What is houseparty.com?

Houseparty.com is a community where people are connected through parties. As a registered member of Houseparty.com, you’ll be able to use the helpful tools to plan your party, create and manage your invitations, share your pictures and video (via our Media Upload Tool and PartyVision™) and explore thousands of parties being held in homes nationwide. 

I have forgotten my screen name and password. How can I find them?

For security purposes, we do not have access to your password; however, you can go to the login screen and click on "Forgot Password," enter your email address (which needs to correspond to the email address you used to register with House Party), and a new password will be emailed to you immediately. This email will contain both your screen name and a new password. You will then be able log on to your party page.

After you have successfully set up your party, go into "Profile," and change your password to something relevant to you.

How do I enable JavaScript?

houseparty.com uses JavaScript technology, which means that in order to experience the site fully, JavaScript is required. In order to view the site correctly you will need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser; to do this, please follow the directions below:

Internet Explorer (6.0)

1. Select 'Tools' from the top menu
2. Choose 'Internet Options'
3. Click on the 'Security' tab
4. Click on 'Custom Level'
5. Scroll down until you see section labelled 'Scripting'
6. Under 'Active Scripting', select 'Enable' and click OK

Netscape Navigator (4.8)

1. Select 'Edit' from the top menu
2. Choose 'Preferences'
3. Choose 'Advanced'
4. Choose 'Scripts & Plugins'
5. Select the 'Enable JavaScript' checkbox and click OK

Mozilla Firefox (1.0)

1. Select 'Tools' from the top menu
2. Choose 'Options'
3. Choose 'Web Features' from the left navigation
4. Select the checkbox next to 'Enable JavaScript' and click OK

Mozilla Firefox (1.5)

1. Select 'Tools' from the top menu
2. Choose 'Options'
3. Choose 'Content' from the top navigation
4. Select the checkbox next to 'Enable JavaScript' and click OK

Apple Safari (1.0)

1. Select 'Safari' from the top menu
2. Choose 'Preferences'
3. Choose 'Security'
4. Select the checkbox next to 'Enable JavaScript'

How do I clear my cache?

Internet Explorer (6.0)

1. Select 'Tools' from the top menu
2. Choose 'Internet Options'
3. Click on 'Delete Files.'
4. Check 'Delete offline content.'
5. Click OK

Internet Explorer (7.0)

1. Select 'Tools' from the top menu
2. Choose 'Delete Browsing History.'
3. Under ‘Temporary Internet Files,’ click “Delete Files.’
4. Check 'Delete offline content.'
5. Under 'Are you sure you want to delete all temporary internet files?' click 'Yes'

Mozilla Firefox (1.5)

1. 1. Drop down 'Firefox' menu and choose 'Preferences.'
2. Choose Privacy Option
3. Click the 'Cache' tab.
4. Click 'Clear Cache.'

Apple Safari (1.0)

1. Drop down 'Safari' menu and choose 'Empty Cache.'

What is the 'Explore' button on the houseparty.com Home Page?

When you click on 'Explore' you will be able to view thousands of parties being held in homes nationwide. You can explore via 'featured parties,' 'featured media,' or 'featured events.'

You do not have to register or login in order to explore houseparty.com.

What is my Dashboard?

Your Dashboard is your home base in the House Party world. It shows you a summary of parties you're hosting, parties you're a guest of, as well as the status of host applications you've completed.

Each time you sign in to the Website, you'll arrive on your Dashboard. From there, you can choose where you'd like to go.

From your Dashboard, you can easily edit your personal details, upload/change your profile photo and manage your contact preference (choose how much email you'd like to receive during your House Party experience.)

House Party RSS Feeds

RSS Feeds are a great way to stay in the loop with House Party activities.

Add an RSS feed to your favorite "RSS Reader/Aggregator" to get updated when new content is posted.

The "Upcoming Events" feed will notify you of brand new events as they're updated on houseparty.com - never be late to the party again!

The "Party Talk" feeds will let you keep up with the conversation for any event.

Just keep an eye out for the RSS Feed Icon across the site and click it to view or add the feed to your RSS Reader.

Looking for an RSS Reader? Most modern browsers have a built-in RSS Reader, though here are a few other worthy readers: Google Reader, Feed Gator

How does House Party select its hosts?

