The Perfect Gift for Every Kids’ Party: 15 Great Ideas

Tired of not knowing what to get as gifts for children’s parties? Finding the perfect present can be tricky, especially when you’re trying to match a specific theme! Have no fear – here are 15 amazing gift ideas sure to make every child’s party extra exciting and bring smiles all around! From unicorn crafts and science experiments, each present is sure to put a smile on their faces at their next birthday celebration!

Dinosaur Parties 

A variety of dinosaur-themed gifts would make an excellent present for any kid who loves dinosaurs, including T-shirts, piggy banks, puzzles and small plastic dinosaurs. A book about dinosaurs or even a dinosaur backpack would also make great choices!

Science Parties 

Children will love science experiment kits packed with everything they need to start their own mini lab at home! Additionally, microscopes, telescopes and magnifying glasses make excellent tools for budding scientists.

Pirate Parties

Every little pirate needs some treasure for their journey! For your party, look for plastic children’s jewelry such as necklaces and bracelets as well as eye patches, hats, and flags which will give them the feeling they are sailing the seven seas!

Unicorn Parties

Unicorns seem to be everywhere these days – and kids love them! Consider giving away plush animals, rainbow-colored art supplies or pastel markers and paints featuring unicorns at your next unicorn party to encourage budding artists.

Spa Parties 

Bring all the tools for an at-home spa day right into their own homes: bubble baths, bath bombs, body lotions and face masks are a few key items needed for an unforgettable spa party experience! Don’t forget luxurious accessories such as bathrobes, slippers and headbands to complete the experience and leave guests feeling luxuriously pampered!

Superhero Parties

No superhero is complete without their cape! For your superhero birthday celebration, find personalized capes featuring their favorite character as well as vinyl wall decals of superheroes or action figures to turn any bedroom into their fortress!

Fairytale Parties 

Bring the magic of fairy tales alive by giving out gifts such as fairy wings, wands and tutus! For book lovers there are also storybooks based around popular tales such as Cinderella and Snow White that make great reading material. Don’t forget dress-up accessories like tiaras and slippers too – perfect additions!

Movie Night Parties

Are you looking for the perfect way to celebrate? Make it an extra fun occasion by hosting a movie night party! Get popcorn poppers, candy boxes and other delicious snacks that evoke cinematic experiences for guests at your event – not to mention accessories such as 3D glasses and light-up popcorn buckets that your guests may take home!

Scavenger Hunt Parties

Looking for an innovative party theme? Consider hosting a scavenger hunt party! Set clues around the house and offer prizes as part of this interactive experience for guests, while simultaneously engaging and teaching young ones something new! It will keep them active, busy, and discovering something new while having a blast doing so!

Arts & Crafts Parties

Bring out their artistic side at your Arts & Crafts Party by providing them with coloring books, glitter glue, craft kits and accessories like aprons or smocks to keep their clothes clean! Finally bring out markers, paints, pastels, crayons or pencils for hours of drawing fun!

Sports Parties

Celebrate your child’s love for sports with personalized jerseys, caps and water bottles as favors at their party. Set up some backyard activities such as mini golf courses or soccer goals. Finally, cheer on their favorite team with pom-poms and noisemakers!

Fashionista Parties 

Fashionistas will love throwing themed parties that celebrate their favorite style! Give away personalized bags, jewelry boxes and barrettes as prizes; also find adorable clothing such as tutus or stylish tops; lastly purchase magazines and accessories to complete their looks!

Royal Tea Parties

Every little girl loves playing princess! Create your own royal tea party complete with items like tiaras, crowns and specialty teapots – or serve up some tasty treats such as scones with clotted cream and cupcakes – not forgetting music – bring out a harp or piano for an even more elegant affair!

Royal Tea Parties

Every little girl loves playing princess! Create your own royal tea party complete with items like tiaras, crowns and specialty teapots – or serve up some tasty treats such as scones with clotted cream and cupcakes – not forgetting music – bring out a harp or piano for an even more elegant affair!

Mad Hatter Tea Parties

Provide your guests with an interactive Alice in Wonderland experience by decorating with Mad Hatter decorations! Set up a long table featuring mismatched teacups and chairs, add eccentric dress-up pieces like top hats and glasses, then offer delicious sweet treats for an unforgettable tea party!

Mystery Parties 

Kids love solving mysteries, so why not organize a themed party that puts their detective skills to the test? Set up puzzles and riddles for guests to solve; provide magnifying glasses as prizes or distribute At children’s parties, there’s no shortage of imaginative gift ideas – from personalized items and educational toys to activities and toys designed to keep children occupied – that will keep the recipient smiling from start to finish! Whatever age group your young one belongs to or interests they have, there will surely be something perfect here that keeps their joy going strong. Whether shopping for birthday parties or simply showing your gratitude – these presents will keep their faces smiling bright.

