Special celebration menu - checklist

Getting organised
Preparing for a big event can be daunting, so break down all the tasks into chunks, making a list of what needs to be done and ticking them off as you go. Make food shopping lists, one for each stage of the shopping, and keep them all in a file so you won't lose them. Also, put together a team of willing, reliable helpers and delegate jobs.

Essential checklist

Fridge space is crucial for the meat, salads and cake - if you don't have enough, then hire an extra fridge and work out where it will go. Clear your fridge as much as possible in advance, using up all those half-empty jars and bottles.
Invest in large plastic food boxes for the salads - these will stack in the fridge to make the most of the space. Attach a label to the side of each box when you fill it so you can see at a glance what's in it.
Platters for the food Hire, beg, borrow or buy from Ikea or similar. You will also need a cake stand or large flat plate for the cake (or use a silver cake board).
Check you have all the kitchen equipment you need, borrowing what you lack. You'll need a good range of sharp knives, chopping boards, food processor, baking sheets, large roasting tins, cake tins, good heavy-based frying pan, large saucepans and bowls of various sizes.
Trays for drinks and nibbles
Serving spoons
Large, sharp knife for cutting the cake
3-4 large jugs for serving punch.
or supermarket as they will be able to recommend wines to go with your menu. Buy a small selection and have a wine tasting to determine your choice before buying in bulk. Wines can usually be bought on a sale-or-return basis.
Glasses You can usually hire these for no extra cost from your wine supplier. Don't forget you will need water and beer glasses as well as wine glasses and Champagne flutes. It's a good idea to hire a few extra as guests tend to lose track of where they put their glass.
Check where to buy ice and order in advance if possible. If you don't have enough freezer space for extra ice, pick it up on the day.
Buy large, plastic rubble bins (they come in a range of colours from stores like B&Q and Homebase) to use as giant ice buckets for cooling wine and Champagne. Put the bottles upright in the buckets and half-fill with a mix of ice and water. Leave for an hour or two before serving. If you are hiring crockery and cutlery, arrange to have it sent back unwashed to save effort.
Check you have enough tables You'll need a couple of big ones for setting out the food, plus a drinks table and a smaller one for the cake, which should be away from heat and direct sun. A couple of smaller tables with chairs are a good idea for older guests or those with young children.
Work out a plan of where the tables will go and where the food and drink will be served to try to avoid bottlenecks. Clear rooms of unnecessary furniture and pack away fragile ornaments.
You will need large tablecloths for the food table, or use plain cotton sheets.
Napkins If you choose paper, Ikea is the cheapest option. It also sells nifty napkin holders.
Hire a couple of helpers to serve drinks when guests arrive, passing round the nibbles and keeping everything clear. Ask around as there are usually willing students who will jump at the chance to earn some extra cash. Tell them at the start how long you will need them for and agree an hourly rate. If that is not an option, your equipment hire company will be able to put you in touch with agencies for waiting staff.
Ensure you have a good supply of large bin bags, washing-up liquid, tea towels, kitchen roll, rubber gloves, food bags, foil, cling film, baking parchment, disposable dishcloths, kitchen soap and scourers (not forgetting tea and biccies for your helpers!).
Have a first aid box to hand and make sure your helpers know where it is kept.