In order for you to be considered in the host selection process, you need to fill in the online application (which asks you questions about your knowledge of the sponsor brand, how you typically throw parties, whether you are an internet user and have a digital camera etc.). After completing the application, you will need to respond to the confirmation email by clicking on the link within it (to make sure our means of communicating with you works). From the group of applicants who confirm their email address and complete the application, we choose a pool of hosts who fit House Party's and the sponsor's host criteria.

If you did not receive a confirmation email but believe you have completed a screener, do not hesitate to contact us at help@houseparty.com, and we will be happy to confirm the status of your application.

Why am I being asked all these questions about what I own etc.?

To make sure that you are likely to enjoy the entire House Party experience and to help us understand what other types of House Parties our users might enjoy.

I really want to be a host! Is there anything I can do to increase my chances of being chosen?

All hosts will be chosen based on their responses to the online screening questions. Once you are a host, however, there are many ways to enhance your party experience (and the chances that your media will appear online or elsewhere).

I'm stuck on a screening page. What do I do?

There are a few reasons you might be getting stuck. First of all, if you haven't completely filled out the form, you will get error messages at the top of the page prompting you to go back to the incomplete questions. The incomplete questions are highlighted in red.

Occasionally, people find their way to our screening page using a link that has been forwarded to them by a friend. If the link bypasses our houseparty.com page, you are not registered (i.e., you haven't created a screen name and password) and you will be unable to complete your application. If that is the case, you will need to begin from www.houseparty.com, click on the party for which you'd like to apply and click on "let's get started" to begin.

Finally, you could try leaving the website, then clear your cache, refresh your browser and try again. Occasionally, applicants have had problems we have been unable to duplicate and a fresh start has simply solved the glitch.

I've received a confirmation email. Does that mean I've been chosen to be a host?

Not necessarily.

Every host who registers with House Party (creates a user name and password) receives a confirmation email confirming their user name and password. That confirmation email should not be confused with host notification.

What if I don't see my email notification by the target date?

Some email systems may block our email. Be sure to check your "spam" mailbox, and follow your mail provider's instructions on how to ensure the delivery of desired mail.

How do I know if I'm chosen?

You will receive a congratulatory email notifying you that you have been chosen to be a host. The email will contain a link connecting you to the House Party website which will guide you through the process of setting up your party. You will need the user name and password that you created when you began your application to log in to the House Party website. (Please be aware that some email systems may block our email. Be sure to follow your mail provider's instructions on how to ensure the delivery of desired mail.)

Keep track of your host applications on your Dashboard. You can sign in to the House Party  Website at any time after you complete your host application. Use the username and password you chose when filling out the application. Forgotten your username or password? Get an email reminder!

In the lower portion of your Dashboard, all applications you've recently completed will appear in the "My Applications" section. Each will have an indication of the status.

What if I don't see my email notification by the target date?

Some email systems may block our email. Be sure to check your "spam" mailbox, and follow your mail provider's instructions on how to ensure the delivery of desired mail.

What is a 'Host Finalist'?

If you are not selected, you will be informed via email that you have not been chosen to host but can participate as a Virtual Partygoer. If you are having difficulty setting up your party, uploading media or sending invites, be sure to contact us at help@houseparty.com for assistance.

Host finalists are initially eligible to be hosts; however, they must meet additional requirements in order to be confirmed as hosts. In most cases, they need to be among the first number of people to set up parties, upload media and send invites. If host finalists complete the required tasks, they will be confirmed as hosts and receive the free host package.

Will I receive an email if I am NOT chosen to be a host?

Yes.

You will receive an email letting you know you have not been chosen to host. If you are ever curious about or confused by your status, feel free to contact us at House Party Customer Care to confirm your status. We are happy to help!

What is a Virtual Partygoer?

Virtual Partygoers get to participate in all the online activity of a party event, such as sharing and uploading media, as well as any discounts made available to online participants.

Unlike Hosts, Virtual Partygoers do not have a 'party' online, nor do they receive any physical Party Package if one is made available. If you missed a Party Event screening or were not selected as a Host, becoming a Virtual Partygoer is a great way to stay connected.

I want to apply to host a party, but I'm not sure if I am able to host on the designated party date?

We hope that all who sign up to host a party carefully consider the party date when they complete the application and follow through with the party, especially since the number of households and number of available party packages are limited. When one agrees to host a party, that person is taking the opportunity away from another applicant who also wants to host.

If you have doubts about whether you will be able to host a party on the assigned date, then perhaps you might consider holding off on completing the application and wait for another opportunity to host a party.

Can my HOUSE PARTY be outside or somewhere other than my home?

