59 The Ultimate Party-Planning Checklist One month before the party Settle on a doable theme/colour scheme and budget Set a date and time Create a guest list Design an invitation (include an RSVP deadline) Secure a venue if necessary (pay deposits, request a back-up undercover area if outdoors, check if your venue has rules regarding rides, décor, foodstuffs, etc.) Book any other vendors/ services (entertainment, rides, inflatables, etc.) Three weeks to go Send out invitations Plan the party games/activities Finalise decoration ideas Decide on the contents of your party packs Order the cake (if you’re not baking it yourself) Settle on a menu Make a ‘master shopping list’ of all eats, decorations and miscellaneous items you will need Confirm caterers if necessary Two weeks and counting Finalise number of guests attending Test out any crafts or activities that you will be running on the day Purchase décor items and non-perishables Assign duties to family or friends that have volunteered One week before D-Day (or should we say B-Day) Purchase any outstanding or additional party supplies Test out any crafts or activities that you will be running on the day Layout an informal schedule or sequence of events, as a little structure will help the party flow smoothly Pack up goodie bags Birthday eve Bake or fetch the cake If possible, set up part of the décor Purchase perishables Confirm all rentals/vendors/helpers Remember to have your camera or video recorder charged and ready THE BIG DAY Final touches to décor Finalise food preparation Last minute wrapping of your child’s gift because you were so busy with everything else