| If you've never put a party planning checklist | | | | you will want to prepare your main dishes and |
| together or even if you are a seasoned event | | | | appetizers in advance, because the last few days |
| planner, here's a suggested list of items to include | | | | before a party are usually quite hectic. Also, have |
| on your party planning checklist. | | | | extra food on hand in case there are surprise |
| 1. First, what type of celebration are you hosting? | | | | guests. You want to make sure there is plenty of |
| Is this a formal party? Holiday party? Casual get | | | | food for everyone. |
| together? One you have decided the type of | | | | 5. Decorations are not only fun, but help create a |
| party, deciding on a theme and selecting other | | | | festive environment and add to the party theme. |
| party details will easily fall into place. | | | | If the party is in your home, make sure all the |
| 2. How many guests will be at the party? The | | | | public areas are clean and well stocked (think toilet |
| number of people attending is very important | | | | paper!) so your guests are comfortable. Add |
| because for most parties, the host is expected to | | | | flowers, candles or party decorations from a local |
| provide food and drink, unless of course it is a | | | | party shop to transform your home to party |
| potluck or the invitation notes to "B.Y.O.B". Also, it | | | | central. |
| is important to have enough space to | | | | If the celebration is held at a rented venue, make |
| accommodate everyone. If your home is too | | | | sure to ask about decorating restrictions. Some |
| small, select and reserve a party location, such as | | | | places do not allow thumb tacks, tape, open |
| a local restaurant, hotel, or county club. | | | | flames and limit how late you can have music. |
| 3. Guest need to know when and where the | | | | 6. If you are renting tables, chairs or other party |
| party will be. When sending out the invitations, be | | | | supplies, make sure to place your reservation in |
| sure to include the date, time and exact location | | | | advance, especially during traditional party times |
| of the party. Make sure to note any details, such | | | | of the year, such as June, November and |
| as attire, gift registry or "this is a SURPRISE | | | | December. |
| PARTY." | | | | Planning and organizing a party is quite a bit of |
| 4. The people are the main attraction of any | | | | work, but a party planning checklist does make |
| event, but food comes in a strong second. Food | | | | the job much easier. Keep your list handy and |
| is very important to all social gatherings, so | | | | you'll find party planning can be lots of fun and |
| prepare the menu is advance. Ideally, the food | | | | very rewarding. Enjoy your party! |
| should compliment the party theme. If possible, | | | | |