Thinking about throwing a party but don’t know where to start? Party planning can be an overwhelming process. Everything from creating the guest list to coordinating the food takes lots of time and consideration. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or a promotion, organizing your huge party is much less stressful when following a checklist.
First thing’s first: figure out the time and date of the party. This will help you set up a timely party-planning schedule. Once you figure that out, you can begin your party-planning checklist.
Two to five weeks before the party:
-Create a Budget. Figure out how much money you’re willing to spend on the party.
-Decide who you are going to invite. Who is on the guest list? Get the invitations in the mail!
-If you want to hire entertainment, caterers, or other help, do this now as well.
-If it’s a birthday party, you should order the cake, if you aren’t baking it yourself.
Two weeks before the party:
-If it’s potluck, assign the dishes to the guests.
-Start compiling entertainment such as music or games.
One week before the party:
-Review menu preparation timeline. Are you on target with make-ahead dishes?
-Look over RSVP’s and make sure everyone has responded.
One to three days before the party:
-Clean your house
-Purchase fresh food
-Make sure your camera is charged and ready
-Wash glassware
-Set table and/or buffet
-Set up the bar
-Purchase and arrange any decorations
Day of the party:
-Buy ice
-Chill refreshments, make punch
-Put finishing touches on decorations
-Start the tunes, and greet your guests!
If you still need help planning your party, TalkLocal can assist you. Simply visit www.TalkLocal.com to be put in contact with highly rated party planning companies in your area. By entering your service needs, location and times available, TalkLocal will match you with several professionals willing to help within minutes.
