What makes a great house party

[Dazedandconfused2021]

I have a big birthday coming up. DH has suggested a small house party. Maybe 20 guests. My birthday is in the depths of winter so no option to have any of the party outdoors other than smokers using the patio area. I'm unsure, only because it's been about 15 years since I threw a house party and back then as long as they was the alcohol didn't run out, everyone had a great time. I'd want it to be a great party so aibu to ask for your opinions on what makes a great house party? Would we hire a singer for so few people? Can you get cleaning firms to come in and set up then clear away? My birthday falls on a weekend and due to other commitments it'd have to be the day of my birthday and I don't want to spend that day setting up a party then clearing up with a hangover!

If you are happy to spend on it then definitely getting people in to tidy down etc will mean that you can enjoy more than host as such and cleaners before and after will make it more relaxing for you.

Gazebo for the smokers. Plenty of sitting places, a zone for tunes and a zone for chatting and eating. A buffet or whatever, if you have it catered it will make it easier for you. Catering agencies also do wait on staff just for an evening, and they would do whatever you need, eg collectiong glasses and dishes, washing up etc, keeping the buffet filled/tidy, keeping drinks going etc.

If you can afford it that sort of help will let you enjoy the evening alot more.

@Dazedandconfused2021

I have a big birthday coming up. DH has suggested a small house party. Maybe 20 guests. My birthday is in the depths of winter so no option to have any of the party outdoors other than smokers using the patio area. I'm unsure, only because it's been about 15 years since I threw a house party and back then as long as they was the alcohol didn't run out, everyone had a great time. I'd want it to be a great party so aibu to ask for your opinions on what makes a great house party? Would we hire a singer for so few people? Can you get cleaning firms to come in and set up then clear away? My birthday falls on a weekend and due to other commitments it'd have to be the day of my birthday and I don't want to spend that day setting up a party then clearing up with a hangover!

Oi - what's the plan???

@Skysblue

Also good parties are made by the host introducing people to each other - not in a demented Bridget Jones way, but just making sure people are mixing.

"Perpetua, this is Mark Darcy, a prematurely middle aged prick with a cruel raced ex wife."