So, it’s coming up to the big day, your party is about to start, and the last thing you want to do is disappoint your guests, so it is important to ensure that you have everything in place to ensure that everything that you have control over goes well. If you are hosting a fairly prestigious event for the first time, whether it is a wedding, a graduation, or even just a birthday party, things can still go wrong, so make time during the last few hours before the party starts to make sure that you have things under control, as this will ensure that your guests – and you – have a great time on the night.

In the last week before the party, it is absolutely essential that you call round all of your suppliers to make sure that they have all of your orders understood and ready to go. The first place that you need to call is the venue. Make sure that they haven’t made a double booking for the big night, and confirm the exact number of people that you are expecting. While most places with a bar will take on extra staff on the night, it is always a good idea just to confirm numbers so that if they need additional staff, they can give them a call and make sure that they are there on the night.

Your caterer will also appreciate knowing in advance the number of people that are being invited to the party, as this will enable them to order additional food if necessary, and make sure that once again they have enough waiting staff to look after your guests on the night. If the catering is being handled by the venue, it is still important to make sure that you speak to the person who is in charge so that they can check their orders.

By contacting the venue and caterers a week before the big day, you can make sure that there are not likely to be any major hitches, as both of these factors will have a major impact on the success of the event.

Entertainment should also be contacted a week before so that you can confirm any changes to the event that have taken place sine the original booking was made, and ensure that they are up to speed. You can also make sure that they are aware of the exact location – especially important with difficult to find venues outside a major town.

At least 2 days before the party, you need to check your outfit. That way if it needs cleaning you will have time to take it to the dry cleaners. You should also phone the company that is handling transportation – whether this is a taxi, a mini bus, or even a luxury limousine, to make sure that they know what time you want to be picked up before the party, and also when you want them to collect you at the end. You can also help them with directions if necessary.

None of your suppliers will mind you calling them in advance, and by checking that they are all fully aware of your needs, you will be able to avoid any potential embarrassment on the night, and concentrate on having a fantastic time at your party.

Tags: Party Planning, Party Preparation