Start Here4–6 Weeks Before Lock in the major decisions so the rest of the plan has somewhere to go. Set the date, time, and theme for the party. Create the guest list and estimate attendance. Choose the venue or event location. Send invitations or save-the-date messages. Begin planning the food and drink menu. Estimate drink quantities with the TPS Drink Calculator.
Build the Plan2–3 Weeks Before With the guest list taking shape, finalize the core pieces of the event. Confirm the guest count. Order or purchase wine, beer, and spirits. Plan a cocktail menu if serving mixed drinks. Arrange catering or food preparation. Confirm bartenders or service staff if needed. Order party supplies, decorations, rentals, or balloons.
Fill the Gaps1 Week Before Review the quantities, confirm the logistics, and make sure the bar has what it needs. Purchase mixers, garnishes, and non-alcoholic beverages. Confirm delivery or pickup of beverages. Review glassware, ice buckets, corkscrews, and bar tools. Double-check decorations, tables, seating, and serviceware. Confirm food and catering arrangements. Adjust beverage quantities if the guest count changed.
Prepare the Details1–2 Days Before Handle the perishable items, cold storage, and physical setup before the clock starts moving quickly. Pick up any remaining wine, beer, spirits, or supplies. Purchase ice, fruit, and fresh garnishes. Chill beer, white wine, sparkling wine, and mixers. Prepare cocktail ingredients, batches, and mixers. Organize the bar area or beverage stations.
Bring It TogetherParty Day Finish the setup, stock the stations, then stop working long enough to enjoy what you planned. Set up the bar with spirits, mixers, glassware, and tools. Stock plenty of ice and garnishes. Prepare beverage stations for easy guest access. Set out water and non-alcoholic options. Do a final check of food, music, lighting, and trash stations. Take a breath. Welcome your guests. Enjoy the party.
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