Planning the Perfect Party
Now, we know what you are thinking. Can't I just have a party at Magic Corner, or whatever they're called, and let them handle it all? Well, of course you can and that's all well and good, but where's the personal touch and will it be memorable?
By organising the party yourself it will be far a more memorable and fun event. You'll be able to decide on what food is served as well as the games and activities to be played. You can choose a special theme and have the party exactly the way you want it. As kid's, we all had our Birthday parties at home and they were the best.
3-4 weeks before the party
- Pick a party date and time.
- Choose a party theme and decide on the party venue. Possible venues include your home (if numbers are manageable), a park or communal area, or a function room (or garden) at a local club or nursery. (If the venue is extremely popular for parties it would be best to book this well in advance to avoid disappointment on your preferred date)
- Create a guest list.
- Order party supplies, decorations, favours, prizes, activities and games from Partykins, (and make sure that you order enough tableware for the adults or unexpected guests that may also turn up).
- If you are planning to have entertainment (face-painter, magician, bouncy castle, etc) or a photographer, book it now.
- Let your other half know the date so that they can plan a day off (or at least come home early).
2-3 weeks before the party
- Consider the age of the children and plan games and activities accordingly. See our Party Games page for ideas.
- Consider what type of cake you would like, who will make it and place the order.
1-2 weeks before the party
- Arrange extra help from friends or a mum or two of the children that will be attending the party.
- Make a Party Activity Schedule: decide on games, activities, when to serve the food, playtime, when to cut the cake and when you want everyone to leave!
- Plan the menu. Be sure to include both sweet and savoury snacks. Finger food works best for small children. See our Party Food list for some ideas. If you are planning on having food delivered on the day, decide on who you will use and the menu.
- Send out the invitations. Ask guests to RSVP by phone, email or SMS by a particular date so that you can get a better idea of how many will attend.
- Be sure to state on the invitation if fancy dress, swimming costumes, etc, are required.
- Confirm a time to collect the cake. If you are making the cake yourself, you can prepare the cake in advance and freeze it.
2-3 days before the party
- You should have a good idea by now how many are coming. Contact those who have not RSVP'd to see if they are coming.
- Buy the food for the party.
- Check batteries for the camera and recharge the camcorder.
- If you are having helium balloons at the party, arrange a time with the supplier for them to be delivered.
1 day before your party
- Pick up the cake or if you have made your own, remove from the freezer.
- Make sure you have candles and matches or lighter.
- Clean and child proof the party area.
- Remove anything delicate or of value. If you are expecting small children at your party, make sure that all electric sockets are covered and there are no loose cables the children can get hold of. Check the garden for sharp objects.
- Do a final head count and phone any guest(s) who have not responded.
- If any food can be prepared in advance, do this now to save time and refrigerate.
Party Day
- Decorate the party area(s).
- Prepare food and beverages.
- Set up tables and chairs.
- Have sun screen on hand should anyone need it.
- Wait for the helium balloons to be delivered.
- Check area is child proof.
- Follow your schedule so that you don't loose track of time and forget anything.
- Take plenty of photos and video of the birthday boy or girl and their friends.
- Relax and have fun.
Also see...
Party Checklist
Party Food
Party Games
First Birthday Tips
Party Etiquette
The Party Bag
|
|
