Event planning guides

Practical guides for organizing get-togethers, birthdays and family events: checklists, sharing tasks, splitting costs and getting RSVPs.

• How to plan a birthday party: a step-by-step guide
  A practical guide to planning a birthday party: budget, guest list, venue, food, activities and invitations, with a checklist by timeline.
• Cookout and BBQ checklist: what to buy, what to bring, and who does what
  A complete cookout checklist: grill gear, food, drinks, safe handling, how much to make, and how to split the work so nothing is forgotten.
• How to split up event tasks without chasing everyone
  A simple method for sharing tasks at an event, a get-together or a trip: one task, one person, a clear due date, and one place to see what is done.
• Event planning app: what to look for before you choose
  A guide to choosing an event planning app: tasks, polls, RSVPs, expenses and chat, plus the questions to ask before you invite anyone.
• How to find a date that works for everyone (without 50 group messages)
  A simple method to pick a date for a get-together or event: a short poll with 3 to 5 options, a deadline and a clear decision, instead of endless texting.
• How to organize a potluck so you don't end up with five desserts
  How to run a potluck that works: choose categories, give each guest a dish, plan for dietary needs and keep a shared sign-up list everyone can see.
• How to get guests to RSVP: a practical guide
  How to collect RSVPs without chasing people: a clear invitation, one link to reply, a deadline and one friendly reminder at the right time.
• How to split costs for a group event or trip fairly
  How to share costs between friends at an event or on a trip: agree on the method first, record every expense, and settle up once at the end.