Party Planning 101: The Ultimate Birthday

Creating your own invitations is as easy as 1,2,3. I know that's an old cliche, but it's the truth none the less. No matter the occasion, using the following step-by-step guide will have you printing your masterpiece in no time!

1. Decide on the party theme - I know this seems like a no brainer, but I can't tell you how many customers I work with on a daily basis who, with less than 2 weeks before the party date, still have no idea what they want. To reduce your stress in the long run, don't be one of these people. If you are planning a birthday party, ask the recipient for their input. If the party is for a young child, scan the party supply websites to get an idea of what's out there. If you are planning a baby shower, watch for the latest trends if you are undecided. Polka dots and stripes are hot right now!

2. Gather Supplies - To create and print your own party invitations, you will need a few things to get started. First of all, you will need a computer, and a color printer. No need to purchase a special printer, any inkjet or laser printer will work.
Next, you will need a graphics program of some sort, and working knowledge of the program. You will find many basic design programs at your local office supply store, and many of them are as cheap as $10.00. If you absolutely have to, you can create your invitations in Microsoft Word, but be forewarned that the features are very limited, and you may find this option too difficult.
You will also need clipart to add to your invitations, as well as wording ideas. You can find tons of free clipart by doing a basic Google search. If you are planning a character themed party such as Winnie the Pooh or Elmo, you CAN use their copyrighted images for your own personal use. Performing a Google image search for your character will allow you to locate hundreds of possible images. The larger the image, the higher the quality. Try to stay away from small images. You can always make a large image smaller without damaging the quality, but you can not increase the size of a small image.
Finally, you will need card stock to print your invitations on. Wal-Mart sells a nice 150 sheet package of 110 lb. card stock for $5.88. Before you purchase the card stock, you want to check your printer's manual for the maximum paper weight that it can feed. If you try to use a card stock that is too thick, your printer may jam while trying to pull it through.

3. Start Designing! - Now comes the fun part! Using the design program, open a new file. You simply need an 8-1/2 x 11" sheet of paper. Once you have that open, use your square shape tool to draw a square that is 4-1/2 x 5-1/2 (standard invitation size), or any other size that you would like; 4x6, 5x7, etc. This will serve as your guidelines for designing, so you can be sure to keep your graphics and text within the right amount of space. Now start designing. Play around with different backgrounds; try layering. Do a Google search and find some cool wording ideas (I'll be posting several sections on this later), and play around with different fonts and colors. MAKE SURE TO SAVE AS YOU GO!!!!! Nothing can sink your heart faster than working tirelessly for hours to get the perfect design, and then remembering that you forgot to save it, after your son accidentally pulls the plug out of the wall (been there, done that).

4. Ready, Set, Print - Ok, so by now you have designed the perfect invitation, and you are ready to print it out. If you used the 4x5-1/2" size, then you can print 2 per page. Just rotate the design if needed, so both will fit, and then Select All, Copy, and finally Paste the second invitation. Move this second invitation to a free space on your page. Save again. Now you're ready to print. Play around with your printer's settings, until you achieve the exact result you're looking. Remember, the colors that you see on the screen won't necessarily be the exact same once printed. I could explain that, but it's really boring, and I'll add it to a later post.

5. Envelopes - Wal-Mart sells white invitation envelopes that will fit your newly printed invitations, or you can also find them in different colors at Michael's, and most office supply stores.

6. Mail Them Out - I think this is pretty self-explanatory :)

Well, that's about it. I hope that someone out there can benefit from this simple guide. If you need any help at all figuring out your design program, or coming up with ideas, please comment on this lens, and I'll help you in any way that I can. :)

Planning a birthday party to remember, doesn't need to cost a fortune. There are many tips and tricks to planning the perfect party, that won't break the bank. In this article, I will share some tips and tricks I have used myself, that have allowed me to provide my children with awesome birthday parties, for under $100.00.

Every good plan needs a sense of direction, and party planning is no exception. Before you can purchase invitations and supplies, you need to decide on a theme for the party. Check out the online party supply websites to see what's popular this month. If you still need help, be sure to check out my lens articles for the most popular boys and girls themes of June/July.

