Some Basic Strategies For Your Child's Next Party. Think Smart!

Planning a child's birthday party or event certainly isn't what it used to be. Having been in the party and event planning business for longer than I wish to admit, I have seen it ALL.  

Over the past several years, many families have been adversely affected by economic conditions. Nowadays, some families simply invite a few close friends and family over for a dinner and cake - like it was when I was growing up. There is certainly something to be said for keeping it simple and low cost.

Those families that decide to plan an event at a venue - whatever the size - now look for, or at least try to find the best VALUE. Whether they're spending $100 or $1000 or more, they want those dollars to work HARD.

So here are some tips to help you do just that:

Size of the Event - The larger the event, the earlier you should begin planning.

The Place - Pick a venue that is established. Newer venues tend to have new, inexperienced staff, which could cause confusion and "hiccups" in the execution of the event. Check them out. Look online for positive customer reviews. Ask questions about how they handle events based on your child's age, theme, number of children, activities that he/she would like, or that they would recommend. Since it is your child's event, he or she should have some interest in the type of events the facility can put on. You will know by your child's reaction if the place makes sense.

If you're planning a very specific theme for your child, make sure the facility can handle it, and of course what their charge will be and what is included in each element of the theme. If you choose a facility that "does it all" for you, be especially diligent about what you get for the price paid. After that, if you have done your homework, relax, and let them do what you are paying them to do. 

If you choose a facility that allows or expects YOU to do the event planning, staging, setup, execution and cleanup - be prepared and be sure you are able to get it done. Get organized, and keep a record of the status and cost of each element of the event. Many moms (and dads) have a knack for this sort of thing, only to realize that other responsibilities prevent them from completing the project as they had perhaps envisioned, or at a cost that they could live with. There are online software programs that can help you stay on top of the event plan.

We have met many families that realize that leaving it to a pro can actually save - time, aggravation, work and money.

The Event - You know your child better than anyone, so go with what he/she enjoys. Make the event an outgrowth of their unique personality and interests. The facility should be able to help you to do this as well. For younger children, try to schedule the event at their "best" time of day - so they really enjoy it.

The Guest List - These days children have "friends" everywhere. School, Dance Class, Karate, Gymnastics, Sports, Religion. Make sure that your budget is realistic to support the size of the party, and adjust the guest list accordingly. Also be realistic about RSVP's. Unfortunately, some school friend's and other parents apparently do not feel it is necessary to respond to your invite - so they don't. If you have not experienced this yet, you are either lucky or too new to the game. Our advice is to simply do your best to obtain RSVP's, and count non-responders as NO's. Again, the facility may have strategies to avoid embarrassment should the non-responders decide to show up. You could also simply add some "just in case" foods/ beverages/ dessert/ favors for the inconsiderate would-be guests.

Be Flexible - Remember that the party is for a child. Your child. Whenever kids congregate, there are bound to be surprises. Go with it. If you have followed your plan, most surprises will not be major. Don't make them so - enjoy the event.

Be Happy - YOU are the center of your child's world - if you are loving every minute of the event, you child will too, and he/she will remember it.