Organized & Entertaining--Part I

Summer is great time to entertain! We're dedicating the next few posts to having fun.

We'll give you hints and tips for planning and hosting get-togethers that will be fun for you and your guests.

Part I of our Organized & Entertaining series will help you get started with planning and list-making. You will need several pieces of paper and I recommend a small notebook. A folder with pockets also works well to hold your lists and other information such as recipes.

If you have several months to plan the event, you will have lots of time to plan and prepare. Or you might have ample time to procrastinate or lose interest. At a minimum, you will need 3 to 4 days to plan even a spur-of-the-moment party.

Here is a Party Planning Checklist:

1. What is the occasion or theme for my party? Birthday parties or family reunions can be simple gatherings with the emphasis is on the guests enjoying each other's company. Or these parties can have themes such as Treasure Hunt or Game Day. A theme may require additional planning with more equipment, special foods, and additional helpers. A theme adds to the complexity of entertaining, so consider that aspect.
2. When will the party be? Some hosts prefer to entertain when it fits their busy schedule and others will poll potential guests to see what date works best for them. Aim for a date that doesn't conflict with a community event.
3. Who will be invited? List everyone you would like to attend. If children are invited, make it clear in the invitation that they are welcome.
4. How will guests be invited? While email invitations might be a quick way to reach your guests, consider what happens if the email is unread for some reason. I have used SendOutCards.com or invitations printed like photos from Creative MemoriesTM for multiple invitations. The phone is also a very acceptable tool for inviting guests to a party. The advantage of the phone is that you may get a sense of whether the person is likely to attend. If you send written invitations, you may want to add RSVP. A French acronym for a phrase, RSVP simply means Please Respond. You can put additional information with your RSVP such as RSVP by July 5 to 333-4444.
5. Where will the party be? Will be party be at home in your yard or in your home? Consider a neighborhood park or convenient restaurant or community building if that is more convenient for your party.
6. Will anyone help me host the party? Co-hosting parties helps to share the work-load and expenses. Consider who else might like to help with the planning and party activities.

You will have additional notes in your planning stage, but these planning pointers will help you get started.

What experiences have you had as you planned a party? What results have you had when you failed to adequately plan before organizing a party? We would like to hear your stories!