DIY canvas painting kits are a great alternative to goody bags!

Face painting is our #1 most requested service!

Our custom balloon decor takes every party to the next level!

Hosting a birthday party for your child can quickly become overwhelming and time consuming, not to mention expensive! In our 10 years of being in business, we have seen it all. From backyard parties with just cake, ice cream, and a couple games, to a 1st birthday that easily cost five grand (yes, I'm serious and probably underestimating), there is always 1 thing they have in common- the kids have FUN. Here are some of the most important points to consider based on what the last 10 years have shown us.

*What does YOUR child enjoy and want to have at their party? 
Ask you child. What are their interests? Give them a couple choices and have them pick their favorite activity. Do they or you want to have a party at home or at another location?

*What is your budget?
Don't go broke trying to impress their friends or their parents, or trying to do it ALL.  There will always be other parties to host! And what do you want your money to go towards? An impressive cake? Decorations? Activities?  The venue? Prioritize what matters most to you and your child.  

*Keep it simple
If you try to cram too much into 2 or 3 hours, that can many times lead to being too overwhelming for children if there is simply too much going on. Historically, the children just love the opportunity to gather outside of their normal setting, like school, and to just be TOGETHER (usually running around and playing without structure ). I planned many activities in the beginning of my career and they were a massive flop because the kids just wanted open ended play. That resulted in a lot of time and effort wasted on my part, not to mention disappointed parents who paid me to provide those services.

* Make a kids zone
If you are hosting at home, determine where the children may (or may not) play while there. Create an area that welcomes them and has items or toys for them to play with to help keep them out of areas or items you don't want them to get into. If you have hired any outside entertainment, designate a location for them to set up and entertain. Have a conversation with them beforehand about what needs they may have for their setup. 

*How much time do you have to dedicate to the planning?
Here is something we see often. Parents reach out and just want 1 or 2 of our services. Then, the week before the party, they call us frantically asking what else we can help with because they just don't have the time! Really think about what you can commit to ahead of time. I am guilty about thinking I can "do it all myself" and that's simply not the case most times! If you know you don't have much time, then consider finding an outside venue to host that can assist with setup, execution, and cleanup! Many times they offer even more than that, like, food, cake, decorations, and more. 

*Ditch the goody bags
Show me a parent who likes what comes home in those goody bags. I'll wait... Seriously. We spend money on things that go straight to the trash can or on candy already after having cake and ice cream. We hate them. Don't do them. If you want to give your guests a keepsake, put some thought into it. I did a spa party recently and each guest got a personalized washcloth to keep (hello Dollar Tree). When my son turned 5, each child went home with a puzzle (again, Dollar Tree). I now offer alternatives in my store such as pop its or themed "paint your own" canvas kits. These make so much more sense! Put them in a little bag and send them on their way! 

Of course, you knew there would be a shameless plug here! This is exactly why we opened up shop inside of Adrenaline Family Adventure Park. They have awesome party packages and now along with our services, you don't have to do a thing! And nearly for the cost of doing it on your own but without the headache of hosting at home or spending hours planning! You get a party host, play time where they can run free, options to add pizza, ice cream cake, and all of our services. Want balloon decorations? They will be in your party room waiting for you! No mess, no fuss! 

So happy party planning, but let us know if we can help! 

Shauna Williams