If you don’t already know, party planning is my thing. I love to have a theme for all birthdays, baby shower, weddings, etc. This is where I begin my designing and checklist.
Choosing a Theme:
I typically cruise through pinterest.com to come up with a theme.
You can access my saved pinterest ideas at: https://www.pinterest.com/jamiedanielle08/?invite_code=01dd521f6c394ba7bdba15e3dc3e9a4e&sender=295197087983736782
Type in things like “boy 6th birthday”, or baby shower themes. You can keep the search broad to see more ideas. If you already have an idea in mind, you can narrow your search by adding more details to your search phrase, ie. “Wildflower Baby Shower”.
Choose a Location:
What is the size of your party and how formal might this party be? What is your price range? This will help you decide on a location. On a tight budget, no problem! This can be hosted at one’s home, or if you don’t want the mess, local parks work great! Trees can come in handy for hanging banners! : )
Are you looking for something more formal, or a large group? Simply do a google search “party venues near me”.
Time to make the invitation:
Digital templates are a great way to go! You can text, email, or share on social media, as well as print for mailing or handing out. They catch the attention, much more than a handwritten invitation. I prefer Zazzle, Etsy, or Canva!
This was made on Zazzle.com
This was made utilizing Etsy.com
Last but not least! This was producing using a Canva template:
FREE accounts can be created on Etsy, Zazzle, and Canva! Type in the theme you have decided on, followed by “invitation” and you will have multiple template options. Some are free and editable, some have to be purchased for a small fee and then you can edit to your liking.
Decor:
My absolute favorite part! At this point you should have your location and theme chosen. Again, I love looking at Pinterest for ideas. Some decorations can be ordered directly off pinterest, but I typically use just for ideas. Once I have an imagine in my mind, I search Amazon.com. It makes things extremely convenient and can be shipped directly to you. Party planning from the comfort of your own home. (Yes, I am sitting on the couch, laptop in one hand and coffee in the other.) Not to mention, you don’t even need a computer, this can all be done on a smartphone or tablet.
As I am currently planning a baby shower for a friend, I will use this example.
Theme: is a spring baby shower: A Little Wildflower Is On The Way
Location: Park
Invitation:
Decor:
I have created a list on Amazon for your reference. As you can see, the games are incorporated into the decor.
Food and Beverage:
What is the time and duration of your party? Are you having light refreshments or needs a little more sustenance?
Pinterest is once again, a great option for view food presentation ideas. My Pinterest is always available for your viewing! https://www.pinterest.com/jamiedanielle08/?invite_code=01dd521f6c394ba7bdba15e3dc3e9a4e&sender=295197087983736782
You guessed it, I have created another amazon list to help with food and beverage presentation.
Let’s talk menu options…
- Catering
- BBQ
Less expensive options…
- Potluck style
- Nacho or Taco bar
- Sandwich bar
- Charcuterie spread
- Chili bar
- Dessert bar
In my previous amazon list I included some serving dishes and charcuterie boards.
If you want to go with more of a food bar style, crockpots make life so much easier!
Here are a few ideas and products I recommend:
Good luck party planning! Please feel free to reach out with any questions!
Such a great blog Jamie!
Thank you Liza!