FEATURES
Home Parties
“Our birthday parties are mostly held at home. The kids choose a theme, and then I organize the games, goodie bags, and decorations.” - Jessica Bajohrs-Sabate, mom of Elias (9), Adelaide (6), and Abel (2)
External Venues
Photo: manu (flickr)
On the other hand, home is probably not the first place that springs to mind if you intend on inviting 30 guests (even if they’re angels). Some themes work better in a venue or the child’s age may suit an activity center. Some venues offer good value and include catering, entertainment, and a party leader, leaving you to relax and enjoy the party. Cost is not the only factor to take into consideration. Think about location, size, and food. It’s a good idea to drop by the venue when it’s hosting another birthday party to get a better idea of whether it suits your needs.
The next step is to decide on the venue. Consider the practicalities and costs before you discuss options with the birthday boy or girl; otherwise they might get disappointed if the budget doesn’t stretch to what they want. Once you have a few options, be sure to get them involved; after all, it’s their party. Costs can be considerably kept down if you hold the party at home. There are no overhead costs for the venue, the party can be kept small, and everything from decorations to catering can be made or bought cheaply. Many children, particularly younger ones, feel more comfortable in familiar surroundings. The downside is you have to clear up afterwards; enlist your ayi and some helpers. Tips: Put away valuable or fragile items, and childproof the area. Pets can feel as overwhelmed as children; put them somewhere safe and peaceful. Have plenty of wet wipes and paper towels for faces, hands, and spills. Restock the first aid kit before the party. Mark out rooms and areas that are out-of-bounds; tape a length of party ribbon across the floor if you can’t lock doors.
Tips: Book early; the best venues go quickly. Don’t forget the cake knife and candles if they’re not provided. Blu-Tack, tape, and scissors may come in handy. Take garbage bags for presents and rubbish. Have a table ready for presents and cards.
“If your child’s birthday is during the summer months, you can’t beat a pool party. The kids just entertain themselves!” - Sarah Struthers, mom of Katie (6) and Matthew (7)
Ask the following: Availability: Can you have the time and day you want? How far in advance must you book the party? Cost: What’s included? Factors include maximum number of guests, party leader, food and cake, entertainment, music, activities, party bags, decorations Privacy: Do you have exclusive use of the space or do you have to share? DIY: Can you hire the venue but provide your own catering, entertainment, music, decorations? Scheduling: How long is the party and is it possible to go in early to prepare? Staff: How many and which staff members will be available on the day? Safety: Is there a first aid kit onsite? If it’s a pool party, are there lifeguards on duty? Contingencies: If it’s an outdoor venue, do the organizers have a “plan B” in case of inclement weather?
November 2014 beijingkids
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