Birthday Party Venue TIps

Having parties outside of the home can become a costly venture. If your child has their heart set on a certain venue that is expensive, consider having them team up with a friend who has a birthday close to theirs. As long as the birthday children don’t mind sharing the glory, this can alleviate some of the expenses and will also provide extra help for you. Lastly, if you have a choice to have the party on a weekday versus the weekend, choose a weekday. There will be fewer crowds and you may ensure a better turnout if you’re not encroaching on the guests’ family time.

Some questions to consider when choosing a party venue include:

• Has the site hosted birthday parties before?

• Is there a flat fee or is it cost per child? Is there a minimum fee? Deposit required? Is there a rain cancellation party for outdoor sites?

• What is provided – invitations? Cake? Paper goods? Decorations?

• What entertainment is provided, and what are you responsible for?

• Are you expected to provide chaperones?

• Will there be other parties at the same time?

• Can you drop-in on another party prior to booking your own, to see how it’s run?

• What is the liability policy in case of injury?

• If you know other parents who have used the location before, ask if the children had a great time and if the venue delivered all that was expected.

• Who’s responsible for clean-up?