We have likely seen the glittery examples of the child’s birthday party of years past that just had to center around a super popular theme of a character or movie or television show, and all the accessories, from the paper plates to the party favors, had to feature this trademarked image. For today’s parent who may prefer not to scoop up an entire aisle’s contents at the party store for their next soiree, there are a boat load of creative themes to implement through a little imagination and eye for design.
First, consider what all your child is into, from colors to activities to hobbies to general interests. From this list, you can find a wealth of information to start to build the look of your custom birthday party. I say, the more consistently a theme is carried out, the more impact you get for your investment. And it all starts with the invitation. You can use an online company to print your invitations, or you can get hands-on with a computer program and have a local company print your finished picture file. Use your invitation to give guests a peek at what they can expect and entice them to your unique event.
A color being a theme is perfectly acceptable. Everything hot pink or a nautical combo like navy and aqua in your serving spread, decorations, and cake design is a theme in itself. Monochromatic or two-toned pieces together are very visually appealing and draw attention. Other themes that fall outside the character-featured norm that can really craft a catchy modern theme are things like trains, safari animals, robots, fish, gardens, boats, princesses, sea creatures, classic toys, surfers, barnyard animals, birds, butterflies, mermaids, bumblebees, frogs, elephants, and zebras. Use their colors, patterns, or silhouettes in your linens or paper goods, food labels and signs, and trendy cupcake fondant toppers and takeaway gift packaging.
Another essential element of any party is of course the food. Really jazzing up your display is like a gift in itself for your guest list. Whether you are serving pizza, sandwiches, burgers, hotdogs, or finger foods, be sure to add plenty of side items in small quantities to incorporate more visual impact and tummy-satisfying treats. Think breadsticks standing in glass cylinder vases alongside an abundance of dipping sauces, French fries in scrapbooking paper cones, or short juice glasses with carrot and celery sticks standing in a dollop of dip. Presentation really can be everything in laying out an inviting buffet. And when it comes to kids, you cannot go wrong with candy. Glass apothecary jars with brightly-colored treats to match your color selections are ideal for grab-and-go goodies and decorative flair.
Whatever you do, ensure a birthday party is always a celebration that makes the one blowing out the candles truly feel like they already got their wish.
DesignInMind column; appeared in the Valley Morning Star September 4th.
