Casino Night Party

Luck doesn't have to be on your side to host a successful Casino night. With these guidelines, a gambling party can be a hit-not a bust.

1. It's all about Marketing! If Casino Night is truly a profitable venture, you have to make sure people show up. Make sure gamblers know about the big night, either by formal invitation (have them RSVP) or strategic posting of flyers at local supermarket or recreation centres.
2. Be very specific about dress code. Formal, semi-formal, casual. Why? Because a black tie can feel miserable amidst a sea of blue jeans.
3. As a mechanic needs proper tools to be successful, a makeshift Casino demands sufficient supplies. Make sure you have enough chips (of the poker variety), decks of cards, dice and chairs-the length of this list varies on the host and their preparedness.
4. Make sure you have an idea of what kind of games tickle your guests' fancy. For example, if those who attend enjoy tables (blackjack, poker) there's no need to rent a Crown and Anchor wheel.
5. Have a reasonable "float" at each table. There's nothing more annoying than having a great run stopped because the dealer needs to break some change!
6. Speaking of dealers, recruit at least two people (they should be trustworthy) to man per table. Make sure they are reliable, card savvy, and won't cave under the potential pressure of taking 12 bets at a time. Note: these people should also be good at math!
7. Be consistent with the house rules. A minimum bet on a blackjack table should not double just because the house is on a losing streak.
8. This may sound like a no-brainer, but make sure guests are carded. It is illegal to have any one under 18 gamble, and have any one under 19 gamble if the event permits smoking.
9. Have a coat check. This will create more space and prompt guests to be more honest.
10. Know your Casino terminology! Hit, stand, double down, insurance, fold-these are just the tip of the iceberg! Grab a how-to play Casino Games book and go to work. These tips are exactly that-tips. However, they can be used as loosely or as specifically as needed to create a night filled with fun and excitement!

by Lidia Siino