The Best Party

2007-05-29T01:44:00.000-07:00

How to Throw a Slumber Party for Pre-teen Girls

By Presented by Moms Break
Mar 19, 2007 - 2:55:39 AM

Your daughter’s birthday is approaching and she has requested a slumber party. I can almost hear the anxiety in your voice, as you visualise loud music, incessant giggling and finding popcorn for weeks after the event. There is really no need to worry, as good organisation is the key to a successful party.

Steps to take

Step 1: Tell your daughter how many friends she can invite and let her decide who they will be. Then send out the invites well in advance of the party, so that you have plenty of time to plan it properly.

Step 2: Have some music playing as the guests arrive and give them some time to chat together.

Step 3: Set up some glasses, fancy straws, cocktail umbrellas, fruit slices and cartons of juice in the kitchen. Have a competition to see who can make the most amazing fruit cocktail and give a prize for the best one.

Step 4: Divide the girls into teams and have a game of ‘Guess the Pop Star’ and ‘The Perfect Makeover’ and give prizes to the winning team.

Step 5: Put on your first DVD and serve hot dogs, chips and dips, pizza, popcorn and drinks.

Step 6: When you think it is getting late enough, you can gently coax the party guests up to the bedroom. Tell them that there will be a gift for them all in the morning, providing they keep the noise down.

Step 7: Have plenty of toast and juice waiting for your guests as they come down for breakfast.

Tips …
Make a list of all the things you are going to need and make sure you get everything ready before the guests arrive.

Try to estimate how long the games and activities are going to last – this will help you to plan the party better.

With your guidance, let your daughter decorate her bedroom with balloons, fairy lights, ribbons, etc.

Set out some make up, hair accessories, beads and string in a suitably well-lit area in her room.

Plan out where all the sleeping bags are going to go and have them set up long before bedtime.

Issue some torches, to ensure that no one falls on top of anyone when rushing desperately to the loo in the middle of the night.

Diplomatically issue some ground rules before bedtime – after all you are responsible for other people’s children when they are in your care.

State the time you wish the guests to be dropped off and collected clearly on the invites.

State on the invites that everyone is required to bring a sleeping bag and pillow.

Have a few plastic aprons available for messy games, in case anything gets on someone’s best clothes.

Finally, don’t forget to have a camera or camcorder ready!

Warnings …
o Make sure you are aware of any allergies, or health problems.

Don’t invite too many guests – particularly if it the first sleepover.

Try not to be too bossy – remember that it is only for one night.
Get Your Birthday Free Printables at http://Birthdays.MomsBreak.com

© Copyright 2007 by author and presented by Moms Break Articles for Moms

2007-04-15T22:04:00.000-07:00

Picture Frame Crafts For Your Kids Party

By Patricia B. Jensen
Jul 23, 2005 - 7:08:00 PM

One of the most popular party favors is a framed picture of the party guest taken at your kids party. He or she could be showing off a silly hat or party costume, performing an outrageous party game stunt, or wearing a face full of frosting and ice cream.

Having party guests create their own make-and-take frame to display this memorable photo makes it an even greater treasure for the memory box.

Start with a plain square of cardboard with an opening the size of your picture. When the decorating is done, simply glue picture to the back of the frame.

Here's a brainstorm of frame ideas and decorating materials kids can use:

* Cut your photo into a circle and glue to the center of a nice shiny CD. Decorate with star stickers.

* Cut frames from different colored craft foam. Layer the foam squares for a unique effect.

Decorative foam pieces in many unique shapes and themes are available at your craft store.

* Make a simple craft stick frame and decorate it with faux gems, sequins, sparkles, or stickers.

* Fashion a frame with craft clay.

* Use faux craft fur to make a really "wild" looking frame. Great for a jungle themed party.

* Tie one end of a long length of colorful yarn to your cardboard square. Wrap the yarn around and around the square until it is completely covered.

* Glue tiny Barbie doll accessories such as combs, brushes, sunglasses, and purses. Ideal for a Barbie party or little girl's dress up party.

