Leave time to paint your nails!
Holiday parties are likely to fill every weekend in December. There never seems to be enough time, and multitasking is elevated to a whole new level. Although joyous and festive, it can compromise our love for the season. Constructing a timeline can put you back in control and allow you to relax and enjoy the fun. From choosing your wardrobe to greeting guests, everything can be planned and executed perfectly.
Timeline for Attending a Party
7 days before:
* Arrange for a babysitter.
* Make hair and nail appointments for no later than 1 p.m. on party day.
5 days before:
* Decide on an outfit. Shop for a new one if necessary!
* R.S.V.P. and ask your hostess what you can bring.
3 days before:
* Purchase and wrap hostess gift.
* Get snacks and drinks for sitter.
Party Day (Assumes leaving at 7 p.m.)
9 a.m. - Begin household tasks that need to be done before you leave.
11 a.m. - Go to hair and nail appointments.
4 p.m. - Shower.
4:15 p.m. - Set out snacks and write last-minute instructions for sitter.
4:30 p.m. - Eat a light dinner to avoid overindulging at the party.
5 p.m. - Get children bathed and in their pajamas. Feed the dog.
5:30 p.m. - Do hair if not done earlier.
5:45 p.m. - Ask husband to turn off game and take out dog.
6 p.m. - Do your make-up and tell husband to go get sitter.
6:30 p.m. - Get dressed!
7 p.m. - Kiss the kids, pet the dog, grab your hostess gift and remind yourself this is going to be fun!
When it comes to enjoying drinks this season, please enjoy responsibly and know when to say when. Take the Anheuser-Busch pledge to drink responsibly.
Timeline for Hosting a Party
2 weeks before:
* Send out invitations.
7 days before:
* Plan your menu. Make arrangements for anything that will be catered.
* Order flowers.
* Decorate with the basics.
* Arrange for kids to spend party night with friends.
3 days before:
* Make calls to anyone who has not confirmed.
* Get out your serving dishes and match them to your menu.
2 days before:
* Clean house. Or, if you're lucky, hire a house cleaner!
* Shop for food and additional décor.
1 Day before:
* Cook everything that can be made ahead.
* Finish decorating.
Party Day (Assumes 8 p.m. party time)
12 p.m. - Drop kids at a friend's house.
1 p.m. - Pick up catered items and flowers.
3 p.m. - Shower.
5 p.m. - Cook the remaining dishes.
6 p.m. - Eat a light dinner - you might not have time to enjoy the food!
6:30 p.m. - Do hair and make-up.
7:15 p.m. - Get dressed. Don't forget a sparkly heel or necklace! This is a party, after all!
7:30 p.m. - Set out food and drinks. Ensure the ice is readily available in the freezer.
8 p.m. - Begin greeting guests! Relax, and have fun!
