Lunch plates should be at each seat, but cake plates can be stacked near the cake.
Place cards are not necessary, as children generally walk over to any empty seat at the party table with eyes glued to the food (but find out in advance whom your child would like to sit next to at the table).
Bring the cake to room temperature. Use the cake as the centerpiece for the birthday table so it can be enjoyed throughout the party. Put candles, matches and a cake knife in a convenient, out-of-reach place.
Place adult refreshments on a separate table and position it as far away as possible from the children's entertainment area. This will lessen the chance of adult conversations becoming a distraction to the children's program.
Finish Last-Minute Details
Place balloons by entryway to let guests know they've arrived at the party.
Check the temperature of your party space. It should feel cool; as the room fills up with all the party guests, it will become much warmer.
Decide where to keep gifts and coats and where to keep party favors, which should be easily accessible for distribution at the end of the party.
Keep your first-aid kit nearby.
Turn on the music and let your child's fun begin!
Written by Party Expert Linda Kaye, founder of Linda Kaye's Birthdaybakers, Partymakers, Inc.
