How to Throw an Epic Slumber Party!
Recently Katrina & I hosted an all-girls adult slumber party and it was a great success (if I do say so myself). I highly recommend it! I thought I'd share some party planning tips here.
1. Branding Excitement
You set the tone of the party long before anyone sets foot in your door. In order to build excitement and expectations of epic fun, start with invites that fit the theme. If paper invites aren't in the budget or timeline, then a facebook invite will suit just fine! I'd recommend facebook anyway, because people like to see who else is coming. Carry out your theme with decor at the event. Tip: tentatively confirm the date with key attendees in advance so that you're certain it will be well attended. Sleepovers require a little more advance notice if someone is making arrangements with kids/pets...etc. As the event approaches, post little teasers to get everyone excited!
2. Cats Pajamas
Set pajamas as the dress code. This will encourage people to relax and put them in the mood for fun. If you're concerned people won't participate, add an incentive--we gave out a prize for crowd favorite "best pajamas". Onesies are surprisingly popular, and hilarious. Tip: the cats are just an added bonus, but I would definitely recommend having pets around--they are very entertaining and everyone loves them
3. Games Prizes
The best parties strike a balance between organized fun and spontaneous fun. I'd recommend planning out a few group activities in advance to build momentum, and that will usually spur on the festivities. Physical activities get the blood and laughs flowing. A few fail-safe games:Toilet Paper/Plunger Relay LifeSaver Toothpick Game
I'd also recommend classics like: hot potato, Twister, truth or dare and spin the bottle (some of those are best after everyone's had some alcohol). Feel out your crowd and play games best suited to them, you don't want anyone to be uncomfortable. But the fun of a slumber party is you feel like a kid again so bring back some Jr. High favorites! Tip: have some door prizes to hand out throughout the party--lotions, bodywash, nailpolish or even panties!
Cute, sexy and practical (Victoria's Secret)
4. Music Shenanigans
We invited anyone to bring along instruments for jam sessions (Katrina loves to play). Between that and a fun dance station on Pandora, we had a night filled with good music. It can't hurt to line up a few favorites on a playlist as well (for example, Katrina will always do a seductive dance if the song "Buttons" by Pussycat Dolls comes on). A party ain't a party without music and some dancing. In combination with alcohol, it will most likely lead to other shenanigans as well. Tip: Don't play tunes off laptop speakers. Invest in some small speakers that you can plug in to a laptop, phone...etc. that have a little bass and fill the space. It's no fun to dance to quiet, tinny music.
Two girls, one onesie
5. Food Drinks
This goes without saying. What's the fun of partying if you're not going to indulge a little? Have fun with the food! Do a spread of finger food in an easily accessible location so people can snack throughout the night. Try to have a variety of savory and sweet, and include some veggies. I made a Red Velvet Cheeseball and it was a huge hit! Tip: To save money and make sure everyone has beverages they like, I'd recommend BYOB. As a courtesy, make sure you have plenty of bottled water ibuprofen available.
One of the best things about a slumber party, is no one has to worry about designated driving, or check what time it is. Everyone can just relax and let loose! I prepped a breakfast casserole in advance so in the morning everyone woke up to hot coffee, a warm dish of eggs, sausage & hash brown casserole, cinnamon rolls and fruit skewers. Enjoy a peaceful morning together, reminiscing about the previous night, and send everyone off with their door prize, a full, happy stomach, and unforgettable fun memories!
What have been some of your all-time favorite parties? Do you have any recommended games or party food? When is the last time you've been to a slumber party?
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