Ask the
Party Planner
A
my Keene, owner and lead planner for ADORE Events, answers frequently asked questions about birthday party do’s and don’ts.
1. Are birthday party favors required?
No. If you are not able to give a favor or do not want to add on to the party, make sure you have something for your guests to enjoy while they are attending. It can be as simple as tasty snacks or a great cake to remember.
2. Are competitive games appropriate at my child’s birthday party? Age appropriate games, of course. If your child is not interested, then their friends will not be either. If your child enjoys competitive games, then make sure you have a prize that will be enjoyed by all the children attending so no one is left out.
3. My child got more than one of the same gift. Should I ask the parents for the receipts so that I can exchange them for something else?
5. My daughter got a diamond bracelet for her birthday from a close friend. Do I make her graciously give it back or should I allow her to keep it? Do not give the bracelet back. The friend gave the thoughtful gift with your child in mind. Depending on the age of the child, keep the bracelet but maybe only allow her to wear it on “special occasions” and keep it in a safe place.
6. What types of invitations are appropriate for a small birthday party for my child and their friends?
Depending on the age of the child, allow them to help you pick or even create an invitation. Most craft stores will have a ‘do it yourself’ home kit. If it is teen party, create something related to the theme of their party or have a local printer help with a design and printing.
7. Should I call people if they have not RSVP’d or do I accept that as a “NO”?
If a parent sees that their gift is a duplicate, allow them to offer the receipt to you. You do not want to offend them by choosing one and hurting the other parent’s feelings. If you do not get the receipt back, take the gift to the store and see if it can be ‘exchanged.’
If you are throwing a party and a caterer or venue is involved you will want to check in with each guest who has not responded in order to give an ‘accurate head count’. If you are having a party at your home, count in one more family worth of guests and assume the rest who have not RSVP’d will not show. Always over prepare for the ‘just in case’ guests.
4. My child does not want to have a big party; however, I know that our family wants to throw one for him. What should I do?
8. I feel like I don’t get to enjoy my children’s parties because I’m always ‘working’ them. What should I do about asking for help so I can enjoy it too?
A simple family dinner is always a great way to celebrate without throwing a big party.
If you don’t have family in town, it’s okay to ask an organized friend or hire a party planner to run the event for you so you can enjoy the party. Most vendors are affordable and will allow you to take the stress off and have a good time.
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It’s Party Time!
It’s Party Time!
party essentials
PetiteTreatIndividual Cupcake Stands Designed by Rosanna® use these adorable cupcake stands to showcase any special sweet treat! www.organize.com
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Merry Menagerie Candle Set
Candle Tin Favors by Event Blossom
Designed by Reed & Barton®, this adorable set of candle holders include a duck, fish, turtle, frog, quail and dove. Comes with a blue cake giftbox for boys (pink for girls). Candles included. www.organize.com
These adorable personalized candle favors are the perfect compliment to any sweet sixteen or quinceañera. www.organize.com