DVD Projector & Screen

When I was a kid, we'd have family nights where we'd watch home movies on 8mm film that was projected on to a screen. Today, the DVD projector is the way to go. The Epson MovieMate 50is great for those who want to buy a projector. It's easy to use with a built-in DVD player and it has terrific clarity on the screen.

Or you can rent a projector, screen and electrical / speaker cords for the evening. Here is a list of items that I usually rent or use for my movie parties:

• DVD projector & player
• Movie screen (or you can use a white wall or hanging white sheet)
• 2 speakers for stereo sound
• Speaker receiver with cords that hook up to the DVD projector & player
• Speaker cords that are long enough to extend from the screen back to the receiver
• Extension cords
• Table to set equipment on
• Duct tape or mats to secure cords so kids don't trip on them

Research DVD projector rental vendors in your area and ask a lot of questions. If you are not the "technical type" make sure that you set up everything in advance with the help of a tech-savvy friend so there are no mishaps at the party. Or, ask the DVD rental house to draw you a diagram if you are unsure of how to set up the equipment.