Planning a birthday party should be fun. If you’re getting mired down in details and feeling stressed, stick to a checklist so you’ll feel confident you’ve gotten everything done that you needed to. Keep it where you can see it and check things off. The act of crossing items off your list will make you feel hopeful and excited for the party. Depending on the age group of the guests, you may need to start early. If you’re throwing a 50th birthday party, you’ll need more time than if you’re planning a child’s fifth birthday party. One or two months before the party Decide on a date Decide where you will have the party Start creating a guest list (you can always add to it later) Find a theme you like Think about what kind of food you’re going to serve and call a few caterers for prices Get your paper goods and invitations Three weeks to one month before the party Send out invitations Pick a bakery to make your cake Decide on a DJ or band if you’re having one Decide on centerpieces for tables Select your caterer and decide on the final menu Buy favors if you’re going to have them Arrange for who will get the guest of honor to the party if it’s a surprise If kids will be at an adult party, hire a babysitter One week before the party Have all chairs and tables on order Call any guests who haven’t responded Confirm any reservations you have made for the venue, food, etc. Wrap your gift for the guest of honor Choose your attire for the party Confirm your babysitter The day before the party and the day of Within the last 24 hours before the party starts: Pick up any balloons Pick up the cake or have it delivered Set up an area where the guest of honor will open birthday gifts Have tables and chairs delivered Be sure linens are ironed Set up buffet stations if you’re having them Clean up any areas of your house that guests will see Take out all the supplies you bought like cups, napkins, etc. Decorate the party space Assemble any birthday baskets and place them on the tables Make sure you have enough ice on hand Confirm that food is set for delivery Tie balloons to your mailbox so guests can find your house There’s a lot that goes into the planning of the party, but you can throw a party that looks effortless when you are organized. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Most people are happy to help out with assembling favors, running out to pick things up for you, getting the birthday boy or girl there, and more. Your aim is to have a fun party, so be sure that you have time to relax and get yourself dressed. Don’t work right up until the last minute and let guests catch you before you’ve even showered. Your party will flow smoothly once you have checked everything off your list. There’s nothing to do once the list is completed but to grab a drink and start mingling. The more the hostess enjoys herself, the more everyone else does, too. Need more help with your planning? Here are a few more ideas: Kids' Birthday Party Game Ideas
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