Why not spice it up a bit and have a costume party? Costume parties are not just fun for Halloween, they can be thrown any time of year! Any reason to throw a party is a good reason.

First and foremost, make sure you know your budget - and stick to it. Fancy decorations are nice, but they aren't always necessary. Get creative and crafty if you have to. Great parties can be thrown for little or even no money. Maybe your guests could bring a dish to pass, or they could bring their favorite bottle of wine to share.

Your guests will be the most important thing at the party. Figure a rough estimate of how many people will fit comfortably in your party space. Decide on the number of people to invite, and request them to RSVP by about a week before the party. Contact the ones that didn't reply and inquire as to whether or not they will attend. This way you will be able to make sure you will have enough seating. Extra seating can be borrowed from friends, or rented from party stores.

Decide whether or not there will be a theme for your party or not. A theme can be anything; the only limitation is your imagination. Famous couples in history and masquerade balls are fun and classic.

Above all, relax and have fun. It's a party, and regardless of whether or not you are the one throwing it, it should be fun. Prepare as much as possible ahead of time so you'll have time to mingle with your guests. It's always better to do too much than not enough.