The Big Ticket Items That Come First In Your Wedding Plans

First of all, congratulations on the upcoming nuptials! Not every couple sets a date immediately but, as soon as you do, you are against the clock. There’s a lot to get planned for a wedding and things can change in the lead-up, so staying on your feet and staying flexible is key. However, at the same time, there are some vitally important elements you need to set in stone as soon as you can. Here, we’re going to look at what aspects of your wedding you need to cement first and foremost.

Photo – CC0 License

The budget

The very first thing that you need to decide, before making any other decisions, is how much you’re going to budget towards the wedding. If you’re lucky enough to have parents or in-laws willing to pay for it, ask them for a ballpark budget. After all, you don’t want to take advantage of their generosity. Otherwise, look at how much you’re able to save, whether you plan on taking any debt, and cement a final figure for your budget, leaving in some wiggle room if extra costs accrue along the way. Of course, you can look for plenty of ways to save on your wedding as you go, as well, as pinching those pennies where it counts can be vital at times.

The venue

Before you can think about the setting of the wedding, the catering, decor, services, and travel, you’re going to have to think about what venue the wedding is going to have. Everything else is going center around the venue, after all. You have to think about both where you’re going to get married, as well as where the reception is going to take place, as well. For some weddings, the answer might be the same location, for others, it might be two separate spaces. Bear in mind that wedding venues tend to get very busy, very quickly, so you want to inquire in advance as best as possible to secure your space.

The food

Of course, you’re going to have to feed your guests, as well. You should start looking at the caterers in your area before you have your guest list finalized, but get the ball rolling as soon as you have a clear answer on who will be attending. Now, aside from serving food that you like and will satisfy your guests, you have to make sure your caterer has space to cater in, which may or may not be provided by the venue, as well as options for people who have different dietary requirements. 

The journey 

If you’re having a wedding at a fairly accessible location close to where you live, then you might not have to think about this at all. If you’re planning a destination wedding, however, then you are going to have to think about how to get out there, as well as what travel arrangements you may need to prepare for anyone you want to make sure doesn’t miss the wedding, as long or expensive travel plans are going to exclude some. Similarly, if your wedding ceremony venue is a distance away from the reception venue, you might want to arrange some travel between the two.

The guest-list

Some of the elements mentioned above you want to start looking at before you begin sending the invites out, but the particulars of where you have the wedding, how you cater, and other issues can only be completed once you have a guest list. Figure out who you want to invite and get the invites out in far advance as you can, setting a date for them to reply.

The accommodation

You need to establish your own accommodation, of course, but you should also be thinking about your guests. If it’s a destination wedding, you might want to be in charge of a group booking of a hotel or resort, and then get the funding form each of the attendants, but this can be stressful especially as it’s almost guaranteed some are going to be paying a little later than others. Otherwise, you should do your research on available accommodation near the wedding venue if it’s far from home for some of your guests. Find hotels, B&Bs, and other spots they can stay in and share a list for them to use at their leisure.

Of course, the elements mentioned above are far from the only aspects of your wedding that you’re going to have to plan. Everything else can be a little more flexible, however. You need to make sure that your wedding has a venue, food, and guests, first and foremost.

Ways to Save on a Wedding

Weddings can be a magical day filled with love, laughter, and happily-ever-afters. Unfortunately, they can also be incredibly expensive. According to The Knot, the average cost of a wedding in 2021 was $22,500. That’s a lot of money for just one day! But fear not, lovebirds. There are plenty of ways to save on your wedding without sacrificing the romance. Here are some tips and tricks to keep your wedding budget in check, we’ll also look at some solutions when you have too much debt. 

