Having a migraine on deciding where to hold the party? For do-it-yourself party planners it’s probably a nightmare having to decide between a sweeping castle and the backyard, especially if you’re on a budget. How about a few tips then?

Outdoor or indoor?

This is probably the first thing to be decided on, most children’s parties are best done outdoors so that the kids can meander around and play in the grass. If it’s a cocktail party an outdoor setting would be great as well, of course with different décor.

Be different.

Parties have been hosted inside houses, on lawns, in restaurants, in function rooms all around the world and it’s really starting to get boring. Think about a party that is inside a zoo (yes, this is an adult party) or an aquarium, or a museum or an art gallery, how about in an old abandoned warehouse? Basically, there are no limits to a party location, an old abandoned warehouse will look just as well as a hefty living room with just a little imagination.

Watch out for the cost.

Conventional party locations usually have higher prices than those not so used ones. The owner knows that the host will have a budget and he’ll probably want as much of that budget as he can weasel out. Unless there’s an infinite budget, find a not so well known location that is still accommodating and interesting.

Ask for help.

Ask friends and family for places that they know. You’ll be surprised at how many places people know that you don’t. If it’s for a child’s birthday party, you can ask the parents of slightly older children; they’ve been around the block and would probably be more than happy to help out.

Don’t forget the number of guests.

Find a location that can accommodate all the guests. If you have a wedding party, can the location accommodate the family and friends, how about the choir? You may have the grandest and the rarest location but if the guests can’t fit, no matter how good the decoration, your party will flop.

Think Sporty

Sports clubs like professional football clubs, old golf clubs, billiard associations, golf clubs have game rooms or trophy rooms that they can have you rent out. If you’re a member or know a member, you can ask to have a party among the faded pictures and the lost trophies.