Party Planning for Him -- Things to Avoid

Planning a party for the guy in your life doesn’t just mean a major stop at the beverage store. While statistically more women than men may go through the mechanics of giving parties, guys have just as many reasons to celebrate—and be celebrated! Graduation, promotion, stag do, impending marriage, a new job or welcome home from military service. There are lots of great reasons to give a party for your favorite man. And, just as there are a few things to avoid when giving a great party for a girlfriend, you should duck a few potential bloopers when planning a party for that special fellow. AGE: The only really good time to bring age into a party is when you’re celebrating your guy’s birthday. Even then, you may want to be a little careful—a major focus on the malernguest-of-honor’s age can backfire, just as is the case with a woman. Becoming 18 and turning 21 are cultural benchmarks that make perfect sense to articulate. Beyond that, guys are likely to be as sensitive to age issues as gals are. Making a big deal about 50 may be a mistake. To you it’s a benchmark birthday with lots of good times ahead. To your guy, however, it may be one more reminder of achievements not attained and time running out. The same man who was fine about a 21st birthday party and will be the toast of the town for his 85th may have some very logical qualms about a number of the years in between. Want to do it with a light touch? Schedule a cookout early in July and let your guest know Bob’s turning 60 at the end of the month, which means you’re serving an unusual dish that’s one of his absolute favorites. Even lighter—schedule that cookout early in July when his birthday has already come and gone late in June! SURPRISE: A 60-year-old friend ambushed by a camera strobe as he entered a dark room thought he was having a stroke, and fainted on the spot. Frankly, the anticipation of a surprise party is solely the property of potential hosts and guests; the guest of honor doesn’t get any of that fun because—hello, because it’s a surprise party! Spread thernanticipation around with a few clues: next weekend we’re celebrating your new job—I think you’ll love the restaurant. I’m so proud of you that we’re going somewhere you’ve wanted to go for a long time; Kim and Ben, your brother, and the Willises are coming, too. CUTE & FUNNY: Probably the best way to tank a party for your guy is to do anything cute. Examples: baby pictures at his birthday party or a walker at his retirement. Anything to do with sex, underwear or incontinence—absolutely anything. Speeches and toasts—basically, anything that rhymes or is uttered after 4 drinks. Provide a guest book for funny notes and keep cute and funny out of the main event. Have a great party!