Spring2013minimagnewc

mini mag Spring 2013

Some of the best party stylists show you how.

The most amazing party venues overseas

Busy Little Kids gives you some ideas

Welcome to the Spring issue of the Alphabet Street mini mag !

It’s Spring and we seem to have birthday parties invites every weekend leading up to Christmas. This year we have planned two birthday parties with another one just around the corner.

Most of us spend hours on end planning and preparing for a day that comes and goes in a flash. This issue we look at everything party and try and assist by taking out some of the hard work we all put in with some super ideas from our guest writers.

I love kids parties and you don’t really know what’s available until you start looking into the options.

We have found some great party products that would make any party wonderful however if you are on a budget check out Maraya Bell’s Ten Parties For under $100 article.

You will also find in this issue dates for the diary, some cool , cute and quirky products available in the market and the cutest party frocks around.

Penny Price OWNER

Editorial: Penny Price All editorial and advertising enquiries e:info@alphabetstreet.com.au ABN: 89826197104 Photography: Aver & Line Photography Melbourne

Alphabet Street Privacy Statement: This issue of the Alphabet Street Mini Mag may contain offers or competitions that require you to provide information about yourself if you choose to take part in. If you provide information about yourself including email address, Alphabet Street will use this information to provide you will the products and services you have requested. We will not onsell you details to a third party and will used for our publication only.

Aver & Line is the combined creation of Kathryn and Dimity:

We have been photographing over 20 years collectively and are still loving every minute! We were drawn together because we are both so passionate about the same things: capturing the beauty of childhood; and providing a real and transparent service. www.averandline.com.au

Kara Allen

Kara Allen is a Creator, Party Designer, Blogger, Author, Dessert Stylist and Owner of Kara’s Party Ideas. Recently branded as the ‘new’ Martha Stewart of the party world, Kara is recognized for her incredible capacity to think outside the box.

Kara recently released her own book, Kara’s Party Ideas.

Maraya Bell Little Party Love

Maraya is a writer, publicist, mum and party enthusiast! To satisfy her passion for everything pretty she started Little Party Love- a blog and party directory that showcases party trends, themes, DIY ideas and runs a lot of party giveaways!

Neva Elliot Busy Little Kids

Busy Little Kids - fun, easy and imaginative ideas to keep children busy. The activities are designed to encourage children's imaginations through play, exercise and craft. The Busy Little Kids I-Phone App launches in November with 100 ideas for both rainy and sunny days.

COVER: Model Gracie wears Tutu Du Monde Grapevine Tutu – Amethyst RRP $149

Dates for the Diary Cool, Cute and Quirky Top Spring Activities for kids Best Party Ever!

Ten Party Ideas for Under $100 All Aboard the Party Train Let’s Party!

Party Essentials Style My Party Party Abroad Party Perfection

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THIS HAS TO BE THE BUSIEST AND THE BEST TIME OF YEAR FOR EVENTS LEADING UP TO CHRISTMAS. FIND OUT WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR CITY BELOW.

Sydney Tyrannosaurs – Meet the Family provides a snapshot of

dinosaur life and shows how this group became the world’s top predators with their massive skulls, powerful jaws and bonecrunching teeth. From the 23rd November 2013 www.australianmuseum.net.au

Melbourne Angelina Ballerina- The Mousical

Everyone's favourite little star, Angelina Ballerina, pirouettes onto the stage in a brand new musical adaptation packed full of singing and dancing direct from London's West End. 15 – 19 January 2014 www.artscentremelbourne.com.au

Hairy Maclary and Friends

Take your special teddy friend on a journey into the Queensland countryside when you journey from the Museum to Grandchester and back again to the Museum.

Saturday 16th November 2013 www.theworkshops.qm.qld.gov.au

Think you know the story of Puss in Boots? Think again! This brand new adaption combines the fun of the original story with contemporary pop songs from a range of eras.

