__ Set a date and time for the birthday party __ Decide on a location and make reservations __ Create a guest list and determine size of party __ Create a budget for the party __ Plan your activities and games __ Plan your menu and drinks __ Decide on a party theme __ Purchase your party supplies __ Schedule entertainment (Clowns, etc) __ Ask a friend or relative to help at the birthday party
1 Week Before:
__ Call guests who have not responded yet
__ Plan for additional help if needed __ Confirm reservations if needed __ Schedule activities __ Confirm cake order if not making your own __ Bake & freeze unfrosted cake if making your own __ Fill party favor bags or pinatas __ Start any heavy cleaning __ Buy freezable foods
3 Weeks Before:
__ Send out invitations and directions __ Purchase balloons, party favors and game prizes __ List any other supplies needed __ Order rental equipment if needed __ Purchase film and video tape __ Purchase pinata, and fillers __ Place guest list near the phone for easy access
2 Days Before:
__ Begin decorating __ Gift wrap and prepare party favors or game prizes __ Purchase beverages and ice __ Purhcase food and remaining grocery items __ Review the games and activities
__ Replace batteries in your video/digital camera
__ Bake any treats that will be served __ Clean party area __ Defrost frozen foods __ Confirm any entertainment
2 Weeks Before:
__ Select activities to entertain the children with __ Order cake or buy cake supplies to make your own __ Finalize your menu __ Purchase candles and matches __ Purchase and wrap gifts for the birthday child
1 Day Before:
__ Child proof the party area __ Discuss with your child appropriate party behavior __ Clean outdoor surfaces __ Clean bathrooms __ Prepare any foods that will refrigerate well overnight
Day of the party:
__ Finish any last minute decorations __ Pick up cake __ Frost and decorate home made cake __ Set out party supplies __ Fill or pick up balloons __ Place crafts and prizes near the table __ Place presents near the table __ Put any pets away __ Decorate outdoor areas (Place balloons on mailbox) __ Set up the food on the table __ Smile and have a great time
