Three Weeks Before

• done!Choose a theme, if you want one.

  Decide whether it will be an elegant soiree or a cozy supper, then think about a theme in terms of season, occasion, and guest list. Make, buy, or borrow any related decorations you might need.

• done!Extend invitations.

  Mail, phone, and e-mail invites are all acceptable; the more formal the dinner, the more appropriate a written invitation, perhaps tied into the theme. Include such details as the date and time (typically 7 p.m., which allows an hour for cocktails, appetizers, and mingling), the deadline to RSVP (a week before party day), your address, and suggested attire if formal.

• done!Plan the menu.

  Keep it fairly simple, including make-ahead dishes if possible (so you don’t spend too much time running in and out of the kitchen), and take the weather into consideration.

Two Weeks Before

• done!Come up with a playlist.

  It should be long enough to last for the duration of the dinner, coordinate with the party’s theme if there is one, and be kept at a level that doesn’t hinder conversation.

  Related: Create a Dinner-Party Playlist
• done!Clean any crystal, china, and silverware you’ll be using.

  And launder and iron linens.

One Week Before

• done!Clean the house thoroughly.

  To maintain it for the rest of the week, do a quick daily routine.

• done!Take inventory of tableware, cookware, and serving dishes.

  If you don’t have enough for every dish you’re serving, consider purchasing inexpensive pieces from a discount or thrift store or borrowing—don’t be afraid to mix compatible patterns. Allocate a serving dish for each menu item, and label the dish with a Post-it note.

• done!Make a detailed shopping list and cooking schedule.

  Map out where you’ll buy each ingredient or beverage to streamline your shopping route. Rule of thumb: Calculate three bottles of wine for every four guests. Place an order with the local butcher, fish shop, baker, or liquor store as needed.

• done!Set the stage.

  Arrange the furniture as you’ll want it for the party, checking for the flow and removing any clutter. Designate a coffee table or side table for coffee and dessert if you wish. Figure out the lighting: Using low-wattage bulbs or candlelight will create the right mood.

• done!Create a seating plan if desired.

  Mix together people who aren’t familiar with one another, and set out placecards.

Three Days Before

• done!Decorate.

  Lay out all decorations but the flowers.

  Related: 16 Fresh Ways to Dress Up a Table
• done!Check the medicine cabinet.

  Remove any personal items you wouldn’t want guests to see.

• done!Designate a place for coats.

  Make space in a front closet and fill it with hangers, or designate a bed for coats (and make sure the room’s especially tidy and clear of valuables, so you won’t need to worry about them).

• done!Shop for food and beverages.

One Day Before

• done!Set the table.

• done!Buy flowers.

  Arrange and set out around the house.

• done!Do as much of the cooking as you can.

  Also, for any foods that require cooking on party day, do as much prep (dicing, marinating, rinsing lettuce, etc.) as possible.

• done!Make a sweep through the house.

  Do cleaning touch-ups where necessary.

One Hour Before

• done!Be sure the dishwasher is empty.

• done!Change into your party clothes.

30 Minutes Before

• done!Light the candles.

  And turn on the music.

• done!Uncork the wine.

• done!Toss the salad.

• done!Sip a glass of wine.

  And relax!

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