party planning checklist

one week to go

• Take note of who is coming & email guests that have not RSVP'd.

• Make space in your fridge & freezer so you can readily stock groceries for your appetizers & main courses.

• Prep & freeze any recipes that will keep for a week so you can cut down on cooking time the day of the event.

• Take inventory of your cookware, serveware, place settings, silverware & glassware to be sure you have enough for each course & each guest. An expanded dinnerware set is a good choice for stocking up quickly.

cookware serveware dinnerware silverware glassware expanded dinnerware sets

• Present your menu in style—figure out how many serving platters, serving bowls and servers you'll need for the party.

serveware

3 days & counting

• Set the stage. Choose lighting, rearrange furniture (if necessary) and pick a fun party playlist.

• Stock your bar by planning for three bottles of wine for every four people or three to four cocktails per guest for a three-hour party.

bar & wine accessories

• Find a convenient area for coats. Whether you opt for a rack or decide to put people's coats on your bed or in the closet, it's important to make room for their belongings.

• Complete any shopping you need to do for your menu and create a cooking schedule for any dishes left to make.

one more day to go

• If you're having a more formal event and want to use linens, like tablecloths and napkins, today is the day to iron them.

table linens

• Design your tabletop with the perfect place settings or set up an easy-to-navigate buffet table.

• Add finishing touches, like floral arrangements, to your table.

• Get any prep work, like cutting & dicing veggies, out of the way. Store them in airtight containers.

party time

• Finish up any last-minute cooking.

• Put out appetizers & snacks about 30 minutes before guests arrive.

• Stick to a cooking schedule so that you can mingle freely with your guests.

• Show off the perfect party outfit!