Posts by Hannah Jackson | Celebration Advisor - Wedding and Party Network Blog

August 22, 2015 by Hannah Jackson

Five Boy Birthday Party Themes

Boys are known for their energy. So, planning a boy’s birthday party should be no less of a thrill. Here is a top five list of ideas to get you started!

1. Construction:

Replace serving bowls with toy Tonka dump trucks and fill the backs of them with your snack food.
Yellow hard hats can also double as decorations and party hats.
Signs such as, “Construction Zone Ahead!” and “Dig in!” will enhance the atmosphere and maybe even get a laugh or two from the excited party goers.
For this theme, serve snacks like gummy worms, rock candy, or pretzels to imitate things outside that boys love.

2. The Cat in the Hat:

This theme is really becoming popular. You can do a lot with all of the quirky sayings and goofy characters in the Dr. Seuss books.

If your boys are well-versed in their Dr. Seuss characters, a game of Guess That Book would be a fun way to test their knowledge of Dr. Seuss quotes.

3. Safari:

My little boy is in love with all things safari animals. From the unique way they look, to each one’s distinct expression of sound, boys are mesmerized by them.

I would choose three to five different animal types and use them as inspiration. It would be easy to go overboard on the variety of animals presented.
Give each guest the option of dressing in the color of their favorite safari animal.
Fun activities would include: pinning the body part on the various animals, guessing the animal sound, and a safari station where they could pack a small bag with essentials like binoculars or sunglasses.

4. Army Camo:

For the hunter, a little boy who may have a parent who serves our country, or if your little guy just loves soldiers and all things battle related, this theme is perfect.

Green and brown cupcakes, a cake topped with little toy army men, various candy and snack bowls that can be renamed with things like "Cannon Balls" and "Cookie Grenades" are just a few suggestions for your food presentation.
You can find camo inspired craft paper and hang up homemade banners around the party room for a super easy decoration.
Tear up green and black butcher paper into various shapes and sizes and place them on the walls of the party area and hang green netting on the ceiling to create a camouflage effect.

5. Camp Out:

For the outdoor lover, creating a camping experience for his birthday is a fun way to recreate a scene that he enjoys.

If your party is during the day, have a scavenger hunt to search for different plants and wildlife.
At night, break out the s'mores buffet table with add-ons such as; different types of chocolate, pretzels, and nuts.
If you make cupcakes, make chocolate ones with orange and white icing that resembles a campfire.
Have your birthday boy help you search for large pinecones and small sticks to display your party food signs on.

When the time comes to plan a special party for a special guy in your life, these ideas are lots of fun and easy to pull together!

August 13, 2015 by Hannah Jackson

Ways to Celebrate Back to School

I have distinct memories growing up of celebrating school ending, but to celebrate going back to school is a trend I love. What better way to shake the jitters of beginning a new year of school than to throw a big party in its honor? Here are a few ways to give kids (and teachers!) a way to look forward to the summer coming to an end.

Back to School Dinner Tradition

Use this occasion to motivate your kids and their mindset towards school. It’s not usually easy to welcome school starting back, but with a little creativity and time, you can put together something that will penetrate their hearts. Host a dinner each year with a new motivational theme for the upcoming school year. Theme ideas are: “Your Future is Bright”, “Sharpen Your Mind”, and “Make the Best of it!” This tradition can be for kids or teachers since both need inspiration for a new year of challenges!

Book Swap Party

Beforehand, have 10 friends collect a few books a piece to bring over for a back to school book swap. Whether used or new, just books in good condition that the kids can search through while they snack and play together in anticipation for a new school year. There’s just something special about bringing home a new book, and it can get them excited about reading again if they haven’t been reading much over the summer break.

Fun in the Sun

With summer coming to a close, kids may need a last hurrah in the sun and water. Planning some simple outdoor water games can help ease any back to school anxiety that may be creeping in. Activities can be a slip-n-slide, sandcastle building station, sprinklers, or just your basic swimming pool. Have lemonade and some fresh fruit and popsicles for them to snack on as they play and you’ll have yourself a refreshing party they will really appreciate!

Kick start the new school year on the right foot by celebrating it! Use one or all of these ideas to welcome school with open arms.

May 8, 2015 by Hannah Jackson

Memorial Day: More than a Holiday

This year, instead of focusing on party ideas for Memorial Day let's go a different route. Let's talk about some of the traditions that mark Memorial Day.

Participating in the National Moment of Remembrance

A congressional resolution was passed in 2000 where Americans can pause at 3:00 p.m. local time for a moment of silence. This is a very small way to personally reflect on and feel respect for those who have died for our country's freedoms.

Memorial Day Parades

A more upbeat way to recognize this day is to attend a local Memorial Day parade. Neighbors come together all across the country to remember loved ones with a moment of shared entertainment.