Yes.

As long as you are able to show the product so that your guests can see it, you can have the party outside or wherever you like. People are doing lots of interesting things – and no matter where the party is held, we encourage people to take as many digital videos and photos as they like!

Does it matter what day I hold my HOUSE PARTY?

Yes.

HOUSE PARTY is designed to create a nationwide Party Day. On the scheduled date, people from all across the country will be joining in the same party on the same day. It's a cool thing to be a part of and your party is an important part of it!

What if I cannot reschedule?

If you know well in advance that you will not be able to host a House Party, even though you have the option to reschedule, let us know. If we know far enough in advance, we can stop the shipment of your package and offer another lucky person the opportunity to host.

Does it matter what time I hold my HOUSE PARTY?

No.

The timing of your party is entirely up to you. Pick a time that works best for your family and your guests.

What is in my Party package?

It varies from party to party.

Some parties have packages that will physically be shipped to them, while others will receive virtual party packs that will be available online through the House Party website. Please check the specific House Party Fact Sheet on Party Central (after logging into your party site) for details specific to your party.

I have been chosen to host, but I can no longer host on the party date. Can I reschedule?

Yes.

If sickness or a family emergency makes it impossible to keep your party on the scheduled date, don't worry; we still want you to participate in the party, share the experience with your friends, and use your Party page to share your thoughts, pictures and video. You can reschedule your HOUSE PARTY, but be aware that scheduling your party for a date prior to the official party date may result in your not receiving your package in time for the party.  Be sure to do it as soon as possible and submit your media right away: we want your hosts' and guests' voices to be heard!

Just go to "Party Details" on your party page, and change the party time and date to that of your choice. When you send invitations, they should reflect your new party date.

We hope that, regardless of the date you host your party, you will still upload lots of pictures and video, check your website often, blog with your guests and enjoy all the great free stuff in your host package or virtual gift bag.

Will I be reimbursed for the money I spend on my Party?

No.

As a House Party host, you will receive your host party package and free access to your custom Party Page. But as a host or guest, you are responsible for anything – food, decorations, party favours, etc. - you choose to provide for your fellow partygoers.

How do the Party Favours work?

This is where you will find various high resolution graphics to use to make party favours.

1. On your Party Page, click on ‘Party Favours.’
2. Click on ‘Download’, which will take you to another screen that will give you a choice of graphics to download.
3. Select which graphic you would like (if there is more than one option).
4. For T-Shirt Transfers: Click ‘Download’ again (which will download the image in reverse).
5. For other uses such as cake screen, magnet, or flyers etc. (which will download image as is and not backwards):
   1. Right click the image
   2. Click 'Save as.'

Keep checking back to the Party Favours section to see newly-added graphics to make cool party favours

I have a lot of guests coming. May I request extra items in my Party Package?

No.

Because of the length of time it takes to obtain party pack items, pack the boxes and ship them, it would be impossible to accommodate the varying numbers of guests and last minute RSVPs to some parties.

Consequently, the the party package for each given House Party event will be identical for all hosts.

If you have more guests coming than goodie bags (if provided) or items in your box, we suggest the following strategies which have proven quite successful.

• Raffle off goodie bags or individual items
• Use goodie bags or individual items as prizes for games
• Eliminate goodie bags entirely and put all the items in one big grab bag for give aways or prizes
• If cups and plates are provided and you do not have enough, simply buy extras which coordinate with the free ones in your package.

These strategies have not only worked in the past but have actually enhanced the fun at many events where they have been used.

On which mailing lists am I included as a Host, Guest or Virtual Partygoer?

As an active member of a sponsored event, you may be subscribed to two mailing lists (depending whether or not you opted-in to our newsletter during registration).

• The General House Party Newsletter
• A selection of Event Mailing Lists, depending on which party events you are involved in or you have participated in in the past

What are Event Mailing Lists?

For each event, the members of the nationwide community of parties and partygoers (hosts, guests, and virtual partygoers) are sent infrequent emails specific to the event. These are very important emails that may announce: the availability of a special offer on the party site (or on a sponsor's website), an exclusive contest for members of a particular event only, notifications about the delivery of Party Packs and much more. House Party does not abuse this mailing list and exercises restraint, reserving it for event critical updates only.

If you are a registered host, guest or virtual partygoer of a current or past event, then you are automatically included on the mailing list specific to that event. This means that for each event you participate in, you are included on each of the mailing lists for it. Some partygoers are on the House Party Newsletter Mailing List, as well as a handful of other event-specific mailing lists.

