Confetti and neon handcrafted tassel garland, Studio Mucci via Ruby Rabbit Partyware.

Choosing a theme for your next event can be an exciting process for some and for others perhaps a little overwhelming. So where does one start? You may be throwing a party for an end-of-year work celebration, a Christmas or New Year’s Eve party, special birthday, baby shower for a friend or children’s birthday party and want to add some fun and atmosphere into the event by having a theme – it’s almost like creating your own brand. A party should be fun and full of spirit so don’t be afraid to add a little spunk into your event! There’s nothing more visually appealing than walking into a room full of colour, glitz and glamour, and there’s nothing more rewarding to hear than all the oohs and aahs from your guests in appreciation of your efforts.

Black & whites

Black and white canopy, Stylemepretty.com blog via Pinterest. Tissue pom pom décor and paper straws, Ruby Rabbit Partyware.

Create a shortlist of theme ideas for your event taking into consideration who and what the event is for. Themes can be chosen by latest trends, colours and patterns or traditional favourites or seasons. If it’s a work-related event you may wish to brainstorm with a small team of colleagues. If it’s for a personal event listen to the likes and ideas of who the event is for. You want them to not just like what you create for them but to love it, and if it’s for your child you want them to think you are the best Mum or Dad in the world!  Deciding on that perfect theme from your shortlist comes down to your style, budget and availability of decor to suit your theme. One of my biggest tips is to get organised early – give yourself at least 4-6 weeks before the celebration.

Geometric backdrop & cubes

Geometric backdrop & cubes, Sarah Park Designs via Etsy.

Once you have decided on your theme all your planning will simply follow and fall into place. For example it makes it much easier to choose a cake and decorations if you have already decided that your theme for your 40th birthday is gold, glitter and sparkle. It even makes your wardrobe choices that little bit simpler – go on, wear that gorgeous gold cocktail dress full of bling!

ON TREND THEMES – often lead by a blockbuster movie, latest fashion runway collection, or new product that takes the world by storm. Googling or following Pinterest is a great way to keep up with the latest trends.

  • Gatsby
  • Geometric prints
  • Neon brights
  • Ombré tones
  • Pink and gold
  • Colours of the rainbow children’s parties
  • Romantic and vintage themed weddings and tea parties
  • Whimsical and hand crafted decorations

Pink & gold party

Pink & gold party theming, ModernVintageLove.com blog via Pinterest.

COLOUR AND PATTERN THEMES

  •  Style by one or more colours, e.g. classic black and white, glitzy metallics, pretty pastels like peach and mint, neon brights, ombré tones, bold primary colours.
  • Style by patterns, e.g. chevron, stripes, geometric print, dots, scallop print, vintage floral, animal print.

TRADITIONAL AND SEASONAL THEMES

  • Timeless favourites such as Hollywood, circus, superheroes, casino, masquerade, 007 Bond, fiesta, rock’n’roll, popstars, eras – 1920s, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s.
  • Seasonal themes such as Christmas, Easter, Halloween, Australia Day, Melbourne Cup.