Planning an event and eating your cake TOO!

For those who simply don't have the time or for those who just don't feel they have the right creativity, I always suggest hiring an event planner to help make your event exactly what you image in your head. However, some of us do love the thrill of planning our own event for friends, family, coworkers, etc. 

For those of you who do, this blog entry is for you. 

The simplest of lists when it comes to planning an event:

Three week before the event:

1. Decide on a theme which might relate to the purpose of the party

2. Find the right location

3. Make an invitation list

4. Send out invitations (email, snail mail, or phone calls)

5. Plan a menu

6. If you plan on serving alcohol, what will you serve, and will you have a signature drink?

7. Ask people for help if you need it, think about before and after the party (staff, bartenders, caterers, florists, etc.) 

Two weeks before the event:

1. Get decor ready- whether that be plates, eating utensil, tables and linens ready

2. Start thinking about creative centerpiece ideas

3. Decide on music- you can use your own music (ipod, stereo, laptop and large enough speakers)- or hire a DJ 

One week before the event:

1. Clean! 

2. Set the furniture- arrange the furniture in a way where all your guests will be comfortable. In my opinion, its best to have a centralized area to everyone to congregate as to not separate and spread out guests. 

Three days before the event:

1. You've gotten a lot done! Relax!

One day before the event:

1. Set everything up so in case you are missing something, you can go out and get it

2. Set up garbage cans in convenient locations

3. Designate area for coats and jackets

4. Shop- groceries, the decor that would have gone bad if you bought it earlier, alcohol, florals

5. If you're cooking- start preparing the food!

6. Put away all valuables at the venue!!

Day of:

1. Set everything up, get music going, have your booze and appetizers out, and welcome your guests!!

My advice- 

*Most of the time people have a party to give their guests a time to relax and enjoy themselves, but don't you deserve that as well? I believe in being able to completely melt into your own party and not run around trying to make sure everything is right. If you have done your chores, then your party is pre-set and ready to create those memories that you want. 

*Unless you love taking pictures, have someone designated to take photos on the day of the event so that you enjoy yourself and then have something to look back on. 

*Can't you image yourself sipping champagne and laughing with your friends while listening to music and enjoying the compliments on the amazing cake you provided for all your friends? Unless this is a party you are throwing for someone else (your best friend's bachelorette or your sister's birthday) you shouldn't have to worry about whether they are enjoying themselves, you should have an amazing time as well!