Things to Prepare for a Birthday Party

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When planning a birthday party, there are many things to take into consideration to ensure a successful event. The age and personality of the guest of honor will determine the type of affair--from child to adult or casual to elegant. After you've established the type of party, you can plan for the necessities.

The Invitations

Prepare the party invitations first. Not only do they provide guests with pertinent information regarding the party, but they also offer a hint toward the type of party it will be. For example, if you are throwing a princess-themed birthday party, you may wish to send out tiara-shaped or bejeweled invitations. For an "Over the Hill" birthday party, invitations in the shape of headstones let guests know that the event will be a comical one. Invitations should include the date, time, location and RSVP information for the party, as well as anything else that is important for guests to know. Send out your invitations early so guests can respond in a timely manner.

Menu

The fare at a birthday party is important, as guests need to be nourished and will appreciate a menu filled with tasty food. Again, when planning your menu, take into account the type of party you are hosting. For a children's birthday party, kid-friendly finger-finger may be the best option: hamburgers, hot dogs, chips and cupcakes, for example. For a swanky adult soiree, plan a more sophisticated menu. Perhaps include finger sandwiches, high-end cuts of meat and petit fours.

Entertainment

Entertainment keeps the event moving and helps guests enjoy themselves. At an adult party, you may include age-appropriate board games or a scavenger hunt that sends party-goers on a hunt throughout your city or town. For a kid's pool birthday party, swimming needn't be the only form of entertainment--organized pool games and water-balloon fights will keep guests amused.

Favors

Favors say thank you to party guests and also serve as a memento of the good time everyone had at the party. Favors can include candy, jewelry, toys, photo frames, trinket boxes and even bottles of wine. Choose a favor that suites your guest list and the type of birthday party you are hosting.