How to STYLE and PLAN a gorgeous Kids Party

Have you ever wondered how those 'pinterest parties' are created?  In this blog I set about giving you  the inside details on how to pull off a spectacular kids party! 

Colourful candy bar with an organic balloon garland

Colourful candy bar with an organic balloon garland

Yes! its party fever on steroids from Beyonce Knowles daughter Blue Ivy's magical themed Fairy party to  North Kardashians unicorn party with cousin Penelope Disick.  Inspiration is everywhere and pinterest is bursting at the seams with everything PARTY!   

it can be overwhelming when it comes to planning and executing your little ones big milestone.  I remember my first borns party it took months of planning (this was before I became a stylist) in the end we settled for jelly boats and a inflatable pool filled with a zillion coloured balls.  

Don't get me wrong being a party stylist I am all about creating a beautiful events however you don't have to break the bank or loose your hair from stress when it comes to putting together a special celebration.  

 

Confetti is your "friend' a touch of this colourful tissue paper sprinkled on a table can be a pretty detail

Confetti is your "friend' a touch of this colourful tissue paper sprinkled on a table can be a pretty detail

Steps to Plan your Party

  1. Gather your guest list, if you are doing a paperless post e'vite get a list of emails ready

  2. Decide on your numbers this will be the main factor in finalising catering and location

  3. Set your date and send out a 'save the date' to your invitees

  4. Find a suitable venue that is convenient for your guest, has parking and can accommodate your crowd

  5. Dont discount having a party at home especially a kids party. Having control of your space is sometimes far less stressful

  6. Decide on a theme or look and feel of your party

  7. Look at your budgets and do a small spread sheet of all the inclusions

  8. My BIGGEST tip if you are budget restrictive, try do one station really well for instance one table should be your 'styling coup de gras' . This could be your food stations or a gorgeous candy bar.

  9. Look online for special buys, visit op shops and hot dollar stores. K Mart has an amazing party range.

  10. Get creative! We all have a crafty side when push comes to shove. If its not your thing find a family member who loves crafting and rope them in. Having something homemade can be even more special.

  11. Keep your catering menu simple, kids love finger food and bite sized bits.

  12. Dont forget the adults they need to eat too!

I made these neon paper chandeliers with strips of ribbon and paper using a hoola hoop.

I made these neon paper chandeliers with strips of ribbon and paper using a hoola hoop.

Ideas to style a party...

  1. Think of a suitable and age appropriate themes. If you prefer to have a party without a theme work with a colour or look that inspires you. It can even be something simple as an all white party.

  2. If you do go for a theme try carry it through to all aspects of your event from styling to food and even getting you guests to dress to theme.

  3. Use foliage or flowers. I can never say this enough even a few glass jars from the hot dollar store filled with a single bloom can make a difference. Flowers, leaves and even pots of herbs can make a bland space or tired table look pretty.

  4. Balloons are the latest and greatest party accompaniment. We are seeing these magical creations pop up all over our social feeds. Balloons have never been more current and trending. From large 3 foot confetti bubbles to branded foil balloons. These orbs are simply one of the best styling tips you can invest your budget into. Even if you opt for single strands. Balloons are the perfect statement to any party.

  5. Party food doesn't have to be a sad sausage roll! Put some love into your fare! Aside from candy and cupcakes mums are keener then ever to have healthier options. I take a balanced approach. I love cupcakes as they are a part of your styling and decor however cut up fruit and berries in a bowl are just as welcome on my party tables.

Keep to a colour palette and infuse your table with elements that pop!

Keep to a colour palette and infuse your table with elements that pop!

Fun ideas to consider when planning a party..

  1. Photobooths provide endless hours of entertainment, you can hire amazing photo booths with instagramable cameras and machines that spit out fun photos of your guests. If you are budget restritctive there is no reason you cannot create your very own Photo Booth. K Mart https://www.kmart.com.au/category/kids-&-toys/more-ways-to-shop/party-decor/391504 has a fabulous tinsel background which you can attach to a tripod or photographic stand. Decorate with props and have a suitcase of fun hats and wigs. You can get images printed off an i phone today, Use all your crazy apps like snapchat to get Photo Booth creative!

  2. A signature mocktail on arrival is always a great party starter. Set up a drinks station before your guests enter the room with some pretty cups and striped straws this sets the tone for what is to come.

  3. Entertainment for the kids is always something my clients struggle with as kids get bored quite easily. I love old school games such as pinatas and pin the tail on the donkey. A great way to keep the kids busy is to set up a creative craft station. Spotlight stores has a range of amazing creating bits and bobs that can keep the kiddies occupied for hours.https://www.spotlightstores.com/party

  4. Love is in the detail. From the start of your event to the take home gift. Create a bespoke swing tag for your gift bag with a small note of thanks. Its the little things that make a party memorable.

  5. Don't forget to feed that adults. A small cheese board or grazing platter can be put together without a huge amount of effort. Food plays such an import role when it comes to parties and events so banish the tired old spring roll and style up a beautiful grazing board. Lots of tips on grazing tables on my blog site.

A Jungle themed party full of fun touches.

A Jungle themed party full of fun touches.

Feed the kids and dont forget to feed the big kids too!

Feed the kids and dont forget to feed the big kids too!

Yael has been in the events and styling space for over a decade. Having created some incredible kids parties for celebrity clients such as Jackie O and Nikki Webster.  There is is nothing she loves more than creating amazing bespoke parties that take your breath away.  For more information one Yael's parties, grazing tables and food styling services get in touch via email hello@sydneyfoodstylist.com.au