  1. Go Digital – Save on your invitations by going digital! Not only is it more environmentally friendly, but it’s also much cheaper than traditional paper invitations. There are plenty of websites that offer beautiful and customizable digital invitations, such as Paperless Post and Evite. 
  1. DIY Decorations – Instead of splurging on expensive centerpieces and decor, why not get creative and make your own? Pinterest is a great resource for DIY wedding decoration ideas. Plus, making your own decorations can be a fun and bonding experience for you and your partner. 
  1. Borrow or Rent – There’s no need to buy everything brand new for your wedding. Consider borrowing or renting items like tablecloths, chairs, and even your wedding dress. Websites like Rent the Runway offer designer dresses for a fraction of the cost of buying one. 
  1. Cut the Guest List – The more guests you invite, the more money you’ll spend on food, drinks, and seating arrangements. Consider cutting your guest list to just close family and friends. Your wedding will be more intimate and personal, and you’ll save a ton of money. 
  1. Choose a Non-Traditional Venue – Choosing a non-traditional venue can save you a lot of money. Instead of a fancy hotel or banquet hall, consider a backyard wedding, a public park, or even a beach. These venues often have lower rental fees and allow you to bring your own food and drinks. 
  1. Serve Buffet Style – Serving food buffet style can save you a lot of money on catering. You won’t need as many servers, and guests can serve themselves. Plus, it allows for more variety and flexibility with your menu. 
  1. Skip the Open Bar – An open bar can be a huge expense. Instead, consider offering a signature cocktail, beer, and wine. You can also offer a cash bar or a limited bar to save even more money. 
  1. Buy in Bulk – Buying in bulk can save you money on everything from food to decorations. Websites like Sam’s Club and Costco offer bulk items at a discounted price. Just be sure to calculate the cost per unit to make sure you’re actually saving money. 
  1. DIY Music – Instead of hiring a DJ or a live band, consider making your own wedding playlist. You can use a free music streaming service like Spotify or Pandora and create your own custom playlist. Just be sure to have someone designated to press play and pause at the right times. 
  1. Keep It Simple – At the end of the day, what really matters is that you’re marrying the love of your life. Don’t stress too much about having the perfect wedding. Keep it simple and focus on what’s truly important. 

Now that you have these money-saving tips, you can plan your dream wedding without breaking the bank. And, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by wedding expenses or have too much debt, Achieve Solutions can help. Achieve Solutions offers resources and solutions when you have too much debt. From financial planning to debt management, they can help you get back on track and start your happily-ever-after with peace of mind. 

 

5 Tips For Planning A Memorable Birthday Party In 2023

Planning a memorable birthday party for your loved one in 2023 doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little bit of creativity and a few quick tips, you can make the day a truly special one. From deciding on a venue and theme to coming up with fun activities and decorations, putting together a unique and memorable birthday party is easier than you think. Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a large celebration, these five tips will help you plan a birthday party that will be remembered for years to come. So don’t wait any longer and start planning for an unforgettable birthday party in 2023!

Set a budget

The first thing you’ll want to do is set a budget for the birthday party. Depending on the size and type of party you would like to host, your budget will vary. If you’re hosting an intimate gathering, your budget may be smaller, but if you’re hosting a large celebration, your budget may be a bit higher. Regardless of the type of party you wish to host, setting a budget from the beginning will

prevent additional costs and help to make sure the birthday party is affordable for all who attend.

Choose a venue

When choosing a venue for a birthday party, you’ll want to keep a few things in mind. The first is the number of guests you expect to attend. The venue you choose should be able to accommodate the number of guests you expect to attend. The venue should also offer the type of atmosphere you wish to create. If you are hosting a child’s birthday party, you may want to choose a venue that offers special activities designed for children such as a bounce house or indoor playground. If you are hosting a more formal adult party, you may want to choose a venue that offers special amenities such as a full-service bar or special menus.

Select a theme

The theme of the birthday party should match the personality of the guest of honor. If you are not sure what type of theme to select, you may want to ask the guest of honor what type of party they would like to have. If you are hosting a child’s birthday party, you have the option of choosing from dozens of different types of themes. If you are hosting an adult birthday party, you have the option of choosing from a wide variety of themes as well.

Plan activities and decorations

As you are planning activities and decorations for the birthday party, you’ll want to keep the guest of honor in mind. You may want to select activities that match the guest of honor’s interests. You may also want to select decorations that match the guest of honor’s interests and personality. For example, you can play party games like Minute To Win It or find a mirror photo booth for sale so all the guests can take pictures with props.

Send out invitations

Once you have selected a date and venue for the birthday party, you’ll want to send out invitations. Depending on the type of party you wish to host, you may have several options for sending out invitations. If you are hosting a child’s birthday party, you may want to send out invitations that feature a special toy or character the child enjoys. If you are hosting an adult birthday party, you may want to send out invitations that match the theme or type of party you wish to host. You may also want to consider sending out invitations electronically. Once you have planned a memorable birthday party, you’ll want to remember to send a thank you card to each of the guests who attended.

Whether you choose to send out paper invitations or e-cards, you can use these cards as an opportunity to remind your guests how special they are and how much you appreciate them coming out to celebrate with you. You can also use these cards as an opportunity to send a special message to the guest of honor.

Conclusion

When planning a birthday party, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, think about the guest of honor’s likes and dislikes, and then, decide on a theme and activities that match their personality. Next, pick a venue that is accessible and meets the needs of your guests. Finally, create a budget and list of key items you want to include at the party. With these tips, you can create a memorable birthday party in 2023 that your guests will talk about for years to come.