Featuring music from Tom Jones to Beyoncé, this fun-filled show will have toes tapping and hands clapping! 30 November - 18 January www.artstheatre.com.au

Santa’s Magical Kingdom

2013 marks the 30th Anniversary of the extraordinary Schools Spectacular. The 30th birthday celebration will take place at Sydney Entertainment Centre on Friday 29 and Saturday 30 November 2013. www.ticketmaster.com.au

Teddy Bears Picnic Steam Train

What's New Pussycat

After a sell-out international tour Hairy Maclary and Friends returns to the Sydney Opera House in this interactive stage adaptation of the much-loved Hairy Maclary children's books, by celebrated writer, Lynley Dodd .

From 17th December 2013 www.sydneyoperahouse.com

Schools Spectacular 2013

Brisbane

Touted as being the hottest event of the Christmas season, Santa’s Magical Kingdom brings all the wonder and joy of a traditional Christmas. This interactive walkthrough is an enchanting experience that includes everything that you love about Christmas. Get ready to be amazed as you see the magic of Christmas come to life!

15th November-23rd December 2013 www.santasmagicalkingdom.com.au

Come In Outside Interactive Exhibition

This is your chance to decide what’s behind some wonderful wacky doors in the ArtPlay gallery. You might snuggle up inside one, discover a secret ladder, or look through their coloured windows to see the world in a new way. Created by Pocketfool, in collaboration with Melbourne artist Geoffrey Ricardo. www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/artplay

Cai Guo-Qiang for Kids

The Children’s Art Centre presents an interactive artist project to coincide with ‘Cai Guo Qiang: Falling Back to Earth’, which invites children to engage with the artist’s ideas and art works through handson and multimedia activities. Young visitors can take part in Cai GuoQiang’s interactive children’s project by learning about and participating in the artists’ exciting working methods to create their own exhibition. 23 November 2013 – 11 May 2014 www.qagoma.qld.gov.au

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Adelaide Sand Sculpture Exhibition by Sandstorm Events Sandstorm

Events will be flying in from across the globe, their best and most talented artists including the current World Champion and 13 times team World Champion, to sculpt eight magnificent ‘Under the Sea’ themed sculptures.

Carving of a spectacular feature sculpture will run from Monday 25 November to Friday 29 November (inclusive). The giant feature sculpture, with a seaside Christmas twist, will be on display for the pleasure of visitors on the final weekend of the exhibition. www.onkaparingacity.com

Grug He's back by popular demand! Grug began his life as the top of a Burrawang tree that fell to the ground. Resembling a small, striped haystack with feet and a nose, Grug is fascinated by the world around him and solves everyday problems creatively and without fuss. 3 - 14 Dec 2013 www. adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au Nights on the Terrace State Library As part of the Splash Adelaide initiative, the State Library is again holding a free, outdoor movie night for families. Matilda is a 1996 fantasy-comedy based on the classic novel of the same name by multiple prize-winning children's author, Roald Dahl. 22nd November www.slsa.sa.gov.au

Perth Children's fiesta

Held in Samson Park, every year this is a much loved event for the under 12’s. The day features a host of hands on activities as well as heaps of fun things to do and see. The Festival is set in one of Fremantle’s most beautiful parks which is a last remnant of natural bush within the City’s boundaries. It is a great day out for families with children. Sunday 3rd November www.fremantle.wa.gov.au

Newcastle Hi-5 House Party Tour

Hi-5 invites you to join in the party of the year at the Hi-5 House Party!

You'll sing, dance and party along with your favourite friends this October/ November when Hi-5 return to the East Coast of Australia for a very special concert tour.

Tuesday 12th November www.panthers.com.au

Disney Live! Mickey’s Magic Show

Abracadabra! It's Disney Live! presents Mickey's Magic Show!

Mickey, Minnie and a host of Disney friends come together with worldclass magicians to perform magic from legendary films right before your eyes. See the Fairy Godmother transform Cinderalla's rags into a beautiful ball gown in a split second; the spectacular levitation of Aladdin's Princess Jasmine; and the enchanted dancing brooms from Fantasia.Join Donald and Goofy, Alice and the Mad Hatter, and many more for a one-ofa-kind stafe show you'll never forget. www. ticketek.com.au

Little Red Riding Hood

WASO brings Roald Dahl’s unique version of Little Red Riding Hood to life in a sparkling concert featuring three talented actors and a collection of puppets. The music entertains with colourful melodies and dazzling dramatic flourishes. Sun 3rd November www.waso.com.au

Hopscotch Sundays Market

Grab your biggest market basket and head to the Hopscotch Sundays market for some early Christmas shopping. This is your chance to purchase something handmade or unique from the quality stallholders for Christmas.

