The Birthday Party Hosting Time Line, Part I

If you are planning a big birthday party this year, whether it is for a soon-to-be six-year-old, or an “over the hill” bash for a 60-year-old, you will have to be well-prepared, if you are going to pull it off.  For that reason, we have compiled a check list, beginning as much as two months in advance of the party.

One to Two Months before the Party

• Hire the Venue Remember that party venues can be in high demand and may be booked out many weeks or even months in advance. If you have a special place in mind, then be sure that you make the call (or visit in person) as soon as possible.
• Choose a Theme Some will argue that this isn’t necessary, but if you are not experienced in party planning, the theme will make it much simpler to keep your planning cohesive and organized.
• Set the Date This is obvious and necessary if you are going to book the venue, but even if you are having the party at home, you should have a date in mind at least one month in advance, so you have time to get invitations out and plans made.
• Prepare the Guest List Put it down on paper, even if you aren’t ready to send the invites. You will want to know how many people you can expect to attend, and you might just find that you have to narrow your list a bit when you actually see it written out and numbered.
• Hire the Entertainment If you are planning to have a DJ or band, then now is the time to make those plans concrete.
• Prepare the Invitations You don’t have to send them just yet, but you will have to soon, so be sure that you have them ready to go, with names and addresses on hand as well.