Planning a party can be pretty stressful, and things get more hectic as the day of the party approaches. However, this process can be easier and even more fun if you break down the process into smaller tasks. Are you planning a birthday party for family and friends? Read on to learn more.
Items Needed For A Birthday Party
You can make the process of planning a birthday less stressful by identifying the items you need for the party. It also helps decide what kind of birthday bash you want to throw. For instance, do you want a themed party or an outdoor party? Here are items you may need for a birthday party:
- Birthday cake
- Party decorations
- Signage
- Tables and chairs
- Party entertainment
- Party games
- Food and beverage
- Invitations
- Centrepieces and tablecloths
- Balloons
- Party favours
Birthday Party Planning Do’s
Party planners know that to have a successful and great party, one needs to prepare as soon as possible. Look at the different party ideas, determine the number of guests you would like, and the party area. Doing so will make planning much easier. Here is a list of birthday planning to do’s:
- Theme and budget: If you are taking a themed birthday party approach, it is vital to settle on a theme so you can start planning around the selected theme. It will also help to establish your budget for the party. Having a budget ensures you are not caught unawares by unplanned expenses.
- Select date, time, and venue: Choose the date for the birthday party and what time you want guests to arrive. Ensure you also book the event where you will hold the party.
- Entertainment: Plan for party entertainment like themed photo booths. You can also plan for party activities such as board games.
- Create a guest list: Create a list of the number of individuals you want at the party and send out the invitations.
- Food and beverages: Purchase non-perishables, and if you are working with a birthday party catering service, hire them in advance. It will also be best to hire staff who will help at the party. Remember to pick up the cake and other food and drinks.
- Set up: Ensure the party area is cleaned the day before the party. On the day of the party, set up the centrepieces, activities, and event décor. Remember to put out the party favours. Check the weather forecast if you will be holding an outdoor party.
- Collect information: If you are holding a kid’s party, ensure you collect each parent’s information in case of an emergency. Doing so ensures that you can easily contact a parent, should their child need them or they fall sick.
Birthday Party Planning Don’ts
Here are things you want to avoid when planning a birthday party:
- Don’t plan too many activities: Activities can be fun but don’t plan a lot of them, especially if it is a kid’s party. Kids do not need multiple entertainers to have fun.
- Don’t expect everything to be perfect: Remember that you could run into a few hitches even with proper planning. Therefore, do not expect a perfect party. It boils down to having a well-planned and fun birthday party.
- Opening presents: You do not need to open presents in front of guests or all at once. Open the gifts after the guests leave.
- Goody bags: Do not shop for cheap trinkets and fill them in the goody bags. Have meaningful things that guests can use.
What Makes A Successful Birthday Party?
There is no doubt that good food is the cornerstone of what makes a successful birthday party. However, it can be quite stressful organising food as some people may have dietary restrictions, you may not have the necessary equipment to cook and serve for a large number of people and it can be difficult to control quantities and wastage.
Therefore, consider hiring a catering service instead. Here are 9 good reasons you should consider hiring a caterer for your next birthday party:
1). Excellent quality food – if you provide top quality food, you will definitely satisfy a majority of your guests and a professional catering service can do just that.
2). Perfect food presentation – food should be expertly served so that you don’t just satisfy the appetites of your guests, but also make the meals a lot more enjoyable.
3). Save time and effort – caterers will purchase all the ingredients and ensure there will be enough food for all the guests, as well as cook, so you can relax and enjoy the party.
4). Minimise food wastage – dealing with leftover food is a common problem at end of birthday parties, so caterers can relieve you of this burden.
5). Menu planning – when you hire a professional catering service, you can discuss a wide range of menu options to satisfy all your guests regardless of their various preferences.
6). Worry-free food service – whether you choose buffet-style or ala carte, using a catering service means you will have fewer things to worry about.
7). Experienced and passionate chefs – chefs who are experienced and passionate about their craft put in that extra effort in the food they prepare.
8). Hospitable and friendly food servers – skilled food servers are responsive when it comes to catering to the needs of your guests as they are warm and friendly and share in the enjoyment of the event.
9). Professional service – a professional catering service will provide you with authentic and hygienic meals and take away all your stress so you can enjoy the party.
Final Thoughts
The only way to plan a successful birthday party is by preparing beforehand and having a checklist. Depending on the size of the party, preparing helps you avoid a last-minute rush. The next time you plan a party, use the above tips as a guide.
Hire An Italian Caterer For Your Birthday
Planning a birthday does not have to be complicated or stressful. The process will be flawless when you curate a plan to guide you. Consider hiring party planners if you are too busy to plan a birthday party. Are you planning a birthday party or any other party? At The Italian Table can help.
Please call us today on 0467 488 310 or leave an inquiry and let us help you cater for your next special event.