Sunday 24th November 9am-2pm www.hopscotchsundaysmarket.com

Christmas Pantomime "Aladdin & His Magic Lamp"

With all the magic, fun and laughter of a traditional pantomime, children will love this classic tale as they are encouraged to boo the villain and cheer the hero, sing along and dance.

The intricate costumes and set make this performance a truly special event for families.

Sun, 15 Dec 2013 10:30am www.westsnewcastle.com.au

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Cool, Cute & Quirky THERE ARE SO MANY COOL, CUTE OR QUIRKY PRODUCTS AND SERVICES FOR KIDS ON THE MARKET AT THE MOMENT. WE HAVE LISTED SOME OF OUR FAVOURITES

L’IL CREATURES

Designed in Australia by mum of two boys, these unique and playful costumes are the perfect accessory that will make everyone goo and gaa over your little one. Available in three designs; koala, ladybird and reindeer.

Available from L’il Creatures

OOBI LADYBIRD TEE LILAC

Give your little one their own set of wings with this gorgeous spotted tee this summer. The gorgeous little wings are a super soft jersey fabric that are comfy and east to wear.

Comes in lilac, pink and red and is available from Oobi Baby and Kids RRP $39.95

SPECKLED HOUSE GELATO DOTS

QUUT BALLO

SQUIRT BABY FOOD DISPENSING SPOON Feeding baby just got super easy and really mess-free!! The Squirt baby food dispensing spoon allows for convenient feeding, one bite at a time.

Available from Lime Tree Kids RRP $13.95

CARAVAN CUBBIES

If you have blank canvas and want to add a little colour to a room, the new Gelato Dots from Speckled House are just what you need.

Dress up a wall, mirror, window , table top or tiles for a bit of colour.

Pack contains 3 sheets of 72 dots in total. Available from Speckled House RRP $42.95

The beach will be even more fun with this QUUT BALLO. It may not look like a bucket but it certainly acts like one. Carrying water from the sea to a sandcastle has never been this much fun. Tiger Tribe are proud to introduce this range to the Australian market. Quut Ballo comes in two colours - Calypso Pink and Lagoon Green . RRP $24.95

Your little ones will be the most popular kids amongst their friends with this amazing retro caravan kids cubby.

The cubby houses are retro inspired from the original Tear Drop caravan from the 50's and are manufactured locally in Melbourne. RRP $1,995 Available from Caravan Cubbies 11

CHARACTER PUZZLES

Glottogonʼs brand new gift boxed puzzles are the perfect birthday or Christmas gift. Each puzzle features a quirky array of madcap characters that kids canʼt wait to meet!

Character Puzzles come in six delightful designs featuring illustrations from an eclectic range of international artists; Fairy, Mermaid, Robot, Princess, Pirate and Dinosaur.

Finished size 40cm x 30cm. Available from Glottogon.

RRP $24.95

CHILL FACTOR™ SLUSHY MAKER

In less than a minute, you can make a delicious frozen slushy treat. Just add your favourite chilled drink to the frozen Slushy Maker cup, put on the lid and squeeze! Available from The Chill Factor and selected retail outlets RRP $14.95

ATTIPAS PRE-WALKER SHOES

Attipas functional toddler shoes were released in 2011 after 7 years of research and development at the Seoul University. Based on kinetic and physiodynamic tests of toddlers walking, these unique non slip shoes ergonomically support infants first steps and thereafter. Available from ATTIPAS RRP From $14.95

GET BUSY WITH BUSY LITTLE KIDS’ TOP PICKS FOR SOME HANDS ON FUN OVER SPRING

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FOOTPATH ARTWORK All you need is a few sticks of chalk and a footpath or sidewalk, patio, even a driveway. Making an artwork on something this big is so much more fun than the old blackboard, and children think it's wonderful. This is a great activity for hand-eye co-ordination and fine motor skills in younger children

ICE CUBE PAINTING This one can get a little messy but it’s lots of fun for kids. Add some drops of different food colouring to water in an ice cube tray and freeze. Once it's set you’ll have some ‘water crayons’ that are perfect for drawing on paper as they melt. A wonderful summertime activity.

