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Holiday Party Planning Countdown

By Sherrie Le Masurier

 

The secret to successful holiday entertaining is planning and breaking your tasks down in stages over a few weeks (or days) and not doing it all yourself. Get the whole family involved by delegating certain tasks. If you do as much as possible ahead of time, you’ll have time to relax a bit before your guests arrive and as a result, you’ll be able to enjoy the festivities more.

 


Four Weeks Ahead

  • Devise a plan. Settle on your guest list. How many people will be attending? Set a budget. If applicable, decide on a theme.

  • Send out invitations. Get invitations out as early as possible because people book up early. Don’t forget to include an RSVP number.

 

Three Weeks Ahead

  • Decide on a menu. Come up with a menu but remember to keep it simple. Include dishes that can be prepared ahead of time (or dishes you can buy ready-made).

  • Write a shopping list. Start a list of ingredients you will need to buy including drinks and decorations.

 

Two Weeks Ahead

  • Update the guest list. Where necessary, make some calls to confirm attendance.

  • Decide on music. Consult your music cabinet and make a trip to the library or music store for variety.

  • Make a housecleaning checklist. Don’t over do the housecleaning chores but do make a list of the basic must-dos.

 

One Week Ahead

  • Buy all non-perishable food. Make a list of any food items you still need.

  • Finish any major house cleaning. Make a list of last minute cleaning chores.

 

The Day Before

  • Give your home a quick once over. Prepare as much of your menu as possible so you can easily assemble or warm up food when your guests arrive. Bake and freeze desserts and side dishes in microwavable containers.

  • Decorate. If possible, set your table or start preparations on the buffet table.

  • Plan your party outfit. Once you decide on what you’re going to wear at your party, set it out (iron if necessary). Also assemble your accessories now to avoid any last minute panic.

 

Party Day

  • Prepare last minute food. Devise a checklist so you don’t end up missing anything.

  • Check the table settings. Finish any last minute decorating.

  •  Get yourself ready. Leave yourself some time to take a leisurely bubble bath.

  • Set the mood. Light some candles and put on some music.