Wearing Poppies

The tradition of wearing red poppies on Memorial Day was inspired by the 1915 poem In Flanders Fields by John McCrea. A war worker pledged to wear a silk red poppy to "keep the faith with all who died." This has now become a tradition in the United States, France, Australia and so many other countries.

Review Family History

This is a great time to find out new information on people in your family who have served or were close to other family members who served. These stories are always beautiful and may give you a bigger sense of your place in your own family. You can rummage through old pictures, journals, or whatever else you discover from that period.

Whether you're family or not, Memorial Day should be more than observed; it should be a dedication. It should be a dedication that we all share to the people who have faced and braved more than we can want to imagine. It takes guts, but if you know of anyone, anyone, who greets Memorial Day personally, hug them. Let's do something for them, no matter how small. That's the best way I can come up with to celebrate Memorial Day.

April 18, 2015 by Hannah Jackson

Top 5 Birthday Party Themes for Girls

If you’re beginning the research for your special girl’s birthday party, here is a helpful shortlist of five themes to choose from that can take your celebration to an extra special level of girly sweetness.

Tea Party: If you’re somebody who loves entertaining, this is a good one to throw at your house. Not only will you save money on a venue, but your birthday girl can have an intimate place to celebrate with her friends.

Center this theme around pastel colors and the basics of any tea party: tea pots and tea cups, finger sandwiches, and yummy desserts. Set out foods such as grapes, crust-less pb&j sandwiches, cupcakes, and don’t forget the tea. Have the girls dress up and wear little crowns and feel like royalty at tea time.

Vintage Girl Superhero: It’s pretty awesome when a little girl wants to be a superhero for her birthday. What makes this party vintage is channeling the classic superhero look—think comic book style with lots of pink and blue accents. Your superheroes can even wear matching pink tutus under their capes if they want. It’s pretty simple to make your own tutu with tulle and ribbons so that each girl can wear them at the party and take them home as your party favors.

Pajama Party: Girls can either wear their own, or you can have matching sets for the kids to change into once they arrive. For the party area, create a ‘sleeping area’ complete with either one big pallet or multiple small ones laid around the room. Use paper lanterns, cute pillows, or stuffed animals to dress up the sleeping area. Making this party a brunch would be perfect so you could serve mini donuts, fruit, cinnamon rolls, or muffins as easy treats.

Country Fair: Wildflower arrangements, homemade pies and cakes, fair games are all great options for a fair themed party. There are so many cute and fun ideas to make kids feel as though they have spent the afternoon at the fair. Farm animals can also make an appearance at this old-fashioned party if you have friends who have access to a few that the kids can pet and feed.

Garden Party: With spring in the air, this is the perfect time to take advantage of all of the options at your local garden center. Buy terracotta planters, soil, and whatever flowers or seeds for the kids to plant together. Provide everyone with little hats and tools and fill the backyard with a long table as a work station with planting options laid out for them to choose from. Let the kids be creative tuning their gardening skills. Break for cake and ice cream and allow time for the kids to show off their work to each other.

Whatever theme you choose to go with, your little one will love it no matter what. Don't forget to send us your party photos at social@weddingandpartynetwork.com.

January 29, 2015 by Hannah Jackson

The Ultimate Super Bowl Party Appetizers

If you'll be the one in the kitchen this year during the Super Bowl, here are some easy yet super delicious appetizers to make for the big game, along with a few ideas on how to display your food in a unique way.

Bacon Wrapped Potatoes: Cut small, gold potatoes in half, wrap each with half a piece of bacon, and roast. These are so easy and will have your house smelling extra yummy.
Mini Ranch Burgers: Their name says it all, and the ranch will give these burgers a nice zest.
Pita Chips and Hummus: Simple, healthy, and a good break from the traditional chips and salsa.
Homemade Chicken Nuggets: These are not your kids' beloved chicken nuggets–although they are a very healthy alternative! Coat your chicken with crunched up pita chips and Parmesan for an unexpected flavor boost and great texture.
Nacho Bar : This will give everyone plenty of options to build their own nachos. You can do a variety of chips to match whatever dips you choose to prepare. If possible, the dips could match team colors!
Build-Your-Own Sandwiches: Meats, cheeses, condiments, and mini sub rolls make this appetizer a filling one. Everyone will love being able to customize their own delicious creation.
Chocolate Covered Strawberries: If you're needing a sweet option, dip strawberries in milk chocolate, then use white chocolate or white icing to draw stitching on them like a football.

Fun Super Bowl Party Food Display Ideas

Football Field Table Cloth: Aside from the actually football game, it's all about the food table. Transform it into a football field with green felt and white ribbons for the 10-yard lines.

