Hosting an Online Party With Friends

In the aftermath of the lockdown era, online parties have become a favourite way to connect with friends. Blending flexibility and intimacy, these virtual events let you nurturesocial bonds with your mates, wherever you are in the world.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a fun night in, an online party can be just as enjoyable as its in-person counterpart – if done right.

Below, we’ll guide you through the essential steps to ensure a roaring success.

Planning the party

Start by deciding on a theme that will set the tone for your event. This could be anything from a casual games night to a more elaborate costume party.

Once you’ve settled on a theme, consider the duration of the event. Unlike physical gatherings, virtual events tend to benefit from a shorter timeframe – around two to three hours is often ideal to encourage engagement without screen fatigue setting in.

Next, think about any supplies your pals might need. For instance, if you’re planning a cocktail night,you could share a list of ingredients in advance so everyone can prepare their drinks together.

Choosing activities

While conversation is important, having structured activities can help break the ice and create momentum.

Your choices include online versions of classic games like charades or trivia. Consider Deal or No Deal Bingo for a more unique option, combining the classic game show with the popular game of chance.

Don’t forget about music. Creating a shared playlist that guests can contribute to can help recreate the atmosphere of an in-person party.

Inviting your friends

When it comes to invitations, you can use online services like Paperless Post or Evite, which let you design and send stylish e-invites that capture the spirit of your event.

Be sure to include all necessary details such as the date, time, theme and any preparations guests need to make. It’s also wise to send out invitations well in advance to ensure good attendance.

Setting up the technology

Choosing the right platform is essential for a smooth experience. The most popular virtual event platformsinclude Zoom, Google Meet and Discord, each offering different features that might suit your needs.

Whichever you choose, be sure to familiarise yourself with the platform beforehand. Test your audio and video settings, learn how to share your screen if needed, and understand how to manage participant controls. If you’re planning to use any additional apps or websites for games, ensure they’re compatible.

It’s also a good idea to have a backup plan in case of technical difficulties – perhaps a secondary option or a troubleshooting guide to share with guests.

Keeping the energy up

Maintaining high energy levels throughout an online party can be challenging, but it’s not impossible.

Start the event with an icebreaker activity to get everyone engaged from the outset. Be proactive in facilitating conversation and encouraging participation. Don’t be afraid to switch up activities or take a short break if you notice the mood dipping.

Consider appointing a co-host to help manage the technical aspects and keep an eye on the chat, allowing you to focus on being a present and enthusiastic host. Remember, your enthusiasm as the host will set the tone for the entire event, so stay positive and keep the momentum going until the very end.