Follow this simple 10-step checklist to make sure your party is a crowd pleaser:

1. Choose the day and time of your party.

   Days: Sunday–Thursday are work/school days, so events should be short and on the quiet side. Saturdays are generally best for large gatherings, to accommodate your guests’ travel and activity schedules.

   Times: Start a brunch by 11 a.m. Schedule afternoon events without a meal for between 2 and 5 p.m. Begin cocktail parties by 6 p.m. and end no later than 8 p.m. A combination cocktail and dinner party is best begun at 7 p.m.

2. Set your guest list.

   Consider carefully. Don’t try to repay all your social obligations at once. Aim for a good mix of listeners and talkers — it’ll make the party more interesting.

3. Determine your budget and time resources.

   Then use these money and time parameters to help make appropriate decisions about theme, food, decorations, etc.

4. Pick a theme.

   Holidays are always appropriate. Or venture into less-chartered territory with a neighborhood pizza party, banana split party, salad party, movie marathon, cookie-decorating contest or an Oscar party. And don’t overlook the possibility of being spontaneous with an impromptu party.

5. Decide the menu.

   Be sure to consider:

   • Theme and time of event. For example, you don’t need a stunningly elaborate menu for an afternoon football party; instead, spend your creative cooking energy on a great pot of chili or stew.
   • Guest preferences: Do any of them have special needs like non-dairy or vegetarian items?
   • Serving style: Tailor it to the size and formality of your gathering:
     • Buffet Style: Great for larger gatherings. Guests sit wherever they find a perch. Food is self-served from a central location, along with plates and cutlery.
     • Family Style: Ideal for mid-size gatherings. A casual format, with guests seated at a table and food passed from one to another.
     • Formal Style: An elegant dinner with six or more guests and five or more courses. Most often, a wait staff serves the food to each diner.
   • Time available to prepare the food.
   • Technical limitations: Oven, refrigerator and workspace.
6. Send your invitations

   Be sure to include all the vital information: date, time (both start and end), theme/type of party, address, phone number and RSVP request. Also include directions and/or a map if appropriate. Regarding RSVPs, it’s easier for both you and your guests to specify “regrets only.”

7. Choose your tableware and decorations

   Fit your choices to your lifestyle. For all but the most formal affairs, don’t hesitate to use casual fabrics and paper or plastic plates for a festive flair.

8. Make your shopping list...and include when to buy

   Review your recipes and write each ingredient on a list. Organize by how far in advance you can purchase each item. Do the same for condiments, beverages, dishware, garbage bags, bathroom supplies, etc. Some timing guidelines to shop by:

   When To Buy	What To Buy
   3 weeks in advance	• All paper and plastic • Nonperishable foods, including: - Canned goods - Serving containers and utensils - Frozen foods - Canned and bottled beverages - Packages of crackers or cookies - Candies - Dried spices and seasonings - Party favors - Condiments
   Week of the party	• Cheeses • Refrigerated beverages like: - Milk - Iced tea - Juice • Sturdy fresh staples like: - Carrots - Celery - Onions
   Within 24 hours of party	• Bakery goods • Deli meats/salads • Special orders • Ice • Fresh flowers • Balloons • Fresh meat/seafood

9. Add ambience

   Lighting and good music are great ways to set a party’s mood. Simple garnishes add sparkle to your table. Small favors personalize each guest’s experience.

10. Expect and plan for the unexpected.

    Designate a greeter for early arrivals (when you’re in the shower). Have a rainy-day alternative for outdoor parties. Know the ready-to-serve shortcuts you can purchase in case your food-prep time gets zapped at the last minute.