1. A theme – which could be as simple as a British garden party, or perhaps more adventurous. Here are a few to get you thinking: Beach party, Caribbean island, Victorian afternoon tea, 1970s, Mexican fiesta, Alice in Wonderland!
2. Decorations – which can be done as an arts and crafts activity (for example, a beach themed party might have bunting made of card circles that are painted like beach balls)
3. Music – you can create a playlist, but live music is unbeatable. Just make sure your singer incorporates a mix of lively and slower songs so things don’t feel overwhelming
4. Games – things like guess how many jellybeans in a jar; guess the name of the teddy, hook-a-duck, coconut shy, hoopla or tin can alley
5. Stalls – which could fit your theme or be more traditional, like bric a brac, tombola, a cake stall, welly throwing, or a marble game.
6. A raffle – it’s simple to organise, but can be a good focal point towards the end of the day
7. Food and drink – a selection that fits the theme of your party
8. Comfy seats for everyone to sit on