Set a date but allow yourself enough time to be properly prepared, therefore making your Bash a success. If possible, plan 4 – 6 weeks out. Invitations should convey the reason for the party, the date, time, location, and an RSVP line and any other information for guests to know. Create a list of who you have invited and an area to note who is coming and not.

Have invitations in the mail as soon as possible and tell anyone that you speak to before then to save the date. A great turnout is a key factor for a successful event.

Think about the kind of food that you will prepare. Will you be serving appetizers or a full meal? Will you prepare food from your themed cookbook or hire a catering company? Decide the menu and make a detailed list of all the items that you require. Check with any guests that have special dietary requirements.

If you are using your own linens, napkins etc. - wash and press if necessary.

Make contact with any quests who have not responded to your invitation.

If you are having a larger party and feel that you want to enjoy yourself rather than cleaning as the party goes; hire a local teenager or college student to come for the evening and gather used dishes, glasses etc. This is usually a very reasonable fee to pay and will make your Bash much more enjoyable for you.

Look again at the goodies in your Bash bag and decide how you want to use them: at a table for a sit down dinner or food stations.

Arrange your furniture to create a flow from one area to another. Consider open up your furniture to allow room for dancing later on. If you’re doing heavy appetizers, make several areas for food, this will keep the party moving all evening.

Set out your Bash In A Bag chic items and find what display works best with your Bash.

Create a station for chilled drinks and don’t forget large pictures of water with sliced lemon, lime or cucumber for a fresh flavor. It’s helpful to create two stations for drinks to prevent one crowded area.

Do any slicing for cocktails garnishes and water and chill in fridge with a wet paper towel over the top.

Make sure the wash room has plenty of paper and hand soap. Consider keeping air freshener handy and burning a fragranced candle during the party.

Create an area for coat and bag storage during the party that allows guests freedom to find their coat when they are ready to leave.

Buy flowers, cut and arrange. Consider buying flowers that have the colors of your themed event or if possible a varietal of flower that will work with your theme. Bird of Paradise for a Tropical theme. Tumbleweed for Funky Frontier – just kidding but a bale of hay might work well with a saddle on it for the front porch or entry way. You can also pick up small bales of hay at a local craft store and use on your table