Stress Free Party Tips from Blossom & Bow

It’s been a month since we celebrated Malala turning one, a whole month! Where does the time go? I can’t remember it being this rapid before, does that mean I’m getting old? I absolutely loved throwing Malala her first birthday party. It was really special but also weirdly emotional being at my own child’s birthday party (anyone else?)

When Jessica and Rachel, the two sisters behind Blossom & Bow got in touch with me about their new delivered party boxes, I was secretely a bit gutted that we had already had a party for Ma because their themed party boxes are so cool! The idea is really simple, a unique, high quality and imaginative party-in-a-box, to save busy mums trawling through Amazon trying to remember AND find everything they need, whilst attempting to make it all go relatively well together. You can choose from a range of themed boxes such as Over The Rainbow, Cold As Ice, Jurassic, Once Upon a Time, Superkids and my favourite, Ahoy There! Next, let them know how many kids are coming to your party and they will send you EVERYTHING that you need, from table cloths to party bags, enabling you to throw a spectacular party and earn some serious mum points!

Sounds good, doesn’t it? And for all those party planning extras, they’ve got us covered with their top tips for a stress free party!

Pick your date. Think about how this date ties in with school holidays, and public holidays or festivals that might affect attendance to your party. If your child has a BFF (Best Friend Forever!), it might be wise to get in touch with their adult to confirm they are free, before finalising your date to avoid a potential meltdown if they can’t come.

Write a guest-list. You may opt for a small party of just best friends, or it may be the trend in your area to invite the whole class! Either way, you might want to make allowances for extras such as younger siblings, or a friend who decides to visit that day. If your child is under 5, it is likely you will have parents in attendance as well, so think of this when you are deciding on your venue…

Venue. Parties at home are great as they save money on venue charges, but having 8 or more sugar-loaded children running riot in your living room might not be everyone’s cup of tea. If you are planning on finding a venue, you should book at least 6 weeks in advance to avoid disappointment. Visit the space to get an idea of how it would work for you. Find out what their policies are on food, and entertainment (such as bouncy castles). Blossom & Bow party boxes are perfect for at home parties and venue parties alike, so you know you can always bring your child’s desired theme with you!

Entertainment. You may have the budget for a bouncy castle, face painter, magician or a petting zoo, or you may opt for good old-fashioned party games. Either way, you will generally need to fill an hour before the children will be sitting down having their tea. Don’t worry if your party isn’t planned with military precision; children will be happy just hanging out with their friends, but some structure to the party will help it flow better. We have plenty of party game ideas on our pinterest account.

Food. If you are having your party at a specialised party venue then they will have birthday tea packages that you can choose from. If you are providing the food yourself then consider something a bit more out of the norm such as sushi to make your party memorable, or having pizza delivered. Think of the adults and any younger siblings that might come along when planning your quantities and don’t forget your birthday cake!

Delegate and out-source! Get as much help as you can – ask your friends and family to help out with pouring drinks, helping children with the games, and getting the food out. Ask someone to be in charge of taking photos as you will have your hands full, and make sure you someone to help with the clear up at the end.

Party bags. A slice of cake and a balloon doesn’t always cut it these days as children have come to expect a bag of goodies on departure, but this doesn’t mean they have to be super-expensive. Stickers, bubbles, temporary tattoos, something crafty and sweets are all crowd pleasers.

Thank you cards. It’s only polite to thank your guests for coming to your party and for the gift they bring for your child. If you can use a thank you card that ties in with your theme, then all the better!

Happy Partying!!!

You can check them out at www.blossomandbow.co.uk and for 10% off your order, use the code MIDDLEMAMA10.

Thank you Blossom & Bow!

Enjoy! xx