I’m a firm believer in the good health benefit of social gatherings, and
the best way to add party-going to your life is simply to throw them
yourself! If you’re trying to plan a party and don’t know where to
begin, turn to technology and all your questions will be answered.
I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite tech accessories for throwing amazing parties, and whether it’s setting the mood, providing entertainment, choosing food, or mixing drinks–there’s a nifty gadget in here for everything. Many of these items are not merely essentials for fun-making, but are also easy to enjoy in everyday life; after all, there’s no rulebook to life that says karaoke and disco balls can only be used in company. Whether you are hosting a gathering, attending an event, or looking for a way to make being a homebody more fun, these fun gadgets can make you and your party a raging success.
When it comes to parties, I’m a sucker for mood lighting and multimedia entertainment. I’d love to know–what are your essentials for a great party?
- 1. Laser stars projector $120:
For a truly magical mood experience that you can enjoy even when there’s no party planned, try out this star projector. This nifty little gadget transforms an entire room–ceiling and walls — into the glowing star filled night sky. - 2. NADY dynamic microphone $10:
A must for karaoke, and super inexpensive, these microphones will make even the most timid guest feel like a rock star. - 3. 100″ projector screen $100:
No matter what kind of event you’re throwing, a projector screen can be an awesome feature to impress your guests. If your party is a dance party, project abstract patterns to set the mood, or music videos for fun. At holiday parties, simply throw on a few classics in the background, it gives people something to chat about and a gives the host a bit of a helping hand for entertaining guests. - 4. Optoma LED gaming projector $200:
This projector is one of the more attractive, unassuming styles on the market, and clocks in a very reasonable price. It’s narrow, white body allows you to attach it to a ceiling without creating a major eyesore, and while it’s not as fancy as some higher end projectors, it does the trick for games, movies, and anything else you might need at an event. - 5. Audio Unlimited wireless indoor/outdoor speakers $100:
For a very low price, these speakers offer awesome versatility for when you want to move your party outdoors. They are compact, but deliver pretty good sound, and their wireless functionality means no long extensions cords and speaker wires everywhere, making them perfect for parties. They come in white and black also, but I chose the hot pink because–why not? - 6. Rotating disco mirror ball $7:
A little novelty fun goes a long way at parties, trust me. I once owned this cheap wind-up top that played the Beverly Hills Cop theme song, and it never ceased to amaze and delight everyone who entered my home. We named it Beverly Hills Top, but I’m digressing here. This disco ball is battery operated and has the ability to attach to the ceiling or just sit on a surface. Shine a light on it, and you’ve got an instant party–no one can resist the joy of a disco ball. - 7. Singing Machine portable karaoke machine $50:
Oh admit it, you love karaoke. I can’t carry a tune to save my life and I love going to karaoke parties. This portable karaoke machine is such a great deal that it’s worth getting even if you’re on the fence; you could use it an emergency device. Awkward lull in conversation? Friend’s birthday party not going as planned? Late night at the office turning everyone a bit loopy? If you can whip out the karaoke, you may instantly become the savior of fun:)
Moodlamp 2 app for iPhone and iPad $.99:
This app is a fun one, especially if used in coordination with your friends. If you can gather all the iPhones at a party into a room and turn on this mood lamp app on all of them, you’ve suddenly transformed the room into a glowing party-ready atmosphere.
Jellyfish and Black Diamond iPhone Dock by Yantouch :
Yantouch is a Taiwan based firm designing these incredible lighting products that are designed to bring a little fun and joy into everyday life, which makes them perfect for parties. My favorite product of theirs, the Black Diamond is a iPod/iPhone dock that looks like a cross between Epcot Center and The Dark Crystal–in other words, it’s beautiful. These aren’t readily available outside of Taiwan yet, but should be soon. They would certainly make a great conversation piece at any gathering.
Cocktails HD app for iPad $4.99:
This is a fantastic cocktails app that can turn anyone into an expert bartender. With over 450 drink recipes in full color, this app can help you make the perfect cocktail choices for any type of event.
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