s a good thing for a party. Giving people plenty of time to chat, mingle, eat and do other party things.
3. It’s easy to host. Put out some baseball themed party supplies and/or noisemakers and cook burgers and dogs. Doesn’t get much easier than that.
4. Not everyone has to play. Just like some players don’t get into the game you’ll find some guests don’t get into baseball. No problem. Just have a room or area in the yard away from the TV or radio where they can chat and they’ll have as much fun as anyone else.
5. It’s easy to find someone to cheer for.  Of course, if your hometown team is playing you have to root for them. If not, just root against the favorites, because really everyone loves a good underdog.
   

Follow these tips and your baseball party will be a homerun. You can check out more baseball party ideas at Party411.com. If you want to share any other baseball tips leave them in the comments section!

Ten Ways to Get Your Guests To Leave

 

You worked really hard to make your party a success and it was. So much so that your guests just won’t take the hint and leave. You’re tired, getting cranky and (dare I say it) almost partied out. Try these ways to get your guests to leave.

 

1. Bring out an old slide projector and two really dusty crates, the dustier the better. Begin to set up a portable screen like the ones your parents watched filmstrips on in junior high school, and announce brightly: "Look what I found! Slides from our trip to Mall of America in 1984!"
2. Dim the lights and pop in a "Wiggles" DVD.
3. Ask which version of the Bach Mass in B Minor your guests prefer: the Otto Klemperer version and the Herbert von Karajan version. Insist that you will play both of them so they can make an informed choice.
4. Using a loud whisper, ask one guest: "Would you terribly mind looking at Thurston's throat for me? I think he may have a tiny bit of strep…" Thurston should then start coughing.
5. Ask them to "quick, get the stains out of the tablecloth" and hand them a stain stick, some Lestoil and a laundry brush while pointing to the basement.
6. Grab a handful of flatware in one hand and a bunch of disgusting rags in the other and say: "OK, who will help me polish the silver so we can put it away?"
7. Put on your coat and grab a bag of trash from the kitchen saying, "Who wants to help me run these bags over to the dumpster behind the supermarket so those darn skunks don't come back again?"
8. Arrange with a co-conspirator to repeatedly flush the toilet and make disgusting noises in the nearest lavatory. Rush to your guests and ask: "Does anyone happen to have syrup of ipecac with them?"
9. Take a service platter and place it on the floor for the dog. Make sure everyone notices. If people don't notice, ask one of the guests whether he's seen the puppy. Confide that the puppy is just like a member of the family when it comes to sopping up that last lick of gravy. Ask them to dislodge the wishbone from the dog's throat.
10. Bring your foot soaker/massager into the living room and plug it in. Ask them to rub your feet and hand them the rubbing alcohol.

If they still don’t leave start charging rent!

7 Tips for Father's Day Gifts

 

Father’s Day is on June 20th and it’s time to start thinking about a gift for the old guy.  As we did for Mother’s Day we have a few hints and suggestions for gifts, and they don't involve ties!

1. Power Tools.  Unlike with Mother’s Day you can get away with giving Dad a power tool with the implication that he has to use them to make something.
2. Golf.  Does Dad play golf?  If the answer is yes, that means you have a great theme for your gift.  Depending on your budget you could help buy him new clubs, or get him golf balls.  Or you could take him out golfing.  All of them will make your Dad a happy Dad.
3. Do chores.  Does your Dad have a certain chore that he does every single week? Perhaps cutting the grass?  If your Dad has this chore and you know he doesn’t like it, do it for him.  He’ll enjoy watching you and it will be a pleasant break.
   
4. Music.  Chances are your Dad listens to music.  Chances are good ever since the switch from cassettes to CD’s the music collection has not been replenished.  Here is a great opportunity.  You can go for itunes gift cards or just old-fashioned compact discs. You can even consider bringing your Dad into the 21st century with an iPod or a MP3 player.
   
