Planning a Birthday Party

When planning a birthday party of any type, the details are crucial. While it is certainly possible to throw together a simple party at the last minute, when you want to make sure that your party is a hit, the little details will be important. For example, the best birthday parties typically follow a theme. Fortunately, today, it is possible to find everything from party favors to table covers, plates and even decorations to fit just about any type of theme you can imagine.

Once you have a theme in mind, whether it is an adult theme, such as an "over-the-hill" birthday party or a kids theme, like dinosaurs or a princess party, you can begin making plans for the venue, invitations, cake, decorations and table design. The first thing you will want to do is schedule the venue for your birthday party. This is extremely important because some of the hottest attractions can be reserved weeks in advance. Additionally, you will want to be sure that you have the venue reserved before sending out invitations so you can include the location directions for your guests.

With the party location reserved, it is time to get the invitations sent out. You can make invitations online or with your computer using one of the many publishing software programs; however, purchasing invitations to match your theme can be a quick and easy way to ensure all of your party accessories are coordinated. Most party planners recommend sending invitations at least 3 weeks before the party. Not only will this give the guests plenty of time to clear their schedule and buy a gift, but it will also allow them to RSVP in time for you to make plans regarding how much food will be needed.

After securing the facility of your choice and sending out the invitations, it is time to begin planning the cake, food and decorations. If you are baking the cake yourself, it is important to know exactly what the cake will look like and ensure you have pans and decorating tools you will need. If you will be buying the cake from a bakery, be sure to order the cake at least a week or two in advance. Bring in pictures, diagrams and any specific details, such as color scheme, that you want on your cake.

Food is another important factor and one that will vary widely depending on the venue, as well as the theme of the birthday party. Children often prefer simple foods, such as hot dots, pizza or hamburgers; however, an adult birthday party can certainly include just about any type of food that will fit the occasion. Each party is unique, but the food will definitely play a major role in determining the overall success of the party.

Of course, when it comes to managing the details, decorations will certainly be important. The decorations you choose will help set the tone of the party and unify the theme. Plan plenty of time to put up decorations and set up tables for the gifts, cake and food. Additionally, some people, especially for a children's birthday party, will want to include party favors for the guests to take home. These favors should follow the theme of the party and can be handed out as the guests leave.

One final step in any great birthday party is sending out the Thank You cards. You should try to get all thank you cards written and mailed within 3 days of the party. You put a great deal of time and energy into the details of your party, don't forget to thank your guests for their attendance and gifts.