Your bundle of joy is soon turning one and it's time to start planning that special milestone birthday. Planning the perfect children's birthday party takes time, patience and lots of creativity. So many decisions have to be made, the theme, the cake, the food, the entertainment and how many guests should be invited!
Step 1: Theme
Animated cartoon characters such as Sesame Street, Barney, Baby Einstein or traditional 1st Birthday decorations? There is such a vast assortment of theme ideas and trying to decide which one to chose is overwhelming. For a 1st Birthday the theme is self evident, 1st Birthday decorations for your little prince or princess, but to make it extra special personalize the invitation with a picture your child. The website http://tinyprints.com/ has a wide variety of decorations and ideas to help you purchase everything you need for the party. Throwing a 1st Birthday party where all the napkins, cups, banners, plates and tablecloths are personalized with the celebrants name is truly memorable for your guests!
Step 2: Location
Depending on when your child's birthday is, and outdoor birthday party is ideal. For summer months rent a tent that will accommodate all your guests. If this is not an option, renting a small banquet facility or having it at home are your other alternatives. Whichever decision you make, attention to detail and having a party that is unique to other party is your goal.
Step 3: Guest List
To be truly honest, your little birthday boy or girl will not remember their 1st Birthday party, so why all the hoopla? This is a milestone birthday and a wonderful occasion to gather your closest family members to help mark it.
It is obvious that the party is geared towards children, therefore, they should be the main guests at the party. Inviting family members with children that are age appropriate is something that should be taken in account.
Step 4: Menu/Catering
Wikipedia defines catering as the supplying of food for a social event. Deciding what type of food should be served at a 1st Birthday party seems simple. But you have guests that are adults, young children and toddlers that you have to cater to. Serving chicken nuggets and pizza to the adults is not acceptable, you need to also provide food for them. Should you opt to have your party catered, the caterer may suggest some menu options for you to serve. On the other hand, if you would like to prepare the food yourself, consider the following:
- Appetizers- Chips, dip, finger sandwiches, meat and cheese tray, potato, macaroni or pasta salads
- Adult food menu- Chicken, ribs, potatoes, pasta (i.e. fettucini, mostacolli), fresh salad
- Kids food menu- Pizza, chicken nuggets, hot dogs
- Beverages- Pop/Soda, water, alcohol, non-carbonated drinks
How do you entertain a houseful of children and adults at one time? Simple! Children are easily entertained with games and fun activities such as arts and crafts, toys and pinatas. Personalized pinatas are a fun way to get children, and adults, involved in the birthday activities. Customize your pinata with your childs picture to make for a conversation piece that will be remembered for days.Throwing a successful party is simple if you plan ahead and when the day arrives you need to manage your time efficiently and effectively. Planning and preparing in advance gives you the opportunity not only to host the party, but to sit back and enjoy your childs 1st Birthday!
