Organising a birthday party: checklist, invite and RSVP

Whether it's a birthday, an anniversary or summer drinks, throwing a party gets easier if you make a few things clear up front.

Start with the basics

• Date, time and location. Put them in writing before you invite anyone.
• A short note on what kind of party it is. Drinks, dinner or the whole afternoon programme.
• A final reply date, so you know where you stand.

Send one good invite

One link that contains everything works better than scattered messages. Guests see at a glance when and where, can respond, and don't have to ask what to bring.

Ask what you really want to know

Any allergies? Vegetarian? Bringing a +1? Ask those questions properly once in the invite, instead of twenty messages back and forth.

After the party

A shared photo album keeps things calm: everyone can add photos, you don't have to chase each guest for the best shots.