How to throw a star-gazing soirée

Get the space ready for night-time 

As you already know, the best recommendation for observing the stars is to do so from an area free of light pollution (a field is best for this situation). However, due to your circumstances, you may have to gaze at them from your balcony, terrace or even the window. But don't worry! You can still make it a very special night.  

Once you've decided on the space for your soirée, try to clear the area as much as possible so nothing disrupts your activity. Reserve some space for your trusty telescope and let the magic of the night enlighten you.  

You can set up a trolley or a rolling drawer unit for any extras you want on hand, such as a tablet with a star chart ready, a notebook to jot down any interesting information you learn, or even just some drinks and blankets if it gets a little chilly.  

Choose a day with clear skies

All your preparation will be for nothing if the skies don't cooperate. And although we can't predict the future, there are some tricks to know what days are best to see the stars. Keep a lunar calendar and a star chart on hand to figure out which nights will most likely be the best. But let's be honest... with the internet, we can find out almost anything with just a click. So go ahead and search! And cross your fingers that there are no clouds. 

Details are super important

Make sure that your decorations highlight the moment: you know that details are always an added touch with any party, and this occasion is no different. Since you're organising a starry soirée, the artistic materials or decorations should be related to the moon and the stars, don't you think? You can make them by hand, if you wish. For example, we made these stars with a bit of string and some drawing pins and added a watercolour moon print. If you really love them, you can even leave them up as permanent decoration.  

Create the  ambiance before the party

Why not create a bit of ambiance before nightfall? If you're going to share this experience with other people, just have the party start a bit beforehand. This way you'll have fun while you wait. You can set up a table with some snacks to liven up the moment and put on a bit of music, which is never a bad idea. Make sure that you take into consideration your guests' tastes and any intolerances they may have and create a delicious menu that everyone will love. Nothing brings people together like food! 

This area will also be perfect for everyone to wait their turn to look through the telescope. You can arrange the chairs you have in your home, or if you're outside in the garden, terrace or balcony, you can set up some folding chairs so people are more comfortable.  

LED galaxies and constellations

A starry sky may be out of your reach, but an at-home version is right at your fingertips! LED string lights are perfect for creating an ambience that replicates the night sky. The great thing is that you can hang them practically anywhere: in a room, around a picture frame or, as in this case, on your lamps.   

Be careful with which ones you choose! We don't want to illuminate the space too much, so choose ones with small lights. Don't forget that the goal of all this is to be able to actually see the stars and to not expose the space to too much light. It's all in the little details. And for this party, as far as lighting goes, the saying is true: "less is more".