Find out how to be removed from these lists

How do I unsubscribe from House Party emails?

There are three ways to unsubscribe from our emails.

If you are a registered partygoer:

1. simply Log In to houseparty.com, click on Profile tab from main menu.
2. Then choose "Email Preferences" from the sub menu. You'll see a page that details each list and your email address for the username/password you just logged in with.
3. Clicking "Unsubscribe" in the right column next to any item will immediately remove you from that list.

From within a House Party email: In the footer of emails you receive from House Party you'll see links to unsubscribe. Follow the directions there.

To unsubscribe from all House Party emails:

1. Go to the URL http://houseparty.com/unsubscribe_all/
2. Enter your email address into the field provided to remove that email address from all House Party mailing lists completely.

Please note: If you have registered with houseparty.com using multiple email addresses and/or multiple user names, you will need to complete this process for each one.

How do I re-subscribe to the House Party Newsletter?

There are two ways to re-subscribe to our House Party Newsletter:

If you are a previous host, guest or virtual partygoer:

1. If you are a registered partygoer, simply Log In to houseparty.com
2. Click on 'Profile' tab from main menu.
3. Choose "Email Preferences" from the sub menu. You'll see a page that details each list and your email address for the username/password you just logged in with.
4. Clicking "Suscribe" in the right column next to any item will immediately add you to that list again.

If you have not previously been a host, guest, or virtual partygoer of an event: you can re-subscribe (or subscribe for the first time) using the form at the following URL: http://houseparty.com/events

How do I re-subscribe to an Event Mailing List?

1. If you are a registered partygoer, simply Log In to houseparty.com
2. Click on Profile tab from main menu.
3. Then choose Email Preferencesfrom the sub menu. You'll see a page that details each list and your email address for the username/password you just logged in with.
4. Clicking "Subscribe" in the right column next to the event to which you wish to re-subscribe will instantly get you back on the list, and you'll receive any new emails relating to that event. Unfortunately, we will not be able to send you emails you may have already missed.

Can I unsubscribe from invitations to parties?

No. Unfortunately, if you've received an invitation to a House Party, it was most likely from a friend, family member or acquaintance. And we can't control what they do! Check the 'From' field of the Invitation email and respond to the sender requesting that they remove you from their personal address book.

What is the 'Email Preferences Page'?

The Email Preferences page, under 'Profile,' allows registered partygoers (hosts, guests, virtual partygoers) the ability to monitor the House Party Mailing Lists they are subscribed (or unsubscribed) to.

The two types of email newsletters we offer are:

1. House Party General Newsletter
2. Event Mailing Lists

I can't log in to set up my party. What do I do?

First of all, before you attempt to log in again, you should refresh your browser and clear your cache through Internet Explorer in order to clear previous unsuccessful login attempts from your computer's memory.

If you are having problems with your user name and password, for your security, we don't have access to your password; however, using your email address, you will be able to use the "forgot password" option on the login screen. We will immediately email you a new password which will indicate your user name and new password. This will allow you to set up your party. After you've completed your set-up, you can go into "Profile" and change your password to one you'll remember.

If you remember your password, use that with your user name to login. You should click on the link in your welcome email which should walk you through your party set up. You may also bypass the email and go directly to http://www.houseparty.com/start, and click on "Let's get started." Your screen name and password should allow you to log in and get your party set-up rolling.

What is a party mantra?

A party mantra is a “shout-out” to your guests. The mantra identifies what the party is all about and what kind of tone you’re looking for (i.e. “Get down and get cool at my Igloo Party”). Get creative and have fun with this statement.

Who will see the address where my party will be held?

Only your invited guests will see the location where your party will be held.

If I choose to make my party Public, what information WILL be visible on the National Party Page?

Only your user name, city and region and media will be shared on “Party Central.” Names and addresses are visible only to invited guests for all parties.

Why am I asked to choose my privacy preferences?

While the majority of houseparty.com members choose to make their parties public, there are many members who would prefer that only invited guests view their party. Thus, hosts are given the option to make their party public or private. Remember that a private party will not be included on the National Party Pages and will not be eligible for any contests or promotions that are based on photo and video rating by the community.

How do I change my headshot?

1. Go to your Party Page (log in first)
2. Click on the profile tab
3. Choose "edit" (beneath your headshot)
4. Click 'Browse.' Select an image from your files.
5. Click 'Upload.' You should receive a message reading 'Success: Your information has been saved.'
6. Click 'save' and you're all set.