5. Sporting Event.  Take Dad to a local sporting event, as he did with you so many years ago.  He’ll enjoy the whole night, especially when you take care of dinner beforehand! (hint hint)
6. An Indulgence. Does Dad have an indulgence like cigars or brandy? Get him that special thing he treats himself with (my Dad loves good pecan pie). If you can, go a step above (ie - the top shelf brandy).  He’ll appreciate the difference.
7. A Wii.  Personally, my dad has a problem with video games and controllers.  Give him a Wii though and he’s the best in the room.  This is a gift which will be used frequently and covers every age range. 
   

These are simply hints and suggestions for your Father’s Day celebration.  You know your father better than we do, so do what works for you and your Dad.

7 Tips for Graduation Thank You Notes

 

To all of the new graduates out there, congrats! (For all of those who have not yet graduated or thrown their party, check out our graduation party ideas for all your graduation party needs!)  Back to the graduates; we hate to burst your bubble but you are not done. You have to write your thank you notes. I know these are painful, but frankly it’s something that has to be done.  So I want to share some tips I picked up through my experience both writing and commiserating with my buds.

1. Make a list. I know this sounds simple, but make a list of exactly what you received and from whom.  When opening gifts your floor will turn into a collage of wrapping paper and gift certificates and presents.
2. Start writing quickly.  Nobody expects a thank you within a day, but nobody wants to wait 6 months for a thank you.  This is a common courtesy, and you are a graduate now, which means you’re responsible.
3. Don’t use cookie cutter messages.  Your guests spent a lot of time thinking about a gift for you. Do the same in your response.
4. And continuing from 3, write from the heart.  I was surprised to see some of my thank you notes on display when I went to visit.  Your guests will appreciate and enjoy your honesty.  It will also avoid an awkward situation if you use cookie cutter responses.
5. If you received a gift certificate and do not know what you are going to use it for, don’t lie.  Be honest and say you are not sure what you plan on using it for. When you do use the gift card though, a simple call or email to let them know would be a nice touch. If you do know, by all means let them know.  They will love knowing what their gift was used on.
6. You have a list, set an order.  I know this sounds terrible, but it’s probably more important that the grandparents receive a thank you before Joe from down the street. 
7. Also keep in mind; these thank yous are going to be time consuming. So set a few hours aside each day to get them done in a timely manner.  This will keep your mind fresh which will lead to better, more thoughtful thank you notes.

We are not going to lie, writing thank you notes, and a lot of them, is challenging. But it is something which must be done.  Your guests were gracious enough to give you a gift; you should be gracious as well.  If you are getting stuck remember: you are a graduate, and congratulations.

8 Tips to Help You Enjoy Summer Fireworks

The warm weather is finally here! Bring on the carnivals, festivals, baseball games, cookouts and 4th of July parties! One of our favorite summer activities is sitting and watching the fireworks down at the park. Here are a few easy ways to make watching that breath-taking display a "blast" for everyone!

1. Bring a blanket.  The grass is usually wet, and nobody likes a wet behind. Nobody.  Bring a blanket, that way you can spread out and enjoy the show. If it rained recently and the grass is really soggy, bring a tarp to lay out under the blanket.
   
2. Bring a few snacks. This is especially important if you have little ones with you.  They will get hungry, and will complain until they are fed. Same with the adults :)
   
3. Bring glow jewelry.  Sparklers aren't the safest choice in a crowd; little ones running around with fire = problem waiting to happen. Glow jewelry on the other hand is a fun, safe alternative and it will make the kids easier to spot.
4. Consider carefully before bringing Fido. I know you love your puppy, but some dogs are going to be miserable when the fireworks start. You don't want to have to leave the show early because you had to take the dog home. I always bring a bag of treat to help distract a fidgety or anxious doggy.
   
