15 Things Every NYC Event Host Forgets (But You Won’t)
Even the most organized hosts forget things on event day — especially in New York City, where logistics, timing, and sensory overwhelm can derail an otherwise beautiful celebration.
Whether you’re hosting a baby shower, bridal shower, birthday party, engagement celebration, or corporate offsite, this guide lists the small but essential details that hosts tend to forget… and how you can stay ahead of them.
Bookmark this list. Save it. Screenshot it.
It will save you every single time.
1. Trash Bags (Trust Me)
Venues often provide trash removal, but hosts forget bags for:
food wrappers
disposable plates
delivery packaging
Bring at least 3–5.
2. Scissors
You will use scissors at least six times:
cutting florals
opening packaging
chopping tape
trimming table runners
Never skip scissors.
3. Tape + Command Hooks
For:
signage
backdrop
décor
balloons
quick repairs
Tape solves everything.
4. A Lighter or Safety Matches
For candles, cake moments, and emergencies.
5. Paper Towels + Napkins
Spills happen.
Often.
Continuously.
6. Extra Utensils
Someone always forgets forks.
Someone always forgets a serving spoon.
Pack extras.
7. A Simple Bluetooth Playlist
Don’t rely on venue Wi-Fi.
Download your playlist in advance.
8. A Cake Knife and Server
Nine out of ten hosts forget this — and it’s always needed.
9. Labels for Food Allergies
Guests with allergies feel cared for (and safe) when labels are included.
10. A Phone Charger
Photos drain batteries.
Music drains batteries.
Hosts’ phones die first.
11. Water Pitchers
People drink more water than you think at events.
12. One Allergy-Friendly Food Option
At least one vegan or gluten-free dish is always appreciated.
13. A Backup Activity
Simple, optional, not mandatory.
Examples:
write-a-wish cards
Polaroid guest book
decorate-a-onesie table
Just something gentle to fill lulls.
14. A Clear End-of-Event Plan
Ask yourself:
What happens to leftover food?
Who gathers trash?
Who helps carry items out?
Does cleanup need to be done by you or the venue?
Bat Haus includes cleanup, which makes this easy.
15. A Moment to Breathe Before Guests Arrive
Hosts forget the most essential thing:
their presence.
Take 60 seconds.
Stand in the room.
Look around.
Breathe.
Feel gratitude.
Let yourself arrive, too.
Final Thoughts
Every NYC event becomes easier when you prepare for these tiny details. They’re not glamorous, but they’re the difference between a chaotic hosting experience and a calm, grounded one.
And when your event feels grounded, your guests feel grounded — which is the true heart of a beautiful celebration.