6 Ways To Plan An Enjoyable And Memorable Easter For Your Family

Organizing a family Easter celebration can be a daunting task. To ensure the day goes off without any hiccups, careful planning is essential.

Here Are Some Ways To Plan An Enjoyable And Memorable Easter For Your Family:

1. Make a list of activities:

Depending on the ages and interests of your family members, think about what type of activities everyone would enjoy on Easter. A few ideas include hosting an egg hunt, organizing outdoor games such as scavenger hunts or mini golf, baking themed treats together, or having an art contest using natural items found in your backyard. You can also spend time decorating eggs with bright colors or painting murals that depict springtime scenes.

An Easter egg hunt is an age-old tradition that kids love! Hide eggs filled with candy or other small treats in your home or yard, and let the kids hunt for them. You can even create multiple hunts for different age groups if you have children of various ages in your household.

2. Set up decorations:

Once you’ve established your list of activities, it’s time to start decorating. Whether you prefer a minimalistic look or an extravagant one, there are plenty of ways to bring some Easter cheer into your home. Consider hanging pastel-colored banners, setting up an Easter tree with ribbons and eggs hung from its branches, creating centerpieces using flowers and ribbons, or placing bunny figures around the house.

Decorating your home or yard for Easter is a great way to get everyone involved in the celebration. Use traditional colors like pink, yellow, blue, green, and purple, or find some fun new ideas that reflect your family’s style. You could also make personalized decorations using photos of each family member for an extra special touch.

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

3. Plan the menu:

What would Easter be without some delicious treats? So when planning the menu for the day, make sure to include dishes that appeal to everyone in the family. A few popular springtime favorites include deviled eggs, quiches, carrot cake cupcakes, glazed ham, roasted asparagus, and boiled eggs. To make the meal extra special, you can even whip up some egg-shaped cookies or festive cupcakes.

4. Create Easter baskets:

An essential part of any family Easter celebration is setting up Easter baskets for each member of the family. Fill the baskets with brightly colored candy, mini chocolate eggs, stuffed animals, stickers, and other toys that will bring a smile to your loved ones’ faces. You can also include books on springtime activities, homemade cards expressing your love and appreciation, or craft kits that everyone can enjoy together.

5. Make a photo album

After the festivities are over, commemorate your Easter celebration with a special photo album. Include pictures of all the decorations you made, family photos from the brunch and activities, and prints of any crafts the kids made.

6. Have fun:

Above all else, remember to have fun! Spend quality time with each other by sharing Easter prayers, playing board games, sharing stories about past Easter memories, or engaging in some friendly competition. Enjoying each other’s company is the most important part of any holiday, and Easter is no exception.

Top Tips To Plan A Great Birthday Party And Delight Your Guests

Planning a birthday party can be overwhelming, especially if you want to make sure that your guests have the best time possible. Therefore, it’s important to start the planning process early so that you have time to perfect all key details without unnecessary stress. Although throwing a birthday party may look like a daunting challenge to take on, as soon as you break it into smaller tasks, things will get easier. Moreover, you will find some great resources online, as well as birthday party inspiration, that will get you even more excited to start planning. Today we have prepared a handy guide, that will help you plan an unforgettable birthday and delight your guests.

Set A Budget

Firstly, before you start thinking about anything else, it’s important to set a realistic budget so that you can ensure that you won’t overspend on birthday supplies and decorations. The amount you are willing to spend on your birthday is up to you, so you will need to consider the type of party you want to throw, along with the number of guests you would like to invite. In addition, your budget may vary depending on whether you are looking to host a party at home or book a venue for the event. Once you have decided on your budget, remember to write it down on a spreadsheet and stick to it as you go.

Choose A Fun Party Theme

Your party theme is another important decision you will need to make before you can take care of the rest. There are many options to consider, so you might want to spend some time brainstorming. For example, if you are looking for a relaxing way to spend your birthday, consider planning a spa birthday party. At Greenvelope, you can find out more about hosting a spa birthday party, whether you want to visit a spa or hire a cosmetologist to come to your house. You may also want to make your own treatments at home and have a DIY spa day.

Find The Right Venue

Next, you will need to find a great venue, which suits your requirements. Although it can be difficult to know what to expect, there are some ways to learn more about the venues you are considering. For example, it might be a good idea to read reviews from other customers to get a better idea of what a venue will be like. Also, don’t hesitate to reach out to their customer service team and ask any questions you may have. This will ensure that the venue you select will suit the style of your party.