MAGIC FLOWERS This one is truly magical for your little ones and makes a great science experiment for older kids. Fill a glass or vase with water and stir in a few drops of food colouring. Then, take a fresh white flower (carnations always work well), snip the end of the stem and place it in the water. Wave your hands, wait a few hours and abracadabra! The flower will begin to change colour.

Magic!

BACKYARD DINOSAUR DIG Put on your overalls and helmet because it’s time to go digging. Grab a bucket and a hammer and start your search for dinosaurs!

You can hide a few toy dinosaurs around the yard, in the sandpit or at the beach. Some chicken bones make great pretend dinosaur bones too so your children will feel like real life archaeologists.

GO ON A SOUND SAFARI Take a walk around your neighbourhood, local park or your backyard and listen to all the sounds. Close your eyes and be very still. What can you hear? The wind blowing, dogs barking? Perhaps birds chirping, bees buzzing, or leaves rustling? This is a lovely activity to teach children how wonderful silence can be!

THE COLOUR MATCH GAME Here’s a creative way to use old paint swatches. Give your child a selection of colours and then help them search around the house and garden to find things that match. This is a great way to help them learn about colours and shades

MAKE A LEMONADE STAND Grab some lemons, cold water, sugar and crushed ice and make your own homemade lemonade. Once it’s tasting perfect, host a lemonade party for all your teddies or even set up a lemonade stand.

MAKE FRUIT SHAPES Fruit is much more fun when it is cut into little shapes and, these days, there’s a cookie cutter for every shape you can imagine. This is a great idea to encourage fussy eaters to try something new.

GIVE THE TOYS A BATH If you're ever stuck for something to do, gather up a few teddy bears, dolls or spacemen and give them a bath. Children love being the one 'giving the bath' and if they're like most toys, they have been dragged around the yard a few times and probably need a good clean..

MAKE SHAPES IN THE CLOUDS Pick a day when there are plenty of fluffy clouds around and find a comfy place to lie. Point out all the shapes you see and watch how they move and change with the wind. Can you spot a monkey, donut, or a firebreathing dragon? You could even make some pretend fluffy ice-creams.

GET UP CLOSE Everything looks better when it’s super-sized, so grab a magnifying glass and go searching around the garden.

You’ll be amazed at the bugs and flowers when you’re looking at them up close! Then using the new things your children have seen, encourage them to draw their favourite thing from the garden.

SET UP A BACKYARD KITCHEN Using sand, water, shells, straw or herbs from the garden, set up your own little outdoor kitchen. You can use anything you have available - children love playing with all the different textures. Add a few cups, spoons and a saucepan and you can look forward to some delicious mud pie or leaf soup for dinner.

MAKE A PET ROCK Time Magazine named it one of the ‘top 10 toy crazes’ of all time. Pet rocks originated back in the 1970's but they’re still just as fun today! Simply find a rock, give it a name and draw on a face and, voila, you have your very own pet. Better yet, it doesn't need walking or feeding. If you want to get really creative you can use stick on eyes, felt ears and glitter pens, your child's imagination is the limit.

Did you have a childhood party that you will always remember? Some of our Alphabet Street friends remember some of their best parties they had as a child.

y how times have changed since having a children’s party in the 60’s, 70’s or 80’s.

Dessert and lolly buffets didn’t exist and party venues weren’t as plentiful as they are for the children celebrating birthdays these days.

Birthdays were more simplistic and the expectations weren’t as high. Parents could serve party pies and sausage rolls and everything could be put on the table in bowls or plates without particular themed decor.

Games were simple and party entertainers were the parents who organised the party.

These days, are we making it all too hard for ourselves and is the pressure to provide an amazing party for your ‘none the wiser’ 3 year old too great?

Penny Price Alphabet Street-Owner

I have to admit that I am guilty of going over board with entertainment,, party favours and elaborate food for my kids parties but I guess I want them to look back with fond memories of the parties that were held for them and the love that was put into the parties from their mother. Although parties were limited when I grew up I have fond memories of one of my early

birthday parties from the late 70’s.