You may need to refresh your browser and logout and back in to houseparty.com again in order for your website to reflect the change, but as soon as you’ve submitted your new image, it’s in our system and appears to all of your guests.

How do I upload my media?

1. Go to your Party Page (log in first)
2. Select ‘My Media’ tab or click ‘Upload photos and video’ from the list of options under the greeting that begins “Hi, user name…Here are some of the things you can do now…’(on the left of your party page)
3. Select the desired party album. If your media doesn’t relate to a specific party, upload to your default album.
4. Click ‘+add items to this album.’
5. Click ‘Browse’ to select the file you want to upload.
6. Add captions and tags, and choose ‘add item to list.’
7. If you want to add more files, repeat the above process.
8. When you’ve completed your list, click ‘Upload.’
9. To view your uploaded media, click ‘View & edit.’ (please note that video files will appear upon conversion & that it may take up to an hour)

How do I view my media?

If you've just uploaded an image:

1. Click on the "view & edit" tab under the upload box.

From elsewhere on the site:

1. Go to your Party Page (after logging in)
2. Choose the 'My Media' tab.
3. Click 'view and edit'

Can I change or delete a picture once it's been uploaded?

To edit photos:

If you've just uploaded an image:

1. Click on the "view & edit" tab under the upload box.
2. Click ‘edit’ underneath your media player; your edit tools will appear on the right-hand side of your image. (please note that you can only edit images and not video).
3. Edit your image however you want to.
4. Click ‘save’ and ‘yes.’
5. You will receive a green success message above the left-hand side of your picture if the changes went through.

From elsewhere on the site:

1. Go to your Party Page (after logging in)
2. Choose the 'My Media' tab.
3. Click 'view and edit'
4. Click ‘edit’ underneath your media player and your edit tools will appear on the right-hand side of your image. (please note that you can only edit images and not video)
5. Edit your image however you want to.
6. Click ‘save’ and ‘yes.’
7. You will receive a green success message above the left-hand side of your picture if the changes went through.

It may be necessary to refresh your browser and possibly leave houseparty.com and return for you to see the changes reflected on your own computer; however, don't worry, the changes are immediately visible to your guests and others on the site.

To delete media:

1. Go to your Party Page (after logging in)
2. Choose the 'My Media' tab.
3. Click 'view and edit'
4. Click on the photo or video you want to delete
5. Roll the cursor over the photo and the trash can icon will appear at the top right.
6. Click ‘delete this’ and ‘yes.’

It may be necessary to refresh your browser and possibly leave houseparty.com and return for you to see the changes reflected on your own computer; however, don't worry, the changes are immediately visible to your guests and others on the site.

Can I add or edit a photo Caption?

Yes.

1. Go to your Party Page.
2. Choose the ‘My Media’ tab.
3. Click ‘view & edit.’
4. Click the text next to ‘Caption.’
5. Type new caption.
6. Click ‘Update.’

It may be necessary to refresh your browser and possibly leave houseparty.com and return for you to see the changes reflected on your own computer; however, don't worry, the changes are immediately visible to your guests and others on the site.

How do I shoot video?

There are four ways in which you can shoot video:

• Your Digital Camera: Some digital cameras also allow you to shoot video. If you're not sure if your camera can shoot video, consult your camera's user guide. If you've lost your user guide, go and check http://tech.yahoo.com/fp and search for your brand and model number. After recording your video, upload it to your computer using the USB cable supplied with your camera. Then proceed to login at www.houseparty.com and click on "My Media" and upload your videos.

• Your Webcam: Some computers have built-in webcams that can capture live video. To upload, use your FireWire connection and save the file to your computer. Then proceed to login at www.houseparty.com and click on "My Media" and upload your videos. For more information regarding your specific webcam, check out http://tech.yahoo.com/fp and search for your brand and model number.
  
  

  **You'll need to import your video into a video application if you don't already have one. For macs, the most common application is iMovie, and for PCs the most common application is Windows Movie Maker. If you don't have either of these applications, check out some of these sites to download a video editing application:

1. http://www.jhepple.com/video_capture_software.htm
2. http://www.newfreedownloads.com/find/video-capture.html
3. http://www.zs4.net/

• Your Mobile Phone Device: Many mobile devices have the ability to record video. You can email the video to yourself, save it to your computer and upload to www.houseparty.com by logging in and clicking on "My Media."

