• Do warn your neighbors before the party of extra cars parking in the neighborhood.
• Don't let your guests block neighbors' driveways, or trespass on private property.
• Do make sure your house numbers are visible and lit after dark. Consider balloon markers or cardboard arrows if your house is difficult to find.
• Don't forget to light the walkway with votive candles, paper luminaries (bags with decorative holes), or even a few giant garden candles.
• Do specify on the invitations whether or not children are welcome at the party.
• Don't forget to provide a sitter for your own children, or plan alternate activities to keep them busy during the party.
• Do specify a dress code for your guests.
• Don't forget to get dressed up yourself.
• Do use familiar landmarks (i.e. a restaurant) as reference points in your directions, especially for night events when street signs can be difficult to see.
• Don't forget special instructions for secured building entrances, and directions once your guests are inside, if you live in a large building.
• Do clean the areas where your guests will be socializing.
• Don't waste your energy cleaning the entire house.
• Do consider getting help with cleaning and set-up the day of the party. Hire a teen, cajole a friend, or rope in a family member.
• Don't try to do it all yourself, unless it's a very small gathering. The process is half the work and twice the fun when shared.
• Do make sure you have enough serving accessories (plates, forks, spoons, etc.) on hand.
• Don't spend a lot of money on expensive, posh-looking plates. Use paper products instead!
• Do use indirect spotlights, twinkle lights, lamps and candles to create soft lighting that would make anyone look good.
• Don't be tempted to leave your overhead lights on (except maybe in the kitchen). It often reminds people of being at work.
• Do make your pets comfortable away from the main party area, or ask an uninvolved friend to care for them.
• Don't assume that your guests love animals as much as you do. Many people are allergic to cats, and some are frightened by boisterous, jumping dogs.
• Do make a plan for guest coats/boots. Clear your own things from the coat closet for the night.
• Don't forget to light a scented candle in your bathroom, and leave the door ajar so the room is easy to find.
• Do create a realistic budget and stick to it.
• Don't forget to budget for unexpected surprises.

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