Listen: You're about to spend a bunch of money on cheese covered cardboard wrapped in cardboard. If you don't pull this off, you'll have spent all this cash for nothing. If you don't pull this off perfectly it's going to seem like the cheap pre-teen birthday party that it is. So buckle down, strap in, and get ready to hear how to not waste a ton of money on something nobody wants to be at. Here are 7 huge mistakes most people are planning their impromptu Italian-American Soiree (aka pizza party).
1. Getting multiple toppings
Not only are the crazier toppings a lot more expensive, they are also unpopular. The more variety you get, the more likely you will be to offend a friend's tastes. If you want to go fancy, get one topping at the maximum. That way, people who want variety can have it, but people you don't can easily pick it off. Especially don't get filled crusts or flavored crusts. These are expensive, unusual, and can lead to nasty surprises for guests who don't like them.
2. Ordering Pineapple
You might wish you were on the sandy beaches of Maui, but ordering ham and pineapple will not get you there. Pineapple is the least liked topping. Even if you have one or two friends who are fans, don't get it. Pineapple leaves a sweet syrupy flavor on the pizza even when picked off, so it can make the entire pizza unappetizing.
3. Not ordering enough cheese
Pizza is pizza. Most people are willing to eat cheese even if it isn't their favorite flavor. In order to not seem boring, I would recommend a 75:25 cheese to non-cheese ratio. Most people will get cheese, but for the adventurous ones, there are other options. This way, there are no limits for picky eaters.
4. Not having other options
Pizza is the crossroads of dietary restrictions: it contains dairy, eggs, wheat, sugar, loads of fats, and sometimes meat or fruit (see previous listing). In order to respect those with these issues, try to have a little something on the side so they don't feel left out. This doesn't have to be a whole pizza, just something small like some chips or a salad.
5. Not getting plates or napkins
Pizza is very greasy and it is likely that it will get everywhere. Even though it is a handheld food, the grease stains from fingers and crumbs can ruin your finest dorm furniture and attract insects. This is a party, and these simple measures can prevent the occasion from turning into an awkward disaster.
6. Forgetting the drinks
Alcoholic or not, beverages can help wash down the pizza and help your guests feel more fulfilled. The drinks make the party seem more like a complete meal, and your guests will be more satisfied.
7. Expecting the pizza to be the entertainment
Pizza is the best. But it doesn't usually serve as a DJ too. To make sure that your party doesn't turn into smacking over an awkward silence. Make sure there's some sort of music, movie, game, or agenda to enjoy during the party. Something as simple as drawing on the pizza boxes to commemerate the moment can turn your poorly planned party into something really memorable.
