Halloween Party Checklist and Planning Tips

Planning your next Halloween party doesn't have to be frightful!

Take the fear out of planning your Halloween party with our planning tips, tricks, and things to remember. Then use our checklist to make sure you don't forget a thing.

• Choose your date early and get the word out.
• Halloween is one of the most popular holidays for parties, your guests are likely to have several parties to choose from.

• Will your party be children, adults, or both - your guest list will determine the best time to host your party.
• Include a stop time so people know when to go home, you can always extend the festivities if you like.

• Will you host the party at your home, a friends place, or will you rent a hall or other venue?
• When deciding keep in mind your budget, the number of guests you intend to host and whether you have the facilities to fit everyone safely.
• Will your party be indoors, outdoors or both?
• Is there parking for guests?
• Remember to clear the space appropriately, some costumes are large or may limit vision.
• Be sure that any valuable or fragile items are stored safely for both you and your guests peace of mind.
• Let neighbors know you're planning a party. (Even better - invite them!)

• Will you have a specific guest list or do you a prefer an "Everyone's Welcome" approach?
• Will your party be a neighborhood event, a work party, or even a fundraiser?
• Do you have a plan for handling unexpected or uninvited attendees?

• Will you be creating invitations or posting a general invite on social media?
• If you're sending invitations will you send them via email, text, messaging app, or by mail?
• Will you have guests RSVP?

• Will your party be costume required, encouraged, optional, or casual?
• Are there any costumes that should be avoided due to the guest list?
• Will you provide an area for guests to dress if their costumes don't travel well?
• Will you provide some costume basics like make-up, hairspray, pins, tape, etc.?

• Do you have a decorating theme or look you're going for?
• Are your decorations appropriate for your guests (too scary for children, to childish for adults)?
• Will your decorations create any hazards or obstructions for your guests?
• Have you budgeted enough time to decorate in your party prep plan?
• Are there any special tools or supplies needed for your decorations(i.e. fishing line, no-mark hangers, double sided tape, push pins, etc.)?
• Will any of your decorations require power?
• Will any of your decorations utilize candles, votives or other open flames?

• Whatever type of lighting theme you use, be sure guest can see well enough to avoid trips and falls.

• Whether a spooky soundtrack, dance playlist, or live band; music is an integral part of the experience.
• Volume should be venue appropriate.

• Take the time to cover them with tape, mats or other trip guards.

• Whether you're serving candy treats from a bowl or a full meal, food safety is important. Follow food preparation and storage safety guidelines.

• Let guests know where they'll be able to view and share pictures from the party (cloud based image/file share, social site, email, etc.).
• Stream your party live using sites & apps like Lively, Live.me, Facebook Live, Instagram Live, Youtube Live, etc.

• Make sure exits aren't blocked by decorations, tables, drink stations etc.
• Have fire extinguishers available in each room or location.
• Have a well stocked 1st Aid Kit.
• Have a plan on handling guests who may have over-indulged.
• Make sure any firearms, or home or self defense products are locked away.
• Have a "designated host" who will keep a clear head throughout the party.