Create Stunning Invitations

Don’t forget to send out birthday invitations to let people know about the time and venue of your birthday party. You may want to get printed invitations that you can send to your friends in a traditional way. However, you will need to factor in the costs of printing and delivery. Alternatively, it might be a good idea to go green this year and opt for digital invitations. There are some amazing options to consider, and you may even decide to design them yourself. This will help you demonstrate your creative skills.

Get Party Décor

Another key detail to think about is your party décor, as it will make a difference to how your venue looks. Be sure to stock up on supplies that match your party theme so that you can make the event even more special. If you have time on your hands, you may want to dive into creating some amazing DIY party décor. However, it’s important to start early to avoid feeling overwhelmed in the

run-up to your event. Shop around for everything you will need in advance and look for inspiration online if you get stuck.

Enlist Help If Necessary

While you may want to do all of the work by yourself, remember that you can always ask for help, should you need it. It can be a good idea to ask your family and friends to share their ideas. As a result, you can make your birthday party even better. Also, you may need someone to help you set up on the day, as well as clean up afterwards. If you are organizing a bigger event, it might be beneficial to hire help so that you can spend more quality time with your loved ones.

Take Photos

Remember to take photos throughout the event so that you can commemorate this special occasion with your friends and family. You may even want to book a photographer, who will deliver professional snaps, which you can frame and hang on your walls as a reminder after the party has finished. Moreover, another fun idea could be to create a collage featuring the best photos from the event and documenting some of the great moments you shared with your loved ones. Make sure you send a copy to each guest, along with your thank-you note at the end.

Prepare A Birthday Cake

Whether you want to make a birthday cake from scratch or order one from your favorite bakery, this is a crucial element of every birthday party. Therefore, it can be helpful to look for birthday cake recipes as early as you can so that you can create a delicious treat that everyone will enjoy. Alternatively, you can check whether your bakery requires a longer ordering time. You may also want to order other treats like cupcakes or pies so that your guests have more options to choose from.

Enjoy The Party

Finally, planning a birthday party can sometimes be stressful, so remember to take it easy and enjoy the process as much as possible. The bigger the party, the more things you will need to deal with. Therefore, even if things don’t always go as planned, it’s important to stay calm. It’s impossible to make everything perfect, and you may encounter some delays or other issues on the day. However, most of these problems can be solved, so there is no need to stress out. All you need to focus on is celebrating with your loved ones and having a great time.

Tips for Throwing a Casual Winter Dinner Party for Friends

Are you ready to throw a cozy winter dinner party for your friends? Whether it’s your first time hosting a gathering or you’re a seasoned party planner, having the right tips and tricks can make the difference between an average and an unforgettable winter dinner party. From preparing your home to picking out drinks and activities, here are some essential tips for throwing a casual winter dinner party for your friends.

Group of elegant young people exchanging gifts and smiling cheerfully during Christmas party, copy space

Prepare Your Home

When it comes to throwing a casual winter dinner party, creating a pleasant atmosphere starts with your home. After all, it’s the first thing your guests will experience when they arrive! Having a good-smelling home is essential for setting the mood for a cozy evening.

Not only does a great-smelling home show that you care about providing an inviting environment for your guests, but it also helps to create an inviting atmosphere that encourages conversation and relaxation. Winter is also the season that often brings strong scents of spices and warmth, so having a home that is fragrant and inviting is key.

One way to ensure a seasonal home is by using candles or wax melts with wintery scents like cinnamon, gingerbread, or pine. You can even make your own natural wax melts by combining beeswax, coconut oil, and essential oils of your choosing. Scented simmering pots are also a great way to fill your home with comforting winter smells. Fill a pot with water, add some fresh herbs and spices, and let it simmer on the stove for an hour or so.

Enjoy Some (Responsible) Gambling

There are a lot of great ways of being able to spice up your dinner party, and what better way to while away the cold, dark night than with a bit of responsible gambling?! One of the best ways of being able to achieve this is via Casino themed party rentals, which would be the perfect way of giving your party a bit of an unexpected edge. This will provide a great way of being able to keep the guests entertained, as well as giving them something they’ve not experienced before. This is a great way of being able to provide a dinner party with an edge, and this is something that you need to consider if you want to transform your guests’ experiences. 

Of course, if you are planning to indulge in a spot of gambling, it is important to do the best you can to make this work better for you, and this means being responsible. Make sure everyone is happy with the arrangement, and consider playing without money as well.

 

Pick Casual and Healthy Winter Foods

To make sure your evening is a success, it’s important to plan ahead and pick the right menu items. If you’re looking for delicious and easy winter foods, there are plenty of options to choose from. 

A tasty chili con carne is a great option for a winter dinner party. Start by browning some beef in a pan with some garlic and onion. On the side, you can prepare beans with this recipe for instant pot kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin. Simmer everything together until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded. 