If you were a child of the 70’s or 80’s you have to know that having a party at McDonalds was THE party venue of that era so when my 7th birthday party was at McDonalds, it was the Best Party Ever!

There was no party room built so tables were just reserved in the restaurant, party hats were issued and baskets of fries, hamburgers and soft drink were supplied.

After the food, we were back home for games, dancing and cake. A disco downstairs proved a hit with the guests who twirled around to current hits being played on the tape deck. This was also great for a game of musical statues.

Before it was time for the guests to go home a simple cake was cut and everyone was content when saying their goodbyes.

This party may not have been the most elaborate but not many were in the 70’s. It was simple yet fun and I can guarantee the cost would have been more affordable than the parties of today....but it was FUN and a party I remember well.

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y best party ever was when I was turning 6 years old. I have fond memories of playing games such as pass the parcel around a circle of my little friends and pin the tail on the donkey.

I always used to love frankfurts dipped in tomato sauce, as parties were the only time we had them as kids.

It’s funny what you think is special when you’re a child, because there is no way I would eat a frankfurt now.”

Amanda Evans My Munchkin Home ack in the ‘Olden Days’ (OK, it was the seventies but the photos were black and white and we wore ribbons in our hair and handmade dresses) a party for us was all about family, the local neighbourhood kids and the CAKE. Not much of a cook, my mum says she always used to make a simple slab cake (like in this picture) or a ‘J’ because ‘it was easy’ - part of a circle cake added to a bar cake, then iced!

If we were lucky, our Nanna would be around for the big event which meant we got a ‘fancy cake’, straight from the pages of The Women’s Weekly Cookbook. Two that I distinctly remember were the Hedgehog, and the Mouse on a Grandfather Clock. I have tried to recreate them for my own kids but never with the same success as Nanna.

Penny Price Alphabet Street-Owner

Julia Whitney Rudy and the Dodo

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irthday parties were filled with excitement and like Christmas night I rarely slept the night before. Everyone dressed up in their favourite party dress and ready for a sugar overload. We played party games such as pass the parcel, musical statues and pin the tail on the donkey. Mum baked up a storm with lots of yummy food, my favourite were the birthday candles (Tic-Toc biscuit with a Life-Saver stuck on it, a Fag lolly sticking out of it and a second Life-Saver as the handle). Birthday cakes usually had a theme I had a trampoline cake, pool cake, dolly-varden etc. At the end we loaded everyone up with a bit more sugar and sent home lolly bags full of sugary goodness. The parties were simple, but we always had fun.

Tanya Burgess Baby Hints and Tips his is a pic of me at my 6th birthday party, my memories were of a fun day, games such as three-legged and egg and spoon races in the backyard and pass the parcel with only one present wrapped inside! My mum made the teddy bear cake from the Australian Women's weekly cookbook.I wish my mum would have kept the dress I am wearing, it was one of my favourites, floor length with flowers and butterflies all over it – just fabulous!

Sura Bolt Red Plum Linen Penny Price Alphabet Street-Owner

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est party ever – as a child it was when I was 3 – my first real BIG girl party! I remember it as a haze of fun, excitement, noise and CAKE – really the best day ever, ever for a 3 year old! As you can see from the pic – I am most certainly a 70s child so there was a lot of fun running about, party games and simple stuff. My grandma baked the cake, mum made fancy sandwiches and our little home was filled with under 5s , laughter and mess – I still smile when I think of it, Fabulous!

Karen Mennie Glottogon

here were no “themes” or elaborate decorations, no jumping castles, paid performers or candy buffet tables.

Childhood parties for us meant love, family and friends oh and OODLES of traditional Greek food & desserts! Nothing was “planned” – impromptu games of tiggy, backyard cricket and of course the all time squealing fave once the street lights came on – murder in the dark! Singing, dancing and putting together dance performances for the parents… parties started mid afternoon and went well past midnight with most of us collapsing together and falling asleep watching a movie whilst we could hear the sound of our parents chatting and laughing away in an adjoining room!

Penny Price Alphabet Street-Owner

Tina Coves Little Boo-Teek

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TEN party ideas for under $100

NOT ALL KIDS PARTIES HAVE TO COST A FORTUNE. MARAYA FROM LITTLE PARTY LOVE SHOWS YOU HOW PROVIDE A WONDERFUL PARTY ON AN AFFORDABLE BUDGET.

