Throwing a surprise party can be a lot of work, but the payoff is worth it. Here are some things to keep in mind.

• You’ll need a partner to pull this off, someone who can create a fake activity for the honouree to attend with him or her.

• Whether it's done verbally, via email, or formally written—make sure that you clearly notify your guests that the party will be a surprise.
• Share your plans with your guests who may have contact with the honouree on the planned strategy for tricking the guest of honour.

• Make sure everyone shows up 30 minutes before your guest.

Have guests park out of sight, unless the honouree believes that they are attending someone else’s party.