A calm, simple guide you can print and follow without overthinking
This checklist is designed to remove decision fatigue, not add to it. Use it as a gentle framework so you can focus on enjoying your guests, not managing details.
1 Week Before
- Finalize guest list (3 couples total)
- Confirm everyone is bringing a dish or drink
- Choose painting tutorial (Painting to Gogh video selected)
- Order or purchase:
- Canvases
- Acrylic paint
- Brush sets
- Plastic palettes
- Easels
- Linen aprons
- Disposable Valentine’s tablecloth
- LED candles
- Simple wall decor (paper hearts, small banner, etc.)
- Order any optional custom champagne flutes HERE
- Review serving pieces (charcuterie boards, cake stand, wine glasses)
- Add any missing hosting essentials to your cart
Paint Night List
Valentine’s List
Take a breath. Once supplies are secured, the hardest part is done.
2–3 Days Before
- Grocery shop for:
- Cheese, meats, crackers
- Fruit & garnishes
- Cake ingredients
- Chocolate truffles
- Sparkling wine
- Confirm dish assignments with other couples
- Wash and dry:
- Serving boards
- Cheese knives
- Cake stand
- Wine glasses
- Clear dining table and surrounding area
The Day Before
- Bake flourless chocolate cake
Flourless Chocolate Cake Recipe - Prep charcuterie components:
- Slice firm cheeses
- Wash berries
- Portion nuts or olives into containers
- Set aside paint supplies in one place
- Test TV for tutorial playback
- Tidy main gathering space
Party Day Morning
- Lay out disposable Valentine’s tablecloth
- Arrange easels evenly around table
- Place:
- Canvas on each easel
- Brush set at each seat
- Palette at each seat
- Apron draped over chair
- Chill sparkling wine
- Set out serving platters (empty for now), utensils, napkins and plates
Keep it simple. The room should feel ready before guests arrive.
30 Minutes to 1 Hour Before Guests Arrive
- Assemble charcuterie board
- Place truffles in a bowl
- Set out napkins and wine glasses
- Turn on LED candles
- Put on soft background music
- Pour small amounts of paint onto palettes (or keep bottles nearby if preferred)
- Get dressed
- Take 5 quiet minutes for yourself
This is the moment to shift from preparation to presence.
When Guests Arrive
- Greet each couple warmly at the door
- Show them:
- Where to hang coats
- Where the bathroom is
- Where drinks are located
- Invite them to grab a glass and settle in
- Mention when the painting tutorial will begin
During the Gathering
- Start tutorial together
- Encourage laughter over perfection
- Let guests graze on charcuterie throughout
- Have dessert once paintings are complete
- Take a group photo at the end
After the Party
- Dispose of tablecloth
- Rinse brushes (if needed)
- Refrigerate leftovers
- Leave full cleanup for the morning
Hosting should end gently, not with exhaustion.
Well Gathered Here 
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