Here is an idea for what to do the night before a party to feel really organized: Figure out which bowls and platters and tools to use by setting them out on the table, then use sticky notes to label each one with the name of the food that'll go in it.

It is also helpful to have a check list ready, so the day of the party you will not be thinking (Did I forget something to do?).

On the day of the party: If you can, try to have others take care of some of the work like setting up or cleaning, taking pictures, blowing up balloons and decorations, and setting the table. This will help you not feel over whelmed and burn out before the party even starts. Delegate and you too can have fun at the party, and your helpers will feel more apart of the party.

THE PARTY!

Weather it's a birthday, shower, family picnic, wedding event, or any other reason for a group of people to get together; give yourself enough time to plan it.

Get a montly calendar with plenty of space to write on. This will help you plan your time, but leave some space for the unexpected to happen too. Seeing your event calendar at a glance which days you are busy will help you plan ahead and achieve your party preparation goals at an easy, relaxed pace.

Before you start to mark your calendar, you will need to make a list of everything you want for your party. This will make it easier to budget your time, from the invitations, making craft items, decorating, cooking, and shopping.

From this party list you can then make your planning lists. Like one for the invites and craft items and decorations, the designes, items to buy, who will do what, and time to make them and then time to decorate the party room and clean up. A second list for the menu, recipes needed, shopping, cooking, gifts, and even what to do with the left overs. A third list for the fun, from the music, the games and prizes, or entertainment.

Now your ready to start marking dates on your calendar, choose dates for finishing your decorating projects, and menu planning. So concentrate on finishing the decorations and gifts first, since tey can be prepared well in advance.

This maybe your party to plan, but it never hurts to ask for ideas, advice or help with it. Your goal is to have a party that you can be proud of and your guests will remember. Get the family involved! It's a wonderful time for sharing and doing things together.

The secret is to plan well ahead, establish a schedule of things to accomplish, and stick to it. When the party arrives, you can relax with confidence and enjoy a fun-filled and memorable event with your family and friends!