Key Concepts
Core hosting concepts from The 2-Hour Cocktail Party method. Learn about party timing, guest lists, name tags, conversation starters, and the fundamentals that make gatherings work.
What Is a Mixer Event (and How to Host One)
A mixer is an event built to get strangers talking. Here's the structure that makes it work.
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What Is a Kickback Party (and How to Host One)
A kickback is smaller and calmer than a party. Here's how to host one without turning it into work.
30th Birthday Party Themes (And Whether You Need One)
Sorted by how much work they are, plus my honest answer on whether you need one.
Party Agenda Examples: 8 Real Schedules You Can Copy
After hosting hundreds of parties worldwide, I've learned one thing: the hosts who share a clear agenda get more RSVPs,…
The Party Cheer
Have you ever been to a party with low energy? It’s no fun. You stand there and contemplate whether you should leave the…
How to Take a Great Group Photo at a Party (Step by Step)
Taking a group photo during your party is one of the highest-reward things you'll do all night. Here's my exact method,…
Lightning Talks: What and How to Do Them
Lightning Talks are meant for your party attendees to share interesting information with each other where several speake…
Don't Host a Dinner Party. Do This Instead
Do not position this as a dinner party. Dinner parties are too hard for new hosts to manage. They take a lot of work.…
How to End a Party on a High Note
Nick Gray's real script for ending a party on time, plus a second host's own tactic for getting people out the door.
Core Group: Your Best Friends and Party Stars
Your core group will be an essential piece of your party puzzle. They’re people with whom you feel comfortable. They’re…
Introducing the Party Harmonica
You probably saw a harmonica in the list of supplies to buy for your party. Perhaps you thought: What’s the deal with th…
3 Party Reminder Messages You Can Copy and Paste
I once got invited to a friend's 40th birthday about a month out, then heard nothing until the day of. Here are the 3 re…
