How to Throw a Successful Poker Night
A little planning is often all that it takes to turn a mundane poker night into a far more memorable event. From determining the optimum number of players to invite to arranging snacks, drinks and other provisions for during the game, there are plenty of tips that can help to ensure your next poker night is a success.
Planning Counts
Many hosts make the mistake of assuming a casual card game entails little to no planning or prep work. While there are plenty of game nights and gatherings that may require little more than a pizza delivery in order to please the guests, putting a little more effort into your poker nights can really pay off. A little preparation can go a long way towards eliminating potential distractions and ensuring that the players can enjoy a more relaxing, comfortable and all-around enjoyable evening. If your poker nights continue to fizzle, it may be time to put a little more effort into your planning and preparations.
Avoid Inviting Too Many Players
Another mistake you would do well to avoid would be assuming that more players always equals more fun. While a larger game can be a whole lot more exciting by providing larger pots and more table chatter, there can still be too much of a good thing. Dialing down the scope of your next poker night can ensure that the game remains lively without becoming too raucous, busy or overcrowded. A smaller, more intimate table can be more relaxing and will allow players to remain focused on the nuances of each hand.
Drinks, Snacks and Added Touches
Having to make another run to the store just as things are getting interesting can be a real downer. Ensuring that there are plenty of drinks, more than enough snacks as well as providing players with cigars and other finishing touches can make a world of difference. No poker night would be complete without plenty of snacks and refreshments and stocking the fridge before the big game is never a concern that should be considered optional.
Changing up the Game
Playing the same old game, week in and week out, can quickly become a dull affair. Switching up the type of poker you are playing is a great way to keep things fresh and interesting. Three-card knock poker offers a completely different experience from a game of stud or hold’em and even a few hands of blackjack is a great way to keep the party going once some of the players begin to call it a night. Experimenting with a few different rules and games can also ensure that every player will be able to have a chance to enjoy their favorite type of poker. .
A well-planned poker night helps to ensure a more enjoyable and memorable evening for all. Stocking up on everyone’s favorite snacks, not inviting more players than the table may be able to accommodate and changing up the rules whenever things begin to feel stale or predictable can help to ensure everyone is able to remain comfortable and entertained throughout the game. A little planning is often all that is required in order to throw a more successful poker night.
