Have you ever been to a really bad house party? Maybe it was too crowded, or there weren’t many people you really knew, or the food wasn’t good, there’s smoke everywhere, and you get the police called on you because the house is not soundproofed. You might be thinking to yourself, is it really that hard to throw a good house party, one that all your guests can enjoy? The truth is, house parties can be a challenge, but if you keep these few tips in mind, you might find yourself being recognized on campus as that guy/girl who threw the most epic party of all time. Everyone will love you.
Pick out some good tunes
Music is the life and soul of any party. As the guest list will include a variety of people who might listen to different kinds of music, it is generally a safe bet to play songs that are more popular on the radio instead of your obscure collection of dance music from the 50s. Take care not to play songs that are hard to dance to, like slow songs (unless that is the vibe you are going for), but also not too loud that people won’t be able to talk over the music.
Invite everyone on your floor
The old saying goes: if you can’t beat them, join them. This also applies to house parties. There is one way to play loud music without interrupting your neighbors: invite them over. Instead of turning the whole party situation into a potential argument with your floormates, why not have them join you? This way you know that you won’t get a notice from the HOA management company in San Diego with a noise complaint the next day. Besides, it’s a good way to get on your neighbors’ good side.
Be selective with your guest list
It’s not fun to be at a party where the only person you know is the host. When deciding who to invite, make sure that everyone on the list will have at least two people they can talk to. Holding a cup and leaning on the doorframe feels awkward. Take care so that none of your invites will have to go through that. Pick a few friends and let them know to invite their friends too. This way it’s easier to make sure everybody knows somebody.
Be well-prepared
Do you have snacks? Do you have drinks? How about decorations to hang around the walls? Do you have things to clean up with after? Make preparations from start to end. Parties don’t clean up after themselves. Be sure to pick out some volunteers to help you clean up. Your hungover self will thank you in the morning.
