A Christmas party planning tick list

The celebration of Christmas can be a major undertaking or a low-key gathering of family and friends. Be sure that you start your planning early, especially if you plan a major event. December is a very busy time of year. The shops are very busy and you might find that some of the items that you need are sold out. But, if you start well in advance with the planning of your celebration you will be assured to find everything that you need.

About 6 weeks before Christmas answering these questions will help you with the planning of your Christmas celebrations:

• What date do you plan to have your party?
• More or less, how many guests do you intend inviting?
• What type of celebration to you intend having?
  • Will it be more or less an informal event?
  • Will it be a sit-down meal?
• Who do you intend to invite?

5 Weeks before the date:

• Send the invitations to your potential guests.
• Start to plan the menu.
• Plan the budget.

4 Weeks before the date:

• Start planning what Christmas decorations you will need for the Christmas tree, for the Christmas table and around the house.
• Purchase the Christmas decorations that you need.
• Start purchasing the food and drinks.
• If you intend making decorations, this is a good time to plan these decorations and to start to make them.
• Purchase Christmas serviettes.
• Purchase or make Christmas crackers.

2 - 3 Weeks before the date:

• Start with the food preparations.
• This is the time to decorate the tree. If you intend using a live tree, purchase a healthy tree. Decorating the tree can be an enjoyable family activity, especially for the younger members of the family. Try to get all the members of the family that are available to partake in this activity.
• Put up all home and tree decorations and lights.
• Start to place the Christmas gifts under the tree.

1 Week before the date:

• Fill the freezer with prepared make-ahead dishes.
• Make sure that you have all the decorations that you need for the table.

1 Day before the date:

• Tidy and clean the house.
• Fold the serviettes.
• Set the dining table.
• Place fresh flowers and candles throughout the house.
• Check that all the gifts are under the tree, especially those for the children.