Pasta bake is another great winter dish that can easily feed a crowd. Cook up some pasta shells according to package instructions and mix them with your favorite sauce. Layer the pasta with cheese and toppings of your choice in a baking dish and bake until bubbly. Serve warm with a side of garlic bread or salad, and your guests will be impressed.

Finally, vegetable roast with oven-baked fish is an excellent winter dinner idea. Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F. Arrange vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions on a roasting pan and season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Top with some white fish fillets and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Serve this hearty meal with a light side salad or steamed broccoli.

Choose Alcohol-Free Drinks

Having alcohol-free drinks available is important when you’re throwing a casual dinner party for friends. Not all of your guests may be interested in drinking alcoholic beverages, and it’s important to give everyone the opportunity to enjoy themselves. Alcohol-free drinks are also an important consideration when it comes to safety. If you’re inviting a lot of people over, providing non-alcoholic options can help reduce the risk of someone drinking too much. 

You don’t have to serve boring drinks just because they don’t have alcohol in them. There are plenty of interesting and delicious options that your guests will love. Try mixing up some virgin margaritas or mojitos, or whip up a special winter punch with sparkling cider and your favorite juices and spices. Don’t forget to put out some non-alcoholic beer or wine as well. With these options, everyone will be able to find something they enjoy without worrying about getting too intoxicated. 

Pick Some Fun Activities

Having fun activities to entertain your guests during the party is a great way to create an enjoyable and memorable evening. Whether you’re looking for some low-key activities or something more lively, there are plenty of options to keep your guests entertained.

Board games are always a great option for a casual dinner party. Make sure to choose games that are appropriate for your group size – if you have a large group, you may need to break up into smaller groups.

Karaoke machines can also be a great addition to a casual dinner party. Set up the karaoke machine in an area away from the dining table and invite your guests to take turns singing their favorite tunes. You can even create a competition by having everyone vote for their favorite singer! 

Are you ready to catch up with friends through a casual dinner party this winter? It’s the perfect opportunity to have a laugh and get together again!

Planning Checklist: 5 Simple Steps to Prepare for a Party

Thinking about parties can surely make everyone feel bright and excited. Preparing for it can be fun, but if proper planning is not done, it can be exhausting. With hundreds of ideas popping up, it sure can be an overwhelming event to prepare.

Whatever you want to celebrate, a planning checklist can help you get through the challenge of preparing one. If you are about to prepare for an event and are confused about where to start, here are simple steps you can follow to prepare for a party.

Schedule and Hire a Venue

Setting the specific date and time of the party will help you know the remaining time you have to prepare for it. Of course, if the event is for specific dates like birthdays, anniversaries, and

such, it is better for the party to take place on the exact date. Setting the date beforehand would also help you know if your guests will be available on the said schedule. Because, of course, they also have to prepare themselves for your event.

Planning thoroughly on the date will also allow you to check if your chosen venue is up for hire on the day of your event. Choosing a flexible venue around your area is vital for your and your guest’s easy accessibility. Whether you plan to have a small or big party for your event, there are many venues around that you can choose from.

In the United States, top-rated venues for parties and meetings are available in areas like Atlanta, Boston, and Dallas. On the other hand, if you are from Australia, a large party venue in Newcastle, Sydney, Melbourne, and other areas can offer you diverse options for your party venue needs.

Choose the Perfect Theme

Deciding the party’s theme will help you easily start on what you want your event to look like. Once you have chosen a theme, other things needed for the party will eventually follow. When choosing one, make sure that it will suit the whole purpose of your event. Here are the following sources of themes you can consider:

Color Scheme – One of the simplest themes you can consider is choosing a color scheme. Using black and white colors will reflect sophistication and glamor. A sunshine yellow theme will show bright and uplifting energy, and a sea blue theme can also offer a sophisticated feel to your party. A color theme can be an effective starting point for event preparations.

● Personal – Choosing something personal as your theme will make it easier for you to decide. You can choose a theme related to your favorite book, film, music band, or game. Choosing these themes will allow personal touches to your whole event.

● Trend – Another good potential source of themes is looking for trends. Look for what’s up-to-date and current today. Choosing one will create a connection not only to you but also to your guests.

Prepare a Guestlist

Preparing for events also means creating your guest list. Before you send out invitations, consider first things like who you want to invite and how many you can accommodate. You can prepare for a guestlist by writing a list of people you consider inviting. This way, you can

compile a list and cut it down afterward if necessary. You can prioritize your families and closest friends, and others will follow.

