- Decide on the day, and the time of the day. People usually have parties on weekends, but don't feel restrained if your guests are available during the week.
- Write down your guest list and give "plus ones" if necessary.
- Invite your guests by phone, email or even Facebook. Facebook has become a very useful tool in party-planning, but don't neglect your friends who are not on the site.
- Make a budget and stick to it. If you will require help from your guests, let them know how much. Consider a "bring your own beverage" party to save on alcohol.
- Look through your house for party supplies. Write down anything you are missing.
- Go to your rental store and reserve anything you might need at least ten days ahead, if not more.
- Plan the food, whether you are cooking or having a potluck.
- After planning your menu, assign dishes (or at least a course) to your guests.
- Choose the music you will play, if any, and think about ways to keep the children busy and safe without much adult supervision.
- Confirm your guests' attendance, but leave flexibility for last-minute arrangements.
- If you decide to decorate your house, choose how and buy the supplies in the store.
- Start doing the bigger cleaning, such as floors and windows.
- You can buy the beverages and non-perishables at this point.
- Clean up your refrigerator and make space for all the food you'll buy and prepare during the following days.
- Do lighter cleaning like dusting and counters. Take clutter away.
- Go shopping for the perishables and cook the dishes that can be preserved in the fridge or in the freezer.
- Make sure your photo and video cameras are charged and ready to be used.
- If children are attending, make sure you remove anything dangerous to them.
- Buy the produce for the salads and other fresh meals, and prepare the dishes that are left.
- Set up your table and use any decoration you bought.
- Make sure you have enough seating for everyone. Don't be afraid to ask your guests to bring their folding chairs if necessary.
- Buy ice from the store and set up your bar.
- Have the snack bowls ready before the first guests arrive.
- If your party is in the winter, prepare space for the influx of boots and coats.
- Since you planned so well, you'll have a great time!
If you need to rent any items, reserve them at least 10 days in advance. To save time on food preparing, you might want to throw a potluck party. In this case, what you do need to plan is who brings what kind of dishes; you wouldn't want to be stuck with five chocolate cakes and no apetizers.
Let your guests know at least two weeks in advance so they can plan their groceries. If you chose to cook yourself for everyone, don't buy the food more than a few days in advance, as you will want to use the freshest ingredients possible. If you have access to a farmer's market, splurge and go buy your produce there. It will make a difference in the quality of the dish.
Think about ways to keep the children occupied, as well as games for the adults in case the party starts to crash. Adult games are a good way to rekindle a boring party and can help with bonding. It will sure help with having fun!
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