• Your Camcorder: After you've shot video with your camcorder, upload the video to your computer via your FireWire or USB connection. Then proceed to login at www.houseparty.com and click on "My Media" and upload your videos.
  
  

  **Your files will most likely be in DV, MPEG, or AVI format. Please make sure that your video is under 100MB. In order to make your files smaller, you may need to export your files from your video software at a smaller size (usually MPEG and AVI are smaller).

What if I see a slide with a line through it on My Media page after I've uploaded a video?

You haven't done anything wrong! Your video will be ready for your viewing once it's been converted. This could take anywhere from five minutes to an hour depending on the size of your video file.

How do I watch a file from my computer on my television?

It's easy! click here to see how to connect your computer to your television.

How do I resize my photos so I can upload them to the site?

Check out www.shrinkpictures.com to make your images smaller than 100MB so they can be uploaded to houseparty.com.

I received a success message when I uploaded my images, but I still cannot view them. What can I do?

1. Refresh your browser and/or log out and back in to your party page.
2. If you are uploading in large batches, try uploading individually or in smaller batches. (if one image file in a batch is corrupted, it may interfere with the  group upload).
3. Check the size and dimensions of your photo (This can be done by right clicking on your image and then clicking on "Properties").
   
   • All images must be smaller than 100MB.
     
   • If your photo dimensions (in pixels) are very high, you may need to reduce the size. (If your photos are larger than 1200x800 pixels, for instance, they will upload to our site but may not necessarily be viewable on the web).
   • You can resize your photos at: http://www.shrinkpictures.com/
   • After you have resized your photos, you should be able to upoad your photos and they will be immediately be viewable on your party page.

Using the Guest Manager tool

After you've set up your party, you should check your party page regularly to monitor who's RSVPd to your party, invite new guests, resend invitations, send messages to your invited guests and much more.

The message box at the top of the page gives you important info about the status of your guests.

To add a new guest:

1. Click 'Add Guest' button on right side of guest list
2. Enter a name for your guest. It can be a nickname or a full first and last name. It's up to you
3. Enter an email address. If you don't have an email address for a guest, leave it blank. You can add it later or print an invitation for this guest.
4. The 'Automatically email invite' is checked by default; this will make sure the new guest will get an email invitation after you finish adding them. You can uncheck this box but you will then need to click SEND INVITE later from your guest list.

** If you have a lot of guests to invite, you can do it in a batch. Click the link that says 'Have a lot of Guests? Add Multiple Guests'

To add multiple guests

1. After clicking 'Add Multiple Guests' link, you will see a new screen with a large input field
2. Enter each guest on his/her own line
3. Each guest can have a first name, last name and email address, or any combination of these. If you include a name AND an email address, please make sure there is a comma between the last name and the email address - e.g. John Smith, jonjon@houseparty.com
4. When finished entering your guests, click 'ADD GUESTS'
5. All guests added in this manner that have email addresses associated with them will automatically receive an emailed invitation to your party. All others will need either a printed invitation or a word-of-mouth invitation with their unique Guest RSVP Code.
6. You will see all newly-added guests in your guest list. Those who did not receive an invite via email will have a red flashing PRINT INVITE button next to their entry in the list.

How do I know if my email invitations went through?

If you have attempted to invite others and they haven't appeared on your guest list, then the invitations weren't sent. Invitations successfully sent from our system will appear on your guest list, listed by email addresses. When a guest responds and registers, he or she will appear on your guest list by screen name.

Why should my guests register for houseparty.com?

Well, if they don't register, then they won't be able to post photos and video to your party page or post messages on your party blog. What's more, they won't be able to upload their own profile photo, so your guest list on your party page won't look as good. Besides that, the biggest reason is that registered houseparty.com partygoers have a greater chance to participate in sweepstakes and contests. You know how the saying goes: You've got to be in it to win it!" So thank your guests for RSVPing to your party and tell them why it's best for you AND them if they register. And don't forget to remind them that registration is FREE and they can leave any time they want.

Additionally, as a registered partygoer, they'll be the first to find out about upcoming events that they can host themselves and invite YOU as a guest! How cool would that be? Share the love. Awwww.

Can I see my invitation before it is sent to my guests?

During Party setup:

1. Click on "Preview my Invitation" during your party setup and you will be able to view and edit your invite.
2. Once you're completely satisfied with the invitation, just click on "Start my Party" and your invites will be sent via email.

