Simple Party Planning Schedule

Organizing a child’s party can be just as intimidating as planning a large corporate event! In my last blog I gave you my “Top 10 Party Planning Tips!” As mentioned, it’s a good idea to start your planning early and get organized!  I suggested you create a “Planning Schedule” for yourself. But what exactly IS that?
A Planning Schedule helps you break down each task that needs to be done to prepare for the party itself. By following a schedule your tasks will seem less overwhelming and will ease the stress of all party planning details! Each Planning Schedule needs to be tailored to fit the party being held. However, once you know where to start it is very simple to plan out your own schedule.
Try following my Simple Party Planning Schedule Template, but remember to make it your own! Change what you need to and add date deadlines beside each task. 

SIX TO EIGHT WEEKS BEFORE THE PARTY
1.      Choose your Party Theme and Venue!
2.      Book your venue!
3.      Book Entertainment (if needed)
4.      Make a guest list
5.      Create a budget
6.      Plan the Party menu
7.      Make a list of all supplies needed (Decorations, Plates, Utensils etc.)

TWO TO FOUR WEEKS BEFORE THE PARTY
1.      Make/Buy Invitations.
2.      Mail or drop off invitations. (2-3 weeks prior to party)
3.      Buy party supplies.
4.      Start making party decorations
5.      Make plans for extra help.

ONE WEEK BEFORE THE PARTY
1.      Order Cake if not making your own.
2.      Order extra party supplies such as balloon bouquets ß optional
3.      Confirm Venue and Entertainment bookings.
4.      Review RSVP’s received and send reminders for those who have not yet responded.
5.      Confirm Helpers for preparation and for the day of.
6.      Finish decoration preparations.
7.      Write out a schedule of activities for the party.

TWO-THREE DAYS BEFORE THE PARTY
1.      Buy remaining food/supplies for the party.
2.      Put together a “Party Survival Kit!” ß a small tote bag with items we commonly need or forget! Such as; tape, scissors, pen & batteries!
3.      Check batteries and memory for cameras and/or camcorders. ßadd to Survival Kit
4.      Prepare Gab Bags and Party Favours.

ONE DAY BEFORE THE PARTY
1.      Pick up ordered cake or make and decorate your own ßif you have time I like to do this the morning of the party instead.
2.      Pick up any ordered party supplies.
3.      If possible, decorate any indoor party areas ßThis will depend on your venue and may have to be done on the day of.
4.      Prepare all Do-ahead food.

THE DAY OF THE PARTY
1.      Prepare the rest of the food.
2.      Finish decorating indoors or outdoors.
3.      Mark the outside of the house or the party venue with balloons or a sign.
4.      Set up any necessary activity stations. ß Be sure to have ALL supplies ready!
5.      Keep your Party schedule of activities handy!!! And remember to delegate to your helpers!

Now that you have planned ahead, you will be able to relax knowing that you are organized and have everything under control! When the party starts, you will be ready, and as “Mom-In-Charge” you will be able to present a very enjoyable party!