* Brush a square of cardboard with white craft glue. Sprinkle craft sand onto the glue in different colors and patterns. Shake excess sand onto newspapers and let dry.

* Use outdoor treasures such as tiny pine cones, leaves, and small stones to make a nature frame. Perfect for a garden party or bug party.

* Colorful buttons in various sizes and shapes can be laid out in an interesting design.

* Apply geometrical shapes of felt in a creative pattern.

* Cover your frame with pretty fabric.

* Apply colored clay shapes to your cardboard square.

* Hard edible sugar decorations for cakes come in a variety of themes. These can be used to decorate your frame.

* Different shapes of macaroni make interesting frame decorations. Try elbows, wheels, bowties, and fusilli.

* Tiny colored pompoms make a cute soft frame. Apply complementary colors in rows.

* Tear off one inch pieces of multi-colored tissue paper. Pinch between fingers, dip in glue and apply to your frame.

* Small dried beans or peas laid out in intricate patterns make a unique frame.

Kids will love the hands-on party activity and parents will enjoy their child's picture displayed intheir own uniquely creative frame.

Copyright 2005 Kids Party Paradise All Rights Reserved

About The Author

Patricia B. Jensen is a mother of three and kids party enthusiast. She is the webmaster and owner of Kids-Party-Paradise.com - a complete resource for kids party ideas including invitations, cakes, decorations, games, costumes, favors, and food.

For all the latest party news, read her Kids Party Blog.

kids-party-paradise.com

© Copyright 2005 by author and presented by Moms Break Articles for Moms

2007-04-07T20:19:00.000-07:00

Reason Why You Should Have a Big Birthday Party

By Kimberly Hargis
Sep 3, 2002 - 11:59:00 AM

As Mother of a 17-year-old son, I say:
"Spoil them with a Theme Birthday Party WHILE YOU CAN!"

You may think you have all the time in the world, but honestly all I did was sit down one night to read the evening paper and the next thing I knew he was starting his first job, kissing girls, living on the phone, and driving. I know that you newer Moms feel you have your hands full with small children, but I tell you straight from the heart, you ain't seen nothing yet!

Very soon you will be hearing:

"Hey Mom, can I go out for awhile? How late can I stay out? Aw, come on, do I have to be home that early? Why? All my friends get to stay out later than that!"

"Mom, do you need the phone, 'cause I need to call my girlfriend, it's really important."

"You can get me a birthday cake for my party, but you definitely can not sing Happy Birthday!!!!!"

Very soon you will be saying:

"Can't you just spend one whole evening with your family?"

"You will live without talking to your girlfriend tonight!"

"What is your work schedule this weekend?"

"You are going where? And with who? Well, just be sure on home on time tonight!"

"Drive carefully, buckle your seatbelt, don't drive too fast, and NO STRANGERS IN THE CAR!"

Very soon you will be:

Walking into the room where your "baby boy" and this girl are kissing. You will be more embarrassed than they will be.

Not allowed in her room because it is "MY Space! KEEP OUT" and you know you should respect that because she's almost 18.

Looking for colleges and asking yourself "How will I ever be able to let my baby go?"

© Copyright 2002 by author and presented by Moms Break Articles for Moms

2007-04-05T22:31:00.000-07:00

How to throw a tea party

By Concrete Abstract
Feb 16, 2006 - 6:56:00 PM

Tea parties are a great way to gather a few close friends for a timeless tradition. Begin by sending out invitations 3 weeks in advance. Purchase tablecloths and other decorations to match your theme.

Designate a tea table and place the tea sets, which include cups, saucers and teaspoons on one end of the table. Place the teapot, sugar, lemon, milk and hot water (to dilute the tea if desired) by the tea sets. Your guests may either serve themselves or you may choose to serve the tea yourself. Either way, if sugar and lemon are to be added to tea, add the sugar before the lemon because the acidity of the lemon will prevent the sugar from dissolving. It’s best to prepare the tea in a teapot as it will taste better as loose leaves, not in tea bags.

