This simple check list gives you guidelines for planning your special event. Since all parties are different, you decide which one of these important “to do’s” suit you and add what ever else you need.  Free download at the bottom of this page . 

• 4-6 weeks ahead

Decide on

            __Date

            __Theme

            __Budget

            __Guest list     

            __If not at home, reserve location

            __Book entertainment

            __Order, buy or make invitations and address envelopes

• 2-3 weeks ahead

__Mail invitations

__Plan party agenda (plan more activities than you expect to need)

__Make list of supplies/prizes needed for each activity

__Plan room set up

__Plan table setting

__Buy party supplies

__Plan menu (have extra food planned for those guests that forget to 

     RSVP or last minute stragglers)

__Make shopping list

__Arrange for extra help (other parents, friends or family are ideal for

     these positions)

__Have a practice run of any crafts

• 1 week ahead

__Confirm guest list

__Order cake or make plans to bake your own (Tip: make cup cake as an

     individual cake for your guests)

__Buy groceries

__Make any foods that can be made ahead

__Write out a final schedule of party activities

__Assemble bags or boxes with supplies for each game or activity

__Make plans for siblings so they won’t feel left out

__Assemble goodie bags (this is a great way to involve the birthday child)

__Confirm arrangements with the entertainer and with helper

__If your party is not at home, confirm arrangements for the party location

__Order any foods for pick up or delivery

• 1-2 days before your event

__Confirm cake order

__Order balloons

__Photography

           Charge video battery and check video tape supply

           Check camera battery and film supply

           Jot down ant shots that you don’t want to miss

__Set up CD player and select music

            Make sure that your music sets the right mood for your event

            Have someone in charge of the music center for you

__Review plans with the birthday child so that he/she will know what to

     expect

__Review with your child how to be a good host, thanks friends for gifts,

__Set-up party room

__Prepare bags, boxes or baskets with supplies for each activity  

• Party Day

__Pick up cake and carry out foods

__Confirm foods for delivery

__Prepare foods that could not be made earlier in the week

__Decorate your party area

__Put balloons or a festive sign outside your home to help your guests find

     their way

__Make sure that you block rooms that you do not want foot traffic in

__Post signs for guests leading them to the restroom or the nearest powder

    room

__Have camera equipment ready

__Get ready to greet your guests!!