Hire a Caterer

If the venue you hire does not include food and drinks packages, you can find and hire a caterer to do the job. When choosing a caterer, you should consider first the needs and preferences of everyone included in the event. For example, do your family or guests have food allergies or dietary plans to follow?

But, of course, you can’t consider everything about your guests. That’s why you must have different options prepared on your menu. This way, they can have the freedom to choose and decide what to eat.

Stick To Your Budget

In planning, setting a budget should always be part of the list. Your budget is the deciding factor in what direction your event will take. Organize an event that you can pull off and afford. Suppose you are having difficulty preparing an event within your budget. In that case, you can hire an event organizer to help make your vision a reality and make things easier for you to handle.

Takeaway

Parties and events are one of the most time-consuming things to prepare. Yet, it is the best time for you, your families, and your friends to gather and enjoy a fun time. Thus, planning and creative ideas are necessary to create an event that everyone will love and enjoy. You don’t have to get worked up when preparing one. Just follow what you initially plan to do, and remember that the main goal is to have fun and enjoy!

How To Throw A Party That Has Something For Everyone

Throwing a party that has something for everyone can be hard to pull off. After all, you’ve got all kinds of people coming along, and who knows how well they’ll take to the spread you’ve put on! And that’s a dilemma that has plagued would-be party throwers for years now. How can you ensure that everyone has a good time, and that there’s something for all your guests to eat, drink, and do? 

Thankfully, the answer to this question is a lot simpler than many people think. You’ve just got to know who’s coming, have an idea about a diverse menu, and then give yourself plenty of prep time to go through. And that’s what we’re here to help with! Check out our points below on throwing a party that all attendees will enjoy and want to come back to when you plan again in future. 

Keep the Flow Going with Fun Activities

A party is fun by nature of it just being a party, but if you want people to go away thinking they’ve had the best time ever, get some activities going. Karaoke, having a go at some famous circus tricks, a magician, a professional behind the bar – these are all great ways to provide some amazing, cultivated entertainment. 

And if you’re worried – while some of these ideas are a little pricey, others can be done on a shoestring budget, so there’s plenty to go round no matter your financial situation. Get the call in early if you want to book someone for a better deal, but a karaoke machine in the corner is also a good backup idea that can be pulled off in just 20 minutes! 

Curate Your Menu Carefully

You’re going to have a lot of different food preferences, intolerances, and dietary needs to deal with, so get these details in early. Know who your vegans are, and if anyone is allergic to peanuts or is lactose intolerant; these are the biggest details to get down on paper before coming up with anything to serve. 

And if you’ve got a lot of dietary needs to deal with, don’t be afraid to tell people they may need to BYOB – if they bring their own bottle (or snacks), they can’t be disappointed! 

Then once you’ve got your menu all sorted it, it’s time to serve the food up on a Serving Platter that looks great! Half of the battle is the way you present your food, so invest a little bit of money here and make sure you’ve got some fancy crockery. 

Learn to Mix Some Amazing Cocktails

Cocktails are always going to impress, and it’s impossible not to like them thanks to just how many you can crack out with the same 5 or 6 ingredients. So take some time to learn how to make some; there are plenty of tutorials on youtube to follow if you need to! 

Similarly, make sure you’ve got plenty of ice and fresh fruit to go on the side as garnishes. Everyone loves a cold drink, and a Mojito just isn’t the same without a bit of mint! And for anyone who doesn’t drink, you could always mix up a mocktail following the same recipe. 

Always Add Something Extra to the Decorations

And just a quick point to finish! The decorations you’ve set up will always look lovely; it’s nice to see well prepared furniture, lighting, and wall hangings whenever you go round for a party. However, you can go a little further here and add something extra that’ll help bring the fun to the atmosphere. 

For example, balloons are one thing you can bundle up in the corners, but banners and streamers, origami stars, and regular glitter cannons going off will put the cherry on top of the icing!

Don’t Get Bogged Down in the ‘Perfect Party’

This is important to remember from the offset. A perfect party looks different to everyone, so don’t worry too much about achieving this. Just go for a fun evening that has a little something for everyone. And if you want to throw a party everyone is going to enjoy, you’ve got to anticipate everyone’s needs! 

And while that might sound hard in theory, in truth it’s really quite simple. We’re all human, and we want to eat well, drink well, and have a good time. So think about each guest in turn and include something in your plan that appeals to them. Then, just have a great night! 

4 Healthy Kids Party Food Ideas

Thinking of ideas for kids’ party food that’s healthy and filling, but not boring? You’ve come to the right place. Kids’ party food doesn’t have to be the usual chips, cake and pizza; you can serve up some healthier options instead. 

