Why to Use a Pre-Party To-Do List

Because planning can be fun. There. We said it.

Welcome to your all-inclusive guide of what to check off prior to your party taking shape. From the birth of the idea to host your gathering to the moment your guests walk through the door. Whether you color-code with sticky notes or like to play-it-by-year (ear?) last-minute, we've got you. Your party planning is about to smoothly sail.

We’ve curated checklists below for the two types of party planners. Now snag your notepad, Google Doc, or iPhone Notes — and let's get to it.

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For The Plan Ahead Host

2 weeks before the party:

• Send out RSVP invitations
• Hire a caterer or chef, or pick out your menu for the event

10 days before the party:

• Order items for the party
  *Make sure to check delivery dates so items arrive in time. To ease your process, check out Our List of Favorite Things, made for you.
• Compile the "yes" guest list for food and drink purposes

5 days before the party:

• Ensure all items have arrived or are arriving on time
• Finalize grocery shopping list and determine cooking equipment required

2 days before the party:

• Make sure speakers work properly
• Prep or find a playlist(s) to fit your party mood
  *Note: Spotify has tons of playlists ready for your vibe. Wine & Dine? Check. All Out 50s? Check. Pop 4 Kids? Check.
• Grocery shop

Day before the party:

• Clean kitchen, dining area, and guest room
• Prep items from the menu for overnight cooling (if required)
• Check in on guest arrival

For The Last Minute Host

3 days before the party:

• Send out invitations to guests
• Decide on menu for party and create grocery list
• Order items via Amazon for the party
  *Check delivery dates - thank goodness for Prime shipping! See Our List of Favorite Things to well, prime your shopping.

2 days before the party:

• Compile the "yes" guest list for food and drinks purposes
• Grocery shop
• Make sure speakers work properly
• Prep or find a playlist(s) to fuel your party mood
  *Scout out our Spotify playlists for all your party needs
  **Bonus points: dance a little solo kitchen number to boost your planning process.
• Ensure all items have arrived or are arriving on time

Day before the party:

• Clean kitchen, dining area and guest room
• Prep items from menu for overnight cooling (if required)
• Check in on guest arrival

Whichever host you are, you’re absolutely killing it! To ease your hosting process, check out these pre-made checklists to help you out during your party prep process. For more how-to hacks, check out partytrick.com.

And remember, your guests are lucky to have you. You are a star, after all!

Membership has its party privileges! Discover your perks & start saving today.