Event planning - August 2007

Kid's birthday parties - piece of cake?

Does the thought of hosting a social get together fill you with dread? It might be your children's birthday parties, Mothers Day High Tea, casual BBQ, or just cheese and wine. It should be as simple as sending out the email/phone call or if you really want to impress - invitations, bunging some food out and plenty of drinks right? Well it used to be but these days we feel we are being judged by our guests for our loot bag contents (and you better have loot bags believe me!) the clever selection of finger food on offer, the colour co-ordinate decorations and oh while you're at it look fabulous and relaxed. Don't forget allergies for heaven's sake and accident free surrounds.

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I remember my parents having parties in the 70's which seemed to flow seamlessly with everyone having a great time and nary a printed invitation in sight. Why do we feel we have to host the perfect event? Why do other people have to judge our event? Well I firmly believe no matter what the celebration is there are some fool proof and clever tips for ensuring a happy event for all - even those judges!

Let's start with Children's Birthday Parties. Many people reason that "after all it's only 20 kids and only a couple of hours". To imagine that they're only kids and keeping them entertained on the day will be a simple affair and that they will delight in every game or activity you have organised is either incredibly naïve or wildly hopeful.

Let the child select the theme, within reason (my soon-to-be-6 year old son wants to take everyone he knows - a lot of people - to Dreamworld for the day, how generous of him) Cowboy/Cowgirl, favourite TV or movie character, Super Hero, Princess Fairy are all popular tried and true themes. How about a bowling alley or movie theatre party? Picnic in the park or soccer game. Children love being part of the decision making process from the guest list, food, decorations, loot bag contents, games and more it can build confidence and self esteem to be the master of celebrations.

Tip: Invitations are one of the most important elements. Remember the 5 W's. Who, Why, What, When, and Where. Who is the party for? Why are you having this celebration? What is the theme or dress requirement? When is the party and what time? Where is the party? Make sure the date and time are in bold or larger font to save any confusion. Don't forget the RSVP date and phone number!

Tip: Themed parties are great as they help decide the menu, loot bag goodies, decorations etc. For a fairy party you might serve fairy bread, cupcakes, pink cordial and place a fairy wand at each table setting. A pirate theme could include mini sausage rolls with toothpick sails and tomato sauce sea, chocolate gold coins and inexpensive eye patches in a bowl for everyone to help themselves including the 'Big' Kids'.

Complete themed party supplies can now be purchased online which include everything you could ever need. All you need do is add the food, drink and guests.

Technically, a loot bag is not a requirement at any party, but it has become customary to give one. The historic idea behind this gift was to give the guests something to take home that would remind them of the occasion and thank them for coming. Somehow, this idea morphed into the giving of a big bag of sugar-filled treats and dollar store toys. Sometimes, these gifts also reflect an element of competitiveness or one-upmanship in terms of how much we spend on parties, and this usually doesn't go unnoticed by the children.

Tip: Want something different to the same old loot bag fillers to take home? Why not give seedling trays with a small packet of quick growing seeds like sunflowers. How about setting a table with glue, glitter, stickers, blank small canvas or photo frames and have someone take a digital snap of each child as they arrive. While the party games and food are keeping them entertained you can print off the photos for the children to create their own artwork memento of the day. Jewelry making is fun for a group of girls. Provide beads with letters and they can make necklaces and bracelets with their names to wear home.

Popular loot bags at our parties include a balloon, lollipop, bubbles, stickers, small notebook and crayon. For a 1st birthday we included a baby juice popper, baby fruit stick, balloon, bath squirty or rubber duck.

Your child's party should be fun. Don't loose perspective. If games and events don't come off as planned, remember that children are unpredictable. As long as everyone is having a good time, then the party is a success. And remember, there's always NEXT YEAR!

Next month let's talk High Tea!

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