10 TIPS FOR PLANNING A PERFECT SUMMER PARTY
It’s
summer—and that means it’s time for some fun in the sun. Summer serves
as a perfect (and easy) backdrop for your child's next party. Good
weather means you can
take the fun outdoors and summer school holidays means there is less pressure to invite absolutely everyone.
Keep the following tips in mind when planning your summer parties:
take the fun outdoors and summer school holidays means there is less pressure to invite absolutely everyone.
Keep the following tips in mind when planning your summer parties:
- Feel free to limit your guest list. Invite the number of guests that works best for your time and budget and then send the invitations
- Expect an extra guest or two. As people may be returning from holidays and receiving your invitation late expect that some guests you haven’t heard from may just show up.
- Parties may fall on weekdays during this time of year. Given that people often have more flexible schedules during the summer, you may find that parties fall on weekdays or even weeknights. If your child and your schedule can accommodate this, that’s great, but don’t feel pressure if only a weekend day or night works for you.
- Make a list of the parks you are interested in using for the party, and call the local council to find out if you need to rent or reserve the space. Do this far enough in advance to be able to change your plan if you are unable to meet the park's requirements.
- Make a plan B in case of rain. If you are throwing your party outside, make an alternative plan in case of rain. Make sure that at least some of the activities you have planned can be done indoors or that you have a general idea of other inside activities to fill the time.
- If you are planning a party at an outdoor venue, prepare the food beforehand. The easiest way to serve lunch or snacks at an outdoor venue is to have the food prepackaged and prepared for easy handout during the party. Whether you serve it in lunch boxes, shoe boxes or beach pails, writing each child’s name on the container will make for easy distribution as well.
- Make sure your area has enough tables for everyone. Blankets spread on the ground can make festive seating for children.
- Make sure to plan time for free play. Given the nice weather and the chance to simply be together with friends, do not fill the entire party with activities. Make some time for fun free play.
- Have plenty of hydrating liquids available like water or sports drinks during the party. Kids will need to stay well hydrated, especially if they are running around and the weather is warm.
- If it’s a particularly sunny day, make sure the kids are wearing sunscreen. When the guests arrive at your party, have sunscreen available for them to slather on before they head out into the sun. It’s a smart precaution to take if the kids will be outside for the entire party.
Happy summer party season! Enjoy!
Sarah McDonald is the Director and founder of Arty Parties - Childrens Craft Parties and Events, running birthday parties and events for children and their families all around Melbourne. Visit our facebook page at www.facebook.com/ArtyPartiesandEvents
