No matter the occasion, it always sounds like a great idea…let’s have a party. But with the reality of life, daily commitments and with work constantly getting in the way, it can make even the thought of party planning intimidating. Because of what I do for a living, I am often asked for some party planning tips and how to go about successfully planning a party. And really there are so many things that can be done to ensure a happy and stress free party for all including the host.
I can frequently be found uttering; party planning is meant to be as fun as the party, party planning is meant to be as fun as the party.
Who, When, Where and What – When it Comes to Party Planning
Of course, there are an assortment of who, when, where and what questions to ask.
Who and how many to invite, make your list and be sure to invite approximately 20% more than you can accommodate as about 80% RSVP yes. When to hold the party, decide on a date and time frame for the party, usually a host chooses a date the majority of guests can attend. Where are you going to hold the celebration, select the location and be sure the location can accommodate the type of party you want to have. And finally the what; what to buy, what to serve and what to decorate and entertain with, all questions that need answers before the fun of planning can begin.
It’s All About a Party Planning Checklist!
While the answers to the four W’s are important, the key to great party planning comes with a well-defined grasp of what you want to plan, achieve and pull off. And first and foremost a budget and checklist will help to accomplish the task at hand. A party planning checklist will help you to skip the guesstimating and fast track you to the planning. And before you know it you will be enjoying your party just as much as the party guests.
Party Planning Checklist
Four Weeks Before:
• Decide on the type of party
• Choose the date and location
• Create the guest list
• Design the budget
Three weeks before:
• Send out the invitations
• Plan the theme, décor, lighting and entertainment
• Choose the menu and bar
Two weeks before:
• Take stock of items and equipment needed and on hand (rentals, chairs, utensils, platters, plates, etc.)
• Purchase decorations and all non-perishable items
• Buy liquor, non-alcoholic beverages, mixers and garnishes
One week before:
• Put your party blueprint and set-up schedule together. Be sure to remember everything and allow enough time to do it all
• Finish any house cleaning
• Do the bulk of preparing
Day before:
• Set up the space and clean the bathroom
• Purchase and prepare perishable food
Day of:
• Purchase ice and any last minute items
• Set up the bar
• Set the room and turn up the music
• Double check all the details
• Put the food out
• Get ready and have a drink
• Have Fun!
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