Admit it: While your little one is counting the days until their next birthday, you may be quietly obsessing yourself: What will the favors be? How many people should we invite? How much will it cost?? Birthdays are certainly joyous events, but they take time and energy if you’re planning a celebration—but luckily, not too much of either if you plan ahead. Kim Stoegbauer, party stylist and founder of The TomKat Studio, demystifies a few of the top questions about planning your child’s birthday party. Her answers will help lead the way to a fun and successful soiree.
Question: When should I send the invitations?
Typically three to four weeks in advance, recommends Stoegbauer. This allows for ample planning time, as well as for your guests to make arrangements to attend. Upon choosing the actual date, Stoegbauer suggests checking in with your child’s close friends to make sure they’ll be available. Once you send out the invitations, follow up with those who have not responded about a week prior to the party. Whether you’re having a large bonanza or a more intimate gathering, the sooner you know who will be coming, the easier it will be for you to plan for the food and favors.
Question: To Bake or Not to Bake?
Put on your apron! Stoegbauer says that many parents shy away from making the cake. “A lot of moms are intimidated by doing the baking, but it’s really, really easy.” It’s a sure way to save money and have custom made birthday cake. One key to making fancy sweets look as though they were bought from a bakery is to master a frosting kit. They are simple to use and allow you to get creative, says Stoebauer. Experiment with the decorating tools a few days ahead of the big day, allowing your child to get involved. It is best to bake the cake the night prior to the celebration.
If you do decide to purchase a professionally baked cake, order it at least two weeks in advance. As for the other party dishes, shop a week in advance--and don’t be shy to ask family members and friends to help out! Having people bring a signature dish is a fun way to keep costs and cooking time down, and make the party special.
Question: Are There Any Unique and Affordable Party Favors?
Yes! The key is to personalize. This ups the ante in a cost effective way. For party favors, Stoegbauer is a fan of baking large sugar cookies and decorating them according to the party theme. Complete each one with an individual guest’s name and deliver at the end of the event in a ribbon-tied cellophane bag. Another fun idea is to package fresh chocolate chip cookies in an empty CD envelope. Wrap with twine and label accordingly. Kids love seeing their names attached to the favors, no matter how large or small they may be.
