Party Planning Timeline

   6 to 8 Weeks Before the Party

• Select a date, time and location for the party.

• Decide on the number of guests and develop a guest list.

• If desired, call to book an entertainer, such as a clown or magician, to occupy children at the party.

• Develop a theme for the party, including your child in this process if he or she is old enough to participate.

• If you want personalized invitations, place the order so that they arrive at least 3 weeks before the party.

 

   3 to 4 Weeks Before the Party

• Prepare invitations and mail or hand-deliver them.

• Put your guest list near the phone so you can easily record responses as invitees call to RSVP.

• Shop for supplies.

• Ask a favorite babysitter, friend or relative to help out at the party.

 

   2 to 3 Weeks Before the Party

• Select 3 - 6 activities to entertain children at the party.

• You can Purchase any supplies needed for the activities you selected.

• If serving a meal, decide on the menu.

• Order a cake (unless you plan to bake one).

 

   1 Week Ahead

• Call any invitees who have not responded.

• Decide on the agenda for the party, including the order of your selected activities, what time you want to serve food and/or cake, and if it's a birthday party, when the birthday boy or girl will open presents.

• Try any games or activities with which you are unfamiliar.

   

   2 to 3 Days Ahead

• Purchase groceries or any pre-prepared food you plan to serve.

• Put the favor bags together.

• Capture the moment by having a camera or video recorder charged and ready.

• Prepare (copy, cut out, etc.) any crafts that can be set up ahead of time.

• Bake any cookies or treats that can be made ahead.

 

  The Day Before the Party

• Clean the party area. Put away items that may be dangerous or distracting.

• Bake or pick up the cake.

• If ordering food such as pizza, call to arrange a delivery time.

• If necessary, confirm with the entertainer and/or any helpers who you've asked to attend.

• Sit down with your child and discuss his or her expectations for the next day.

   

   4 to 5 Hours Ahead

• Set the table and decorate.

• If you are planning a birthday party, put the candles on the cake and place matches nearby.

• Get balloons filled/pick up pre-filled latex or foil balloons.

• If you're having the party at home, tie some balloons to the mailbox or the front porch to help mark the party location.

• Place crafts and prizes near the activity location(s).

• Locate paper and a pencil for recording gifts (for thank-you notes).

 

    1 to 2 Hours Ahead

• Consider putting your pets in an area away from guests.

• Get the birthday boy or girl and all siblings dressed for the party.

• Set up the first activity, letting your child help as much as possible.

• Set up the food.

 

   Have a Great Party!