Invitation -- Whether you are using a simple or more elaborate theme, your invitation should be the first clue.  The invitation is also an opportunity to create excitement and anticipation.

Evite offers a large selection of invitations for virtually every theme. If you do not see one you like, you can design your own. This may be the best option for basic themes, such as a color, where you simply use contrasting shades for the text and background. 

Outside Entrance – Elevate your guests’ spirits as they arrive with decorations at the entrance to the party.  Everyone has to get there, so your front entrance embellishment will be experienced by all your guests, plus it will serve as a confirmation that they are at the right place.

A yard stake can easily be placed outside at the front entrance or along the walk. Alternatively, use a potted plant outside the front door or in the party area.

Colored mini-lights will certainly be noticed and are great to reinforce a color theme.  Also quite effective as an interior decoration.

Door hangings will literally be in each guest's face when hung on the front door and are a great introduction to your party theme.  Use a wreath hanger to avoid  using nails, tacks, or glue. 

Foyer – If you really want to go all out, add a more elaborate decoration inside the entrance in the foyer.  Because of the distractions upon arrival, a decoration in the foyer should be larger and/or prominently displayed to be seen. 

You may want to create a mini-scene that is related to the theme.  For example, a  surfboard, beach chair and beach ball for a beach theme or a tree and tombstones on grass surrounded by an "iron" fence for Halloween.

Bar – Practically every guest will visit the bar, therefore this is a logical location for a key decoration.  A tabletop item along with a couple of votive candles will be seen without taking up too much space. Also, sprinkle theme-related confetti on the bar for an extra detail.

Drinks – Not only can you name your specialty drink according to your theme, you may also choose a cocktail of a color related to your decorations.  And regardless of what your guests are drinking, you can dress it up with theme-related cocktail accessories, such as, napkins, garnishes, toothpicks, swizzle sticks, and/or umbrellas.

Party area – With everyone packed into the party area, decorations are less likely to be noticed. For this reason, place party decorations at eye level or above in the party area.

Use votive candle holders grouped and throughout the room at a level of 6 feet. Also place a couple on the bar.

Hors d'oeuvre trays – Passing hors d'oeuvres adds a sophisticated touch and another opportunity to surprise your guest with a small, themed centerpiece on your serving tray. 

A unique decoration passed with each tray will add interest and show your originality.  Once the tray is passed you can strategically place the decoration in a high-visibility area.

If the centerpiece is unstable or a little tall, use double-sided tabs to stick the centerpiece to the tray.  You will need to cut a hole the size and shape of the tab in the center of the doily first.

Balloon weights are nice and stable and make much cuter hors d'oeuvre tray centerpieces than holding down another bunch of balloons.

Bathroom – The bathroom is likely to be visited by every guest and is another primary spot to showcase your festive decorations.  A tabletop display, hand towels, confetti, and soap to match your theme will certainly make a big impression when they don't expect it.

Put floating candles in your bathtub for an extra touch.  Use a single flower to reinforce a color theme.

Dining table – For a cocktail party, an accent such as a table runner is effective to add color and festivity to the dining room.  Generally the dining room is not a high traffic area during a cocktail party and the level of decorating should reflect the visibility of the table.  Also, add candlesticks to complete the setting.

Confetti -- Confetti used sparingly, in key locations, adds an extra sparkle to decorated areas.  Confetti should be used on the bar top and in the bathroom to accent these high visibility areas. Include in any thank you notes you may write afterward.

Personal attire -- Everyone will see the host, so be sure to get others into the spirit by dressing and accessorizing your outfit.   Dress appropriate to the style of your party, for super casual wear a grass skirt and coconut bra to your luau, or dress it up with a tasteful floral dress and a hibiscus for you hair.

Note:  The effort you put into "dressing the part" will set the standard and directly impact the energy your guests will put into your future parties. And, as always, apply your good taste.

Vases -- Even if you are not using flowers, you can still fill your vases with colored rocks, marbles, candy, submersible LED lights, or colored water. Top off with a unique floral spray to match.