On your My Party page:

1. click 'Guest Manager' under the MY PARTY tab at the top of the page
2. look for the 'Edit Invitation' button in the sidebar
3. You'll see what your invitation looks like and you can edit the message on this page
4. When you've finished editing your invite message, click SAVE, then click 'Back to Guest Manager'

My invitations aren't sending. What should I do?

First of all, refresh your browser and clear your cache to clear unsuccessful attempts to send invites from your hard drive.

Try sending invitations again and make sure that you put commas between email addresses. If you still encounter problems, try sending one at a time. Let me know if you continue to encounter problems with your invitations and we will explore the problem further. If you need to contact me again, it would be helpful to know what type of internet provider you are using and what browser you are using.

My guests are not receiving sent invites. How do I help them?

If your guest appears on your guest list by his or her email address, then the invitation was successfully sent. If a guest is not receiving your invitation, he/she should first check his/her spam filter. The invitation might have been diverted to his/her spam folder.

Also, some of your guests might have ISPs (such as schools or businesses) that have very stringent firewalls which do not accept emails containing links. As your invitation includes a link for them to RSVP, such ISPs may prevent your invitations from going through. To avoid this you might try sending to home email accounts.

Invitations sent to a child's or teenager's email account may also not accept invitations with links. In this case, you might want to send the invitation to a parent's email address.

If for some reason you suspect that your guests are not receiving the House Party invitations, you can use your own email account to send an email out to your guests (this makes sure it's not flagged as SPAM) with the URL for your party page (found in the grey box on your page). All your guest will have to do is click the RSVP link, enter their email, RSVP status and number of additional people they're bringing and that's it. As long as they enter the same email address as the one you originally invited them with, we will be able to connect them to your party.

If you've only invited a few guests, you can simply call them up or email them with your own email account, providing them with your party's URL, which is available on your party page in the grey box below your profile photo.

What is the Guest Code and how do I use it?

Each guest you add to your guest list is issued a Guest RSVP Code. Guests for whom you've included an email address will automatically receive their guest code embedded in the URL provided in the email invitation. By clicking RSVP in the email, they'll be taken right to your party page to RSVP.

Guests that have no email address associated with them need a printed invitation, which includes their RSVP Code and instructions using it to RSVP to your party. Learn about printing invitations

If you'd rather not print invitations for them, you can call them, IM (instant message) them or tell them in person. But you'll need to provide them with the Guest RSVP Code that is assigned to them in your Guest Manager so they can enter it in at www.houseparty.com/rsvp

How do I print invitations?

1. Login to your Party Page at houseparty.com/login
2. Click on 'Guest Manager'
3. There is a button next to each guest you've added to your guest list.. look for red buttons that say either 'PRINT INVITE' or 'REPRINT INVITE'
4. Click on the button for each guest who you'd like hand or mail a printed invitation to
5. You'll see your invitation on a new screen. Use your browser's PRINT button or use key commands ( Ctrl + Alt + P for Windows, Apple + P for Mac)
6. Click the 'Back to Guest Manager' button

If there is a guest offer that is online only, do my guests need to register in order to take advantage of the offer?

Yes.

Online invites: Your guests will need to register with House Party in order to access their online guest offer (if applicable). If you have invited them via email, they will need to respond to your email, RSVP and create a user name and password with House Party.

Printed invites: If you have invited guests via printed invitation (generated through our site), they can go to www.houseparty.com/rsvp, type in their individual guest code and set up a user name and password. They will then have access to your party page and any offers included.

Non-House Party invites: If you choose to invite guests using your own invitations, we suggest that you also include printed invitations (printed one at a time to generate individual guest codes), so that your guests can use their guest codes to RSVP, register, have access to online guest offers (if applicable) and participate in all the online House Party fun!

What if I want my guests (with no computer or email) to show up on my guest list?

For all guests you'd like to invite who do not have an email address, you can add them to your guest list, entering their name only. After you've added these guests, you'll need to print an invitation for each. Look for the pulsing red PRINT INVITE button next to each recipient's name in your guest list. Then follow the directions above.

If they do not intend to use the website, that's OK. You're the host, you can RSVP for them.

1. Simply Login to houseparty.com/login.
2. Choose 'Guest Manager' from the navigation below the MY PARTY tab at the top of the screen
3. Find the guest(s) you'd like to RSVP for and do one of the following:
   Choice a) click 'edit' at the right of their row and change RSVP using the dropdown menu on next screen
   Choice b) click on the RSVP status indicator next to the guest name and a dropdown menu will appear for you to update that guest's status.

