Sometimes, you come across a party idea that challenges your creativity and planning skills. One of these is the bring-your-pet party, which came up during a brain storming session I had with a few like-minded individuals. Why is this a challenge? It’s a notch higher than the usual hectic party because you are planning for 2 types of parties simultaneously: one for the pets and one for their owners.

It’s do-able! Here’s how…

1. Determine why you want to throw a pet party – Are you going in that (lucrative) little corner of the party planning industry and you’re partnering up with a pet grooming clinic in the near future? Or, do you have pet-based crafts like wicker pet furniture or pet beds that you want to promote?

Pets have birthdays, too, and because pet owners are more attached to their darlings than they let on, you can be sure that your client list will grow if you throw a pet party. Maybe a friend of yours has a vet clinic and he won’t mind funding your party for promotion.

2. Solicit response via the invitations – You must ask your guests details about their pets on your invitation, i.e. your pet’s disposition, needs, food preference… etc. This will help you prepare for the food you will be dishing out, and the arrangements you can do before the party. Encourage your invitees to call you up for inquiries or small talk.

3. “Theme” your pet party - If it’s a dog party, and you’re inviting dog owners mainly, make sure that your invitation clearly states that only dogs are allowed. When you get that done, decide on a theme that dogs will love i,e, frisbee party, and you can even set up awards for “most behaved”, “most friendly”

4. Pamper the human guests – People will attend this type of party because they want to converse and connect with other pet owners, and so the setting must be comfortable, homey and must encourage conversation. Comfortable benches and various lemonade/snack stands will do the trick.