Party planning countdown

ONE MONTH TO GO...

Planning ahead

Decisions! Decisions!

What type of party? Who to invite? When and where? Send invitations online. Have email addresses to hand and use our online invitations. Just remember that Waitrose Entertaining can make it so much easier! So, browse through our brochure and plan the perfect feast.
Choose a special cake

Give your party the wow factor with a celebration cake. With plenty of notice, some can be personalised – ask in branch or phone our advice line: 0800 169 2701.

Finalise your menu

Waitrose Entertaining offers something for every occasion. Order online, by phone or in your local branch. Allow at least five days notice to order products. Some products require more time so we recommend placing your order as soon as possible.

Use the QuickShop service online – just make a note of each product number to make ordering even simpler. Sort out delivery or collection arrangements when you place your order.
Order the drinks

Match drinks to menus using our food and wine matching tool or just phone Waitrose Wine Direct on 0800 188 881. Alternatively, there is a selected range of drinks on the website that you can add to your Waitrose Entertaining order.
Finishing touches

There are floral arrangements and other amazing centrepieces such as ice sculptures available through Waitrose Entertaining. We also offer a range of paper tableware, disposable cutlery and cake candles to order online under “Finishing Touches”.
Make space

Don’t forget to make extra space in your fridge for chilled party foods, and freezer space if you order one of our frozen desserts or an ice sculpture!
Glasses

Nobody wants to run out and have to start washing up when the party is in full swing! Again, take advantage of our free glass loan service when you place your food order; order online, by phone, or call in at your local Waitrose. Make the order sooner rather than later if your party is on a busy “holiday” weekend.

Be prepared

Prepare a list of extras to get when you go to collect your Waitrose Entertaining food order: crisps, olives, bread, leaf salad , fresh herbs, sauces and dressings, lemons, biscuits for cheese, cream, soft drinks, tea and coffee, fresh flowers, candles – and don’t forget: kitchen towels, bin liners and washing up liquid. Check the defrost times for anything in the freezer.

Get chilled!

Have you got enough ice cubes? Half fill a clean bin with water and ice for extra drinks storage. Chill any Champagne, sparkling or white wine, mineral water and soft drinks. Make up jugs of cocktails or punch. Set up the drinks station and arrange the flowers. Anything to defrost? Check any reheating instructions.
Hours to go

Clear the decks, decorate and lay the tables with cutlery, plates, glasses etc. Get the food for cooking and reheating ready while the oven preheats. Have the cold food plated up and garnished – and kept cool until the last minute. Before the guests arrive – apron off! – ready to relax and enjoy the party...