Tuesday, 4 June 2013

party prep


Organised chaos. That's how I'd describe the house and my mind right now.
When I've finished writing this post, I need to get sewing more bunting.

The date of The Girl's party was going to be the 1st June, but I wasn't happy with that. Her birthday is tomorrow, and I just think having a party after a birthday is better than before. Makes the birthday last a little bit longer. The 1st was also right at the end of half term, so the chances were that some children wouldn't turn up. Parents can be a funny breed of people. Even now, I STILL haven't had a yes or no from two of the parents. I made is so simple for them. I'm always in the playground so not hard to find, the husband's mobile number was on the invite so they could text, and I even printed out a slip where all they had to do was tick a 'yes' or 'no' option. Seems it's just too much effort for some people.

No matter. Most responses were quick, and the party is this coming Saturday.

I still have lots to do, but lots has been done. Girly Girl and I have been making plans since January, and thank goodness we did. However, some things were outstanding, but now I'm caught up.
Yesterday I spent a couple of hours making a tutu tablecloth for the table. Seemed like a good idea when I first saw it, but when I was busily trying to control 11 metres of peach net under the sewing machine, it didn't feel like such a good idea! I'd already messed up with the colour. I thought I ordered cream net, turned out I'd clicked the wrong button and bought peach. I am not a fan, but the girl liked it so all was well.
It looks pretty from a distance, close up ? .. ah, you know me. NEVER going to be perfect!

If you want to try making your own (and I would suggest a smaller, preferably round table if you do) then follow the tutorial on this brilliant website, it's where the idea came from and you can see how it SHOULD look. [Girl. Inspired. Tutu tablecloth]

When the children arrive, they will all be handed a ticket for the lucky dip. Lucky dip is also going to be used for prizes for games winners, and for any other reason I can think of on the day.

I printed the tickets from [this website] I stitched holes between tickets using the sewing machine (minus thread of course), so they can be ripped apart and handed out.

The bane of my life has to be the Goody Bags (Favour bags, call them what you will). Trying to think of things to put in them - nightmare. And they take so much more time than you ever imagine they will. I'd made up crackers, and on the day the Sweetie Buffet bags will be added, but in the meantime, what to put in them? Personally, I think goody bags are a big fat waste of time, money, effort and brainpower. But to kids, it's the best thing about parties!

At the weekend we went to a supermarket and wiped shelves of tat for the goody bags and the lucky dip.
Now There are 16 goody bags (11 girls, 4 boys, special one for The Girl) and two extra for tiny tots, sitting in the craft room.

We bought a balloon kit too, pretty good value and saves having to go into town to buy a glut of helium filled balloons. You get a helium canister and 30 balloons + string.
On Friday we will start getting the garden ready for the party. Building the gazebo, and hoping that this turns up without any mishaps or hitches.

Between the bouncy castle, throwing wet sponges at the husbands head, lucky dip, and [pin the cherry on the cupcake], I'm hoping the kids will keep busy and have fun!

Wish me luck!