Step 1:

Do you want to catch up with old friends or meet the new neighbors? Have a dinner party at your home where you can control the environment! You get to choose the music, the wine, control the noise level, and can stay as late as you want.  The first step is to plan the type of party you would like to have: Do you want a cocktail party or a dinner party? Do you want the meal to be formal or casual?  Will the food be served at the table or will you offer a buffet? The answers to these types of questions will help you determine the number of people to invite, who those people should be, and the menu.  The trick is to keep it simple! 

Step 2:

The next step is to plan the guest list. Try to think of a group that will enjoy getting together.  Not everyone has to be a couple or know each other.   For small parties, invite 8-10 people and make sure you invite at least a couple of people that will keep it fun!   Invitations should be mailed approximately three weeks prior to the date of the party. Write down the names of all invitees in your party journal, leaving a space for their RSVP. This way you will know at a glance how many guests you are expecting. Choose your RSVP deadline carefully, making sure to allow enough time to properly plan the menu. Keep in mind that many people overlook RSVP deadlines. If your party is a more formal affair and the deadline passes with people you have not heard from, consider following up with a telephone call.  Just keep the conversation light and upbeat and try to ascertain the answer to your question through casual conversation.  If your party is a more casual open-house type event, simply plan for everyone to attend to make sure you have enough for all who show up.  

Step 3:

Once you know how many guests you are expecting, it is time to plan a menu that follows the theme of the party. When planning the menu, choose dishes that can be prepared ahead of time and those that can be picked up at a local deli or bakery. If you are having a cocktail party, you will only need appetizers.  Choose foods that do not require a plate or utensils to eat. This will allow your guests to mingle easily without trying to juggle a plate in one hand and a drink in the other.  If you are offering a sit down meal, you may opt for more elegant dishes. Write down your menu selections in your party journal and make note of any preparation instructions that will help you determine when to get started on each dish.

Step 4:

Now that you have your menu established you can start planning the set up for the party. Will you need to set the table and, if so, for how many? Which tablecloth, napkins, dishes and centerpiece would you like to use? Do you need to purchase disposable cocktail plates and napkins? Write all of this information in your journal so that all of the thinking is done ahead of time.

Step 5:

The final step is the party calendar. Start one week prior to the event and write down tasks that can be accomplished each day leading up to the event. The idea is to leave as little as possible for the day of the party, allowing yourself time to get dressed and get excited for your guests to arrive without running around trying to get everything done. The calendar should include things such as shopping for paper goods and decorations, grocery shopping, house cleaning, setting the table, and menu preparations. If you do a little bit each day you will be ready for your party before you know it!

Contributed by: Erin Searcy