Party Planner & Checklist

Good planning will ensure the success of any party, so start with our free Party Planner & Checklist!

Download and print PartyPlanner (PDF) 68K.

Follow the checklist and suggestions and whatever you do, don't leave everything to the last moment!

Party Planner Checklist

1.  Pick a Date and Time
2.  Make a Guest List
3.  Decide on a Party Theme
4.  Buy, Address and Send Invitations
5.  Plan the Food
6.  Plan for Drinks
7.  Plan the Music & Entertainment
8.  Plan and Buy Decorations
9.  Cleaning/Security/Parking (see below)
10. Most important... don't drink and drive!

Items worth remembering!

• Linens Cloths, Napkins, Colours
• Napkin Rings
• Games
• Toilet paper (loads)
• What happens if it rains?
• Photographer Videographer Camera
• Candles (candle lighting, other)
• Dress Determination
• Gift Table > Information Table
• Hotel Reservations (Non Locals)
• Maps (to/from airport; other locations)
• Transportation - Taxi's home.
• Message Book
• Welcome Sign, Entrance Piece At Door
• Balloon Bouquets
• Buffets - Decor Signage
• Directional Signage (toilets)
• Music - Entertainment DJ  Band Backdrop
• Roasts and Toasts Audio/Visual Needs Speeches

Music and Atmosphere

Whether you hire a Band, DJ, Karaoke Machine, Juke Box or simply spin your own CD collection, music keeps the party moving.  Also see Entertainment Services

Smoking

If your party is being held in a non-smoking household, make accommodation for smokers, like a  room with a fan blowing.  If you do not have a place for smokers let them know in advance that the party is held in a non-smoking household.

Lighting

Creative lighting will contribute much to the atmosphere.  Try replacing some bulbs with coloured lamps or low wattage bulbs.

Parking

Think about parking in advance.  If you will be allowing guests to park on the lawn or in the back yard, let them know in your invitation.  Ask your neighbours about parking options or warn them that guests will be parking on the street.

Seating

Consider the age of the guests and what seating will be required.  Some parties may consider removing the chairs from the party area, to create more room for people to mingle.

Security

Security of the premises is sadly now a part of planning a party.  Consideration need to be given to door security, invitation list checks, perimiter checks and local police intergration.  See Security Services

Extras

A scented candle in the bathroom is a nice touch.  Extra rolls of toilet tissue in easy view.

Accidents and Spills

Accidents are part of life.  Don't let an accident or spill ruin the party.  Have some spot remover, rags and cleaning materials on hand just in case.

Gifts

It's always a good idea to bring a small gift to a party even if the host instructs you not to.  Take a bottle of wine, flowers or chocolates to show your appreciation.

Coffee & Snacks

Be sure to have coffee tea and snacks for late in the evening.

End of Party - How to get home?

Make sure you have the phone numbers of a number of taxi services on hand.  Consider pre-booking taxi's for your guests.  Consider organising a car-pool for a group of friends.

After Party Considerations

It has to be done... clean-up!  Plastic bags, vacuum cleaner, cleaning utensils and materials and a rubbish bin to put it all in.

Party hearty and have fun!

Useful reading

• Celebrate Safely - Government guide to party safely.
• Download and print PartyPlanner (PDF) 68K.