by Larry Rahn

Created on: October 09, 2008   Last Updated: March 21, 2012

Hosting the perfect poker game is almost impossible. Try to get a couple of your friends to help you during the night of fun.Space, equipment, rules, buy in, refreshments, payout, and being comfortable while playing.

Try using your basement or garage if available, usually both have a concrete floor which is easier for cleanup. Space you out 2 or 3 tables with comfortable chairs. you can buy Texas Hold'em tables pretty cheap and most have drink holders. Make sure you have the right number of seats for all players and have one smaller table available for the early out guys to play cash games while the tournament goes on and finishes.

Have a certain amount set for the buy in. Example, $120 includes all food and drink for the evening. Allow $30 for each person for refreshments and put the rest in the pot to be paid to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. this 3 place payout is fair and attracts everyone. Each player should be given same amount of chips in a baggie, so, if you have to move you can take your chips with you. Early drop outs can use one table to play cash games of their choice to prolong their evening. Change your blinds every 15 or 20 minutes to keep the game moving at a good steady pace. If possible have one of your friends who lost out early handle chip conversion for you. Use larger denomination chips as game nears finish, it is much easier and less table filling too.

Put all your refreshments out on a table so they can serve themselves as they desire. An extra refrigerator in basement or garage really comes in handy for keeping stuff fresh. Let them feast as they want, you'll be surprised at how fast the food, chips and drinks go, so make sure you have plenty. That's why it is important to know number of players before hand, food, chip count, and seating. When your tournament ends pay your top 3 winners, divide up remaining food and drink. Everyone should be card weary by now, after approximately 5 or 6 hours of it, or just plain broke. I think if you plan everything out you'll have a heck of a time. Remember, the first time will be a learning experience. When you are finished, if they are friends at all, they'll help you pick up the mess before they leave, and most of all don't forget the house cut, for your trouble. Next month another game, you'll be better at it second time around. Let the girls play if they are interested and know how. Try and keep everyone comfortable and happy by being cheerful and polite no matter what. To host the perfect game takes trial and error, I play once a month and have a ball. Once you get the hang of things, it will flow into a very fun and maybe profitable evening. Most important aspect of hosting is knowing how many players and set up everything from there, with just a little extra. Good luck and keep the chip falling.

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