Birthday party planner

Party day is only one day for having fun. Get the party started early from the moment you decide on your party date and enjoy the ride.

Let the countdown begin.

4 – 5 weeks in advance

 

• Decide on the number of guests.  If the party will be held outside your home, select and reserve a venue. If you choose an outdoor location, come up with a plan for bad weather.
• Let your child help choose the theme.
• Make a guest list.
• Book entertainment, if necessary.
• Order/purchase presonalised invitations or print your own invitations.
  
  

2 - 3 weeks in advance

 

• Fill out and mail invitations.
  
  
  Make sure you write your child's last name on the invitation so there is no confusion over which Emma it is.
  
  
  Keep a list of invitees near the phone to track RSVPs.
  Enlist your child's help to select activities and games for the part.
  Plan the party food menu.
  Order your cake if you aren't baking it yourself.
  Ask a relative or babysitter to help out during the festivities.
  
  

One week ahead

 

• Decide on the order of activities.
• Test new games and activities. 
• Make a shopping list.
• Buy napkins, decorations, balloons, party hats and other supplies.
• Confirm reservations for entertainment or party location.
  
  
  

 2-3 days ahead

 

• Call guests who haven't RSVPd.
• Shop for food, candles for the cake, goody bags and pinata.
• Make sure you have new batteries and film for the camera or have charged the digital camera.
  
  

One day ahead

 

• Clean the party area. Put away items that may be dangerous or distracting.
• Bake or pick up the cake.
• Order food, if necessary.
• Discuss party expectations with your children.
• Practice saying "thank you" with younger children.
  
  

4-5 hours before guests arrive

 

• Set the table.
• Lay out crafts.
• Inflate balloons.
• Decorate the house.
• Tie balloons to your mailbox / front of the house or so guests can locate the party easily.
• Find matches for candles.
• Have a large garbage bag available to dispose of wrapping paper.
  
  

1 hour before guests arrive

 

• Take pets to a safe place until the party is over. Some kids may be frightened and others allergic.
• Dress your children and yourself.
• Put the food on the table and candles in the cake.
• Set up all crafts and activities.
  
  

During the party

 

• Greet your guests with the birthday party boy or girl.
• If parents are dropping off children, confirm the pick-up time (and be sure you have a contact number in case of emergency).
• Take photos (or ask another adult to do so).
• Enjoy.
  
  

The day after the party 

 

• Help your child write thank-you cards to party guests.