Have you always wanted to throw a spectacular Oscar party, but never seem to get around to it? Now's your chance! With the star-studded awards ceremony coming up in a few weeks, there's plenty of time to get those invitations sent to all your Oscar-worthy friends and start making some solid plans.
An Oscar party doesn't have to be expensive or time consuming. From a simple gathering with friends and takeout cuisine in your living room to an elaborate costume party complete with caviar and champagne, there's no limit to throwing a fete your friends won't ever forget – well, except for your budget. When throwing any kind of bash, it always helps to have a friend help with the planning (and cleaning up) as it will help to take the pressure off of you and make the planning process less stressful.
You can both decide whether you want this party to be casual or formal. Make sure you state what the attire will be on your invitations so your guests will know ahead of time. To get going, just grab a pen and paper and start making a list of what you will need.
Here are 6 things to keep in mind when planning your Oscar party.
1. Invitations
You can save money by purchasing your invitations at the dollar store or even by making them yourself. Alternatively, you could go paper-free by creating a Facebook event invitation. Just make sure you give your guests at least two-weeks' notice and let them know whether they need to bring anything or dress up. The last thing a guest will want is to show up in sweat pants to a black tie affair.
2. Decorations
Make a trip to your local dollar store for champagne flutes, paper plates, napkins, star- shaped confetti for the table, balloons, etc. If you're feeling crafty, you could even buy some gold glitter and construction paper to make some stars and Oscars to hang around your living room.
3. Drinks
If you'd like to cut down on the costs of throwing your party, ask your guests to BYOB (bring your own booze). Nowadays, most hosts make this request, so don't feel bad for asking. If you'd like to have some alcohol on hand to offer party goers, a champagne punch is cost effective and pretty tasty. You should also offer a selection of non-alcoholic beverages for designated drivers.
4. Food
For big fun, think tiny bites. Fancy, bite-sized fare, such as individual shrimp cocktails, mini quiche, bacon-wrapped scallops, stuffed olives and let us not forget chocolate covered strawberries, are all sure to please their palates. For dessert, try a chocolate fondue and have a plate of fresh cut up fruit on the table for guests to help themselves. If you're short on menu ideas, just log on to Pinterest for some inspiration and a plethora of recipes.
5.Dress
If you want your guests to dress to impress, make sure they know ahead of time. Now this doesn't mean you have to break the bank on a formal gown or tuxedo – unless of course that's something you want to do. Instead, head to a second hand store or go rifling through the back of your closet. If you option for the latter, you may find that graduation or bridesmaid dress will have a chance to see daylight once again. Who would have thought?
6.Games
Let's face it – it's always fun to compete with friends! When your guest arrive, have them put $2-$5 in a jar. Guest can predict the winners and the different categories on a ballot. You could even have a "best dressed guest" jar and whoever looks the most Oscar worthy will win!
Here are just 6 ideas for a fun, inexpensive Oscar Party in your Living room! With just a little imagination, some Oscar worthy friends and tasty fare, you can get this classy party started. Good luck!