In the middle of the table, place cookies, cakes, muffins and scones on platters and cake stands. You may also include small sandwiches, such as egg, cucumber and cream cheese, tuna or chicken sandwiches. To serve, layer the filling between two slices of bread and cut them into fourths.

If all your guests are sitting at the same table, lay the plates, napkins and utensils on the dining table. Otherwise, place them by the food.

Themes for tea parties are endless! Below are some ideas:

Garden and hat: host the party outside in your garden, and ask your guests to wear a tea hat! It’s also okay to serve sorbet and lemonade outdoors.

Color and flavor: everything, from invitations, tablecloths, flowers, centerpieces, cakes, cookies, scones, jam and the tea itself is one color and flavor. Possible colors and flavors can include apricot, lemon, lavender, rose, peaches, strawberries, orange, pumpkins and blueberries.

Cakes and cookies: have your guests bring their favorite cakes or cookies and place them on platters and cake stands.

World cultures: tea is a tradition found all over the globe. Perhaps serve Indian Chai with samosas, green tea with Japanese rice cakes and mochi, or jasmine tea with Chinese dumplings and dim sum.

After the party, you can send your guests off with party favors. Some favorites include a teacup and saucer set, or a teaspoon with loose tea leaves in an organza drawstring bag.

Whichever theme you decide on, and whether formal or casual, gather your friends for some piping-hot tea, sweet finger foods and plenty of wonderful memories!

For more ideas, view our website at: http://www.concreteabstract.com

By: Concrete Abstract
© Copyright 2006 by author and presented by Moms Break Articles for Moms

2007-03-23T06:25:00.000-07:00

Party Planning

ONE MONTH BEFORE:

Generally plan your party or event one month in advance, unless you are renting a location. (If renting a location - call as far as one year in advance.) At this same time make your guest list, pick a date, pick your theme by visiting Party Basic online, to browse the selection for ideas. Party supplies should be ordered at this time. We generally have a 2 to 9 day delivery period, however it is easier on your planning when the items arrive one week prior to the event.

2-3 WEEKS BEFORE:

Mail your invitations, Plan your menu and party activities (come up with a few extras incase needed). Most parties for children should be approx. 1-1/2 to 2 hours long. Make sure to ask guests to RSVP, to receive a correct count of guests.

1 WEEK BEFORE:

Bake cake and freeze it (icing day "before" event) or Order cake from your local bakery(confirm your order 2 days prior to the party for party pick up date). Make sure you have your party supplies, film for camera, guest responses, arrange to pick up any helium balloons from your local store for the day of the party. Good idea to have room ready for the party! Pack the goody bags for guests and set aside for party day.

DAY OF EVENT

Decorate, prepare foods and drinks (some foods can be prepared a couple days before event, to save time). Have camera ready, have items out for activities and games, set out goody bags and enjoy yourself! A little secret, if you can sneak in a little cat nap...you deserve it!

From http://www.partybasic.com

2007-03-20T00:07:00.000-07:00

Sleepover Party Crafts

By Abigail Beal
Aug 3, 2005 - 12:29:00 PM

Sleepovers are always so much fun because you get to see all of your friends at once. You get to stay up late and play games. But sometimes sleepover parties are a time for kids to cause mischief – and they do so because they are simply given a little too much free time. Here are some fun crafts that are great for sleepover parties that involve the fun of working as a group, but also creating something special that you get to take home. The kids will have fun making the projects but also will have fun knowing they have made a special memento. My niece has a message & doodle pillowcase that is now five years old that she absolutely treasures – and she’s not a “crafter”. You may also spark a bit of creativity in someone that night by offering a craft project – you never know!

Message & Doodle Pillowcases

You will need:

Pillowcases – any color

Permanent markers

Cardboard

Give each child a pillowcase and a piece of cardboard. On each pillowcase they will write their name and a special message to that person. This craft works best if the children begin by writing their own names on their pillowcases, then you can help keep track of whose pillowcases are whose. Have the children write their names all in the same place – such as in the right corner.

