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 a yard stake, colored mini-lights, or a front door decoration is visible to each guest and a nice welcome to set the tone and reinforce your theme. 

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 or prominently displayed to be seen. 

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.

Cocktail area – With everyone packed into the party area, decorations are less likely to be noticed, however, lighting at eye-level or just above guests’ heads will stand out.  Use theme and regular votives, placed in a group and/or throughout the room to add atmosphere.

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.

Hors d'oeuvre tray – A small, themed decoration on your serving tray or along side a self-serve appetizer adds a nice surprise during the cocktail hour.

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 are unique and interesting theme-related items that will captivate.

Dining table – To maximize the impact of your decorations use a white tablecloth and white napkins. Your dinner centerpiece and table decorations should be the most significant, by far, for a dinner party. Also, use appropriate taper, pillar, or votive candles in the center of your dining table. 

Theme-related salt and pepper shakers, as well as beverage napkins in the center of each place setting are nice touches.  Bead necklaces can be used as napkin rings and also help create a more festive atmosphere at dinner.

Theme confetti really pops, when sprinkled in moderation on the white tablecloth background. If you are using chargers or service plates, place a single piece of confetti at the top, sides, and/or center.  Don't forget to remove the confetti if you are using the plates for food.

Avoid using decorations or flowers that obstruct a guest’s view across the table. Find more on themed dinner party centerpieces in Food & Wine > Dinner Party Themes.

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.

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 stylish 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.