Party Checklist

Make list of people to invite.

Mark the date on your calendar.

Send invitations (by mail, e-mail, or phone).

Plan the menu, including the beverages.

Make shopping list (food, paper goods, decorations).

Plan cooking schedule: Determine what can be made ahead and frozen, day before, and that day, and what you are buying already prepared.

Make list of equipment needed (rental chairs and table).

Plan the layout of the rooms. (Make sure all the food tables are not right on top of each other to ensure smooth flow for people to mingle.)

Plan music.

Plan lighting.

Buy or make a centerpiece or other decorations.

Check your stock of cleaning supplies for before and after the party.

Make sure you have all the platters and serving pieces you'll need.

Coat rack (hangers or a separate room to put coats)

A place to put boots or umbrellas

Ice, ice bucket, ice tongs, or scoop

Cocktail napkins (2 per person)

Candles

Paper towels

Extra toilet paper

Plates (appetizer, salad, dinner, dessert) - you can order deli trays for your party!

Glasses (water, wine, mixed drink, beer, soda, coffee); some beverages can use the same type of glass

Silverware (Think through each course; a fresh spoon or stirrer is necessary for coffee.)

If grilling, check the tank, charcoal, lighter fuel, bug spray, and citronella candles

Coffee and assortment of tea bags

Cream and sugar

Salt and pepper

Wine, beer, and soda chilled

Wine and bottle opener

Bar garnishes (lime, lemon, olive)

Charged camera battery

Garbage bags

Dishwashing soap

Club soda (for any thing that may spill, a great spot remover)

Space to chill beverages. It takes beer, wine, and soda 20 minutes to chill on ice. A large tub or cooler can be used in a back room.