Determine
the type of party (formal, special occasion, holiday, etc.)
Decide if
you want drinks, finger foods, buffet, full meal, or other
Pick your
Party Theme
Decide
amount of guests you would like to invite
Set a
date, time, and place for your party
Determine
a RSVP date
Search,
investigate and book your location also pay any deposit
Make a
shopping list -- including small items like napkins and candles etc
Make lists
of tasks that can be done in advance and those for party day
NEXT THINK BUDGET!
Decorations,
including flowers, plants, or props
Food and
beverages
Other services
(caterer, parking attendant, wait staff, etc.)
Invitations and
postage
Rental space
Entertainment
(music, DJ, etc.)
Tables, chairs,
and other equipment rentals
Other
miscellaneous expenses
FOUR TO SIX WEEKS
PRIOR
Put
together your guest list and gather addresses and phone numbers
Order
invitations
Purchase
decorations, paper goods, and other supplies
Contract for
any services (caterer, entertainment, etc.)
Plan your
menu and purchase non-perishable foods and drinks
Contact any
friends or family you want to help with the party
Address and
mail your invitations
Pick out the
music
Contract for
any equipment rental (chairs, tables, etc.)
ONE TO TWO WEEKS
BEFORE
Confirm any
friends, family, and hired service people working the party
Pick out
your party outfit and have it cleaned
Finalize the
space layout and decorations
Shop for bulk
of perishable food
TWO TO THREE DAYS
BEFORE
Clean your
house if party is at home
Begin
decorating
Gather your
supplies and equipment together
Shop for any
last-minute food or supplies
Touch
base with contracted services
Assign
specific tasks to your volunteer assistants
Make
preparations for cleaning up, returning equipment, etc.
THE AWAITED DAY
Finalize the
decorations and place settings
Instruct
any hired and volunteer helpers
Relax and
enjoy yourself!
AFTER THE PARTY ENDS
Thank you cards
Collect photos and
save in photo album for good memories
