Are you planning to host an evening of entertainment with your friends this summer? Follow this simple but effective method to plan the perfect game night that promises fun for everyone.

Choose your guests carefully

Often overlooked but one of the most important steps is to choose your guests carefully.

Firstly, ensure you’re inviting people who will be enthusiastic about games and who understand the importance of following the rules and playing fairly. Even just one guest who cheats or gets bored early on can ruin the atmosphere of a game night.

Secondly, try to have an even number of people so your group can be divided evenly for competitive challenges. Remember to include yourself in this number, unless you want to focus on hosting and watch from the sidelines.

Lastly, go for a large group if your space can accommodate it. Higher numbers will help to sustain the fun and excitement as your friends can bounce off one another to maintain a positive energy.

Pre-select your games

Preparing in advance is the secret to success on any special occasion. Taking time to pre-select your games ahead of your guests’ arrival avoids any deliberation and disputes so you can devote more time to playing.

Include various options ranging from traditional parlour games which require no props to modern digital activities like online bingo, played via computers or smartphones. Decide whether you want to stick to physical games or make use of video games for a more immersive experience.

Bear in mind everyone’s skill level when you’re choosing the games, and steer clear of anything too long or complicated to explain and play in the limited time you have.

Stock up on snacks and drinks

Now it’s time to devote yourself to the areas that are not essential to a game night but will help to make the experience exceptional. First up: the nosh!

After ascertaining any dietary requirements you have to cater for, stock up on snacks. These can be simple such as bags of crisps and pizzas you can shove in the oven, or you can have a go at some finger food recipes to take the party food up a notch and impress your guests.

Don’t forget the drinks! Get in some tea and posh coffee to keep you guests energised, and the fizzy pop that’s expected at these kind of events.

Make the space inviting

Finally, consider where you’ll be hosting the game night and make the space inviting so your guests feel comfortable.

If playing outside, why not invest in some outdoor lights to bring a beautiful glow to the garden? You’ll also need rugs with cushions and throws or a collection of bean bags. Comfortable seating is also necessary inside, arranged in a way that makes it easy for teams to congregate but allows for easy movement too. It might also be that yoi decifde to invest in over sized games to play outside to really take advantage of your surroundings. Giant Jenga, Croquet and Darts can all be played outdoors.