If you aren't an experienced party planner, coming up with party ideas can often feel very stressful. How do you come up with an idea that is fun but isn't cliché? You know that you want your guests to have fun and you know that you have a lot of planning in front of you. The good news is this: the party ideas part is usually the most stressful part of throwing a party.

Once you have a few ideas, don’t be surprised if the rest of your plans fall into place. So, where can you find party ideas?

• 1. Ask your family and friends what kind of party they think would be fun. After all, these are most likely the same people you'll end up inviting, right? If you don't already have a great theme in mind, why not call up your invitees and say "I'm thinking of throwing a party, but I'm not sure what kind of party to have. Any ideas?" You would help them with their party planning, right? Of course! Further, once you've got your theme in place, your family and friends will have plenty of great ideas about how you can carry out this theme within your budget and space restraints.
• 2. Books. There are plenty of party planning books available both at your local book store and local library. There are books on specific party themes. You'll find books filled with decoration how-tos and recipes for a variety of party foods and drinks. Even better, you will find books on figuring out what kinds of parties to throw. Spend some time browsing the stacks. You are bound to find a book that will walk you through the party throwing process from start to finish, from coming up with great party ideas to cleaning up after the last guest has left.
• 3. The Internet. The World Wide Web is full of websites and articles on how to choose from all of the different party ideas you have come up with as well as articles on how to begin looking for ideas for the party you want to throw. These websites will help you figure out your party's theme, your operating budget, who to invite, how to have fun while hosting the party and even how to plan your next bash while your current bash is in full swing! The internet is a great place for keeping track of your party details as well. Often the same sites that help you with your ideas will help you with the different aspects of your party's plans (calendars, budget calculators, reminders, etc) as well.

So many people think that the hardest part of throwing a party is playing host while the party is happening. On the contrary, coming up with great party ideas that will keep your guests happy, entertained and fed is the hardest part of the planning process! These are just three places to help you with your ideas and planning. Some quick research will turn up plenty of other avenues of research.