The Ultimate Event Planning Checklist for at Home Parties

Whether you’re planning a holiday party, quinceañera, 4th of July, a birthday party for your significant other, office party, sports watch party or just a casual get-together, hosting an event at home can be a lot of fun—but also a lot of work. You’ve got to think about everything: the guest list, the menu, the decorations, and making sure your home is spotless. The good news? With a little bit of planning (and about three weeks), you can pull it all together without stressing out. The key is to get organized in advance so that, when the day of the event arrives, you can actually relax and enjoy the party.

Our handy checklist will guide you through the planning process, step-by-step, so you can host an event that everyone will remember—and that you’ll enjoy too!

Three Weeks Before: Get Started

1. Make Your Invitation List

One of the first things you need to do is decide who’s coming! Think about the vibe of your event. For a casual cocktail party, you might want to invite more people because not everyone will show up. Typically, about 70–80% of those invited will actually attend, so don’t be afraid to invite a few extra guests.

2. Decide on a Theme (Optional)

This isn’t a must, but if you want to give your event a special touch, choosing a theme can make it even more fun. Whether it’s a winter wonderland or a simple holiday cheer theme, once you’ve chosen, start brainstorming ideas for decorations that match.

3. Send Invitations

No need to go overboard with formal invitations unless you want to. You can always send e-vites, give your friends a call, or even text them, depending on how you usually communicate. Just be sure to get the word out early—especially during the busy holiday season!

4. Plan the Menu

Start thinking about what you’ll serve. A good tip is to choose recipes that can be made in advance. This way, when the party arrives, you won’t be stuck in the kitchen all night. Look for make-ahead appetizers or desserts that can be whipped up in under an hour. Write down the ingredients you need and make a shopping list!

5. Line Up Help

If you think you’ll need a little extra help, consider hiring someone for a few hours. Whether it’s a local teen or a professional, they can assist with cleaning, passing around appetizers, or even replenishing food. You can also ask family or close friends to help you with setup and cleanup.

Two Weeks Before: Prep Time

1. Clean and Launder Tabletop Items

Take a break from the chaos and give your plates, silverware, and glasses a thorough cleaning. You’ll want to ensure everything is sparkling and ready for your guests. While you're at it, check that you have enough napkins, utensils, and anything else you’ll need.

2. Create a Playlist

The music sets the mood, so make sure your playlist is ready. Plan for a few hours of upbeat songs—aim for 20 songs per hour. You can always add a few favorites to keep it lively!

3. Do a Round of Grocery Shopping and Cooking

Start buying non-perishable items and prep any dishes that can be frozen. This will take a load off your shoulders as the big day approaches. You’ll thank yourself later for doing the hard work ahead of time!

One Week Before: Deep Clean and Final Touches

1. Deep Clean the House

It’s time for a good old deep clean! Vacuum, dust, and clean every visible surface in your home. Make sure the kitchen and guest bathroom are extra clean since they’ll be the most-used areas.

2. Set the Stage

Arrange your furniture to encourage movement and mingling. Think about where the food and drinks will go, and make sure there’s enough space for everyone to comfortably hang out.

3. Check the Lighting

Take a quick tour of your home and check all the lights. If any bulbs are out, replace them! Proper lighting will set the right mood and keep your space looking welcoming.

4. Stock the Bar

You don’t need a fully-stocked bar, but make sure you have enough wine for your guests—about three bottles for every four people is a good starting point. Don’t forget to offer a few cocktail options as well, and if you’re feeling fancy, create a signature drink for the evening.

Three Days Before: The Fun Begins

1. Decorate

Now’s the time to put up decorations and create a festive atmosphere. Set out candles, hang streamers, and place any seasonal decor around your home. If you’re using any delicate items, wait until the day of the event to avoid anything getting knocked over, especially if you have pets!

2. Set Up Clean-Up Stations

Accidents happen, so it’s a good idea to have a few clean-up stations around your house. Put together a basket with wine stain remover, rags, and club soda in case of spills.

3. Prepare for Coats and Shoes

Make sure you have enough space for guests' coats and shoes. If you don’t have a closet, invest in a cheap coat rack or clear a small area for guests to hang their things.

4. Finish Grocery Shopping

It’s time for your final grocery run! Go through your recipes and make sure you’ve got everything. You don’t want to realize at the last minute that you’re missing a key ingredient.

5. Create a Cooking Schedule

Think about your cooking timeline. What needs to be cooked first? What can be made ahead and reheated? This will help you stay organized and avoid last-minute chaos in the kitchen.

One Day Before: Prep and Set

1. Set the Table

If you’re hosting a sit-down meal, now’s the time to set the table. If it's a buffet, make sure all the dishes are ready to go, and set out the plates and utensils for your guests.

2. Finish Cooking

Make sure you’ve baked or prepared anything that can be done ahead of time. You’ll want to marinate anything that needs to sit overnight and have your veggies chopped and ready for

the next day.

Day of the Party: The Final Touches

1. Quick Clean

Give your home one last once-over. Wipe down surfaces, check that the bathrooms are stocked with toilet paper and soap, and make sure your home is guest-ready.

2. Finish Cooking

You're almost there! Finish up any cooking or baking that needs to be done, and get everything ready for serving.

3. Set Out Apps and Drinks

Lay out appetizers that don’t need to be kept cold or hot, like chips and dips, and get your drinks set up. For anything that needs to be chilled, wait until right before the party to set it out.

4. Greet Your Guests

It’s time! By now, your work should be done, and you can finally step away from the kitchen and enjoy your party. Greet your guests, relax, and let the fun begin!

Planning an event at home can be a lot of work, but with a little organization and time management, you can create an unforgettable experience that both you and your guests will cherish. Just follow this checklist, stay calm, and remember: The goal is to have fun and enjoy the moment. You’ve got this!