How far ahead should I plan a dinner party?

Three weeks is comfortable: invitations go out first, the menu is settled once you know who is coming, and the shopping and cooking fall in the last few days.

What can I prepare the day before?

Desserts, sauces, dressings, chopped vegetables and most braises and casseroles keep well overnight. Set the table and chill the drinks the night before too.

Is my checklist saved?

No. Ticks stay on the page while it is open; print it to keep a copy. Nothing is sent to us or stored.

Dinner Party Checklist and Timeline

Choose how the food is coming together and enter your date: each step shows the day to do it. Tick tasks off as you go, or print the list for the fridge.

Free, no account needed. Nothing you type leaves your browser.

Dinner party checklist

Questions

How far ahead should I plan a dinner party?: Three weeks is comfortable: invitations go out first, the menu is settled once you know who is coming, and the shopping and cooking fall in the last few days.
What can I prepare the day before?: Desserts, sauces, dressings, chopped vegetables and most braises and casseroles keep well overnight. Set the table and chill the drinks the night before too.
Is my checklist saved?: No. Ticks stay on the page while it is open; print it to keep a copy. Nothing is sent to us or stored.

Hosting something yourself?

ReserveMyMeal sends your invitations, collects RSVPs, meal choices and dietary notes, and gives you the kitchen counts. Free for 2 events a month, with up to 75 invitations.

Host your own event