Another short post but a good reminder. Make up what you can ahead of time. Get the prep work done early. Give your kids jobs (according to their ages and what they can handle). Make it a family affair, if you have a family.

Blank Form (#3)

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
Enter your email below and we'll send the recipe straight to your inbox (and more recipes sent weekly!)

-What can you make in advance and store in the refrigerator or bake ahead of time?
-Think about the water pitcher and adding lemons or oranges.
-Do you have enough ice?
-You can prepare your salad in advance and store in Ziploc bags, and then put it together and toss right before serving.
-Is your dessert made, or at least the details are worked out in your mind?
-How about setting out the dessert plates and the forks.
-Do you have butter, salt and pepper on the table?
-Have you thought about writing out your menu so you can quickly glance at it, to make sure you have not forgotten anything?
-Do you have a lighter handy so you can light the candles quickly?
-What is the plan for music in the background?

These are pretty common and simple reminders, and the list could go on and on, but prepping in the kitchen and planning ahead is for sure the secret to a successful evening.

You will be more relaxed as the hostess and happier when the doorbell rings when you are organized.

Are you a planner or do you do things last minute?

Join my 31-Day sisters
Chatting at the Sky, Nesting Place, Balancing Beauty and Bedlam, My First Kitchen, Life With My 3 Boybarians, Remodeling This Life, The Inspired Room