Sure – as a poker blogger, I know about the perks of staying in front of a computer screen and shying away from the general population, but sometimes you’ve just got to interact. If you want to see your friends AND take their money, then a friendly home game is just what the dealer ordered.
There’s no sense in looking like a punk, so here’s your guide to hosting a legit poker night.
The Setting
Ok, Joe Pesci. You think you’re ready to run your own casino? You’ve got to start with the table. It doesn’t need to be WSOP branded and flocked by railbirds, but getting something with velvet and chip holders can really make the difference.
Check online for some good deals. You don’t need to break the bankroll to get a table – and adding the authenticity makes for a better night. Do you really want to be sitting around the coffee table or the island in the kitchen?
Also – turn off the TV. Music is cool, but you want to limit the distractions. Please make the music cool — no Enya.
The Food
It’s pretty much a dude-night, so prep accordingly. Chips (not just the poker kind), wings, pizza… all that standard bullshit. Steer clear of anything too messy, greasy or attention consuming. There’s nothing worse than waiting for Larry to finish dusting his quiche with paprika before he decides to check raise…again.
The Draaaanks
What kind of casino doesn’t have drinks? Maybe some backwater Canadian places, but that’s about it. There’s nothing wrong with having beers and hard bar flowing to loosen up the tables. Adding another $20 to this part of the budget could substantially increase your take later on.
The People
For any good home game you need a few staples to keep all aspects of the poker game going:
- a few good bros – these guys will keep the conversation, game and dirty jokes rolling
- some donks you sort of know – this is a good opportunity to invite out your wife’s-sister’s-friend’s-meathead boyfriend that you met last Christmas
- the host – somebody to run the show. That’s you!
The Stakes
Obviously, if it’s a fun game, you don’t want anybody cleaned out. But you’ve gotta keep it interesting. Figure out what’s interesting for you and set it there.
Ok – now you know what to do. It’s ok to take a break from grinding it out online at CarbonPoker and actually see some real people. You don’t even need to download poker to do it. Try it out. I swear, some interaction will do you well… if you’ve got some friends to invite over.
Tags: Tips
