The vendors you need for a party depend on the size, the venue, and how much you plan to handle yourself. Most hosts book somewhere between one and six.
Food is the most common booking. That means a caterer, a food truck, or a baker for the cake and desserts. A bartender or mobile bar covers drinks if you are serving alcohol.
Entertainment comes next. A DJ or live musician, a photographer or photo booth, and for kids parties a face painter, magician, or bounce house rental.
Setup vendors cover the rest. Rentals for tables, chairs, tents, and linens, a florist or balloon artist for decor, and a cleanup crew if the venue does not include one.
A backyard birthday might only need a caterer and a bounce house. A wedding or a large corporate party usually needs the full list.