There are a multitude of venues at which you could host your celebration. Places you might consider include:

¥ function centres at resorts, hotels, public attractions, galleries, museums, and zoos;
¥ restaurants, cafes and bars;
¥ sports and leisure complexes;
¥ spas;
¥ charter and cruise boats;
¥ historic houses and other buildings;
¥ urban and national parks, beaches and backyards.

Venue checklist
1. To work out which venue will be most appropriate for your party, get recommendations from friends, colleagues and other party professionals.

2. Where possible, attend a similar function to the one you're planning at a couple of the venues you're considering, or ask to see videos and photographs of previous events. Get client references - and phone the referees.

3. Discuss your party concept, style and numbers with venue operators to see whether the event you have in mind is feasible. If it's a big commercial venue and you're organising a large and/or public event, you may be required to submit a proposal.

4. Let the venue operators know about any special requirements you have, such as particular dietary or disabled access needs, specialist equipment, props, staging or lighting, unusual performances, an early or elaborate set-up, or particular parking needs.

5. Ask about venue restrictions - opening times, noise levels, smoking, consumption of alcohol, under-age or child patrons, parking, access for set up, having animals, fire or fireworks on the premises, outdoor lighting and/or particular types of performance or equipment.

6. Make sure the venue has all the proper licenses, permits and insurance.

7. Get a detailed costing on the event package, including special conditions, cancellation fees and overtime charges.

8. If you plan on hiring a popular venue, book well in advance, as good venues in prime locations tend to get hired out months ahead, especially for significant dates.

This chapter continues in Party Magazine