Once you have decided on the perfect theme, it's time to choose a date, time, and location. If you are on a very strict budget, having the party at your own home, or the home of a family member, may be the best option, and can be tons of fun. If you have a little more flexibility in your budget, be sure to check out your local fast food restaurants. Many fast food restaurants have very affordable rates for renting their play room/purchasing their birthday package. Another tip in this area, if you don't want to rent their room, purchase all of the party goers a small drink or even ice cream. As long as you purchase something in the restaurant, they won't mind you using the play equipment. I had my daughter's party at a local Burger King several years ago, and we brought in our own cake and party supplies, and just purchased drinks for everyone. It worked out perfectly.

Once you have the when, and where decided, it's time to decide on invitations. Store bought invitations are always an affordable choice, but if you want something a little more personal, look around online for companies who print invitations. There are several low cost alternatives online (www.ddhfavors.com) and many of these companies can work with any theme that you might have in mind. If you would rather print the invitations yourself, be sure to check out my lens article for complete, step-by-step instructions. Be sure to ask for an RSVP. So much money is wasted on purchasing too many plates, and cups, etc, and this can be easily avoided if you ask for an RSVP on your invitation. Simply asking for a response so you can have an accurate head count is all that's needed.

Once you have an idea of how many people will be in attendance, it's time to purchase the supplies. This is where you can see the majority of your budget depleted in a matter of seconds if you're not careful. The first thing you need to remember is that everything DOES NOT need to match! I can't stress that enough. I know the party store will have matching cups, plates, napkins, placemats, tablecloths, candles, loot bags, hats, etc., but you DO NOT need all of this! Trust me here, the last thing any child is going to remember is whether or not the plates matched the cups.

Below is a basic rundown of what I suggest purchasing:
* Small dessert plates that match your theme (a small piece of cake doesn't need a lot of room)
*Clear/White plastic cups (they match everything, and can be purchased very inexpensively at Wal-Mart)
*Napkins that match your theme (these are usually inexpensive)
* Tablecloth in a color that matches your theme
* White forks (again match everything, and cheap at Wal-Mart)
* Streamers in party colors (stick to 2 or 3 colors, 1 roll each)
* Balloons (multi-colored packs are inexpensive)

Now for the cake. If you followed my advice to this point, you should have enough money in your budget to make some decisions here. An obvious choice for a cake would be your local grocery store, who sells themes cakes for around $20.00. If you need to save a little more money, purchase a couple of the Pillsbury Funfetti cake mixes and icings, and make your own cake. If you check on Ebay, you can find several sellers who create edible images in a variety of themes, for around $7.00. This will give your cake one of a kind flair. You can also check into making your own fondant, if you want to go all out. I will post a good fondant recipe that I used for creating my daughter's birthday cake last year, for those who are interested.

Last but definitely not least, you will need to plan some entertainment. Remember earlier when I said the last thing a child will remember is whether or not the plates matched the cups? Will the one thing that a child will remember is whether or not they had fun at the party. Make sure to put some effort into this part of the party. Do some online research and see if there are any game ideas for your particular theme. I will be posting an article later in the week that focuses on game ideas, both in general, and related to particular themes, so be sure to check back for that.
Don't forget that entertainment also includes party favors. What better way to make a lasting impression than with party favors that are worth remembering? Personalized candy bars are an inexpensive party favor, that tells a story. Check out www.ddhfavors.com for more inexpensive party favor ideas, and check back later in the week for a party favor article.

In this picture - My son's 5th birthday cake. We used a construction theme, and I made this cake myself. Everyone loved it! :)

We will be adding invitation wording for popular birthday themes in this section, so check back often for updates. As always, if you have use wording that you think someone else might like, or if you have come across something on the internet that you would like to see added to this section, please post a comment at the bottom of the page, and we'll add it to this section.

PIRATE WORDING
Aaarrr! Come if ye dare to Pirate (Birthday Boy)'s nth Birthday Bash! We need shipmates to swab the deck, walk the plank & hunt fer pirate treasure. Aaarr! Ship sets sail on (Date & Time). Meet us at old man (Birthday Boy's) island at(Address).
Let ye misses (Mom's Name) know at (Contact Info.)

