Asking the right questions. Step one to party greatness: Ask yourself a few simple questions to get the mood and feel for the event.

• What's the event? Birthday? Holiday? Promotion? Just Because? This will help you choose the right location, menu and theme.

• Who should be invited? Consider how many people you can afford to host. How many can fit in your location. For work events, you may need to invite entire departments or all senior executives. So make sure you have a current employee list and ask around to confirm your list before sending invites. For social events, try to get a good mix of people: a group of old friends, a group that you are introducing for the first time, a group who might actually use the coasters on the coffee table.

• Location, location, location. Plan a beach BBQ for your mother-in-law who hates the ocean and you're in serious hot water. You'll need to find a location that can comfortably fit your guests, whether at a standing reception or seated dinner. Hoping to be outside? Have a rain plan. Tents (with optional roll-down sides), space heaters and fans can save a really lousy day.

• Time, time, time. The time of day, day of week and the season will help dictate where you can hold your event and what food and refreshments are appropriate.

• Is there a budget? There are all sorts of great ideas out there for any budget. Know your limits ahead of time so you can splurge on the good stuff.