Why aren't my guests identified by their full names when they RSVP or blog?

Website users are only identified on the website by their screen names and headshot photos. You can encourage your guests to initial their postings, sign with a first name and last initial or upload photos of themselves that make their identities clear to you. For security reasons, we don't give out full names of website users, especially since really fabulous parties may be featured on our National Party Page.

What if my invited guests have not responded?

1. Get on the phone! Call your guests up and ask them what's up? Ask if they're having trouble RSVPing. Ask them if they received the email invitation. If they have not received your email, learn about what you can do.
2. RESEND your invitations by clicking the RESEND INVITE buttons next to each name
3. If for some reason you suspect that your guests are not receiving the House Party invitations, you can use your own email account to send an email blast out to your guests (this makes sure it's not flagged as SPAM) with the URL for your party page (found in the grey box on your page)
   All your guest will have to do is click the RSVP link, enter their email, RSVP status and number of additional people they're bringing and that's it. As long as they enter the same email address as the one you originally invited them with, we will be able to connect them to your party.

I have friends and family who live far away or cannot attend. Should I invite them anyway?

Absolutely!

Seeing as so much of your party takes place online, why not invite family and friends who live far away and encourage them to visit your party through your Party Page? If they register with House Party when they RSVP to your invitation, they will be able to blog with you and your guests, view your fun photos and video, upload their own media, take advantage of generous guest offers (when offered) and enjoy the party — even from afar. That’s what House Party is all about!

How do guests RSVP to a party?

Guests can RSVP in a number of ways. The most common way is by clicking the RSVP button in the email invitation sent to them by a party host. This takes them directly to the host's party page, on which they can enter their RSVP status and additional guests, if any.

A second way to RSVP is by visiting the URL of a host's party page. A host will often call or email their guests, providing them with the web address (URL) for their party. All guest will have to do is click the RSVP link in the welcome box, enter their email, RSVP status and number of additional people they're bringing and they're all set. As long as they enter the same email address as the one the party host originally invited them with, we will be able to connect them to the correct party. If you are not able to RSVP in this manner, try entering other email addresses you may have since your host may have used an alternate one.

Guests can also simply click the link provided in their email invites, or go to the URL www.houseparty.com/rsvp/[invite_code], where "[invite_code]" is replaced with the code they received.

You can also pass along an invitation by word of mouth, whether it's over the phone, or even via Instant Messaging. You'll need an RSVP code for each guest that you want to invite via word of mouth. Here's how to do it:

1. Go to your Guest Manager screen
2. Click 'Add Guest'
3. Enter in a first and last name, leaving the email field blank
4. Click 'ADD GUEST' button below form
5. Find that newly-added guest in the list. In their row will be a unique code that you must pass along to them, along with the URL to RSVP to your party online. They'll need to go to houseparty.com/rsvp and enter this code.
6. After they enter their unique code, they will be associated as a guest of your party. Good, isn't it?

You can also provide the RSVP code for a guest you've invited with a print invite but who has not RSVPd. You can call them up, and pass them their code and the RSVP link above.

At the end of the day, what we want is for everyone to be able to take advantage of the fun and special offers available through the website.

I'm being asked to register after I RSVP

You are being asked to register because according to the site your email address does not have an account associated with it

If you already have a houseparty.com account, it's most likely that the host invited you using an email address other than the one you used to register. You will need to either ask the host to invite you using your primary House Party email address or you can simply re-register with houseparty.com and use two accounts.

Serving alcohol.

1. Designate someone to serve your guests and keep an eye on how much everyone is drinking. The Department of Health advises no more than 3-4 units per day for men and 2-3 units per day for women.
2. Remember: drink responsibly. It is important to remember that a 330ml bottle of beer amounts to approximately 2 units, a small, 125 ml, glass of wine is about 1.5 units and one small measure of spirits is 1 unit
3. Make sure that you provide food to complement your cocktails. Think about choosing foods to enhance the flavours of your chosen cocktails: fresh seafood and breads accentuate vodka cocktails, spiced and smoked meats and cheeses complement Bourbon and Scotch whiskies and fruit enhances rum and tequila flavours.
4. Make sure you have some non-alcoholic beverages available for your guests. Create festive non-alcoholic punch for those guests who don't want to drink alcohol.
5. Make sure your guests make their way home safely, either through designated drivers or a taxi. Have local taxi service numbers available for your guests.