Chalkboard: Set up an over-sized chalkboard behind your food table with the words, "Ready, Set, Eat!" written on it. Or have someone who actually knows a thing or two about football draw a game play on the chalkboard. This is a super easy back drop that can even be interactive as your guests come up with their own football puns to write on there throughout the party.

Watermelon Helmet: This one requires some explaining and a skillful hand. By hollowing out a watermelon you can make it into the shape of a football helmet, fill it with fresh fruit, and watch everyone be amazed at your creativity.

Team Colors: If there is unanimously one team that you will all be rooting for, customize your food table to reflect the team's colors. You can do this with the actual food and also by setting out pom poms, jerseys, flags, or other gear you and your friends may have.

Throw a delicious Super Bowl party this year with delicious, yet simple appetizers. Your guests will be blow away by your set up as well.

January 17, 2015 by Hannah Jackson

Party Planning for 2015

With an entire year of parties behind us, another one has begun and it's never too early to start planning for a celebration. Sit down with your calendar and figure out which holidays & events you have for 2015. Once you have your 2015 calendar planned, take some quick and easy steps to make sure you begin the year ahead of schedule.

Planning is Key

A party can be overwhelming if you don’t plan in advance. Start your planning by blocking out an afternoon by spending quality time with your calendar. You will guarantee the holidays won’t sneak up on you.

By thinking this early, you can start shopping early for decorations, start finding vendors and even give the kids a little excitement.

Make a Brainstorm Notebook

This notebook will be where you can store ideas and inspiration, guests lists and to-do lists. With it all in one place, you will know where to put your ideas when you feel inspired. Simply write down a handful of key words about what you are planning to do for each holiday so you don't forget any ideas that come to mind.

Lock Down a Theme

Perhaps one of the first things to do after marking down the holidays that you'll be planning for is deciding on a theme.

For example, if you want to plan something for Mother's Day or Father's Day, ponder the special people you will be celebrating. What are things they enjoy? How can I incorporate that into their celebration?

Another example is if your child wants a Batman birthday in August, you have enough months to slowly accumulate party items such as themed plates, cups, gifts, etc.

If you know what direction you are going in, then you can easily start buying the perfect items for your event.

Start a Party Fund

Start setting aside money for your celebrations in the year ahead. It can go towards any festivity you have planned for the upcoming year. Small amounts of money here and there will make a huge difference if unexpected expenses arise while you are in the thick of planning. Keep adding to it consistently and the fund will be particularly helpful during the year.

These party planning tips will truly help your events be the best they can be in 2015! Happy planning and don’t forget to share your parties with Wedding and Party Network.

December 23, 2014 by Hannah Jackson

Last Minute Holiday Activities for Kids

Need some last minute holiday activities for the children? There are many ideas out there and you may have lost track of time in the middle of shopping, baking, and holiday parties. So, Wedding and Party Network has some ways to get quality time in with your kids.

CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT CRAFT – If you're looking for something indoors for your kids to do, go to your local craft store and buy some plain clay ornaments for them to decorate. They can use paint, stickers, glitter, and any other supplies you might have on hand to make a special ornament for your tree. This is a great way to add something special to your tree each year.

$10 SHOPPING SPREE – Teach them about the spirit of giving by taking them to a dollar store nearby with $10 and letting them pick out presents for the people they love the most. Try to pick a theme, such as personal care or a specific color, to make it easier.

GO FOR A RIDE – One of my favorite childhood memories about Christmas was when we would hop in the car and look for Christmas lights around town. Certain neighborhoods typically go all out with lights on their property, and everyone can pick their favorites. Make sure to find a good radio station with Christmas music during your adventure!

Christmas is just days away, so spend some quality time with your children this holiday with these great activities! Merry Christmas!

November 4, 2014 by Hannah Jackson

A 'Frozen' Themed Birthday Party

When my niece turned three in August, there was no question what theme she wanted for her birthday party. My sister-in-law, Liz, outdid herself making her little girls' dream come true. Here are a few of the ways she made it happen.

The Decorations

Cotton balls were hung by fishing wire at the entrance of the kitchen to resemble snow falling. Using a leftover box, Liz made a snow-topped mountain with more cotton balls. She chose a blue and pink color scheme, representing the characters through each color that also made good contrast with the “falling snow.”

Party Food

Placed in front of some of the food that Liz prepared were place-cards with movie quotes relating to the type of food they accompanied. For instance, in the movie one of the main characters, Anna, sings about wanting to shove some chocolate in her face. Liz made delicious Oreo balls with that quote in mind. You could also make snowballs to coincide with the theme. The ones I am thinking of are basically marshmallows, chocolate, and coconut.

Break for a Game

After everyone was finished eating, kids were wrapped up like Olaf, the quirky and lovable snowman in the movie. You can buy cheap rolls of toilet paper, line the kids up and have the adults wrap them up from head to toe. The game was super simple, but it was a big hit. There was lots of laughter so you know it was a good activity!

