Surprise Party!

Few events match the elation of a surprise party that's truly a pleasant surprise. Here are some tips to make your event a success.

1. Make certain your honoree will appreciate your efforts. Surprise parties can be painfully embarrassing to bashful people. The idea is to create joy, not pain.

2. Invite attendees by asking them in person. Avoid written invitations that the honoree may stumble upon. Remember, the larger the number of attendees, the more difficult it will be to keep the event a secret.

3. Make certain the honoree is away while guests arrive. For example, invite him or her out to dinner with a "conspirator" and have guests arrive during the honoree's absence.

4. Give attendees an exact time to arrive prior to the appearance of the honoree—at least 10 minutes before the honoree is scheduled to appear. If they are late, ask them to please remain out of sight until after the surprise occurs.

5. Make certain that the vehicles of attendees are not visible as the honoree approaches.

6. Use a copy machine to make masks with a life-size photo of the honoree's face. Have everyone hold the masks in front of their faces—awaiting the surprise. Watch the honoree's expression change from bewilderment to confusion to joy.

7. Have everyone come out of hiding and loudly greet the honoree, upon hearing a prearranged signal from your conspirator.

8. Enjoy!