Avast ye landlubbers! Ye are invited to Abby's Birthday Party!
Chart yer course for 12345 Somewhere Street
on July 18th
5:00 p.m.
RSVP by June 20th (or ye will walk the plank!)

Shiver me timbers, it's Jackson's 5th Birthday Party!
Ship sets sail
Saturday, July 18th
at 4:00 p.m.
from
post 5656 Highland Dr.
Arrrrrr you coming to the party? (123) 456-7890 by July 7th

REPTILE WORDING
You're Invited to a TOAD-ally Cool Party!
Slither on over for
Jackson's 5th Birthday Party!

It's a PARTY!
Slither, Hop, or Crawl on over for
Jackson's 5th Birthday Party

CONSTRUCTION WORDING
Jackson's 5th Birthday is Under Construction!
Work Begins
July 18th
Shift Starts at
1:00 p.m.
Construction Site:
12345 Anywhere Lane
Somewhere, Kansas

CAUTION!
Jackson is Turning 5!
Please Join Our Birthday Party Crew!
Make the Party Detour
July 18, 2009
1:00 p.m.
12345 Anywhere Lane
Somewhere, Kansas
RSVP: 123-456-7890

JOHN DEERE/FARM TRACTOR

Plow Your Way Over to Jackson's 5th Birthday Party!

With an Oink, and a Moo, and a Cluck Cluck Too,
Jackson Wants to Celebrate His 5th Birthday With You!
Come On Down to Our Barnyard Bash
Saturday, July 18, 2009
1:00 p.m. til the cows come home
The Johnson's Farm
12345 Anywhere Way
Somewhere, Kansas
Yeah or Neigh - 123-456-7890

PRINCESS WORDING
Calling all princesses for crumpets and tea to come join the fun at Madison's birthday party!

Our little princess
is turning two
and she wants to celebrate
her birthday with you!

Hear Ye! Hear Ye!
You are cordially invited to celebrate
Princess Brianna's 4th Birthday!
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Castle Johnson
12345 Anywhere Lane
Somewhere, Kansas
RSVP: 123-456-7890

With hundreds of possible birthday party themes available, choosing the right one for your child's birthday can seem like a daunting task. But, it doesn't need to be. In this article, I will post the top 10 most popular boy's themes for June/July, based on the themes my customer's are purchasing, as well as buying trends for party supplies, and my own personal observances. Be sure to check below this article for links to great party supply companies, where you can purchase party supplies, invitations, and even games, to make your birthday party a smash!

#1 - PIRATES. Whether it is Pirates of the Caribbean, or just pirates in general, this theme tops the list as the most popular boys theme going right now.

#2 - REPTILE/JUNGLE - Lizards, and frogs, and snakes, oh my!! Something about those creepy crawly things means a party in the making for many children these days. I have seen a dramatic increase lately in the number of parties being held at animal sanctuaries, or with The Reptile Man in attendance.

#3 - CONSTRUCTION - This theme is all encompassing, from Handy Manny and Bob the Builder to Tonka and general construction; you're bound to find something that works for you within this theme. DDHFavors.com (I know, shameless plug) offers some cool invitations that match the popular Tonka theme, and even has scratch off cards, thank you notes, candy wrappers, and candy labels to match.

#4 - JOHN DEERE - Nothing runs like a Deere, and apparently the same can be said for John Deere birthday parties. This theme was wildly popular a few years back, but at the time, John Deere did not have it's own line of party supplies, so many were forced to go with a general farm theme. But alas, John Deere recognized the need for green tractor plates and cups, and has since come out with an awesome line of supplies.

#5 - TRANSFORMERS - Their more than meets the eye. After the first movie came out, this theme became somewhat popular. But, with the new movie in theaters now, this theme is in high demand.

#6 - CARS THE MOVIE/RACE CAR/NASCAR - Cars, cars, and more cars. Whether it's Lightening McQueen, Dale Earnhardt Jr., or those darn Hot Wheels, boys LOVE their cars! Regardless of the particular genre of racing you choose, by simply adding a black and white checkered border to your invitations, or decorations, will let everyone know they are in for a fast and furious good time!

