Throwing a DIY event? Whether it’s a wedding, birthday party, or backyard barbecue, the thrill of creating your own event can be incredibly satisfying. But let’s face it — it can also be a little overwhelming. Between picking the theme, gathering all the supplies, and hoping the weather cooperates, it’s easy to forget some of the essentials.
But don’t worry — we’ve got you covered. Here’s a handy checklist of 10 things to not forget for your DIY event. These are the small but mighty items that will make a big difference in the success of your party. Let’s dive in!
1. Table Settings (Plates, Cups, and Cutlery)
Pro Tip: Cut down on garbage and waste by renting ‘real’ dishes. Most rental companies will deliver and pick up the dishes at your venue for a small fee. And, you won’t need to wash the dishes before returning them! If disposable is better suited for your event, consider buying eco-friendly, palm leaf or bamboo options if you’re going for a casual or even upscale outdoor vibe. Bonus points for being environmentally friendly, because yes, people will notice those little details!
2. Trash Bags (And a Place to Put Them)
Pro Tip: Have a few large trash bags or bins scattered around your event space for easy disposal. No one likes to see dirty dishes, half-empty cups and wadded up napkins littered around the event. Make it clear where your guests can dispose of or place their used items. And don’t forget a plan for taking out the trash at the end! You’ll thank yourself when you’re not knee-deep in garbage at 11 p.m.
3.Duct Tape, Extension Cords and Power Strips
Pro Tip: If your event involves anything electric, you’re going to need extension cords and power strips. Bring extra just in case — it’s better to have too many than none at all. Use duct tape on any exposed cords to make sure they’re safely tucked away and not creating tripping hazards. Safety first, party later!
4. Seating and Comfortable Arrangements
Pro Tip: Don’t forget, there’s always a few guests who will need to sit. If you’re running low on seating options, rent folding chairs, or get creative with picnic blankets or cushions. Just make sure people have a place to sit and relax!
5. Hand Sanitizer and Wipes
Pro Tip: In a post-pandemic world, it’s a nice touch that people appreciate. Place bottles of hand sanitizer at key spots (think: food table, bathroom entrance, and entrance to the party itself). If you’ve got food stations, keep disinfecting wipes handy for those inevitable spills. Keeping things clean is always a win.
6. Name Tags or Event Signage
Pro Tip: For casual events, name tags can be as simple as sticky labels with fun markers. For formal events, consider having a sign-in table where people can write down their names or a fun trivia question related to your event theme. You don’t want guests wandering around asking, “Who is that person again?” every 30 seconds. For weddings, consider place markers as a seating savior. No one wants Aunt June fighting with Aunt Betty- again!
7. Decorative Items (That Won’t Blow Away)
Pro Tip: Decor is everything — but only if it stays where it’s supposed to. Avoid anything too light or too tall that the wind could easily knock over. Check the forecast, too, and plan accordingly for rain or gusty winds.
8. Ice and Coolers or Chafers
Pro Tip: Stock up on plenty of ice and coolers, and be sure to account for how much space you’ll need for beverages. You can keep them out of sight under a table or in the kitchen and restock the beverage table as needed. You may also need to keep certain salads on ice (any that contain mayonnaise or eggs for example.)
If you’re providing your own food or organizing a potluck, consider renting chafers. Chafers will keep hot food warm, and provide that extra security against food poisoning- no one likes to ‘revisit’ the potstickers. Keep a thermometer handy to check the internal temperature of each dish.
9. First Aid Kit (Just in Case)
Pro Tip: Grab a simple first aid kit before your event and make sure it includes the essentials: band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any medications your guests may need (like an EpiPen if you know of specific allergies). Being prepared doesn’t have to mean worrying about an emergency, but it’s always best to err on the side of caution.
10. A Backup Plan for Everything
In the world of DIY events, flexibility is key. The weather could turn, your décor could fall apart, or your cake could get dropped (yikes!). Whatever the issue, having a backup plan will help you handle the situation with grace and composure.
Pro Tip: Flexibility is key. The weather could turn, your décor could fall apart, or your cake could get dropped (yikes!). Whatever the issue, having a backup plan will help you handle the situation with grace and composure. Keep a list of contingency plans. Plan a “plan B” to either quickly fix things or pivot without much panic.
Conclusion
Hosting a DIY event can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s not without its challenges. By remembering these 10 essential items and planning ahead, you’ll be able to keep things running smoothly and focus on enjoying your celebration. Whether you’re throwing a small gathering or an extravagant bash, these little details will help keep things from spiraling into chaos and ensure that your event goes off without a hitch (or at least a minor one you can easily laugh off).
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, out of time, or just needing assistance, don’t hesitate to ask a pro for help- that’s why we’re here! From locating a venue in your price range to suggesting the perfect catering for your event- we’ll work with you to give you all the advice and help that is within your budget. We want your event be unforgettable — for all the right reasons!
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