The smoking ban, early closing hours and the spiralling cost of city-centre socialising make inviting friends around an appealing option. Apartment living is less widespread than in other capital cities, so people tend to have the all-important outdoor space. If you are living in an apartment, inquire if there is access to a roof garden – an often under-utilised facility. Hanley Event Group (01 269 3865, www.events.ie) in Donnybrook are tops for party planning, themed parties and marquee hire. They will work to your budget whether big or small, and also have a fully stocked party shop for balloons, fancy-dress costumes and prop hire. Themed parties get everyone involved and in the party mood. A Hawaiian beach theme with grass skirts, palm trees and mai-tai cocktails is ideal for a summer barbecue. For bar-related needs contact Wunderbar (01 825 9854, www.wunderbar.ie) who have a selection of bars, coolers, taps and icemakers to buy or rent, as well as supplying kegs of beer. For wine, WineOnline deliver all over Ireland. Check out www.wineonline.ie for their monthly special offers. For children's parties, Harry Potter and Barbie themes rule the roost. The Birthday Yokes online store supplies every kind of themed partyware imaginable and offer next day delivery (086 172 7061, www.birthdayyokes.com). Bouncy castles are always popular and have become astonishingly elaborate over the years. Make sure the company you hire prioritises safety. Adventure Bounce is one of the most well established companies in Dublin (01 845 0992, www.adventurebounce.ie). Puppet shows and the traditional Punch and Judy have made a comeback. The Lambert Puppet Theatre in Monkstown is run by Ireland’s best-loved puppeteer family. This fantastic venue is available to hire for very special birthday parties only. A package for 15 children and two adults costs in the region of €300.