You know the feeling - your child's birthday is fast approaching, and you're looking to organize their party, but you didn't quite realize how much work is actually involved to make sure it all goes off without a hitch. This is a feeling that many parents know only too well, and that's why it's a good idea to be prepared when planning, regardless of the size of your party. That's why I recommend that you make a birthday party checklist into easy-to-manage segments:
* 3 - 4 weeks before the party - this is where you want to make an overall view of what you need to get, as well as put down some ideas for what kind of party you're going to arrange. Some of the initial thoughts could be making the guest list; deciding how much you want to spend; deciding on your menu; send out the birthday party invitations; and booking the entertainment, as well as deciding what games will be best for the party.
* 2 - 3 weeks before - as the party approaches, you'll want to start getting the essentials arranged. Now that the basics have been covered, some of the more important things on your birthday party checklist are: a list of all the other goodies and supplies you need; order the fun things, like balloons, piñata, birthday games and party favors; any film or video tape equipment; and most of all, have a pad and pen ready to make a note of who's coming to the party. After all, these RSVP's are what's going to tell you how much of everything you need!
* 1 week before - now the fun starts! As we all know, the week before any child's birthday party can be the most stressful. However, by following your birthday party checklist so far, you'll be better prepared. Now that the day's almost on you, you should now be concentrating on the following: either buy the birthday cake, or if you're making it yourself, then bake it and freeze it ready for the big day; buy all the essential things like candles (as well as matches), food and drinks, as well as any freezer-friendly food; and confirm with anyone who hasn't replied to your invites what they intend to do.
* 2 days before - now it's really getting crunch time, so make sure you check the following: batteries for your camera, as well as buying extra just in case; confirm with any entertainers you may have booked for your child's birthday party; decide what music will be played at the various party games; defrost any frozen food, as well as make any room in your fridge for any pastries, etc; and fill the piñata as well as set up any party favors you have.
* 1 day before - now it should be fine-tuning, but make sure that you've cleaned all the areas needed for your child's birthday party; all your food is ready (including defrosting the cake if you've baked it yourself); everywhere is decorated; and your camcorder is fully charged.
* The big day - thanks to your birthday party checklist, everything should be in place now, but just in case, have a quick check and make sure you've set up the party games; pick your cake up if you've bought one; check that your bathroom is ready for an invasion of little ones; finish off any minor decorations to the outdoors as well as indoors; and most of all, smile and be ready to be the friendly and happy party host!
