As the lockdown continues we need positive events to look forward to more than ever before, and what could be better than a belated celebration with your friends and loved ones? With social distancing now the norm, families, friends and colleagues have had to postpone parties and miss out on celebrations, birthdays and anniversaries. With this in mind, the Events Team at Ashridge House have compiled our top tips on how to plan the perfect postponed party and celebrate in style:

1. Party Planning Guide!
By Ashridge House

2. The Venue
Research and Explore all your options!
• Speak directly to their events team
• Visit the venue virtually – we offer personalised and general virtual
tours!
• Don’t be hesitant to set a date! – In these times of uncertainty
something to look forward to can be liberating and exciting

3. The Budget
Keep this in mind, but don’t let it limit you!
• Use your budget to plan and delegate to certain aspects of the big day
– food, drink, entertainment, decorations, etc.
• Look at event packages – Ashridge offer a broad scheme of different
packages to suit each clientele
• Ask for advise on suppliers – Here at Ashridge we have worked with a
plethora of high quality suppliers and know who may suit your needs
best
• Remember, your events planner is always here to help!

4. Date and Guest List
To ensure your guests turn up!
• There will be so many missed events taking place once social
distancing ends, so get your date diarised asap!
• Keep your guestlist simple, think about who you would like to see at
your celebration.
• Get creative and use an online invitation service such as Paperless Post

5. Food and Drink
Our favourite part!
• Read through the menu options thoroughly; it’s a good idea to ask any
menu related questions before you book
• Create a bespoke drinks menu to speed up the bar service
• Include a personalised signature cocktail to add your stamp to the
party!
• Cater for your crowd; consider the dietary needs of all your guests
• Think out the box: look at street food ideas, BBQ menus, or grazing
tables

6. Décor and Entertainment
Setting the scene!
• Think about how you can give your event the wow factor
• Style the space: when dressing the venue think about colours, lighting
and textures
• Does the venue have any existing props they can add – most venues
have a store cupboard of unusual items!
• Entertainment can really make an event stand out. Think DJ,
personalised playlist, close-up magician, drink stands

7. The Big Day
Let your hair down and enjoy!
• When the big day arrives – it’s all about you! Try to switch off from the
logistics and enjoy yourself
• Trust the teams you have been working with. Have a catch up with
your event coordinator and suppliers a few days before the party
• Make sure you know who will be the contact from the venue on the
day of your event so everything runs smoothly.
• For further details on hosting an event please contact our friendly
events team or call 01442 841027