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PARTY CHECKLIST

We know that planning a party can be a little overwhelming, so we've created a
     checklist to make your life easier. The point of a party is to have fun, and
     being organized and well-prepared is the best way to approach your special
     day with minimal stress. CLICK HERE FOR PRINTABLE PARTY CHECKLIST.

1 MONTH PRIOR TO PARTY

Pick your theme (the type of party you want to throw).
Choose a date and time for your party.
Create your guest list.
Notify your guests. Send invitations by mail, email, or phone call.
Purchase party decor, supplies, favors, prizes for games, tableware, matches, candles.

3 WEEKS PRIOR TO PARTY

Decide on the activities and games you would like to have the guests play. Consider age. Plan for more games in case you run out.
Choose a menu.
Plan recipes and a timeline of how long each food item will take to prepare.
Make a grocery list of ingredients necessary to make your recipes. Purchase non-perishables, sugar, flour, etc.

1 WEEK PRIOR TO PARTY

Get exact guest list. Call or email the guests who have not yet RSVP'd and ask if they will be attending.
Order a cake from the bakery (unless you are baking your own).
Prepare foods that can be made ahead of time. Store in freezer.
Make room in refrigerator/freezer for party groceries.

4 DAYS PRIOR TO PARTY

Purchase all remaining non-perishable food items.
Purchase alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

3 DAYS PRIOR TO PARTY

If necessary, charge batteries on camcorder or camera.
If ordering helium balloons, arrange to pick them up the day of the party.

2 DAYS PRIOR TO PARTY

Prepare the cake if you are not purchasing one.
If you are not using plastic plates and cutlery, wash and polish plates, flatware, and glassware.
Iron cloth napkins and tablecloths if necessary.
Place frozen food in the refrigerator to defrost overnight.

1 DAY PRIOR TO PARTY

Finish decorating the cake, or pick it up from the bakery if purchasing.
Pick up the helium balloons.
Child proof the party area if children are attending.
Purchase perishables (i.e. fresh bread, salad greens).
Prepare any foods that can be made in advance.
If you have purchased salad greens and vegetables, wash and prepare them. Refrigerate in separate airtight containers.
Decorate indoor party area (save outdoor decorating for the day of the party).

DAY OF PARTY

Prepare food and beverages that could not be made ahead of time.
If necessary, set up a bar area. Chill white wine and sparkling wine.
If having an outdoor party, spray area for insects a few hours before guests are to arrive so smell of insecticide does not linger in the air. If mosquitoes are in the air, have mosquito repellent and citronella candles nearby.
Take lots of pictures and video!