The Final Countdown

Whether you're throwing a casual get-together or sit-down dinner for 20, consult this checklist of what to do when. You can find more tips at CherylStyle.com.

Three weeks before

• Come up with a theme.
• Nail down your guest list.
• Send out invites.

Think about the food: finger-food-only or sit-down style?

Two weeks before

• Go around your house and take inventory of tablecloths, napkins, glasses, and plates.
• Order anything you might need from a party-supply store, like chairs or tables, heat lamps, or even a coat rack to save your bed from a barrage of jackets.

A week before

• Launder tablecloths and napkins, if necessary, and clean all dishware and silverware.
• Order (or pick up) wine and alcohol from the liquor store. You'll need about three bottles of wine for every four guests-it's best to buy more than less; you never know if Uncle Al will try to drink you under the table. For alcohol, figure guests will have about two drinks an hour.

A few days before:

• Think about a lighting plan. Replace bright bulbs with lower-wattage versions. Screw in a few pink bulbs, which give off a rosy glow and make all skin tones look good.

A day before

• Clean the house. Pay special attention to the spots guests will notice: the bathroom, living room, dining room, and anything at eye level.
• Set the table and bar. It's nice to wake up the day of the party and know this step is done.

Two hours before

• Take a shower. You can always prepare in front of your guests but you can't shower in front of them.

An hour before

• Uncork bottles of wine to let them breathe (and ensure you're not fumbling with the bottle opener while trying to kiss Aunt Lucy on the cheek).

A half-hour before

• Turn on the music. Put the finishing touches (a.k.a. garnishes) on your dishes.

Fifteen minutes before:

• Take ice out of the freezer and pour into ice buckets. Turn off overhead lights, dim others, and light candles.

Right before

• Put on your heels, check your lipstick-and make sure nothing's in your teeth!