Entertaining Tips - Party Checklist

Things To Do

GETTING STARTED

  • Establish your budget
  • Finalize your guest list
  • Decide on a Theme
  • Consider Decorations (Go to www.socialcouture.com)
  • Find an appropriate location for your upcoming event that also may be representative of your party's theme
  • Set the date and time for the occasion
  • Make sure to book your bartenders and caterers as well if you choose to have it catered (TIP:  you can call your local bartender schools to find a bartender...a lot of them will work just for tips in order to get some practice or for a very minimal fee)

THE GUEST LIST

  • Choose Invitations (TIP: eVite can provide online invitations if most of your guest are comfortable using the internet)
  • Make sure to include the name and phone # of a local hotel for your out of town guests
  • Manage RSVP's

PRE-PARTY PREPARATIONS

  • Create the menu (grocery shopping list)
  • Decide on the appropriate party decor and music (TIP:  Don't forget the candles...great for setting the mood of any occasion)
  • Call guests who have not yet RSVP'd
  • Make sure you have enough plates, silverware and glasses for your guests (TIP:  Not only can party rental stores provide you extra chairs and tables but you can also rent glasses, stemware, plates and servingware)
  • Purchase all non-perishable food and drinks needed for the party
  • Confirm with all vendors as well as location if you are not a having your party at home

DAY BEFORE THE PARTY

  • Clean house.  Remove all clutter.
  • Buy Fresh Flowers
  • Purchase meats, fish & cheese
  • Refrigerate beverages
  • Prepare food that can be refrigerated overnight (sauces, dips, veggie platter, fruit salad)
  • Start setting the scene with the decorations
  • Set Table and Bar
  • Check camera to make sure you have enough film

DAY OF THE PARTY

  • Prepare food
  • Chill wine, champagne and any other cold drinks (Don't forget to make your punches)
  • Pick-up any last minute items (such as, ice or balloons)
  • Get Ready (wear an apron if you still have dishes to prepare)
  • Heat up any food that needs to be reheated
  • Set out appetizers
  • Light candles
  • Turn on the music
  • Lights, Camera, Action....Smile!!  Places everyone!
  • Don't forget to enjoy yourself and your guests
  • Say Goodnight and Turn off the Lights!