Whether you’re having a party this weekend or your next soiree is months away, this is a tip you’ll want to file away for later. When you’re making your day-of party supply list here’s the rule for how much ice you’ll need:

Get enough to fill your ice bucket, if you’re using one, and then plan for one 10-pound bag for every 4 guests.

I think I might write this rule on about 8 million sticky notes and stash them with my party supplies. I’m forever running out of ice and having to run to the corner store in the middle of a party.

Get more tips for throwing an effortless party here.