Hey Hosting Queen,

One thing I hear all the time from my Hosting Queens is this:
“I love throwing a beautiful party… but I always lose track of time and end up rushing around.”

Let’s make sure that is not your experience anymore.
This year, you get to feel organized, calm, and glowing by the time your guests arrive — not flustered and behind schedule.

And the secret to that?
A thoughtful, realistic timeline.

Start With the Basics — Then Go Straight to the Menu

A successful party always begins with a clear plan. Once you’ve decided when, where, and why, the next step is choosing your menu.

Your menu determines:

• how long you’ll need to prep
  
  

• what you can cook ahead
  
  

• what needs last-minute attention
  
  Once you choose the menu, stick with it — and simplify where you can. A relaxed host creates the most memorable experience.

Give Yourself Enough Time

Yes, I’ve planned beautiful, seamless parties in as little as two weeks… but the sweet spot is 4–6 weeks.
For a casual dinner with close friends, a shorter timeline is completely fine — the steps are the same, just condensed.

Your Pre-Party Timeline

2–7+ Days Before

🎉 Do all grocery + décor shopping
🎉 Gather any specialty ingredients or items early

1–2 Days Before

🎉 Deep clean or tidy the main hosting areas
🎉 Wash linens, polish glassware if needed

The Day Before (Critical Step!)

🎉 Prep as much food as you possibly can
Think:

• chopping all veggies
  
  

• baking or cooking components of larger dishes
  
  

• mixing dips or sauces
  
  

• chopping garlic + onions so they’re ready to go
  🎉 Set out serving dishes, utensils, linens, and trays
  This removes so much day-of stress.
  
  On Party Day

✨ Build your day around hosting — no errands, appointments, or last-minute shopping
✨ Set the table + décor first thing in the morning (or right after lunch)
✨ Wash dishes often so your kitchen stays clear
✨ Account for cook + reheat times in your schedule
✨ Set up the drink station early (keep hot + chilled drinks for just before guests arrive)
✨ Aim to have all food ready 30 minutes before guests arrive
Most cooked dishes can safely stay warm in the oven (covered with foil) for 30 minutes
✨ Turn on music, top up drinks, and get dressed in your party outfit — also 30 minutes before

When everything is ready ahead of time, you create a beautiful buffer — giving yourself space to breathe, reset, and welcome your guests with a confident, genuine smile.

I’d love to know if this helped you.
Where do you usually get stuck when planning your timeline?
Hit reply — I read every message.

Less Stress, More Magic ~ Always

With Love,

Krista