#7 - ELMO/SESAME STREET - Believe it or not, this television show has been around for 40 years, and is still going strong! There are several different supply designs available, including Sesame Street Babies, Elmo/Big Bird/Oscar, and even Elmo alone. All of the supplies are created using bright vivid colors, so go wild with this theme!

#8 - THOMAS the TANK ENGINE - This adorable little blue train has been fascinating children for years. And even though it's sometimes difficult to find him on television, there is no absence of Thomas the Train toys in stores. Until this year, party supplies were scarce (I know, my son had a Thomas the Train birthday party a few years ago) but there are a couple of good lines available for purchase.

#9 - SPORTS - Football, baseball, soccer, basketball, hockey, etc. It doesn't matter which sport your child is into, there will always be party supplies available.

#10 - SUPER HERO - Every child should have a hero, and super hero party supplies are always there when you need them. Bat Man, Super Man, Iron Man, Those cute Turtles, Power Rangers, etc; there's a party supply line for all of them!
Please remember that the top 10 shown here are just the most popular themes that I have observed. There are dozens of other themes that, although not making the top 10, would make a great party.
Sponge Bob, Legos, Pokemon, star Wars, Star Trek, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Bakugan, Ben 10: Alien Force, Go Diego Go!, Dinosaurs, Fire Trucks, and Aliens.

With hundreds of possible birthday party themes available, choosing the right one for your child's birthday can seem like a daunting task. But, it doesn't need to be. In this article, I will post the top 10 most popular girl's themes for June/July, based on the themes my customer's are purchasing, as well as buying trends for party supplies, and my own personal observances. Be sure to check below this article for links to great party supply companies, where you can purchase party supplies, invitations, and even games, to make your birthday party a smash!

#1 - PINK PIRATES - Who says skulls and crossbones are only for the boys? Add a cute pink bow and some polka dots, and you have a pirate theme fit for a princess. This is the most requested theme by my customers.

#2 -CUPCAKE/ICE CREAM - Lots of sprinkles and dots, make this theme a huge hit every summer. Whether you like pinks and browns, or lots of bright colors, this theme is a must have for any summer party.

#3 - LUAU/BEACH - What better time of year to have a luau party than the summer time? You can have a party inside or out with this theme, and there are decorations and party supplies available at most dollar stores, and Wal-Marts.

#4 - PRINCESS - This theme is timeless, and there are so many options available. You can use Disney Princesses, Princess ladybug, or just a general princess theme. Lots of soft pink and lavender make this theme suitable for all ages.

#5 - MINNIE MOUSE CLUBHOUSE - With the popularity of the new Mickey Mouse Clubhouse cartoon, Minnie Mouse is finally getting her due. This theme has increased significantly in just the last couple of weeks.

#6 - WEBKINZ - Those adorable animals are still all the craze for kids, and adults alike. With so many different animals to choose from, creating a party around this theme is a snap! You can focus on just one animal, or create your theme around several. There are lots of game ideas out there, that will add tons of fun to your Webkinz birthday party.

#7 - American Idol/Rock Star - What little girl doesn't dream of being a rock star? If your little idol has the singing bug, then why not give this theme a try? Create a stage, add a karaoke machine, and give out ticket stub invitations, and you have the ultimate divalicious birthday party!

#8 - HANNAH MONTANA, HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL, ICARLY - What can I say about Disney themed parties? You will never have a problem locating party supplies, and you will never have to worry about your guests not having any idea what the theme is.

#9 - SESAME STREET - There are several different supply designs available, including Sesame Street Babies, Elmo/Big Bird/Oscar, and even Elmo alone. For girls, they have even added Abby Cadabby, with lots of pink and purple.

#10 - LADYBUGS/BUTTERFLIES - Let's face it, polka dots are in, and what better way to include them in your party supplies, then with a ladybug themed party. Ladybugs are no longer available only in the traditional red and black, you can now find them in an array of colors.

Please remember that the top 10 shown here are just the most popular themes that I have observed. There are dozens of other themes that, although not making the top 10, would make a great party.
Sponge Bob, Dora the Explorer, The Littlest Pet Shop, Tinker Bell, Horses, Monkeys, Wizard of Oz, Pink Poodle in Paris, Under the Sea, Barbie, and Hello Kitty.