Here are a few pointers to make sure that everyone (even you) has a good time.

1. Budget – work out how much you can afford and then stick to your budget. That will avoid post-party panic and penny pinching.
2. Pick a date – although you have to consider other people when making your choice, remember you cannot accommodate everyone.  Avoid choosing dates during school holidays, since many people may be out of town
3. Decide on a theme – this makes choosing food, decorations and party favours a lot easier. Get your little person involved in coming up with the theme.
4. Choose a venue – this is critical for deciding on numbers and activities
5. Invitations – it is easier to send these via email. So make sure you have everyone’s addresses and get the invites out a couple of weeks before the event.
6. Plan all the food and of course the birthday cake. Include the goodies that will be baked / brought by other people.
7. Decide what the little guests will get to take home with them. A small gift is probably a better keepsake than a pile of sweets
8. Plan a few fun activities that fit the party theme. For inspiration think back to the birthday parties of your childhood
9. Remember to over-cater on the fun and not on the sweets
10. On the day, just enjoy the moment. That birthday will never come around again.