How to Plan A Wonderful Party

It's time to plan a Party, so what is on the to do list? Here you can get organized and get ready to enjoy your celebration

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Theme
• Pen
• Paper
• Location

1. What or whom is the party for?
   Think of the theme, venue, and what kind of party this will be. Is it a children's party, graduation, baby shower, or Holiday party?
2. Select the party date and time.
3. Select a location.
4. Whom are you inviting?
   How many people are you inviting? Make a list of names. Send out invites. A good place to get this done is www.evite.com.
5. Establish your budget.
   Write down a budget and stick to it.
6. Food.
   Cater or not to cater? There are many chain and local restaurants that are happy to make it easy for you. Some even come out and set-up for you at for a small convenience fee. Explore all options.
   
   If hiring a caterer hire them ASAP.
   If preparing the food yourself, make a menu and list of items you will need to make the meal/aur dourves
7. Order any party rental items.
   Many local companies in your area are offering tables, chairs, linen, bounce houses, and other party items. Shop around, compare prices and value.
8. Take inventory of party items.
   Purchase non-perishable food, party favors, decorations
9. Confirm.
   Confirm RSVP's, caterer, rentals, and anything else.
10. Day Before
    * Clean House if that is where you are having the party.
    * Decorate & arrange for party (some banquet halls or rental sites will allow you to decorate ahead of time if you ask!)
    * Prepare food that can be refrigerated
    * Make sure camera is ready and charged
11. Day of Party
    * Pick up Ice & Balloons
    * Chill Wine and Drinks
    * Prepare Food
    * Reheat Prepared Food
12. Get Dressed.
    Be prepared to welcome your guest.
    I often keep a dish towel nearby for just in case emergencies when entertaining at home
13. Have fun.
    A fun host(ess) makes the party that much more enjoyable.

Tips & Warnings

• Do prepare ahead of time
• Do make lists of things you will need
• Shop around for a bargain
• Use things you have at home, candles, serving dishes, serving utensils, etc.
• On the buffet table, keep hot foods hot with chafing dishes, warming trays or slow cookers. Keep the covers on the hot food dishes to keep the heat inside the dish.
• Cold food should be held at 40 degrees or colder. Keep foods cold by nesting dishes in bowls of ice.
• HAVE FUN!!
• Food should not sit at room temperature for more than two hours. Throw out anything left there for two hours or more.