I can still remember my 9th birthday party. I got a brand
new blue dress for the occasion. The party was outside in our huge backyard and all 12
of us ran around like crazed hellions. Pin-the-tail-on-the-Donkey was my
favorite game, and I got to eat all the ice cream I wanted. Decades later, I
still like to run around the backyard and eat ice cream, but the blue dress
just doesn’t fit like it used to.
Pick a Date and Time
Pick a Location
Pick a theme
Develop a guest list
Obtain mail addresses or email addresses for each invitee
Design or Purchase Invitations
Determine if there is a need to rent additional tables and chairs; Call rental store
Book entertainment if needed
If planning an outdoor party, create a rain contingency plan
Three - four weeks prior
Mail Invitations; ask for RSVP
Plan the menu
Plan beverages
Order party favors
Two weeks prior
Plan 3 easy games and or activities appropriate for age group
List and purchase all supplies needed for these games and activities
Plan a time-line for activities, eating, gift unwrapping
Purchase prizes for game winners (and purchase an extra prize in case of tie)
Prepare itemized shopping list needed for food and drink
Identify need for coolers or other drink containers
Decide how many paper/plastic plates, cups, utensils will be needed
Order a cake
Nominate a friend to take photos or video on the day of the party
Enlist other parents who can attend and help with kids and games
Purchase party store decorations, piñata and order helium balloons if needed
One week prior
Gather serving dishes and trays; clean if needed
Gather table linens or purchase throw-away items
Identify a table to be used for gifts
Purchase food, candy, chips and drink
Purchase paper plates, cups and utensils
Purchase camera film, batteries if needed
Purchase extra garbage bags
Clean house if this is party location
Set up supplies for games and wrap prizes
Set aside a pad of paper and pen to record presents and names for Thank You notes
Day of party
Check bathroom for supplies, provide paper hand towels and extra toilet paper
Prepare food
Pickup cake if not delivered; purchase candles
Purchase bagged ice for beverages
Layout all serving dishes and utensils
Set out all supplies needed for games and activities
Set up additional tables and chairs if needed
Set up plates, utensils, glasses for guests
Pickup balloons if not delivered
Arrange tables and chairs
Set up a very large trash can
Set up house decorations if needed
Locate a lighter or matches for the candles
Take a shower, dress and prepare to greet the guests
