Party Planning Checklist

These think-ahead steps from professional party planners will help you enjoy your
party as much as your guests.

Three Weeks Before

 Make an invitation list.
 Decide on a theme, if you want one.
 Send invitations.
 Plan the menu.
 Line up any help you may need.

Two Weeks Before

 Clean any crystal, china, and silverware you'll be using.
 Come up with a playlist.
 Do a first round of grocery shopping and cooking.

One Week Before

 Clean the house thoroughly.
 Set the stage.
 Take inventory of cookware and serving dishes.
 Stock the bar.

Three Days Before

 Notify the neighbors.
 Decorate.
 Check the medicine cabinet.
 Set up clean-up stations.
 Specify a place for coats.
 Finish grocery shopping.

One Day Before

 Set the tables.
 Buy and arrange flowers.
 Finish as much of the cooking as you can.
 Give your house a once-over.

Day of the Party

 Finish any last-minute cooking.
 Place chairs.
 Display food.
 Greet guests as they arrive.