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The Ultimate Party-Planning ChecklistOne month before the party

Settle on a doable theme/colour scheme and budgetSet a date and time Create a guest listDesign an invitation (include an RSVP deadline)Secure a venue if necessary (pay deposits, request a back-up undercover area if outdoors, check if your venue has rules regarding rides, décor, foodstuffs, etc.)Book any other vendors/ services (entertainment, rides, inflatables, etc.)

Three weeks to go Send out invitationsPlan the party games/activitiesFinalise decoration ideasDecide on the contents of your party packsOrder the cake (if you’re not baking it yourself )Settle on a menuMake a ‘master shopping list’ of all eats, decorations and miscellaneous items you will need Confirm caterers if necessary

Two weeks and countingFinalise number of guests attending Test out any crafts or activities that you will be running on the dayPurchase décor items and non-perishablesAssign duties to family or friends that have volunteered

One week before D-Day (or should we say B-Day)Purchase any outstanding or additional party suppliesTest out any crafts or activities that you will be running on the dayLayout an informal schedule or sequence of events, as a little structure will help the party flow smoothlyPack up goodie bags

Birthday eveBake or fetch the cakeIf possible, set up part of the décor Purchase perishablesConfirm all rentals/vendors/helpersRemember to have your camera or video recorder charged and ready

THE BIG DAYFinal touches to décorFinalise food preparationLast minute wrapping of your child’s gift because you were so busy with everything else