How to Put Together a Good Party

Start a planning notebook.

State the event and purpose.

List the people to invite. Make sure the people you invite are appropriate for the type of party you are giving.

Consider doing a themed potluck. Asking everyone to bring an “Italian" or “Mexican" dish.

List all food into two categories of perishables and non-perishables. Remember to include snacks, like nuts and mints to set out.

List all beverages; remember to have on hand plenty of non-alcoholic and non-caffeinated and non-sugar drinks for the variety of people you will be inviting. Make sure not to overbuy drinks, or you might have to deal with a lot of excess after the party.

List all non-food items, napkins, plastic glasses, drip less candles, ice, flowers or center pieces.

One week before the party: Purchase all non-perishables and make any casseroles. Also check the tablecloths, napkins, place mats; wash and press them if necessary.

Select the serving dishes you’ll be using and set them aside. Borrow from friends and family if you need more.

Three days before, do the dusting and all the heavy cleaning, such as the floors and bathrooms. Get the whole family to pitch in.

Decide where guests' coats, purses, etc., will go: in the hall closet? On a bed? In which bedroom? Decide who in the family will be the door greeter and take the coats.

Two days before the party: Buy the perishables. Wash and trim the vegetables, and refrigerate.

One day before: Prepare the dishes that can be reheated or served cold. Set up tables and the buffet line, but don't put the food out.

Set the mood with music - use low-key classical, folk or jazz during the arriving period. Then switch to soft background music during dinner time. After dessert, pick up the tempo with more lively sounds. Switch back to slower-paced music to end the party. Decide what background music should be playing (make sure it is appropriate for the type party you are giving.) Assign a family member or a friend to be in charge of the music.

The day - give the house a once-over in the morning, and pick up flowers and ice.

Prepare the main cooked meal in the oven or on top of the stove. It will not need your attention as the guests arrive.

Pay attention to your guests. Introduce them to each other, telling each something about the other.

Plan an ice-breaker by passing each person a little note to find someone who, for example, has an uncle Louie or used to work at Starbucks.

Remember you are the host and it is your responsibility to make sure people are enjoying themselves and have what they need.

Set up the buffet line in this order: Plates, main dish, vegetables, salads, breads, drinks. Put the sauce or gravy after the item it is to be put on. It will make the guests happy.