Last party post! (For those who have joined recently, I’ve written out my party planning timeline from 3 months to Go time).
*3 days out* Buy drinks, non-perishables, and most food except bread or things that may go stale.
*2 days out* Start chopping! Prepare all your food and keep them in baggies so they’re ready to go. Ziplock bags are your best friends when preparing food for large gatherings. You can really do most things 2 days before. There are things like tomatoes, avocados and such that you’ll want to wait until the day of.
*Day before* Set out all platters with notes about what food goes where. Plates, napkins, silverware and cups can all be set out as well. Chill drinks and set out all decorations that are inside. Buy flowers first thing in the morning and arrange them. (Keep in cool room).
*Day of* Get dressed and ready 2-3 hours before party. Set out last minute details in the morning. I like to have everything set out many hours before party. Food can be set out 20-30 minutes before. I like to have most food items room temperature and just one or two that need to be hot (or cold). Drinks can be set out and ice bought and kept in coolers. Light candles and turn on music 30-45 minutes before guests arrive. Set out drinks and appetizers a full 15-20 minutes before guests arrive so you’re not running around last minute. All food does not have to be done but make sure you have something for your guests to eat and drink and you have your lipstick on at “go” time. Friends love to help so let them help you with last minute food preparation when the time comes.
*Go time* You’re calm, cool, and collected when guests arrive because you’re prepared and ready to have a great time. If you’re happy and “chill” that’s how your party will be. Guests feel your vibe and you dictate the feeling of your gathering. If you’re running around like crazy and feeling stressed everyone will feel it. Mingle with your guests, eat, drink, and take it easy because all of the hard work is behind you and you’re ready to party!!
