A checklist for all occasions!

When planning a party or gathering, there are many things to think about and the process can be really stressful.

This is a checklist that will help you get more organized..

One Month Before:

• Choose the type of party you want to throw
• Set the date
• Prepare your guest list
• Mail or e-mail invitations or call guests to invite them

Two Weeks Before:

• Plan the menu and organize recipes
• Plan a cooking schedule; determine what can be made ahead, what can be frozen and what are you buying already prepared
• Read through your recipes and write a shopping list
• Try out any new recipe you want to troubleshoot
• Arrange to borrow, rent or buy serving pieces and other items that you might need such as platters, glasses, flatware or table linens
• Plan the layout of the room
• Plan music, if appropriate
• Plan lighting
• Buy or make a centerpiece or other decorations
• Hire servers if needed
• If you're throwing a simple gathering or if friends have offered to bring something, let them know what to make

One Days Before:

• Call or email guests who have not yet RSVP'd to see if they plan to attend, and follow up with guests who have offered to bring a dish
• Wash serving pieces, plates, flatware and glasses
• If using napkins or tablecloths, iron them
• Place frozen food in the refrigerator to defrost overnight
• Purchase groceries

Hours Before:

• Place flower arrangements, candles or other decorations
• Place the pretty guest soaps and hand towels
• Finish preparing food