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Planning Checklists

Free tools and guides to help you plan the perfect party — no sign-up, no email required.

Party Budget Calculator

10300
Food & Drinks (50 guests × $65)$3,250
Decorations & Supplies$400
Miscellaneous (favors, printing, etc.)$250
Estimated Total$3,900

* Estimates only. Actual costs vary by location and vendor. Use as a starting point for planning.

Party Planning Checklist

Click items to check them off as you go!

8+ Weeks Before

  • Set your budget
  • Choose a date and time
  • Select a venue
  • Create your guest list
  • Choose a theme or color scheme

6 Weeks Before

  • Send invitations
  • Book any vendors (caterer, DJ, photographer)
  • Order custom items (banners, favors)
  • Plan the menu
  • Book entertainment if needed

4 Weeks Before

  • Confirm RSVPs
  • Order or purchase decorations
  • Plan the party timeline
  • Arrange transportation if needed
  • Order the cake or desserts

2 Weeks Before

  • Confirm all vendors
  • Purchase non-perishable food items
  • Prepare party favors
  • Create a day-of timeline
  • Assign helper roles to family/friends

1 Week Before

  • Confirm final headcount
  • Purchase remaining food and drinks
  • Prepare any DIY decorations
  • Charge all electronics
  • Prepare a party day kit (tape, scissors, markers)

Day Before

  • Set up venue decorations
  • Prepare food that can be made ahead
  • Chill beverages
  • Lay out serving dishes and utensils
  • Charge your phone for photos

Day Of

  • Set up remaining decorations
  • Prepare fresh food
  • Set up the dessert table
  • Welcome guests
  • Enjoy the celebration!

Baby Shower Planning Guide

1

Set the Date

Baby showers are typically held 4-6 weeks before the due date. Weekends work best for most guests.

2

Choose a Theme

Popular themes: woodland animals, floral garden, safari, nautical, or keep it gender-neutral with gold and white.

3

Create the Guest List

Keep it intimate (15-30 guests) or go big. Consider a co-ed "sip and see" for a modern twist.

4

Send Invitations

Send 4-6 weeks in advance. Include registry info, theme colors, and RSVP deadline.

5

Plan the Menu

Finger foods, tea sandwiches, a beautiful cake, and a mocktail bar work perfectly for baby showers.

6

Organize Games

Baby shower games like "Guess the Baby Food" and "Baby Bingo" keep guests entertained.

7

Set Up the Gift Table

Create a beautiful gift display area with a welcome sign and coordinating decor.

8

Capture the Memories

Set up a photo booth with props, hire a photographer, or designate a friend to take photos.

Wedding Planning Timeline

12+ Months

  • Set your budget
  • Choose a wedding date
  • Book your venue
  • Start your guest list
  • Hire a wedding planner (optional)

9-12 Months

  • Book photographer and videographer
  • Choose your wedding party
  • Start dress shopping
  • Book caterer
  • Create your wedding website

6-9 Months

  • Send save-the-dates
  • Book florist
  • Book DJ or band
  • Register for gifts
  • Plan honeymoon

4-6 Months

  • Send formal invitations
  • Schedule cake tasting
  • Book hair and makeup
  • Plan rehearsal dinner
  • Order wedding favors

2-4 Months

  • Confirm all vendors
  • Final dress fitting
  • Create seating chart
  • Write vows
  • Plan ceremony details

1 Month

  • Final headcount to caterer
  • Confirm honeymoon bookings
  • Break in wedding shoes
  • Prepare vendor payments
  • Create wedding day timeline

Week Of

  • Rehearsal and rehearsal dinner
  • Delegate day-of tasks
  • Prepare emergency kit
  • Get beauty treatments
  • Rest and relax!