Whether it's a wedding, anniversary or birthday, a New Year's Eve bash or a party to celebrate Mardi Gras or the Melbourne Cup, you want guests to talk about your event well after the fact. Help to break the ice, and make your event truly distinctive, by providing something a little more than the usual party accoutrements.

You want guests to go away excited by the experience, and tell all their friends what a marvellous event it was. So don't hold back - lash out on unusual activities, props, decor and services.

There are a number of companies that specialise in providing extraordinary additions, equipment and services. Here are just a few to get you started - ask around and you'll unearth other special ideas to enhance your next party.

Liquid chocolate fountain
It's the thinking chocoholic's way to make a big splash! These amazing fountains are filled with fine Belgian chocolate in liquid form, which cascades continually over metre-high tiers. Stand it on your buffet or a special plinth, or use it as a centrepiece for your dinner table. It's a guaranteed ice-breaker and talking point!

Guests get to dip cherries, strawberries, marshmallows, bananas, and any type of fruit or food that suits into the chocolate. What better excuse can there be for standing around the table, making small talk and meeting fellow sweet-tooths! A bonus is the sensual pleasure afforded by the delectable ambient aroma of cocoa.

Onsite body art
It's a unique and unforgettable way to promote a product, celebrate the anniversary or wedding couple, or push the party motif. Have your own onsite mobile tattoo parlour, where guests can get adorned with cosmetic body art and temporary "tattoos" or have their faces painted. It's the perfect accompaniment to a teenagers' party or costume ball (especially for guests who forget to dress up sufficiently).

Complete powder room service
Every guest has to go to the bathroom at some stage of the evening. Make sure it's a pleasant, pampering experience by having a complete party powder room service, including staff and supplies. And we're not talking about some grumpy janitor, doling out towels and fishing for tips. We're referring to trained powder room professionals, who specialise in providing bathroom facilities and friendly, personable and professional service, including smart hand towels (a cut above the everyday white ones!) plus high quality styling and grooming accessories, and a range of luxurious soaps, cosmetics and fragrances.

Personalised pampering services
Spoil your fiance, spouse, bride-to-be, or mother with an individual pampering package tailored to her needs and style.  The memorable experience starts with a limousine pick-up, from the recipient's home or designated location. She'll be whisked away to a five star hotel, where she'll get the day off to a relaxing start with an hour-long massage from a professionally qualified therapist.  Then her personal chef for the day will concoct a special meal to suit her tastes and appetite.

Create a soothing, stress-free ambience with gorgeous scented and tea light candles, aromatherapy oils, her favourite music on the CD player, or whatever you think would have a relaxing, pleasure-enhancing effect.

An individual pampering package is a great way to de-stress guests of honour before the Big Day, or to give mum (or mum-in-waiting) a total break from everything.

This chapter continues in Party Magazine