Party planning can be quite easy IF you know how.
Most experienced hosts or hostesses use a party planning checklist to keep everything organized because when it comes to hosting parties you can NEVER be TOO organized! It is so easy to get carried away on one aspect of the party other important items are forgotten.
That can mean disaster come party day.
There is no need to let that happens to you! Here are some suggestions from other party planners that will help you host a party your guests, as well as you, can enjoy.
5 Weeks Before Party

• Make a budget.
  
• Select a party theme.
  

4 Weeks Before Party

• Find and reserve venue if not having the party at your home.
  Be aware that if you are wanting to reserve a location during the holidays or traditional wedding months, you may need to begin looking much earlier.
  
• Find and hire a caterer.
  
• Send invitations.
  Mail, e-mail, even phone invitations are now acceptable.
  
• Begin managing RSVPs.
  

3 Weeks Before Party

• Plan menu.
  
• Decide on decorations.
  
• Choose music.
  
• Check your serving dishes, plates, silver, etc.
  to make sure you have what you need.
  If not, borrow from a family member or friend or rent the needed items.
  

1 Week Before Party

• If renting a venue, call to confirm.
  
• Order any food (if not using a caterer).
  
• Order cake or make ahead and freeze the unfrosted cake.
  
• Call those who have not responded to the RSVP.
  

2 Days Before Party

• Purchase perishable food.
  
• Wash and cut up vegetables.
  
• Prepare any food that can be refrigerated.
  
• Put out clean towels.
  
• Check toilet tissue supply -- make sure there is more than enough handy.
  
• Take anything out of your medicine cabinets that you prefer anyone to not to see.
  

1 Day Before Party

• Decorate the house.
  
• Set out games.
  
• Defrost any frozen foods.
  
• Defrost cake and decorate with icing.
  
• Refrigerate drinks.
  
• Set up a place to receive coats or rain gear.
  
• Set table or buffet.
  
• Set out party favors.
  
• Set out camera(s) and extra batteries.
  

Party Day

• Prepare any food that is required.
  
• Put food in appropriate dishes.
  
• Double check to see that everything is put away you don't wish to be seen.
  

1 Hour Before Party

• Reheat prepared food.
  

Just Before the Party

• Toss the salad.
  
• Set out the food.
  
• Put the music on.
  
• Light the candles (just before the first guest is to arrive).
  
• Put on a smile, greet your guests and have fun.