This Handy Party Checklist Will Remove the Guesswork from Hosting

The first party that I ever hosted was a game night, and it was barely a party. I had no idea how to host a party, so I just brought out some games, chips and dip, and wine. We had fun, but it was not my best entertaining — I didn’t know how to entertain guests at a party other than making sure they were fed, maybe dancing, and seemed to be having a good time. But over time, I’ve picked up tips for entertaining and throw lively bashes a few times a year, whether at my home or out at a karaoke bar in New York City.

I’ve figured out how to host a good party with a checklist of what to do before, during, and after. You should by no means walk around with a notepad checking off when you put out a meat and cheese platter or when the ice needs refilling, but these entertaining tips will help you keep on track and stay organized so everything runs smoothly.

Before the Party

❏ Get RSVPs at least two weeks in advance.

❏ Shop for ingredients for recipes at least three days ahead in case you forget something.

❏ Make any food that can be prepared in advance a day or two ahead, like putting together Make-Ahead Spinach Phyllo Roll-Ups or prepping vegetables for a fajita bar.

❏ Ask your most-trusted friends to bring anything you need the day before, like bags of ice or a dessert from a local bakery.

❏ Set the table the night before if having a traditional dinner party.

❏ Have garbage bags ready for trash at the party, or make sure people know where garbage cans and recycling bins are.

❏ Put away anything breakable if kids are coming to the party.

During the Party

❏ If a seated dinner party, seat people next to those they don’t know for more lively and interesting conversation.

❏ If it is more casual and you are serving wine and beer, set up a cooler the morning of the party to keep everything cold and easy to find.

❏ Put out a pitcher of water next to cocktails to encourage people to hydrate.

❏ Set up buffet-style food so people can serve themselves whenever possible.

❏ Mingle among different groups of people throughout the party, but don’t feel obligated to talk to absolutely everyone there.

❏ Keep an eye on food that needs to be refilled or reheated, but don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends to get more chips or make a cocktail for someone.

❏ Clean as you go, but don’t get bogged down by it.

❏ Have fun!

After the Party

❏ Any stragglers at the end of the party can help take out the trash or assist with cleaning.

❏ Send thank-you notes to anyone who went above and beyond to help — even just a text.

❏ Take a deep breath because you hosted a great party! And then start thinking up your next party idea.