Planning a party doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner party, birthday celebration, or holiday gathering, this comprehensive party planning timeline will help you create an unforgettable event while staying organized and stress-free.
What to do:
Pro Tip: Start with your guest count to determine everything else. A party for 20 people requires different planning than one for 50.
Send formal invitations with these details:
Plan your menu strategically:
Take the guesswork out of party planning: Use our free party food and drink calculator to determine exactly how much food and beverages you need based on your guest count, party duration, and event type. Get precise quantities in under 2 minutes!
Order your party supplies:
Looking for beautiful, eco-friendly tableware? Pickytarian’s compostable dinnerware combines elegant design with environmental responsibility – perfect for hosts who care about style and sustainability.
Non-perishable shopping:
Food prep that can be done early:
Need help calculating exact quantities? Our party planning calculator takes into account your party type, duration, and guest preferences to give you precise shopping lists. No more overbuying or running out of food!
3-4 days before:
1-2 days before:
Day before:
Environmental Impact: Traditional disposable plates can take 500+ years to decompose. Compostable alternatives break down in 90-180 days in commercial composting facilities.
Style Without Compromise: Modern compostable dinnerware features sophisticated designs that rival traditional ceramic – your guests won’t even know they’re eco-friendly!
Stress-Free Cleanup: Enjoy your party without worrying about broken dishes or extensive cleanup. Simply compost used plates and focus on what matters most – your guests.
What to Look For:
Budget-Friendly Tips:
For most parties, 6-8 weeks provides ample time. Large events (50+ people) or holiday parties may need 8-12 weeks.
Underestimating prep time and trying to do everything the day of the party. The key is spreading tasks across several days or weeks so you don’t get overwhelmed.
Plan for 1 pound of food per person for a full meal, or 4-6 appetizer pieces per person per hour for cocktail parties. For precise calculations based on your specific party type, guest count, and duration, try our free food and drink calculator – it provides detailed shopping lists and serving sizes tailored to your event.
Yes! Modern compostable plates are designed to handle hot, cold, wet, and oily foods without breaking down during use.