Also have some pads of paper handy because some children may want to practice drawing their message or a special doodle that they like to draw, to be sure they get it right. It may also be a good idea to purchase several extra pillowcases in case someone does make a large drawing error, because with permanent markers there is no way to erase your mistakes.

While drawing their name or a message on the pillowcase, have the child place the cardboard in the pillowcase to keep the message from coming through on the other side. You can also use a bunch of sheets of paper; at least five sheets of paper should work. Have each child work on a flat surface like a table, hardwood floor or even the seat part of a chair.

Permanent markers now come in a rainbow of colors – no longer are we stuck with just red, black, blue and green. You can write your message in permanent marker in pink, orange, purple, silver, gold, light green, lavender, deep purple – pretty much any color. Be sure to use permanent markers because the design will remain on the pillowcase through repeated launderings.

Once every child has drawn a message on the pillowcases they are done. The children can then use the pillowcases at the sleepover party they are attending, and they can also take them home.

Design & Doodle Nightshirts

This is a great craft to do in the beginning of the sleepover party. Make sure to do these at least three hours before the children will actually wear them, so that they have ample time to dry. (Hanging them in a warm and dry room will speed this process up also).

For this project you will need:

Large white or colored t-shirts

Fabric paint

Fabric stamps

Permanent markers

Cardboard

This project the children will have their name in large letters on the front with a stamped design and then autographs and messages from their friends on the back. You may also want to put on the top of the back of the shirt the date and the occasion “Jamie’s 10th birthday party July 11th”.

Give each child a t-shirt and some permanent markers. Have them write their name on the front of their shirt – in a special and fancy way. This will also help to keep track of whose shirt is whose. Then have each child write a message and a doodle to each other on all of the shirts. Put cardboard between the shirt so that the message does not seep through.

Once the children have completed the back, it is time to stamp a design on the front. Put fabric paint out on large paper plates and give each child a fabric stamp. Designs that circle the name are probably best.

After the shirts are completed, lay them to dry flat or hang them as long as the fabric paint does not drip.

Sleepovers are always so much fun. These projects may lead you to create others, or may inspire other projects for your children to enjoy.

Abigail Beal © 2004

About The Author

Abigail Beal a.k.a. “the Gift-wrap Goddess” teaches gift wrap in suburban New York. She is the author of 2 ezines: GiftWrapGoddessWraps and CreativeCraftsTeachers. To subscribe: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CreativeCraftsTeachers/ http://groups.yahoo.com/group/GiftWrapGoddessWraps/ contact: creativecraftsteachers@yahoo.com

