Party Planner

This is a suggested schedule for party planning.  Every party is a little unique, so there may be items missing from this list that you may need, and there may be items on this list that you will never use. 
If you click on this link, you can download a PDF of this list which you can add to and check off as you complete items.   If you click here, I have provided a blank worksheet that you can fill in yourself.

6-8 weeks before:
Set date, time and location of party
Call and reserve location
Determine theme
Begin to research theme

4 weeks before:
Finalize planned activities
Order any craft supplies, party favors, decorations, etc. from online supplier.
Order/ design invitations
Create guest list, collect addresses if necessary 

3 weeks before:
Send/ pass out invitations
Recruit party helpers

2 weeks before:
Purchase paper products *if you didn't order them online
Rent or talk to friends to borrow any necessary tables and/or chairs

1 week before:
Order cake (or buy supplies to make one)
Buy birthday candles
Create "The Party Basket"
Begin prep for any crafts that need prep time.
Order balloons
Create or purchase play list for party music

The two days before:
Clean your house *if the party is at your house
Bake the cake or cupcakes *if you didn't buy them
Prepare food or snack
Begin decorating areas you can
Finalize prep for crafts and activities
Do sample craft
Create schedule for party
Print any labels, Parent Sign-in sheets, etc.
Make confirmation phone calls to guests who have not RSVPed.
Buy ice

Party day:
Pick up balloons and/or cake (or send someone else)
Finish decorating
Stage food service areas
Stage craft and game areas
Finalize food prep
Put on some music
Put parent sign-in near door
Finish up 20 minutes before the party
SMILE, greet guests, offer hospitality