Planning a party for kids, teens, or a mixed group of family and friends is simplified with a "To Do List." Staying organized and on-task with written plans makes preparing for entertaining guests simple.
Party Planning To Do List
The ideas here can help in writing a list of things to do for a party, or this page may be printed out and simply crossed off (for personal use only) as a guide. It is a good idea to have paper handy for brainstorming ideas, keeping notes, and making additional lists.
It is easy to become overwhelmed when party planning. A good social gathering need not be expensive or complicated to be nice. Following are some ideas to help with easy party planning, from start to finish.
Things To Do Ahead of the Party
- Decide on the party location or special venue.
- Pick the date(s) and time(s) for the event.
- Make reservations for any special party room.
- Make a list of possible guests.
- Decide on which and how many people to invite. For a child's birthday or event, consider whether parents will be added to invitations.
- Determine the length of the party (for example, a two-hour children's party, an overnight teen sleepover, or an all day drop-in family barbecue).
- Decide on party mood (formal, informal, fun, wild), colors and/or theme.
- Make notes of ideas on sources for party goods, supplies, etc. as they come to mind .
- Decide on appropriate food and drinks.
- Write a grocery shopping list, decide if guests will bring potluck food, or make catering arrangements.
- Buy, borrow, or make decorations, party supplies, and games.
Great sites for party ideas and party goods are Teen Birthday Party Ideas and Themes and Birthday Party Themes and Ideas.
Sending Invitations
Invitations are important to letting guests know what to expect. Once plans are made and the guest list is finalized, it is time to invite part-goers.
- Buy, make, or print theme-related invitations. Search online for free pre-designed printable invitations.
- Include information on the event, location, date and the time. Other items to add may be appropriate attire (if applicable), anything guests should bring, a map or directions, and an RSVP phone number.
- Send out invitations 2 to 4 weeks in advance (sooner for super special or sleepover events). Also make “hold the date” calls or emails if time is short.
How to Prepare for the Party
A day or two before the event:
- Confirm any special-order items (catering, a custom cake, entertainers, or party rentals).
- If possible, decorate the party area in advance.
- Arrange any tables, seating, activity zones, food areas, etc.
Things to do on party day:
- Prepare or pick up food, punch, ice, or other last minute items.
- If not yet completed, finish decorating and setting up supplies.
- Double check planning lists and supplies.
- Get any party favors ready to share.
- Set-up music and test the sound system at the party location.
- Prepare a place for guests to put their coats and other items.
- Make a spot for gifts, if needed.
- Allow time to shower, relax, and get dressed before guests arrive.
Other Party Ideas and Tips
- On a budget? Dollar stores and discount shops are great for those watching money. They carry inexpensive decorations, paper goods, and other party supplies for a fraction of the price charged at most party stores.
- If money is not an issue, planning can be simplified by ordering such items as prepackaged themed party kits, catered food, and printed invitations. Professional party planners, entertainers, and other helpers can be hired, as well.
Each person should feel free to organize in his or her own style and comfort zone. An event should be just as enjoyable for the host and/or hostess as it is for guests.
Related Party Articles
- Fun Teen Birthday Party Activities for a Group - "What can I do for my birthday party?" is a common question among teens. Answers here!
- Fun Teen Birthday Party Ideas & Awesome Themes - B-days themes, places to go, themed birthday activities for guy or girl parties.
- Pre-Planned Birthday Party Themes - A review of unique birthday party packages from Posh Party Box and how to plan a fun b-day for kids, teens or adults with awesome, clever party supply goods and favors.
Resources:
Helpful suggestions from Kelsey Jennrich, personal interview, June 25, 2010
Janienne Jennrich - Janienne Jennrich, Topic Editor for Kids & Teen Parties and for Hair, is an award-winning freelance writer & webmaster.