Keeping things simple is one of the best ways to ensure your kids don’t feel like they’re missing out on anything by having these healthier versions. Whether it be a birthday party or an end-of-term treat, these wholesome snacks are perfect for any occasion.

Photo by Lidya Nada on Unsplash

Healthy Kids Party Recipes

Kid-friendly charcuterie board

Creating a kid’s charcuterie board is a fuss-free way to mix your kid’s favorite things with new things they may not have tried yet. Little ones will love the variety of flavors and textures. The great thing about charcuterie boards is that anything goes, so feel free to customize it to your child’s tastes!

As a starting point, your board could include the following:

  • Cheese slices or cubes
  • Crackers (preferably wholemeal)
  • Crunchy veg sticks and hummus
  •  Fruit slices (like apples and mandarins)
  • Meats (like deli ham, pepperoni, and salami)
  • Trail mix

Get creative and ask your child what kinds of things they would like to see on the board! If you’re feeling artistic, consider arranging the food items to resemble a scene!

2-ingredient banana ice-cream

This super-simple healthy ice cream only requires two ingredients and a food processor. Of course, you can always customize it with your own ingredients, such as frozen blueberries or peanut butter.

Ingredients

  •  6 bananas – peeled, chopped, and frozen
  • 60ml lemon juice

Instructions

  • Place frozen banana, lemon juice, and any additional ingredients in a food processor and pulse, scraping down sides frequently until mixture is smooth.
  • Transfer to a deep pan and place in the freezer for 2 hours until firm.
  • Serve!

That’s it! Just be sure not to freeze it for too long, or you may be waiting a while until it’s scoopable!

 

Photo by Leighann Blackwood on Unsplash

Healthy oven-baked chicken fingers

Chicken fingers in stores often come with a long list of questionable ingredients and taste bland. These quick and easy chicken fingers taste great and are made from 100% chicken breast and wholemeal breadcrumbs.

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts cut into strips
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 2 eggs (whisked)
  • 3-4 slices wholemeal bread (whizzed into breadcrumbs)
  • Olive oil (in a spray)

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 210 F and line a large sheet pan with baking paper.
  • Place your flour, whisked eggs, and breadcrumbs into 3 separate bowls.
  • Dip each chicken strip into the flour ensuring all the strips are fully covered.
  • One by one, dip the floured chicken pieces into the egg, then into the breadcrumbs ensuring each piece is covered in breadcrumbs.
  • Place each piece on a pan as soon as it’s covered and spray with olive oil to ensure a crispy coating.
  • Bake for 20 minutes, turning halfway through and spraying the other side with olive oil.
  • After the cooking time is up, cut through the largest piece to ensure they’re cooked through.
  • Serve with your choice of dip!

Any cooled, leftover chicken fingers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. While they can be eaten cold, they will lose their crispiness. To reheat, pop them into a preheated oven for a few minutes.

Image via Safe + Fair

Healthy air-popped popcorn

Popcorn is a versatile snack that’s healthier than chips. Popcorn is a whole grain, which contains antioxidants and a ton of fiber. While it’s easy to make your own at home, there are also plenty of low-calorie pre-made options such as this Birthday Cake Drizzled Popcorn made with clean-label ingredients!

If you want to make your own, it only takes 10 minutes and very few ingredients! Feel free to get creative with seasonings! Butter is omitted in this recipe, but if you want to use it, substitute it with the oil.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or coconut oil
  •  ½ cup popcorn kernels, divided
  • Seasonings of choice

Seasoning ideas (feel free to personalize to your kid’s taste!)

For savory

  • Salt
  • Garlic powder
  • Cheese powder
  • Paprika

For sweet

  • Sugar
  • Cinnamon powder
  • Maple syrup
  • Caramel sauce
  • Vanilla essence

Instructions

  • Heat the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan on medium-high heat.
  • Place 3 or 4 popcorn kernels into the oil and cover.
  • When the kernels pop, add the rest of the popcorn kernels, cover, and remove from heat. Shimmy the pan to ensure even distribution. Let the pot rest for 1 minute to ensure the oil doesn’t get too hot before the kernels pop.
  • Turn the heat back up to medium, place the pot back on the burner and continue to cook the popcorn while shaking the pan occasionally. Once they start popping, turn the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape.
  • Continue cooking until the popping sounds slow to around 1 pop every few seconds.
  • Remove from heat and place popcorn into a serving bowl. Sprinkle with your seasonings of choice and serve!

To make the healthiest choice when buying popcorn kernels, look for organic or non-GMO kernels.

Final thoughts

Cooking for kids can be challenging, especially if they’re fussy eaters! Even so, preparing healthy, tasty party food doesn’t have to be a chore – you can even get your kids involved in the process! We hope you found this article useful!