Holiday Party Tips and Checklist

It is getting close to that time of year when we are going to be entertaining more than usual and we will need a Master Plan in order to remember everything on our lists and have everything run smoothly.

Entertaining can be stressful; there are so many things to think of and plan for, purchase and do. With this handy checklist, you can keep the task stress-free and be ready for the big event.

Things to Decide
   • What is the parties theme?
   • Will you have drinks, punch, and sodas?
   • Will you have a sit down meal, buffet, appetizers, Snacks, Breads, cakes?
   • How many people will you invite?
   • What is the date and time of your party and by when should they RSVP?
   • Is the party at your home or do you have to reserve a place?
   • What types of food are you going to offer?
   • Is someone else going to help you plan and execute the party?
   • If so, what will their responsibilities be?
   • Plan a time chart for things that need to be accomplished.

Cost's to Plan for
   • Decorating
   • Table piece, tablecloth, napkins, paper plates if used, as well as cutlery and cups
   • Food and beverages-liquors, soda, juices-olives, mushrooms etc.
   • Caterer- if applicable
   • Rental space-if applicable
   • Entertainment or Music
   • Extra tables, chairs, Nescos, coffee pots etc.
   • Invitations, postage and envelopes

First Steps
   • Make your guest list
   • Make out the invitations and mail them
   • Purchase the decorations
   • Purchase tableware items
   • Contract for a hall or rental place to have the party
   • Contract for the caterer-if applicable
   • Pick out the music or contract with DJ or Entertainment Service
   • Contract with any rentals
   • Start purchasing things for your menu

Plan for Yourself too
   • Pick out the clothes, jewelry and shoes that you want to wear
   • Get the clothes cleaned and ready to go
   • Make an appointment to get your hair and nails done

Two Weeks Before
   • Check your list and make sure that you have everything available that you will need
   • Check to make sure that all food is purchased (non-perishables)
   • Check the liquor cabinet for the last minute items
   • Confirm with guests of the time and date
   • Check with all contracted people that everything is running smoothly

Four Days Before
   • Shop for last minute items (and perishable foods)
   • Gather all necessary things together
   • Make a list of items that have to be returned to other people

Three Days Before
   • Clean the house
   • Wash and wax the floors
   • Hang the decorations
   • Set up the extra tables and chairs
   • Make a list of the things that you will serve so you don't forget to put anything out
   • Pick out the dishes and utensils that you will use to serve items

The Day Before
   • Cut all vegetables and arrange if serving cold
   • Get meat ready- cook ahead that way you can just heat up
   • Get all food items finished that can be reheated the following day

THE BIG DAY
   • Put the tablecloth on and the centerpiece
   • Add the plates, knives, forks and napkins
   • Don't forget the salt, pepper and butter
   • Put everything that needs to be warmed, in the Nescos, Slow Cookers and oven
   • Go get your nails and hair done
   • Get dressed
   • Turn the music on and light a few candles
   • Greet your guests
   • Get the beverages ready
   • Serve the meal or food that you took such great pride in planning

Holidays are a great time of year to spend with family and friends, renew old acquaintances and friendships and to relive past memories. With a little planning and organizing, you to can enjoy yourself and look forward to the next party or get-together.

Posted December 12, 2007, filed in It's That Time, Living Simply