Article Copyright © 2001-Present ArticleCity.com

© Copyright 2005 by author and presented by Moms Break Articles for Moms

2007-03-17T02:38:00.000-07:00

Kid Birthday Party Ideas

By Jenna Storms
Jul 31, 2006 - 12:55:00 PM

To a child who's about to have a party, there's nothing more important than this event! This could potentially be the highlight of his or her year! So moms and dads...these kid birthday party ideas are here to help have a fun party that runs smoothly! So there won't be any tears afterwards from you or your child!Planning a party for children can sometimes be kind of overwhelming if you're not up to the task. That is why the first thing you need to do is get a party checklist before going into battle! Next ask the child what kind of party he or she wants to have. The average kids birthday party contains some sort of a theme.Once a child has expressed a theme or an idea about what kind of party the child wants to have, all you have to do is to follow up on this idea. Make sure your kids birthday party doesn't clash with any major holidays, Mothers Day, Easter. Also check school holidays, make sure invited guests won't be away.There are things that have to be included in a kids birthday party at all costs! The fun and excitement of the children depend on it! One of them is games. This is very important for the entertainment factor...What's a children's party without games?If you are playing games in your home, make sure to put away any breakables. Child proof your home so there will be no worries. You might want to play a game the kids like, quite a few times if they are enjoying it. Don't be in a hurry to get to the next game. But don't over do the same game either.Also remember to have extra games ready to play in case you need a time filler. It is better to have too many games than not enough. Have party game prizes labeled, it will help keep you organized. Maybe label them boy or girl, if that fits, and always have extra incase you play a game more than you planned.Make sure you add decorations to your list of things to purchase for your kids birthday party. Balloons, streamers, party hats, all help ensure that the party you are throwing becomes a fun and festive occasion.The food you serve should be something that children will love...not a 'great appetizer recipe' you think sounds good...save that for another day and bring in the hotdogs and ice cream!Lastly, make sure that each and every child has a parting gift that they can take home with them. A lot of party stores carry goody bags that you can fill with special treats and toys. Put names on the party favor bags to make sure everyone gets one.Keep them out of sight until the end of the party and give them away as the guests are leaving, then the favors won't be scattered through your house and kids won't be missing little goodies...and have a party favor bag for your birthday child. After all it is their special day, and you don't want your child feeling left out.By following these quick and easy kid birthday party ideas and tips, you will now be able to throw the kids birthday party of the century. Your child is going to be so happy and you are going to be thrilled that you made his or her party so great and successful!

My name is Jenna Storms, full time mother of 3. My husband introduced me to the website building world, and I truly enjoy all aspects of putting together the website. It's a great creative outlet where I can share information about something I love.My passion is to help people enjoy the whole birthday party process, from concept to completion. And at the same time I get to be home and enjoy my children. I wouldn't have it any other way.For more great birthday party ideas by Jenna visit birthdaypartyideascafe.com

© Copyright 2006 by author and presented by Moms Break Articles for Moms

2007-03-15T07:47:00.000-07:00

Party Food Planning Tips

By Jenna Storms
Jul 31, 2006 - 1:07:00 PM

One of the most essential parts of a party can be the food. You need to know the quantity. You need to know what drinks to serve and the other party accessories and staples to provide.You also need take the guests into consideration before starting out with your recipes.Party food planning is not an easy part of the party planning...but just like anything else, you just need to have a guide to help you through. So here are some great helpful tips for the food planning aspect of your party...
Remember the cardinal rule: for every person, you need a pound of food for snacks and one and a half pounds for the actual meal......for the appetizers, prepare at least five for each guest. Use the one and a half pounds per guest rule for the dips and the fondue.
For the beverages, remember that the quantity of the drinks will vary depending on the number of guests......consider how long the party will be and remember to equip your party with the following: ice, napkins and enough cups so the guests won't have to stick with their dirty ones all the time. For kids I recommend writing their names on them.
Basic recipe conversion: a liter is equivalent to 4 and 1/4 cups, 3 teaspoons equate to a tablespoon and a pint means two cups.
Start as early as possible...Plan six weeks before the actual date of the party. Know what type of party it is, the recipes needed and other purchases you need to make.
Buy non-perishable items first for practical reasons.
Invest in kitchen equipment and other food processors, if you have the means......get mixers, blenders, food processors and choppers. Guaranteed you will never have regrets once you buy these time-saving devices.
Rent glassware, cutlery, china and linen if needed, for a larger more formal party affair...remember that in a party, it is not just about the food. Fancy can really spice up the atmosphere, so if you do not have china available, borrow from friends or rent.
When food planning know what food your guests will like......be sensitive to your guests' needs and wants. It is important if you find out if any of them has food allergies.
Party food planning is half science, half art. It needs a lot of skills, precision, creativity and fun! Everything pays off when your guests have nothing but praises for your food and your party.My name is Jenna Storms, full time mother of 3. My husband introduced me to the website building world, and I truly enjoy all aspects of putting together the website. It's a great creative outlet where I can share information about something I love.My passion is to help people enjoy the whole birthday party process, from concept to completion. And at the same time I get to be home and enjoy my children. I wouldn't have it any other way.

