Become the Perfect Party Planner
Long gone are the days where throwing a party just consisted of putting up a few streamers and playing pin the tall on the donkey. Today the new trend is throwing a themed party, where everything coordinates, from the invite you sent out to the food/beverages you will serve.
The expectations of throwing a party have grown, but with a little creativity and planning, you will be able to throw an unforgettable party for your child and your guests.
Don’t know where to begin? Let us help you become the perfect party planner!
Theme
Who is the party for? What’s the occasion? Whom are you inviting? “I decide my theme based on two things: what time of year it is and what that person is interested in,” says Jennifer Moore, Olathe. If your child is old enough, let him decide what type of party he would like to have. For younger children, observe their interests and hobbies, favorite TV shows and books. Check out Pinterest and other blogs for inspiration.
Guest List
Incorporating your theme will begin when you send out your invitations. It’s giving your guests a sneak peak at what’s to come at the celebration. You can create your own invites that correlate with your theme at places like www.Shutterfly.com or www.Mpix.com. Cut costs by sending electronic invites from places like www.Evite.com, www.Punchbowl.com or Facebook.
Decorations
Decorations are key when trying to create the ambiance for your party. Keep in mind you can create custom, darling and oh-so-cute decorations that are affordable too. Check out your local dollar and thrift stores and stop by crafting stores to create your one-of-a-kind décor. www.Etsy.com is also a wonderful resource for printable party packages that are already themed and ready to print.
Menu and Cake
Plan a flexible menu that everyone will enjoy and that goes along with the theme. “We had a barnyard-themed party for our son’s first birthday, and we served country ham, corn-on-the-cob, potato salad, homemade pickles and cornbread,” says Suzanna Ruth, Prairie Village. Keep in mind whether any of your guests have allergies or are diabetic; offering an alternative option for them is considerate. Cakes and cupcakes can be custom made to fit your theme at any bakery in town—just make sure you bring in a picture of your vision. If you plan to do your own baking, there are many websites that offer ideas and tutorials.
Games
Keep the party alive with entertainment. Rent a clown or set up a ring or beanbag toss for a carnival theme party. Plan a scavenger/treasure hunt for your pirate crew. The options are endless, just keep in mind that the younger the children, the less competitive the games should be. Set up craft tables and other activities so there is something to do for all ages.
Goody Bags
Every child should leave with a little something to show your appreciation for their attending. Whether it be a sand bucket and shovel from your under the sea party or a potted tomato plant from your barnyard bash, make sure the goody is theme-based and age appropriate.
Prepare in Advance
Give yourself plenty of time to assemble and play with the decorations, set up seating and table arrangements, prepare goody bags and clean and cook before the party. Have a backup plan in mind in case of weather or sickness.
Don’t Forget!
It’s your child’s day; make sure you are in touch with what she wants and that she is having a blast. “Themed parties are the best because they’re more enjoyable and look more organized!” says Karen Loudon, Lenexa. Remember to take pictures, thank your guests as they leave and take a moment to enjoy the party you worked so hard to prepare. “
Jennifer Duxbury is a SAHM from Olathe who loves planning the perfect parties!