Front Door Greeter: For a large party, such as an open house, have someone assist guests as they arrive, take coats and gifts, and have guests sign the guest book.

Food and Beverages: Arrange for a caterer and servers or ask someone to help with food and beverage preparation and refilling items as they are consumed.

Activity Director: Enlist the aid of an outgoing friend to make introductions, encourage circulating and mingling, and coordinate sports and other activities.

Photographer: Photographs are a nice memory of your party. Hire a professional photographer or ask a friend to photograph the party events.

 Catered or potluck picnic

 Backyard cookout

  Evening banquet

  Housewarming

  Hiking

  Skiing

  Rollerskating

 Talent show

  Formal dance

 Sockhop

 Costume

 Active games (baseball, three-legged race, horseshoes, tug-o-war)

 Quiet games (checkers, cards, dominoes, board games)

Set a budget.

Choose the type of party (buffet, sit-down dinner, cocktail, and soon).

Select a theme (formal, costume, and so on).

Decide on the date, time, and place.

Make reservations for facilities, caterers, photographers, and other service providers.

Prepare a guest list with addresses and phone numbers.

Make or purchase invitations.

Address and mail invitations.

Plan food and beverages to serve.

Arrange for extra help, such as a bartender, cook, server, or babysitter.

Think about supplies you’ll need, such as extra chairs, dishes, and napkins.

Order flowers.

Think about what you’ll wear to the party. Try the outfit on to ensure that it fits and is in good condition.

Call to confirm all orders and extra help (photographer, bartender, cook, server, baby-sitter).

Create an attending guest list from the RSVPs you received.

Add extra coat hangers to your closet for guests’ coats.

Clean your home or yard.

Set out supplies and dishes for the party.

Check out your furniture arrangement and general decor. Move any items that are breakable or in the way.