Where to Have Your Party: Choosing the Right Venue
Home Party
Hosting a party at home can be cost-effective and comfortable. You have full control over the setup, schedule, and food.
Pros: Budget-friendly, flexible, and personal.
Cons: Requires clean-up, limited space for larger groups.
Outdoor or Garden Party
Your garden or a local park is great for sunny days and active kids.
Pros: Fresh air, plenty of space, ideal for games and running around.
Cons: Weather-dependent, may require permits for public spaces.
Rented Venue
Hiring a party venue like a community hall, soft play center, or kids’ event space offers a great alternative to having a party at home
Pros: No clean-up, themed packages often included, weather-proof.
Cons: Higher cost, limited flexibility.
Best Time and Day to Have Your Party
Recommended Times
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Morning Parties (10 AM – 12 PM): Great for younger children who nap in the afternoon.
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Afternoon Parties (2 PM – 4 PM): Ideal for school-age kids and allows time for lunch beforehand.
Length of the Party
Creating Invitations
Invitations set the tone for the party and help you manage the guest list efficiently.
Ready-Made or DIY?
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Ready-Made Invitations: Easily found in stores or online with popular characters and themes.
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DIY Invitations: A fun craft project to do with your child using cardstock, stickers, and markers—or design them digitally.
Important Information to Include
- Child’s name and age
- Date and time of the party
- Venue address
- RSVP details (name, phone/email, deadline)
- Dress code or theme (e.g. “superhero costume”)
- Any allergy notes or food details
StarKidz Top Tip: Always request RSVP”s to plan for food, seating and party bags accurately.
Entertainment: Keeping Kids Engaged
Hiring professional party entertainers can make your job much easier and the party much more fun.
Hiring a Children’s Party Company
Look for a reputable company that offers:
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Custom themes and characters
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Age-appropriate games and activities
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Experienced, DBS-checked staff
Popular themes include pirates, princesses, superheroes, animals, and tv or movie characters. Book early—especially during peak seasons!
Setting Up the Party Venue
Decorations
Food and Drink
Keep the menu simple, kid-friendly, and allergy-aware:
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Finger foods (sandwiches, mini pizzas, fruit skewers)
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Plenty of water and juice
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Snacks for adults too
Birthday Cake
Layout
Set up clearly defined zones:
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Eating area
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Activity/game space
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Gift and cake table
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Quiet area for overwhelmed kids
Top Things to Avoid
Even the best plans can go awry. Here are a few things to steer clear of:
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Distractions in the party area: TVs, loud unrelated music, or background noise can disrupt activities.
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Loose Balloons: These can be choking hazards for small children and create chaos.
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Scattered Toys: Keep regular toys out of the way to prevent tripping and focus attention on party games.
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Cluttered or unsafe spaces: Ensure walkways are clear and that the space is clean and secure.
