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Guest List & Invitations

Once the budget is decided, venue and entertainment confirmed, a guest list is the next step, followed by the invitations.

Guest List:

As you have already decided the number of invitees at the Budget stage, it is now time to devise a list of guests, this is usually best done by both you and the birthday girl or boy.

Invitations:

Invitations can be bought, handmade or downloaded to your computer and printed. If you decide to hand make the invitations, a great place to start is a craft store. Here you will find everything you need to make the perfect invite; card stock, embellishments, stamps and charms and a great fun activity for you and your child in advance of party.

Check out the following websites for free downloadable party invitations:

www.office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates
www.hewlettpackard.com/birthdayinvitations
www.dltk-kids.com/crafts/birthday/invitations.html
www.hooverwebdesign.com/free-printable-invitations.html

Check with your chosen party venue if they supply invitations. Many do, which can be useful, particularly if they supply a map or directions to the venue.

If you don't know all your invitees well, don't forget to ask parents to advise you if their child suffers from any food allergies. This avoids any disasters on the day and will ensure that every child has a great time.

Some party planners are more laid back about how many people turn up to their party but we at KidsBirthdays.ie like to know exactly how many people will be there on the day. Asking parents to RSVP at least four days before the event can help you to avoid some or all of the following pitfalls:

• buying too much or too little food
• having less than the minimum number of attendees turn up and having to pay anyway, not to mention your child's disappointment if there is a poor turnout (pay particular heed to this point during the summer months when lots of children are on holiday). If you know well in advance how many are coming, you can always recruit a few more kids if you are short!
• having more than the maximum number of attendees allowed and having to send some children away (a big party faux pas!)

Kids Party Games etc.

Next, children’s party games. The old favourites still go down well with children, pin the tail on the donkey, pass the parcel, musical chairs, duck duck goose, mummies, treasure hunt, tug of war, and blindman’s buff . You will also need small prizes for the winners. Prizes could include inexpensive, sweets, small toys, hair accessories etc.

Finally, remain calm - we hope the party is a great success!