Top Party Planning Tips

1. Get Organised Early – Plan Ahead Check Lists are the best things, simple to use and easy for that quick reference. Examples Of Check Lists: Guest List Theme and Decoration List Party Supplies List Menu List Shopping List Party Games List     2. The Party Countdown Schedule 6 - 8 Weeks Ahead (Some mums organize even further ahead than this). Choose a date & time, theme & location. Set your budget. If you want a professional kids party entertainer make your booking now - the good ones often get booked well in advance. Make lists - guest lists, shopping lists etc. Commit it to paper and you won't have to commit it to memory. 3-4 Weeks Ahead Prepare invitations from your guest list. Plan decorations and start collecting what you need, If you are taking on entertaining the kids as well - plan any party games or crafts. Refine your lists. Don't forget prizes for any games you’ve organized. 2 Weeks Ahead Mail or hand out invitations. (Free Downloadable Kids Party Invitations) Plan the party flow and activity sequence. Plan the menu and cake. Order party supplies - decorations, paper plates, cups, napkins etc; Piñatas, party bags & preferred contents. Complete any "do-ahead" projects. Also, plan a safe place for pets during the celebration. 1 Week to 2 Days Ahead Make a countdown list, order cake and balloons. Call anyone who hasn't RSVP'd. Deep clean house. Organise a couple of assistants for the party day - help with food prep, decorating, games AND ESPECIALLY taking photos or video. Grocery shop for party menu (don't forget batteries for cameras that need them plus spares & birthday cake candles). If you are blowing up your own balloons then get a balloon pump – party shop suppliers. 1 - 2 Days Ahead Do all final shopping, prep menu. Finish last minute projects and make sure cameras are ready to use. Pick up any party hire equipment. Plan partywear for everyone. Clean the house again. 3. Party Day Preparation Finish remaining cooking, or food preparation. Decorate. Set up any party games that you may have organized. Pick up birthday cake and balloons if needed. Take some photos while all is intact. Take a deep breath and smile - It's Party Time! Don't Forget to... Turn on music before party, be a hostess not a hired hand, and give out the party bags at the end. 4. After the Party Send Thank You notes to guests and helpers, return rentals, make notes on what worked - useful when you get requests for repeat performances next year. Relax! You're An Awesome Party Planner.   Thanks for taking the time to read this article, say hi and leave us a comment.