No matter what your favourite way of spending time is — whether it's going to the club, cafe hopping, watching movies at the cinema or lazing around at home, things change around the festive season and no one can deny that. From hosting a party to get the festive feel to doing it out of FOMO (we've been there!), everyone hosts at least one party or get-together. And if you're thinking of doing it too, we've this complete party checklist that'll help you throw an awesome party without last-minute Blinkit, Zepto and Instamart orders flying in as your guests wait for you to sort things out.
Hosting Duties: Here's Everything You Need To Host An Awesome Diwali Party
Overview
Space & Seating
The number one thing you need to work out is whether there's enough space for people to move freely and enough seating. You can get creative with your furniture by rearranging it to maximise its use and determine what arrangement provides the most space. Add small furniture like pouffes, ottomans, and stools. Floor cushions are also great options that don't really take up much space and can be easily stored when not in use (take inspo from Greyslate Events's image above). Small tables are another must.







Lights
One of the most important aspects of throwing a party is deciding the ambience you're going for. Usually, people opt for dim, yellow lighting that gives a warm glow to the room. You can also have a dedicated area for those playing cards and arrange the lighting accordingly. Ideally, it should be well-lit but not so bright that it gives your guest a headache, and not so dim that they can't clearly concentrate on the game. For those of you on a budget, fairy lights are economical and come in plenty of different designs.








Fragrance For Home
Just like lighting, house fragrance is equally important to set the right mood and create a great experience. Say, a signature scent for your home which could be warm, compelling, refreshing or however else you like it. Now, you could either get scented candles or diffusers. We'd suggest getting them both to achieve the perfect scent. Although, be mindful of your guests! If they have respiratory issues, they may not be okay with a very overpowering fragrance. In that case, pick something that's mild yet long lasting.
LBB Tip: If you're looking to shop clean candle brands this is your list.








Party Decor
You cannot have a party without a theme or decor that stands out. You don't necessarily have to look for a party planner to get things done for you. Instead, you can head to Cherish X's website, choose the setup you like, and they'll have someone come to your house to install it for you. From specific Diwali party/card party themes to even Halloween, they have a bit of everything for you to check out.
Soft Furnishing
To get the right ambience for your party, it's crucial that you pick soft furnishing that goes well with your party's decor or get something that's super festive. From table linens to bed linens and even curtains, everything should be on point with the theme of your party. Additionally, it should complement the style of your house and be something you can use in the long run.








Aesthetic and Functional Serveware
If the seating and lights are set, the next thing on your checklist should be serveware! Even if you don't want to go uber fancy with it, you need to be well equipped with trays, platters, coasters, all kinds of plates, bowls and other types of serveware for your house party. The best way to go about it is to get serveware that's unbreakable and still looks on point with your party's aesthetic.
LBB Tip: 10 Aesthetic Cutlery & Serveware Brands To Jazz Up Your Tables








Glassware & Dinnersets
Just as serveware is important, so is glassware and dinner sets. You can expect to up your game in one department and leave the other hanging by a thread. Glassware, in particular, steals the show, especially if your party has alcohol. The best way to go about it is to pick glasses that go with your cocktail menu for the night. As for dinner sets, go for something that you can use after the festive season too.
LBB Tip: Check out these cutlery and dinner set options and these glassware options.








Dedicated Bar Station
There is no house party without drinks, and by that, we mean the non-alcoholic ones as well. Whether you're making cocktails or mocktails, you need to get your equipment and ingredients ready. From cocktail mixers to bar tools, you'll need a lot to make that area Instagrammable and functional at the same time.
Pro Tip: Bartisans' Founder Jovita Mascarenhas Tells Us The Best Cocktail Mixers Of 2025








Liquor
No party is successful without some liquor, and you should aim to serve the best of every kind. From gin and vodka to scotch and beer (if that floats your boat), you need to get your liquor sorted to look well-prepared. We suggest asking your guests in advance if they have any preferences and then arranging alcohol accordingly. You can either get it from a local wine and beer shop or check out delivery portals if you have that convenience in your city.
Hangover Cure

Here's a thoughtful way to care for your guests and yourself! Morning Fresh's house party pack is ideal for avoiding gruesome hangovers and ending your party on a peaceful note in the morning! They come in ready-to-drink 60ml bottles and light-weight sachets, in fun flavours such as Cola, Mint, Strawberry and Orange. So stock up on these at your house parties to ensure you wake up fresh and hydrated the next morning!
Games
No party is ever fun without games, and if you want your house party to be a hit, you need to have your guests play games. While some of your guests may want to stick to traditional Teen Patti, you can get other card games for non-taash players or even some board games that'll get everyone's competitive spirit out.




Bathroom Preps
The most important room, the bathroom, needs to be maintained well. No one likes entering only to find the toilet roll is finished or worse, be greeted with unflattering odour. Make sure you have enough supplies (and extras) to last your party. To go the extra mile, add a diffuser, potpourri or wax tablets to ensure it smells nice all the time.







