A few basic rules deliver great results if you’re entertaining at home. Engagement party, rehearsal dinner, shower, anniversary & more.
One week before the party
- Add up the exact number of guests so you can establish quantities.
- Finalize the menu. Post it on the refrigerator.
- Purchase libations: bottled water, soft drinks, wine, beer, liquor or ingredients for punch.
- Buy enough wine if it’s a wine party; allow about half a bottle of wine per person.
- Clean any silver and china serving pieces wash party dishes, crystal and cutlery.
- Do initial shopping for food basics, excluding fresh meat, vegetables, fruit.
- Shop for serviettes and paper plates (if being used).
- Buy plenty o candles to set the stage.
Two days before the party
- Buy perishable foods and bags of ice. Allow 250 g of ice per person.
- Set up the bar so it is fully stocked. Set out glassware.
- Allow two glasses per person at a cocktail party – people forget when glass is theirs!
- Set up the dinning table. Allow three paper napkins per person for a buffet.
- Buy flowers or arrange alternate table centerpieces.
- Do any homemade baking, such as desserts and sweet nibbles.
Day before the party
- Make up cold appetizers, such as dips, and refrigerate.
- Prepare hot dishes, ready for reheating prior to the party.
- Prepare the house: where will coats be stored? Are hand towels and soaps in place?
- Organize music – fairly loud as people arrive and then much lower to allow for conversation.
- Check the bar for the extras. Bottle openers? Lemons or limes? Bottled water? Juices?
- Complete any required cooking or baking and set out serving pieces or food presentation.
Day of the party
- Check bathrooms for toilet paper, towels and soaps.
- Lay out ice half and hour before the party is due to start.
- Light all the candles half an hour before the party starts.
- Put our plates and crackers, crudités, nuts, fruit and other nibbles.
- Start the music half an hour before the party is due to start.
- Mix the first drink for each guest and then make it a help-yourself bar.
During the party
- Bring out various ho foods from time to time, throughout the party.
- Be organized so you can be relaxed and have fun with your guests.
- Pay attention to those who are shy and seem to be by themselves.
- Be watchful that there are designated drivers and have a taxi number handy.