5 Things Most Parents Forget When Planning a Party

The big day of your children’s party has arrived, hurray! It’s time to get ready for fun, games, lot of laughter and cake.

But wait, is there something you’ve forgotten?

Planning a party often feels simple, but once you get into it, you realise there are many moving parts! Don’t get caught out with our helpful list of some of the key things parents often forget, and what you can do to make sure you don’t miss them. The outcome? The perfect party experience, guaranteed!

1. Time for set-up

Something that’s easy to underestimate? How long it can take to set up for a party!

Allow plenty of time to set everything up and prepare before guests arrive. Creating a checklist of everything you need as a run-through can help ensure you don’t miss anything. 

From blowing up balloons (always takes ages!) to hanging decorations, wrapping presents, making up party bags, and prepping your home or party venue for lots of excited, energised children! 

Allow for more time than you think and you’ll be cool, calm and ready when those guests arrive.

2. Back-up planning (just in case!)

Even the best-laid party plans need a backup! 

Whether you’ve planned a BBQ garden party and it suddenly rains, or a delivery of essential supplies doesn’t arrive in time for an activity, having a backup plan can save you stress on the big day.

If you’re planning an outdoor party, have an indoor venue option ready if the weather turns on you. If you’re relying on a delivery for an activity, have a plan B game in mind. Likewise, if you’ve booked a party entertainer, have an alternative activity ready in case of last-minute cancellations or delays! 

3. Final RSVPs 

You can help ensure a smooth party day by double-checking RSVPs the day before. Sometimes, plans change, and children who said they weren’t coming suddenly want to attend, and vice versa. Doing a quick check-in helps you manage this before the day arrives.

Our top tip? Plan an extra portion of food or a party bag or two anyway. This way, if an extra little pair of hands shows up, you’ll be ready and able to make sure they don’t feel left out. We know the other parents will love you for it!

4. A clear timeline for the day

Part of the fun of a children’s party is rolling with the day and letting the kids settle into the activities that they enjoy the most. You want them to have the best time, and often that means letting them choose what that looks like.

That said, having a loose timeline can help you stay on track, get everyone seated for lunch on time, have games ready if needed, and ensure everyone’s full, tired and ready for pick-up when the time comes!

Remember to include key party elements such as cake cutting, gift opening, group photos, and party favours.

5. Time for clean-up

Another important aspect to consider when planning is time for clean-up. We know it’s the least fun part of the day, but factoring it into your planning means it won’t feel overwhelming when the party winds down.

Have a friend or family member ready to help and a ‘clean-up kit’ ready with bin bags, cleaning wipes, and anything else you think you’ll need. If you’re hiring a venue space, they might do it for you, but not all venues do. Double-check to ensure you don’t get caught out at the end of the fun.

Party Planning Made Easy With MiniTown

If the thought of all those moving parts when it comes to party planning already makes you feel exhausted, you’re not alone! 

That’s why MiniTown offers a range of party packages that you can tailor to your needs. We take care of everything, including guest lists and RSVPs, a variety of great food options, plenty of fun activities, a private space, party set-up and clean-up (you’re welcome!)

You can leave the logistics to us and focus on what matters most. We’d love to help plan your special day.