7 of 41

Write now Article Tools

Karaoke is a great way to give your guests a night to remember. It's also a great way to alienate your neighbors, so it's important to invite them or warn them. Deciding on your guest list is the first step to any successful party. Obviously, a teenage karaoke party is nothing like a party for 30- to 40-year olds. Your guest list will dictate music selection, decorations, even food choices.

Karaoke equipment can be rented, bought or borrowed. There are many options but simple is better, especially if you will be serving mixed drinks. Be sure to test the equipment and speaker placement before your guests arrive. Microphones can be corded or cordless. You'll need at least two. For a party, the corded microphone is a better choice. It keeps singers close to the stage area and you're less likely to lose your microphone in the punch bowl.

Song books list the available songs for your guests. Create song slips and provide lots of pens or markers for people to write down their name and their song choices. It will be up to the person running the equipment to manage the song slips, ensuring that your career singers don't hog the show and your more shy guests don't get overlooked. Encourage guests to submit their friend's names to sing. This will help get the ball rolling and create a playful atmosphere.

Consider your guest list when selecting music. Themed karaoke parties can be lots of fun. Guests can be encouraged to "dress the part" and wear their poodle skirts, hippie garb, or whatever. Or, you can invite your guests to come as they are and choose from a wide range of musical styles.

Lighting should be focused on the stage area, but adequate elsewhere for guests to read the song books and write their slips. It's a good idea to keep your food and books at the opposite end of your yard from the stage area. This will get people moving back and forth, interacting with each other and will provide adequate lighting for the song books and help protect the equipment.

Hydration is important when singing and drinking. Sports drinks and water should be made available along with soda, beer and spirits. Food should be neat and easy to carry. This is not the time for an open grill. Finger foods, crudities, chips and dip are fine.

So, invite your guests, get your equipment, decorate the yard, prepare the food and get ready for a night of laughter and surprises. You'll never know who will be the star until you try!

Learn more about this author, Kate Johnson.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How to throw a karaoke party?
We want to hear your view. Write now!