Planning a party? We're all about a good time! From the get-go (that is, when you decide you want to throw a party) to picking out a design for the party invitations and then the little details from the food, beverages, party games/activities, to the party stationery that will make it ever more memorable. Here's the Impressive Ultimate Party Planning Checklist we've put together to keep you on track! Here goes!
Party Planning a Month Ahead of the Day of the Party
- Decide on the date of the party. A time should also be decided, depending on whether you want a daytime or night time party.
- Select a venue if you're not having it at home. If you are planning a brunch or afternoon party, then select a venue that allows for the theme you are planning.
- If you are planning a party theme, now is the time to pick one. Depending on the venue you are looking at booking, you may want to tie the two together and make it cohesive. Outdoor parties are fun, but it's up to you to decide on what will fit the type of party you are thinking of having, as well as the theme.
- Figure out the invitation list. Make a list of everyone you would like to attend. If you need help trying to remember who you want to invite, refer your address books or your phone contact list. Sometimes you can browse through your social media friends list too. If you are planning a large party, invite 20% more than you can fit into your venue (this is because, usually only 70% attend).
- Decide on a party invitation design. Once you've selected a venue and a party theme, this will be easier as you can be inspired by them and your party vision. You can choose a photo party invitation, or a textual invite, or something personalised. It's completely your choice. Impressive Invitations has a great collection of customisable party invitations designs and can also create a completely unique party invite design to your liking too.
- Decide on the budget. Sometimes party costs can get out of hand, so have a budget to set a ceiling value on what you are willing to spend on certain party items or the whole party.
- Hire party vendors. It’s always a good idea to shop around for each party planning aspect (caterer, bartender (if it's an adult party), food servers (if you're not having a buffet), entertainment, house-cleaning services (for the aftermath), gardener (if you'd like to spruce up your garden when your home is the party venue), and transportation/valet services (if required).
Once the important items are carried out, the rest is merely fine tuning and double checking.
Three Weeks before the Party
- Choosing the menu with what your chosen caterer can offer
- Buy or make decorations as per the party theme
- Figure out linen, tableware, plates, platters, utensils if you need to source them
- Figure out beverages and make purchases or order them
- Make a dining table or buffet setup to ensure everyone invited has enough space
One Week before the Party
- Double check the RSVP list for those who have yet to respond
- Confirm any rental reservations
Four to Five Days before the Party
- Double check items with caterers in terms of food, beverages, decorations, etc. Also double check the shopping list for items that you need to purchase
Two Days before the Party
- If you are hosting the party at home, make sure to iron linen as well as wash all dishes, platters and cutlery to be used
- Do last minute cleaning
One Day before the Party
- Do the shopping on the list
- Set up tables and decorations
Day of the Party
- Finish setting up, hang up decorations and flower
- Make sure bathrooms are clean
- Four hours before the party, start chilling champagne and white wine.
Stay tuned to Impressive Invitations blog for great party planning ideas, party invitations and more!