That's what we do it for right? Planning a party is a big job and can be very stressful, I know I've had plenty of very late nights deciding on the theme, making party bags, cutting flags out - but then I am a total control freak! I've tried to put together a birthday party to-do list to help anyone else bewildered by the whole party planning process!
1. Ask your child what they want for their birthday party
Now this can be the fun bit, to get inside the mind of a child and see what expectations they have of their birthday party. They'll probably tell you they want real unicorns and flying spaceships! Then you'll think - god, why did I bother asking?! This is mainly because you have to try an avoid a total meltdown on the big day! I usually think of something they really love and try to sway them in to that sort of direction. Saying 'why don't we do this...', this being something I would like to do as well!2. Book the Date
This is obviously the closest date to your child's birthday. A weekend date is best as then there's no fear of after school clubs getting in the way and it gives you more time to set up - especially if your a working mum! I've found that 11am-12pm is a good time as then the kids can have fun, food and finish off with an hours or so of more entertainment.
3. Book the Entertainment
Now you have a date and theme in mind, try and book your entertainment. I'd recommend booking this at least three month in advance as the good ones always book up early. I have tried and failed to do my own entertainment so now I leave this up to the professionals. At least then on the day your not trying to entertain 20-30 children, high on sugar and you can just go round, chat with the parents and take loads of photo's of their big day.Luckily I have a friend who does amazing parties (Sparkle Events and Parties) I've hired her for some of my kids parties and George and her team are fab!
4. Book the Venue
This is usually a Village Hall or Sports Centre. Book this as soon as you have confirmed the entertainment, then you'll know that you have synced the two. At least by doing this your not let down by the good old British weather on the day and don't have several children trashing your house. Village Hall's are great, they're usually equipped with loads of table's and chair's for your guests with loads of space to roam about in.5. Food
If you plan to do food, the main thing is the cake. Again, good cake bakers book up way in advance to it's a good idea to get this booked in about two months in advance. Then write a list of food you think you might serve so you have a shopping list for nearer the time. If you are planning a unicorn party for example you can theme the food around this. Pinterest has some great idea's for this.6. Party Bags
Say thank you to your guests for coming by giving them a party bag to go home with. I like to theme mine to match the party, I usually get most of the items from ebay and these can come from all over the world so don't leave it until the day before
Make a few more than your guest list as there's usually some siblings turn up as well.7. Decorations
Village Halls can look quite dull so it's nice to be able to dress them up a bit. I like to make posters that say for example 'Welcome to Anna's Party' and put them on the front doors so your guests know they're at the right place. Balloons are the easiest and best way to brighten up the space. For ease, go to your nearest card shop (card factory are great for these), decide what balloons you want, tell them the date and time of the event and they should have them all ready for you to pick up an hour or so before the party. Backdrops are also great for party photos and to spruce up a dull wall.8. The Day Before
Your party bags should be ready (usually a few late nights here!), decorations should be printed and ready, pick the birthday cake up (don't forget to buy some candles and pack a lighter!), start making the party food.9. On The Day
You will have one very excited child! Try and make yourself a list of things to pack so you don't forget anything. Get up early and finish preparing all the party food.Don't forget -
The birthday cake, candles and a lighter
A few dustbin bags for rubbish and to take home any presents
Washing up liquid and a cloth
Juice/drinks
Party Food
Pick the balloons up
Decorations
Party bags
Pick up the keys to the Village Hall
10. After The Party
The massive clean-up operation begins! Once you've done that, pack your things, go home and watch your little one happily open their presents while you enjoy a well-deserved glass of wine! Make a list of which present came from what child and get the thank you cards sent out.The most important thing....enjoy it!
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