Looking to throw a great birthday party at a party venue or home? Here’s how to plan your next party so you and your guests will have more fun than ever before.

Timing is everything. Choose the date of your party with care. The two busiest times to plan a party are December and June. Between Christmas, Hanukkah and New Year’s, December is the costliest time to plan a party. Every party services vendor and event venue is busier in December than any other month. If you’re able to push your party off to January, you’ll have better attendance and a lower cost per person.

From Memorial Day weekend to the Fourth of July, you’re competing with three-day weekends and graduation parties. You’ll find that many of the people on your invite list will have previous obligations. Try to plan a birthday party in July or May when possible.

Of course, some birthday parties can’t be pushed into another month.

If you have a party to plan for one of these dates, try planning it out at least six months in advance. This will give you a chance to strike a good bargain with the vendors and line up your guests before they are invited to other events.

Summer parties are wonderful when the weather permits. Always assume it’s going to rain and plan a great indoor party. If the weather cooperates, you can easily move it outside. Book a tent rental to protect your guests from rain or too much fun. A party tent is easy to light. If you’re expecting many guests and the event will be held outdoors exclusively, seriously consider renting a floor for the tent. Nobody wants to sit in a tent full of mud!   Winter parties are fun; just make sure there is plenty of entertainment.

If you are inviting children, consider hiring a magician or other children’s entertainer to keep your guests happy. A good magician will entertain adults and children alike. The show can be performed in any open area or the magician can stroll around the party and perform sleight of hand while he mingles with the guests.

Think about how you can keep your guests entertained. Just providing food, beverage and music is a good start, but great party entertainment can make your birthday party a truly special occasion. Consider booking a magician, comedian, hypnotist, belly dancer or other fun party entertainer.