Having a costume party is fun at any age, especially when you can look sexy and feel good. The best way to organize a costume party is achieved by following a few simple steps: send out invitations, enjoy great food and drinks, plan entertainment and just have fun.

Try to plan your party at least a month in advance. This not only gives you plenty of time to plan and not have to rush, but it also gives your guests time to order or make their costumes. Make a guest list and include only guests over the age of 18 or 21, depending on your country of residence, and whether you plan to serve alcohol. Paper invitations are old-fashioned, but they’re much more elegant and fun. If you have a theme for your costume party, coordinate your invitations with your theme. If you don’t have a special theme and just want to have a general costume party, make your invitations out of plain cardstock and decorate the envelope with shredded silk, glitter, and lace. On the invitation include the date, time and address of the party and a number to RSVP. You can also include an email address or Facebook contact information. Put “by invitation only” somewhere on the invitation so no unwanted or underage guests try to crash your party.

Get a rough estimate of how many people plan to attend. Hors d’oeuvres are the easiest foods to serve; you don’t have to worry about sitting down to eat, and everyone can help themselves and eat however they like. Many caterers sell hors d’oeuvre trays, or make some of their own by looking up recipes online and enlisting the help of a friend to help with the preparation and cooking. Some easy recipes are spinach balls, artichoke dip, chicken wings, salmon dip and crackers and fruit or vegetable platters. As for beverages, soda or spirits cans are easier to dispense than worrying about tipping over large bottles. Have ice and disposable cups on hand.

Every party should have some kind of entertainment, even if it’s just background music. Create a playlist, burn discs, or dock an iPod with every kind of music imaginable—even if it’s not the kind of music you personally enjoy. If the crowd seems willing, start some games and contests. Fun contests like best couples costumes and highest heels, or games like relay races and treasure hunts are always big hits. Play games individually or in teams. Have prizes for winners and losers, even if they’re just gag gifts. Goodie bags are also a nice touch, especially if they’re decorated to match your theme.

Any party is a great party with a little thought and good planning. A costume party plus great friends adds up to a night no one will soon forget.