Invitations

• Make sure invitations clearly state that the gathering is a surprise party; you don't want to have the guest of honor finding out about the party ahead of time if you can help it.
  
  

RSVP

• Supply a phone number that the guest of honor doesn't have access to that guests can use to RSVP.
  
  

Place

• Find a place to hold the surprise party that the guest of honor won't stumble into accidentally. Sometimes it's better to hold the party at the home of a family member or friend so that preparations can be made without the guest of honor being aware of them.
  
  

Helpers

• Enlist the help of a reliable person not only to keep the guest of honor busy while you take care of setting up the party but also to get him to the party on time. Select a few other people to help with the decorations and food for the party.
  
  

Cameras

• Don't forget the cameras. This is a very high priority for all surprise parties since you'll want to take pictures when the guest of honor arrives.