Most working people who live in a big city tend to stay in small apartments. It just makes more practical sense, especially if you are starting out or if you are looking for a place to stay that’s closer to where you work. But just because you live in a tight space doesn’t mean you can’t have fun.

Granted that your space cannot accommodate a lot of people at the same time but who says the party has to be in your apartment? Whether it is for your birthday, wedding, to celebrate your promotion or some other event, there are places where you can gather and spend time with your friends or loved ones. Restaurants and bars are a few places to consider.

A nearby restaurant or bar provides the venue, the ambiance and great food – everything you need for a successful party but without having to spend a big fortune. These venues make organizing an event easier and more convenient.

However, a party won’t plan by itself. You will need to work closely with the establishment’s manager to organize a party that fits your requirements. Take note of the following factors before you start canvassing the neighborhood for the perfect venue:

1. Get the general aspects of the party settled

Each party is unique. Your perception of a fun and memorable event will be different from other people. Sit down and brainstorm the type of party you want to have by answering these questions:

  • What is the purpose of the party?
  • Who are you planning to invite?
  • How many people do you intend to invite?
  • When do you want to hold the party?
  • Will there be a theme?

Your answers to these questions influence the type of restaurant or bar that you should look for. For instance, if you aim to celebrate with a small group of 20 or so of your closest relatives or friends, you may want to look for a restaurant with a private dining room. Conversely, if you need a place for a wedding reception for a large group, you will need to look for an establishment that can hold that many people or consider reserving the entire area for the event.

2. Work with the manager or event coordinator

Coordinate with the restaurant manager or their coordinator for special occasions as soon as you have a more definite idea of what you want. By getting in touch with them early, they can provide you with better options for your event. This includes venue and menu options.

In terms of the venue, they can inform you right away if the area you want to reserve is available on your selected dates. If not, perhaps the management can offer you alternatives on where to hold your party.

Another aspect that needs to be discussed involves the menu. Restaurants have different specialties which can also affect the type of event that you envision. By approaching the management ahead of time, they can work out a menu that best suits your event.

Do you need an open bar or would like a six-course meal that includes authentic Japanese dishes? This and more can be arranged when you work with management.

No need to worry if you are still unsure about what you want. Some establishments have in-house coordinators that can take care of all of the details for you if needed.

3. Discuss payment terms

Avoid any awkward situations involving payment by discussing the conditions ahead of time with the restaurant or bar management. Perhaps you would prefer setting a budget and paying ahead of time. By settling the menu in advance, you can place limits on what will be included and control the costs involved with the event.

You can also choose to pay for the meal and other costs during the party itself. Make sure you inform the maitre d’ to provide you with the tab. This way, your guests won’t accidentally see the bill or be put in an awkward position.

4. Send out invitations early

Invitations let people know that this is a party and not just a casual get together. For more formal events, make sure you send out the invitations at least two weeks in advance. This will allow your guests to check their calendar and hopefully let you know if they can or cannot make it to your event.

Make sure your invitation includes all of the information your guests need. Besides including essential details such as the venue, date and theme, let your guests know about the dress code and if there are important rules imposed by the venue.

Restaurants and bars make it easier for anyone to organize an event, whether it is a casual meetup with friends over brunch to conference meetings to formal debut parties or wedding receptions. By following these tips, you can improve your chances of organizing a fun and memorable event.

AUTHOR BIO

Chiara Bisignani is the F&B Marketing Executive at Saadiyat Beach Club. She oversees website maintenance, PR requests, marketing initiatives and all general guests’ enquiries for the company’s destinations of KOI Restaurant & Lounge, Boa Steakhouse and Caramel Restaurant and Lounge in Abu Dhabi.