Entertaining is all about managing your time. Making a detailed timetable will save you from going crazy days before your party. The following timetable is a general outline for any type party:
One Month Before:
- Plan your food and drink menu
- Make a shopping list:
grocery store
bar supplies
perishables
last minute items (ice, fresh flowers, etc.) - Count your plates, glasses, flatware, serving pieces
- Send out invitations
Two Weeks Before:
- Shop for non-perishables food items
- Buy wines and alcoholic beverages
- Cook and prepare food items that can be frozen then reheated on the day of your party
- Make or buy party favors (if needed)
One Week Before:
- Plan your layout for where your drinks will be served and where your appetizers will be set-up
- Clean and wash all serving dishes, glasses, utensils and plates
- Make or buy your music selection
Three Days Before:
- Clean the bathrooms and get out guest towels, soap, and extra toilet items
- Do any chopping or work that would save you time for preparing your meal
- Set up your bar and drink table
The Day Before:
- Purchase all perishable food items
- Thaw all frozen dishes from freezer
- Marinate any meats, seal and refrigerate
- Decorate areas with decorations purchased for your themed party
- Set dinner table, set out glasses, appetizer serving pieces and dishes
Morning of the Party:
- Buy any last minute items like ice, fresh deserts and or breads
- Prepare the remaining foods and appetizers
- Spot clean kitchen and re-check bathrooms
- Begin cooking and preparing main dishes
One Hour Before Party:
- Finish final food and desert preparations
- Arrange any cold appetizers on platter
- Bake any hot appetizers
- Chill white wines, place champagnes on ice
- Set oven to warm (250 degrees) to warm main dishes
- GET DRESSED !!
Just before your guests arrive, put out your appetizers, play the music you selected, and light your candles.
When your guests start arriving, welcome them, greet them inside with a smile and have a drink ready to serve. This helps for a festive, yet relaxing mood and your party will be huge success!
IT'S PARTY TIME!!!!
No comments:
Post a Comment