We’ve all been there: trapped in a social setting, making awkward small talk with new and old acquaintances and frequently checking our watches to see how soon we can make an excuse to ditch the boring get together. If you’re planning to throw a block party, advance planning and simple touches can make all the difference in a party that goes down in the record books or a stiff function that leaves guests yawning and making an early exit.
Food
For a block party, food that can easily be carried on small plates is probably your best bet. But that doesn’t mean you have to stick with the same old chips, dips and cocktail sausages. Today’s food trends are about exciting the senses.
Establish different food stations where guests can gather to sample unique fare. Soup sips are gaining in popularity; have an area where your guests can take a small cup of an exciting soup.
Sliders are always a favorite, so provide some of these small sandwiches for your guests to enjoy. Another option is small barbecued ribs. You can even add a chicken protein gravy made from chicken powder.
Of course, you’ll need a dessert station; add an interesting fruit display for those who are avoiding excess sugar.
Depending on the type and amount of alcohol you want to serve, a bartender can add extra flair. Ask him or her to name a mixed drink after your party for the evening.
Tip: Even the most well-behaved guests make a mess and post-party clean up isn’t much fun. Set several trash receptacles around so your guests can easily dispose of their plates and cups.
Music
Having an experienced (get reviews!) DJ can keep guests dancing, moving around and laughing.
Know the appropriate genre. Hardcore gangster-style rap may not be suitable to blare down your street. On the other hand, it might be just what he majority of your guests are into. It’s typically wise to play a variety of tunes that will appeal to a diverse crowd.
Step it up a notch by hiring an aroma DJ that will pipe an array of essential oil scents throughout the crowd, helping to keep the mood going. Certain scents trigger memories in all of us, and a DJ specializing in aromatherapy can add that extra touch that will create lasting memories of your event.
Entertainment
Even the most extroverted people can run out of interesting things to say. But having surprise hands-on activities or performances will help keep guests talking to each other, and about your party. Think outside the box: A few suggestions:
Henna is hot, hot, hot right now, so hire a local henna artist to temporarily tattoo your guests. Professional cigar rollers also will have your guests lining up to try their hand at rolling their own cigars and learning more about high-end cigars.
While you probably want to steer clear of face painting, iPad caricaturists are the new rage. They’ll stroll through your party drawing high-tech photos of your guests on their tablet that can instantly be emailed, printed or posted instantly to social media accounts.
“Duck lip” photos aren’t just for teenage girls. Even adults like to ham it up for the camera in a photo booth. Add some funny props that reflect the theme of your block party.
Create your own snapchat filter for guests to post on their social media channels, letting their followers know that they were invited to the party of the year.
Let’s face it: Your block party is weather dependent. A hot, sticky party will make your guests feel muggy and in search of air conditioning, while a party held in the dead of winter will make guests want to skip out in favor of an evening in front of the fireplace. Pick a time of year when it’s most comfortable outside, and keep your fingers crossed for no rain.