For more great birthday party ideas by Jenna visit birthdaypartyideascafe.com

© Copyright 2006 by author and presented by Moms Break Articles

2007-03-14T07:35:00.000-07:00

Scrapbooking Parties - Parties Aren't Just for Birthdays Anymore

By Casey Lee
Sep 25, 2006 - 4:36:00 PM

The idea of throwing a party might leave you with a bad taste in your mouth if last time included 15 screaming 8-year-olds, a pony more stubborn than a donkey, and a clown that showed up two hours late. Don’t be discouraged—make your next fiesta-throwing venture a scrapbook party, and you’ll soon forget about the mess you had to clean up when your kid stuck his face into the cake you spent all morning baking and decorating. Unless, of course, you took pictures and it is now time to make a scrapbook page! In all seriousness, scrapbooking parties can be a fun way to network with people in your area who enjoy the hobby as much as you do, while learning some new techniques and maybe even winning some cool prizes. It’s a great way to relax for a day with friends.
You can plan and throw your own party, but there are many companies that specialize in throwing scrapbook parties. These companies send a representative to your house to do a demonstration and take orders on tools and supplies from the company’s catalogue. It works the same way a Mary Kay party works. For a small fee, guests are given all the supplies they need to complete a layout during the day, which they get to take home. The representative will also supply a number of cutting-edge tools, although scrapbookers are invited to bring their own to share as well. At the end of the workshop, you and your guest will have the chance to buy any of the tools or supplies you used, and because you are the person hosting the party, you’ll get your order at a discounted price and probably earn free items depending on the sales the representative makes at your party.
Planning one of these scrapbooking events is easy. All you need is a workspace for your guests and a table that your representative can use for demonstrations. Most people hosting the event also provide drinks and finger foods, but remember to keep these items in a separate area to prevent accidents around the crafting space. If you find that your party was so much fun that you want to throw many more, you might consider becoming a representative yourself. It’s a great way to earn some extra cash and meet other scrapbookers. Scrapbooking parties are easy to have, and the end of the day will leave you with a sense of accomplishment about the page you completed instead of a messy house and crying birthday child.
Listen to or read more on scrapbooking parties. Visit Casey Lee's EnVision Opportunity Today.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Casey_Lee

© Copyright 2006 by author and presented by Moms Break Articles for Moms

2007-03-13T06:15:00.000-07:00

Easy Fall Party Invitations

By Gail Leino
Oct 16, 2006 - 4:07:00 PM

A party in the fall can easily take advantage of the autumn colors and atmosphere to accent the event, so why not also create fun and memorable fall party invitations.
The Fall Leaf Invitation is fun and you can create it for both children’s parties and adult’s. Your kids will love going outside to gather up the prettiest looking leaves for their invitations.
You’ll need:
• Colorful leaves
• Wax paper
• Iron
• Paper towels
• Cardstock
• Glue
Go outside and collect as many leaves as you need to have one leaf per invitation. When you have your specimens gathered prepare to iron them between the wax paper. The average invitation should be about four by six inches. Cut out two pieces of wax paper and one piece of cardstock per leaf.
When you have the Iron hot enough place the leaf between the two sheets of wax paper and iron them together. Be sure to place a sheet of paper towel on the top and bottom so that melted wax doesn’t soak into whatever you are ironing on. Once you have each of your leaves ironed into their respective wax paper sheets you can begin attaching them to the cardstock.
Cut out enough pieces of cardstock for each of your wax paper sheets. These should also be four by six inches. Carefully lay out a continuous bead of glue along the outside rim of the cardstock and line up one of the wax paper sheets on top of it. Press firmly and let dry. Once this is dry you have the perfect fall leave invitation. Write your invitation information on the back of the cardstock.
You can pick out a pretty colored cardstock to match your bright colorful fall leaves. The optimal colors would be more pastel versions of the vibrant reds, oranges, yellows and browns that you would normally see in your fall leaves.

© Copyright 2006 by author and presented by Moms Break Articles for Moms