A Party Needs People
You can’t really create a great party, wedding, or event without people! At its core, the definition of a party is a group of people gathered together to have fun. A lot of people throwing a party often assume that you need hundreds of guests to make it good, but this couldn’t be further from the truth.
It's Not About Numbers - It's About Energy
There are so many factors that influence whether a party will be good, and although the number of guests can make a difference, it only plays a small party. In the 30+ years that I’ve been a Party planner, Decorator, DJ and Partyologist, some of the best events I’ve ever done had only 40 or 50 guests at the event. And they were amazing for many reasons. This is not to say that this is the optimum amount of guests, it’s just to say that more doesn’t necessarily mean better.
That’s because what truly matters is party energy, which is that electric, feel good vibe that fills the room when people are happy, interacting, and genuinely having a good time. It’s the buzz of laughter, people dancing, conversations flowing, and that shared moment where everyone’s fully present.
What Really Creates Party Energy?
I have been the DJ at many parties and I can play the exact same music to the same type of crowd in the same venue, two nights in a row with totally different results. One party having 400 people and the other just 200, and the smaller crowd might still create a way better atmosphere.
Why? It often comes down to factors like:
- The layout of the venue and keeping guests together
- Lighting and décor that enhance the mood
- A fun or flexible dress code
- The format and amount of formalities
- The amount and type of food & drinks served
- Room temperature and comfort
- Guests who feel included and welcomed and encouraged to interact with other guests through activities
When these elements come together, the result is a higher energy and memorable event, regardless of size.
The Real Worry: Will People Even Show Up?
At Feel Good Events, we regularly survey our clients to understand what stresses them most when planning a party. One of the top concerns we hear over and over again is: “What if no one shows up?”
This fear of low attendance causes real party anxiety, and for some people, it’s enough to stop them from hosting a party all together. We get it. In today’s world, people are time poor, distracted, and constantly pulled in different directions. Weekends fill up fast, and even if someone RSVP’d, they might cancel last minute due to weather, fatigue, or a schedule clash.
So, what can you do to give your event the best change of high attendance?
7 Ways to Increase Guest Attendance at Your Party
1. Create an Exciting Invitation
Don’t underestimate the power of a great invite. Think about how many boring, generic invitations you’ve seen. If you want your event to stand out and feel like a can’t be missed experience, the invitation needs to reflect that energy. Your invitation should be:
- Visually exciting
- Clear on what to expect (theme, dress code, entertainment, food)
- Shared in a format that’s easy to access (email, website, social media)
Party websites are a great way to do this. They’re easy to set up, modern, and let you update guests as the event gets closer. Plus, they can be used for RSVP tracking, maps, FAQs, and more.
2. Build Anticipation
Use social media or messaging to your advantage. Build excitement in the weeks leading up to the party. Share:
- Sneak peaks of the décor
- Photos of the entertainment
- A taste of the drinks or food menu
- Funny behind the scenes content of your prep
This creates buzz and keeps your event top of mind.
Pro tip: Mention who’s coming (with their permission) or let your guests see who has accepted. People are more likely to show up when they know their friends will be there. This is classic social proof and FOMO at play.
3. Set Your Guests’ Minds at Ease
If your event is outdoors, make it crystal clear that you have a solid backup plan. One of the biggest reasons guests skip an event is worrying about the weather. Likewise, comfort is key. Let your guests know:
- Your venue air conditioned is (if it’s summer) or heating in winter
- There will be shade or shelter
- They won’t be stuck standing in heels or night. Suggest a shoe change for dancing
By removing these small anxieties, guests are more likely to attend and stay longer.
4. Dress Code: Make it Fun, Not Stressful
Dress codes influence how comfortable guests feel. A themed party can be fun, but if it’s too complicated or people don’t want to dress up, it might discourage them from attending. Try to:
- Make the dress code clear (casual chic, cocktail, optional costume, etc.)
- Offer alternatives when appropriate
- Match the vibe to your guests’ personalities
Comfort leads to confidence and that leads to a better vibe overall.
5. Choose a Convenient Location
Location matters. If the venue is too far away or hard to find, guests may not show up. Try to:
- Book somewhere central to your guest list
- Offer parking or transport options
- Include clear directions or ride share info
If you really want to go above and beyond, consider organising a minibus or coach for guests, especially for weddings or destination parties.
6. Pick the Right Day and Time
Timing is everything. Be mindful of:
- Other events happening the same day
- Public holidays, sports finals, and school functions
- Your guests’ work schedules
A Saturday evening tends to be the safest bet, but every crowd is different, so choose a day and time based on who you’re inviting.
Timing is everything. Be mindful of:
- Other events happening in the same day
- Public holidays, sports finals, and other school functions
- Your guests’ work schedules
A Saturday evening tends to be the safest bet, but every crowd is different, so choose a day and time based on who you’re inviting.
7. Focus on the Experience, Not Just the Details
Ultimately, guests will show up when the event sounds fun, feels effortless, and fits into their life. So, when you invite them, don’t just list the logistics. Sell the experience:
- “Think cocktails, dancing, wild entertainment, and late-night laughs.”
- “We’re transforming the space into a retro disco nightclub!”
- “This is our one night to party hard, no stress, just fun!”
Check out this video on 12 reasons why parties can be boring.
Understanding Guest Mindsets
Different guests are motivated by different things:
- Extroverts often come for the social vibe or dancing
- Introverts might prefer smaller, cozy setups with people they know
- Parents might be more inclined to come if they can bring their kids or know it’ll finish at a reasonable time
- Older guests may appreciate clear info about seating, food, or transport
Understanding your audience and planning for their needs, helps boost attendance.
Want More People to Show Up? We Can Help
At Feel Good Events, we’ve spend over two decades helping clients design parties that people want to be at, not just show up for, but truly engage with. We specialise in:
- Lighting and décor that set the right mood
- Layouts that support high energy and connection
- Music and entertainment that raise guest energy and party vibes
- Décor and styling that tap into emotion and atmosphere.
We don’t just decorate, we design for interaction, atmosphere, and joy. Because at the end of the day, a party without people isn’t a party at all, it’s a party without the right energy that just feels flat.
Final Thoughts
If you’re worried about guest attendance, don’t panic. You don’t need a massive crowd, you just need the right atmosphere. Use these tips to excite, reassure, and inspire your guests and when you’re ready, we’re here to help make it all happen. Check out our party decorating services to get started, or explore our hire products to set the mood.
Let’s make your party one people won’t want to miss!
Author: Marcus Prentice – Partyologist
