Choose Your Theme

Planning your Open House may seem overwhelming at first, but with a few early decisions your work will proceed more smoothly. First on your agenda (after finding the venue and date) is choosing your theme. It could be something as simple as team colors, college mascot or a costume-style theme like "movies of the 1950's".

After you have your theme, collect matching items in a container or two so they're all together when it's time to decorate. It doesn't have to be expensive. In fact, I like to visit the early season garage sales for pitchers, napkins or other "treasures" to display at the party. You'll be pleasantly surprised at what you'll find! (be sure to keep change and small denomination bills in your car so you're ready to stop when you see the signs) And, your family and friends can join the fun by "shopping" in their neighborhoods. It's fun!

colors and lighting make the same space look different for each party

a little "bling" for a 1920's era theme

disco balls and strobes set the stage for dancing

Get started. Tell family and friends your "wish list" of items and go "sale-ing" -- my niece's word for garage sales. Enjoy gathering everything. Happy hunting!

Decorating with Photos

As you're preparing for your Open House, you've no doubt started digging up old photos of the graduate. Many people make photo boards that are always a hit with the guests (the fact that the honoree is embarrassed by baby photos is just a bonus!) The boards are great fun, but only a few people can see them at any given time, so I'd like to suggest some alternatives.

Begin by scanning your old prints to create digital files. Many photo labs have self-serve scanners that are easy to use and relatively inexpensive. Afterwards, have the images burned to a disc, and transfer them to your home computer.

enlarge photos and place them around the room

Then, instead of two or three large boards with many photos on each, how about ten or fifteen poster-size enlargements placed throughout the gathering? Finally, create a file of those photos and all the others you've scanned and program a large digital frame or computer to randomly sort through the photos during the festivities. Better still, have a few screens working during the party. For those into Power Point, you can create a slide show to project on a screen (or bed sheet?). So many options, so much fun!

run your slide show throughout the party

It may be a bit of work "up front" but once the photos are scanned, you'll be able to share them easily with family and friends.

poster size baby picture, scrapbooks and collectibles ... perfect!

Well worth the effort. Good Luck!