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A surprise party is a celebration that is not made known to one or more of the guests until it occurs.
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Types of surprise parties
There are several types of surprise parties, honoring different things or people: (Order invitations)
Baby shower surprise parties
Surprising a new mother and her child is a common type of surprise party in the United States. The baby shower surprise party consists of all the elements of a regular baby shower, including gifts and food. Unlike normal baby showers, however, a baby shower surprise party is advised to be held with only informal attire, because the honored mother would probably not show up to the party wearing a black dress.[1]
Birthday surprise parties
Birthday surprise parties are most common type of surprise party. At most birthday surprise parties, guests arrive a period of time, normally approximately one hour earlier than the honored person does. They assume hiding positions, and as the honored person walks in the front door, everyone emerges from their hiding positions, yelling "Surprise!"
For many surprise birthday parties, it is generally considered a good tactic to shock the honored person. Streamers, silly string, and balloons can be used to great effect. Ensuring that all evidence of a party, such decorations, are not visible from the outside is a way not to give away its existence too early.[2]
Disadvantages
There are some disadvantages to this method of birthday celebration. For example, the honored person may feel ignored because their birthday is not mentioned until the party occurs. Also, if the honored person does not appreciate the surprise effect, they may become angry or disgruntled.[3] In addition, the honored person may not be appropriately dressed for the occasion, and may feel out of place in casual clothing compared to the other dressed guests. Finally, the sudden emotional stress caused by a surprise party can cause stress cardiomyopathy.[4]
