We started in the R.S. room and discussed what it took to plan a party. I had made word strips that went along with the main topics (listed below): Guest List Consideration, location, date and time, etc. Then had the girls tell me what they had to do to plan a party. When they gave me an answer that was on a word strip - I added it to the chalkboard and then discussed it. I let the girls give all of their own ideas. They had so much fun.
Then next thing we did was to let the girls share their favorite party ideas. Some girls brought examples, some brought books, some brought magazines, and some even brought a treat to pass around. After the girls had discussed all of their party ideas, we went to the first room that I had previously been decorated like a Polynesian Dinner Party (I only used one of each: table, table setting, wall decoration, and table decoration).
I decorated the table with bright fabric
(blue, yellow and red). The centerpiece was a grouping of pineapple, limes,
lemons, papaya, coconut, etc., with red silk flowers and greenery throughout.
A cloth red napkin was made into a fan shape and placed in the glass. When
the girls arrived in this room we discussed what kind of activities could
be done with this theme (games, food, invitation, etc.) I served them a
fruit drink which was made out of :
1/2 c. frozen limeade concentrateI also showed them how to dip the tip of their glasses in water and then in sugar to make a pretty crystal look.
12 oz of frozen strawberries in syrup
1 c. pineapple
1/2 c. water
crushed iceBlend ingredients together in a blender until smooth. You can also add coconut, banana, or about anything.
I had a wicker basket filled with a tan cloth napkin hanging over the side and the basket filled with kitchen items. The table also had other kitchen decorations and a wedding book. When the girls arrived in this room we discussed the same things as before.
Then, we played a game. We divided the
girls into teams and gave each team two rolls of toilet paper. They had
to make a wedding dress
for their leader. Then after about 4 minutes
we had the leaders model their dresses.
HANDOUT
"How to Plan a Party"
Parties can be a lot of fun and a lot of
work. The best parties take planning, preparation, and a good host. Here
are some ideas to help
you plan a great party!
Guest List Consideration: As a rule, the number of guests should equal the age of the birthday child or guest of honor. But tender feelings take priority. Include the guest of honors friends. It's not OK to exclude a close friend because of a recent tiff.
Location: A simple gathering can take place at your home. But consider the number of guests when deciding on where to have it. You may choose a park, the community center, the church, or even a restaurant. Remember to include the directions and address to your event on your invitation.
Date and Time: Before planning the party you need to make sure the guest of honor can come. The other important consideration is the length of the party. Timing is key. Generally, limit parties to two hours. It is better that guests go home wishing the party had been longer, rather than being glad to see it end! When planning the length of time you need to consider all of the following: Activities, crafts, gift opening, story time, refreshments, etc. As a rule, prepare one activity for each 15 minutes of party time, plus two or three extra as backup. "Make your plan, write down, and follow it."
Theme of the party: The best way to choose the theme if to think about or talk to the guest of honor. Remember the party is for them and they should enjoy it. Think of their favorite colors, activities, animals, vacation place, etc. Also, think of what you can do with the theme you have picked.
Invitations: An invitation sets the mood for your party. Designing your own invitation is a great way to have fun. You may choose to purchase them or even print one from a computer program. Have fun with it!!!
Helpers: You will need to consider the idea of asking a few people to help you in planning or just giving the party. You may need help in playing a game or serving refreshments.
Refreshments: Think about what food would go with your theme and what foods your guest of honor likes. Do you want to have appetizers, snack food, dinner, cake, etc.
Games and Activities: Plan on having some sort of a game or activity. You will need to keep people busy or they will get bored. Use ideas appropriate for age and interests. Remember to use your theme idea.
Favors: No this is not asking someone for a favor. It is giving a favor or gift for coming to your party.
Ambiance: Lighting, music, and smell go a long way to creating an inviting atmosphere in which quests can talk and relax. Candlelight works great for dinners. Torches are wonderful for an outdoors party. Christmas lights work well to decorate with also. The music should encourage the mood you want. Pop, jazz, soft flowing, fast dancing or what ever your flare.
The work of the Hostess: Be happy.
Be prepared. Get people talking. Take coats. Make sure everyone around
you feels welcome. Introduce
people to each other. Expect the unexpected:
If your cake falls on the floor DON'T cry, change your way of thinking
and serve ice cream with candles. Remember if you fall apart your party
will fall apart.
HAVE FUN!!
Here are something you might want to
do at your party: