Party planning countdown

10. Planning ahead

Decisions! Decisions!

What type of party? Who to invite? When and where? Just remember that Waitrose Entertaining can make it so much easier! So, browse through our brochure available in our branches or online and plan the perfect feast.

9. 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 188 881.

8. Finalise your menu

Waitrose Entertaining offers something for every occasion. Order online (this link opens a new window), by phone or in your local branch.

Ordering with WaitroseEntertaining is convenient and simple.  Free Delivery is available to all WaitroseEntertaining orders (subject to a £50 minimum spend), simply select a time slot and let us do the heavy lifting.  Alternatively we can arrange a Free Collection in your selected branch at a time that suits you, perhaps with your weekly shop!

Please allow at least five days notice to order products. Some products require more time so we recommend placing your order as soon as possible.

7. Order the drinks

Phone Waitrose Wine Direct on 0800 188 881 or buy online here. Alternatively, there is a selected range of drinks on the website that you can add to your Waitrose Entertaining order.

6. Finishing touches

We would recommend our floral arrangements available online, which will make beautiful centrepeices. We also offer a range of decorations, paper tableware, disposable cutlery and cake candles to order online with Waitrose HomeDirect.

5. 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.

4. 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.

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2. 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.

1. 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, garnished and kept cool until the last minute. Before the guests arrive – apron off! – ready to relax and enjoy the party...

More information on how to order from Waitrose Entertaining (this link opens a new window).

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