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James and Francis Normore
James Normore and wife Frances are owners of All Occasions Event Center in Wichita. Together they have been organizing and hosting events for more than 10 years. In October 2005, they opened All Occasions Events Center. Their center is available to rent for most any event such as; birthdays, weddings, receptions, meeting, banquets, family gatherings, reunions, etc. The facility can accommodate 10 to up to 150 guests. The Center is located in the University Plaza Shopping Center, 4940 E. 21st Street (21st & Oliver), Wichita Ks 67208. Phone: (316) 687-9989. www.alloccasionseventscenter.com
Weddings, Parties & Social Events
2006-11-01 11:31:00
Do you have any tips on planning a party?
ANSWER: These days, planning a party or an event can be a little overwhelming at times, but the key to a successful party is preparation. If you just follow a few easy tips, you’ll have little to worry about and hopefully plenty of time to enjoy the party yourself. When the host and hostess feel like guests at their own party, everyone is sure to have a wonderful time. Typical small events planning schedule (4-6 weeks ahead for a formal party; 2-3 weeks ahead for a casual gathering) 6-8 WEEKS BEFORE Establish budget: Reserve Site: Choose a theme: Make a guest list: Make a tentative schedule of party activities: List all supplies needed: Determine type of menu (buffet, potluck, family style): Decide type of party (formal, casual): Plan the party menu: Determine start and finish time: Decide color scheme: Buy/Design Invitations: 3-4 WEEKS BEFORE Mail invitations: Hire Caterer & Plan menu: Plan on china, silver, glassware rentals: Linens (buy, borrow, rent): Seating arrangements: Decide number of head tables, number and type of tables for dining, and buffet: Design flower arrangements and plan decorations: Entertainment (DJ, band, games, speeches): Plan food schedule (what time to start / finish serving appetizers, entrée, dessert): Coffee/Tea/Beverages: Dessert: Appetizers/hors d'oeuvres: Entrée: Decide on what time should staff arrive/leave: Choose Servers and staff attire: Make list of areas where you could use volunteers: Pay balance due on facility rental: 1-2 WEEKS BEFORE Buy disposable ware/order rentals: Purchase Beverages: Buy nonperishable foods: Confirm number of guests: Buy party favors and decorations: Give final guest count, menu and staff requirement. Outline the flow of the party with your Master of Ceremony and/or DJ: 2-3 DAYS BEFORE Confirm rental arrivals/pickup: Arrange supplies for party: Set a time chart for day of party-what needs to be done and how long will it take: Make a polite call to potential guests who haven't RSVP'd: DAY OF PARTY Staff arrives: Complete food preparation and pickup of pre-ordered food items: Set tables/serving tables (lay out all disposable and glassware): Place Post-It notes on bowls, buffet tables, counter spaces indicating what will go there: Set table/buffet: Decorate/floral/table setup: Prepare any foods that couldn't be prepared in advance: Ensure entertainment area is set up. Have Fun!!!
 
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