If you are planning to organise a birthday party for your little one, hopefully some of the following information will be useful because (in my naivety) I think that a lot of birthday parties that are hosted by places are just a big con, a huge expense, and aren’t very personal.
Birthday Cake: I have a couple of Likes on my NHM Facebook page of local businesses that make all sorts of cakes. From the photo’s, they all look fabulous and from what I can see are very reasonably priced. As you know, I’m a huge fan of supporting local businesses so like to promote wherever I can. You can find most of these local Cake Companies HERE.
Party Bags: I remember the days when party bags didn’t exist (yes, I’m old!) and you received a piece of birthday cake wrapped up in napkin when you left a party. These days party bags have taken on a whole new dimension. I can totally see how it gets ridiculous if you are hosting a party for lots of children. I also worry about how much of it ends up in landfill, especially the cheap plastic presents that you can pick up for party bags. We went to a party recently where the bags had bath toys in, which I thought was a great idea. I love bubbles and balloons so don’t think you can go wrong with these in the bag. NetMum’s has some great ideas for party bags in the link below.
Party Games: when I was a child I remember that my Dad led all of the party games, possibly because his name was Simon so we always played “Simon says”, lol. If you are hosting at home getting Dad involved as the “Party Games Master” (if he’s available) as it’s a great way for him to feel that he’s a key part of the event. It also shares the load with you!
Thank you Cards: These have been the bain of my life since my little one was born! lol. However, I think it’s really, really important to thank people for any presents that your little one receives. People make a lot of effort for presents and it’s only polite to thank them for this effort. Even if you do start to curse the thank you cards after a while. I can’t WAIT for when my little one is old enough to write her own! lol.
Invites: get them out early. It’s amazing how quickly families get booked up on the weekend. If you are hosting in the week it’s still advisable that you send invites early because people often have set routines for the evening’s or in the day.
Locations: Obviously, at home is always the cheapest, but not always the easiest! There are a lot of Community Centres in the area. Over 60 at last count. You can find them all listed HERE. If it’s summer time you could organise a “Birthday Picnic” at one of the local parks (click HERE for ideas on local parks) but this is dependent on the weather.
Food: Costco. Nuff said! :-D. Although apparently Morrisons do some great sandwich trays for only £5 each.
Presents: Local Mum Businesses
Party Entertainers
Bopping Parties: Kids Disco Parties – 1 to 10 year olds. Great tunes, games, disco props, bubbles and more
Local Party Shops
Face painting
Bouncy Castles
Other Party Businesses