My sister-in-law took her daughter's love of 'Frozen' and created a cozy little place in her home for us to envision ourselves as a part of this beloved movie. We even got to take our character-specific cups home as party favors. By incorporating little details, you can make your kid’s themed birthday party extra special.

October 30, 2014 by Hannah Jackson

Last Minute Halloween Ideas

Halloween can sneak up on you. So if you're finding yourself anxious about how to throw together some fun for this Halloween, these ideas will be just what you need.

Trick-Or-Treating With A Twist

Halloween Decor

Instead of going door-to-door, plan to meet at a friend's house who lives in a busy neighborhood and set up tables in the front yard with candy for trick-or-treaters to stop by and grab. This is a good way to get more immersed into the whole atmosphere of the evening. Your kids will get to watch all of the costumes go by and you can pick your favorites.

Scary Movie Night

With scary movies on TV around this time of year, get together and watch some with your friends or as a party for your kids. Think candy corn and popcorn. This is a good way to celebrate if you and others you know aren't wanting to go trick-or-treating.

Homemade Halloween Costume Contest

Halloween-Cookies

Don't want to shell out big bucks on a costume that will only be worn once? Make it a party! Plan a night where you invite not only your kids' friends, but their parents as well, and make costumes. The only rule being that you cannot buy anything. Have them bring supplies from around their house like toilet paper, cardboard boxes, lampshades, duct tape, etc. Have some gummy worms and witch's brew (punch) and get creative with your costume building and see who comes up with the best creation! First, second, and third place winners get prizes such as cash, a Halloween movie, gift card, etc.

Baking Treats With Your Kids

This is classic and fun. You can make it your only plan for the day by researching which treats you want to make, taking your kids with you to get any ingredients you may need, and coming back home to bake together. Some fun ideas I've seen are rice crispy treats shaped into pumpkins, white chocolate dipped pretzel sticks decorated as ghosts, and witches hats made of cookies and chocolate kisses. These can be treats you serve at any party this season!

Halloween is quickly approaching, and these ideas for celebrating are quick fixes for a last minute party. Choose one or experience them all and have a Happy Halloween!

August 26, 2014 by Hannah Jackson

A Light-Hearted Labor Day

With Labor Day coming up, it isn't typical for our minds to start planning a get together. When I think of Labor Day, I think of the year my mom told me and my sister that she would be laboring on Labor Day–her creative way of telling us that she was pregnant with my little brother. So, I don't start planning parties in my head either. BUT, it's a day when people are off work and are able to enjoy a day free from the usual routine. Make it a good one!

Breakfast in Bed

When I think of ultimate relaxation I think of breakfast in bed. It doesn't even necessarily have to be in bed, since it's probably safer at the table to avoid falling back to sleep mid-bite. But I like it to be prepared for me. Everyone deserves to be served breakfast, whether you leave the house for work or do just as important work at home. It just lets you start your day stress-free.

If you know someone who works super hard and could use a pick-me-up, try providing them with a meal! It's really true that cooking with love provides food for the soul.

Family Fun Day

When I was little (and up until I moved out of the house), we would have family swim days. We knew a very special lady who let us enjoy her pool anytime we wanted. We always called her first to be respectful, but it made for a whole lot of relaxing days by the pool with family and friends.

Your day doesn't have to be a swim day, but if there is something you and your family love to do together, make a day out of it! You're off of work and the kids are out of school. It can also be a fun time of discussing beforehand with everyone what plans they would like to make for that day.

Plans for Autumn

If you're a planner like me, it's extremely comforting–and, dare I say, fun–to sit down and plan something. Sometimes it's stressful, but if it is something leisurely and exciting then it can be just the opposite. Labor Day marks the beginning of the end of summer so why not use it as your guide to start planning for things you want to accomplish this fall season?

Fall is the favorite season for a lot of people, and it gloriously shifts us into a different mindset of flavorful breezes and holiday preparations. Some not-so-fun preparations you can tackle are:

Clearing out your gutters
Cleaning your fireplace and chimney
Checking your doors and windows for drafts before the cooler weather sets in.

More cheery preparations include:

Researching an autumn wreath you can make for your front door
Planning a camping or fishing weekend for the kids in the cooler weather
Outlining any changes you may want to make to your flowerbed or landscape
Scheduling outdoor family pictures.

Whatever mood you find yourself in this Labor Day, allow yourself to do something different from your day-to-day. Whether it's a day spent surrounded by special people in your life or a quiet day alone, spare yourself the stress and have fun!

Five Boy Birthday Party Themes

Ways to Celebrate Back to School

Memorial Day: More than a Holiday

Top 5 Birthday Party Themes for Girls