5. Be aware.  If you’re going to be walking to the location, be mindful of those around you.  People will be on bikes, zipping around getting to important locations.  Let me tell you, walking into a bike is super painful. You don’t want that. Trust me.
6. That being said, pack light. I know it sounds like I’m suggesting to pack a lot, but you want to be able to clear out quickly.  If you have three coolers and five chairs, you probably brought too much. This is why the blanket is such a good idea. Many people can fit on it and it’s easy to pick up.
7. Be respectful.  If you’re watching in a park, be respectful and clean up after yourself.  I promise it’ll take only a few moments, and the park will be nicer for everyone.
   
8. Have fun.  I know this sounds silly, but have fun.  You don’t have to compare  and analyze the fireworks through the whole show. These are fireworks, so sit back and enjoy the show.

We hope your summer celebrations are enjoyable and as bright as the weather. (It’s been real nice in Cleveland, which means it’s nice everywhere.)  Check out our summer planning guide if you need any more summer party suggestions!

Set up the perfect candy buffet at your party!

I think having a candy or chocolate buffet at a party makes for a great activity, a great favor and a great decoration – really a perfect touch that you and your guests will all love. I even had one at my wedding that my guests are still talking about!

Here are the 4 things you need to have to do it right.

1. Containers to display your candy. Choose interesting glass vases or large jars. For a party with kids try a plastic candy store type tub. (Many candy stores even sell these tubs) Look around for interesting shapes. Mix them up or keep them all the same for a unified look. Make sure the opening is big enough for your hand or scoopers!
2. Scoops. Fun metal scoops are great for a candy buffet. You can get these online or at a restaurant supply store. You can always use spoons or let people use their hands (for wrapped candy only!) of course.
3. Bags. You’ll want bags or other fun containers for your guests to use to keep their candy. You can easily get pre-printed bags to display on the table. (Send us an e-mail, we can help!)
4. CANDY! Of course you need to get an assortment of candy for your display. Here are some ideas:

• All chocolate – this is great for a Willy Wonka theme party or really for any party where the host or hostess loves chocolate.
• Specific colors – If your event has a color scheme, then choose candy to match. My wedding was pink, white and silver, so all our candy or wrappers were in those colors, like pink rock candy, pink and white M&Ms, silver Kisses, etc.
• Nostalgic candy – great for a milestone birthday or anniversary! There are many places online and many candy stores that sell penny candy or candy from specific decades.
• Your favorites – you don’t need a theme for your candy buffet. Part of the fun is just going to the store and picking out your favorites!

One important thing to keep in mind: Some people have allergies, so you may want to skip any candy or chocolate with nuts. If you use them, then add a small sign next to the candy saying it has nuts.

You can put your candy buffet out at the beginning of the party, open it at dessert or have it by the door as you’re leaving.

Have fun and enjoy! Don’t forget to put some candy away before your event for you, because there won’t be any left at the end!

- Amy

Decorate your table with foil wrapped chocolates

Many people ask the party planners here at Party411.com what are hi impact ways to decorate that don’t cost an arm and a leg. We usually run down a list of options, (balloon bouquets, crepe paper streamers) and the one that no one expects to hear is foil wrapped chocolates. They really are a fantastic way to decorate. We use foil wrapped candies in our parties all of the time. Usually it’s “edible confetti” of sorts that we sprinkle on our tables. Here is a picture from an Ohio State Bar Mitzvah (see the footballs?)

You can get just about anything in a foil wrapped chocolate; footballs, basketballs, eyeballs, dice, hearts, stars, even tropical fish. They are usually about $11 a pound, but it can go a long way.

I set out little footballs when we have people over for Sunday football games. And I am having a pirate themed birthday party for my brother next month where I will use chocolate gold coins as decoration and a favor.

See how cute gold chocolate coins look?

You can always use fun-sized candy pieces in lieu of novelty chocolate…

It doesn’t always have to be wrapped candy either (but don’t expect your guests to eat it!) For a ski themed party we once used marshmallows…

So consider this the official Party411.com recommendation for candy as party decoration. Have fun with it!