Don’t let those Pinterest-worthy parties make you panic! You (yes, you!) can throw a great party. It can be difficult to know where to start, but with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to having an at-home event that your guests will never forget!
1. Decide on a theme, then make a list.
Themed parties are popular right now! What is your child’s favorite animal, cartoon, or book? Theme party inspiration is everywhere! Once you’ve decided the type of party you’d like to throw, make a jot list of the components that need to be accomplished, such as invitations, decorations, food menu, etc. Rank your list in the order they need to be completed. I typically start this process 4 weeks in advance.
2. Do a little at a time.
Now that you have your list, do a little each week leading up to the party. If your first task is to send out invitations, pick your medium (facebook event, Evite.com, or good old fashioned paper) and cross that off your list. Next, think about what could take the most time and do that next. If you are making your own decorations, for example, plan on working on getting those done next. And so on. Just don’t wait to start the few days leading up to the party! It’s too stressful!
3. Think “Free Printable”.
Chances are, someone out there has done your themed party! Don’t reinvent the wheel! Simply search “[Your theme] free printable” on the internet, and there are all kinds of sites with free (yes, free) decorations, cupcake toppers, banners, activities and goodie bags ready to print. As long as you have a printer, you’re set. Some of the blogged parties even have a suggested menu and the food labels already created. Nice!
4. Plan an activity.
Your computer can come in handy here, too! If you are throwing a cartoon event, there is a good chance that the cartoon network’s website has free printable activities. Also, those “free printable” blogs have activity ideas as well. If you are throwing an at-home party, these activities are important for the kids to keep them focused. Coloring pages or party hats are a great way to settle the kids down. Story Time can get younger children settled. Warm weather parties can have some adult-led games outdoors, too.
5. Don’t be afraid to enlist help.
It’s OK to ask for help if you need it and, luckily, help can come in many forms! If the thought of making a birthday cake breaks you into a sweat, then hire your local baker or perhaps you can purchase a basic cake and do the decorations yourself! If you have family close by, could they run to the grocery store for you? Older kids can help cut out all of those free printables. A friend can take pictures for you the day of the party.
6. Set up the day before.
Younger children typically have parties and play dates earlier in the day. If you can get your table and decorations set up and food on plates the day/night before, then your only worries are to put out the food the next day and get everyone dressed for the party!
Older children and adults have later parties, but I’d still suggest at least having your decorations and table set the night before.
7. Have fun!
Everything is ready to go and you have time to celebrate. Whew!
Stacey Swanson is a mommy just like you that loves to bake! You can check out her Facebook community by searching Stacey Bakes orwww.facebook.com/staceyswansonbakes. If you are interested in something yummy, like cookies, cake pops or decorated cakes, for your next event, feel free to contact Stacey at 240-409-6006 or Stacey.swanson@me.com
