Christmas brunch checklist: what to arrange and when
A Christmas brunch runs smoothly when the guest list, dietary requirements and menu are settled before you start shopping. This checklist takes you from invitations and registrations to tables, buffet setup, hot dishes, coffee and guest arrival. It also covers details that are easy to leave too late, such as chilling drinks, labelling buffet dishes and checking serving equipment. Use the full plan to keep preparation in the right order and avoid rushing on the morning of the brunch.
The plan, step by step
Every task with its own sub-checklist, in the order you'll actually need them.
Preparations
Compile guest list
Send invitations
Process registrations
Collect dietary requirements
Determine the menu and portions
2 people
Reserve tables and chairs
Check the shopping list
2 people
Check tableware and equipment
2 people
Do the shopping
2 people
Chill the drinks
2 people
Wash fruits and vegetables
2 people
Set out bread and toppings
2 people
Prepare desserts
2 people
Prepare table decor
2 people
Clean the venue
2 people
Set up tables and chairs
3 people
Set up buffet and drinks table
2 people
Set the tables
3 people
Hang decorations
2 people
Prepare hot dishes
3 people
Arrange cold dishes
2 people
Prepare coffee and tea
Place buffet cards
Event
Welcome guests
2 people
Open the brunch buffet
2 people
Refill Dishes
2 people
Refill drinks
Serve dietary meals separately
Clear away dishes
2 people
Serve dessert and coffee
2 people
Chill leftovers safely
2 people
Aftercare
Take down buffet and drinks table
3 people
Wash dishes
3 people
Collect waste
2 people
Clean the venue
3 people
Put furniture back
3 people
Return borrowed items
2 people
Distribute leftover food
Empty refrigerators and equipment
2 people
What to bring
Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.
Furniture
- Tablesqty 6
- Chairsqty 32
- Buffet tablesqty 2
- Coat racksqty 2
Tableware
- Dinner platesqty 36
- Dessert platesqty 36
- Bowlsqty 36
- Coffee cupsqty 36
- Water glassesqty 40
- Wine glassesqty 36
- Cutlery setsqty 36
- Serving plattersqty 10
- Serving plattersqty 10
- Serving tongsqty 8
Equipment
- Coffee machinesqty 2
- Kettlesqty 2
- Hot traysqty 4
- Coolersqty 3
Kitchen
- Cutting boardsqty 4
- Kitchen knivesqty 6
- Measuring cupsqty 2
- Kitchen tongsqty 4
- Serving spoonsqty 6
Decorations
- Christmas tree
- Christmas baublesqty 30
- Christmas garlandsqty 4
- Table runnersqty 6
- LED string lightsqty 4
- LED candlesqty 12
Lighting
- Extension cordsqty 4
Cleaning
- Washing-up basinsqty 3
- Cleaning clothsqty 10
- Waste binsqty 3
Catering
- Drink dispensersqty 3
- Water carafesqty 6
- Bread basketsqty 4
- Menu standsqty 6
- Napkin holdersqty 6
- Ice packsqty 12
- Table numbersqty 6
- Labelsqty 30
- Pensqty 6
- Groceries
Tips
- Confirm dietary requirements before finalising the menu. Give yourself at least 3 days to adjust portions, ingredients and buffet cards rather than discovering allergies while guests are arriving.
- Plan the buffet around serving order and temperature. Set out bread, toppings and cold dishes first, then prepare hot dishes close to opening time so they do not sit out for longer than necessary.
- Check tableware and equipment before shopping. Count dinner plates, dessert plates, bowls, cups, glasses, cutlery and serving utensils against the guest list, and test coffee machines, kettles and hot trays.
- Chill drinks several hours before guests arrive. Coolers and refrigerators fill quickly, so move drinks into the coldest available space at least 4 hours ahead and keep water easy to reach.
- Leave a clear setup window on the morning itself. Allow about 90 minutes for tables, chairs, table settings, decorations, buffet cards and the drinks table before welcoming the first guests.
Frequently asked questions
- How far in advance should I send Christmas brunch invitations?
- Send invitations 3 to 4 weeks before the brunch. Set the registration deadline at least 7 days before the event so you can confirm portions, seating and dietary requirements.
- How much food should I plan for a Christmas brunch?
- Plan the menu by guest count and include enough variety for a full meal: bread and toppings, cold dishes, hot dishes and dessert. Finalise portions at least 3 days beforehand, after registrations and dietary needs are known.
- When should I set up the Christmas brunch buffet?
- Set up the buffet table, serving platters and buffet cards about 60 to 90 minutes before guests arrive. Arrange cold dishes shortly before opening, and prepare hot dishes as close to buffet opening as your kitchen allows.
- How early should I prepare coffee and tea for Christmas brunch?
- Set up the coffee machines, kettles, cups and serving area 30 to 45 minutes before guests arrive. Prepare coffee and tea close to opening time, then keep hot water and spare cups available throughout the brunch.
Start this plan in Lizzt
Every task and item on this page, ready in your own event. Invite people, split the work, and see who has done what.
Organize this event for free with LizztOrganize for free and invite your contacts!