THE PARTY
CHECKLIST
6-8 WEEKS BEFORE
Budget:
Theme:
Type of Party (formal, casual):
Location:
Number of guests (create list):
Type of Menu (buffet, potluck, family style):
Start time:
Buy/Design Invitations:
3-4 WEEKS BEFORE
Mail invitations:
Plan menu:
Shopping List:
Decide what you’re putting the food in:
Where you’re placing the platters:
Plan buffets:
Plan utensils (eating and serving):
Start looking for disposable ware sales:
Plan on china, silver, glassware rentals:
Plan on table/chair rentals:
Extra chairs to accommodate guests:
Linens (buy, borrow, rent):
PartyCharlie
Seating arrangements:
Plan on decorations:
Design flower arrangements:
Hire valet service:
Hire coat check:
Hire photographer:
Entertainment (DJ, band, games, speeches):
Plan food schedule (what time to start / finish serving appetizers, entrée, dessert):
Coffee/Tea:
Dessert:
Appetizers/hors d’oeuvres:
Entrée:
Dessert/Coffee:
Plan on scullery (clean-up and trash) area:
Plan bar (self-service, full service):
Plan beverages:
Arrange for bartender:
Servers:
Hire caterer:
Valet parking:
Decide on what time should staff arrive/leave:
Choose staff attire:
Ensure adequate power supply/water:
Make list of areas where you could use volunteers:
Accept help:
1-2 WEEKS BEFORE
Buy disposable ware/order rentals:
Purchase Beverages:
Buy nonperishable foods:
Confirm number of guests:
Designate smoking area:
Buy decorations:
Buy party favors:
Outline the flow of the party:
2-3 DAYS BEFORE
Confirm rental arrivals/pickup:
Clean house/yard:
Arrange supplies for party:
Put away breakable items:
Set a time chart for day of party-what needs to be done and how long will it take:
Designate place to put guest coats/bags (closet/bedroom):