E

xtravagant kid’s parties are becoming very popular lately, but not everyone can afford to spend hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars on their child’s party.

So, with this in mind, we have put together the top 5 boy’s and girl’s parties with a budget of about $100.

1. Fairy Party

Food Food doesn’t have to be costly.

Fairy bread pinwheels are cheap, easy to make and look fantastic. Butterfly cupcakes are also popular with little girls. If you are a confident baker try cake pops covered in edible glitter. Even pink doughnuts, stacked on top of each other and held together with a star wand in the middle, look great and don’t use a lot of time or money.

Decorations

If you are looking for a more ‘woodland fairies’ theme, why not try covering your table with artificial grass to give your little guests the feeling of being in a real wood? You can coordinate with red and white tableware.

Shmick Bunting available from Hot Dollar or Base Warehouse from $2.

Decorations

To give the party table an arty feel cover it in butchers paper.

You could even get your kids to decorate it with textas before the party.

Another eye-catching idea is to buy cheap paint brushes, paint them bright colours then string them up like bunting. Your guests will be amazed!

Buy multicoloured plastic plates and cups and alternate them on the table for best effect. You can even use paint cards from the hardware shop as place cards.

To create a pretty fairy table all you need is a pink plastic tablecloth and lots of sparkles!

To give it an extravagant feel buy some tulle from Spotlight and use it as a table skirt, or even make bunting out of it.

Your local bargain shop will have everything you need to dress the table, including plates, cups and bags to coordinate your theme. You can also find plastic wands that you can use for a number of purposes including; gift bags, activities or even to dress up your food!

2. Arty Party

Image Source: Exclusively Food

Activities It’s important to keep little hands busy so how about painting their own fairy house?

Spotlight sells small birdhouses in unpainted wood so set up some paint and brushes and have them create their own fairy houses.

Another great activity is creating their own wings. Use two wire coat hangers covered in stockings and twist the hooks together to create wings. Have the girls decorate them with glitter and sparkly stickers.

Food Go bright and colourful, with fruit on skewers, cupcakes with icing in primary colours, bowls or jars of Smarties and Skittles.

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Group your cupcakes in colours and display them on a piece of board cut in the shape of an artist’s palette- they will look like paint!

Food Sticking with your pastel theme you can get coloured macarons from Woolworths for a very reasonable price.

Coloured fairy floss in a jar also looks sweet and you can make some sparkly cake pops and tiny cupcakes.

You could even serve ‘pink champagne’, carbonated water with pink cordial.

Image Source: Pinterest

4. High Tea Decorations

Who doesn’t like a high tea?

They are so popular these days but they don’t have to cost a fortune! Decorate your table with a crisp white cloth, or lace tablecloth if you have one.

Check the bargain bin at Spotlight to find scraps of sweet floral and pastel fabrics and cut them into strips and tie them to string for a cute bunting idea.

You can find tiered cake stands in op shops and online for a reasonable price. You can also hire them from local vendors (or maybe Grandma even has some!) Use them to set the table with as they epitomize the high tea experience.

Use a vanilla cake mix and divide it into sections- colouring each section differently. Use this to make coloured cake pops- no need to even dip them in anything!

Activities Art parties are so easy to entertain the kids. Your local bargain shop will sell everything you need. They are full of cheap art supplies and canvasses and you can set up an art table for children to create their own masterpieces. You could even put together art packs as a sugar free take home gift.

3. Pamper Party Decorations

Little girls love a pamper party!

To decorate choose a colour theme- soft pastels are good.

Hang up some tissue paper pompoms these are super easy to make but if you aren’t the crafty type you can buy packs at your local bargain shop), and make some pastel bunting to string across your table. Use a white or soft pink tablecloth.

Activities Set up some pamper stations.

Use some large plastic containers as foot spas and have some sparkly nail polish and stickers ready to use for a mani/pedi. You can buy super cheap nail polishes at bargain stores and a lot of chemists.

Facials are fun too! Use a facial scrub or mask and a light moisturizer and cut up some cucumbers of the authentic spa experience!

Food It’s all about the small and delicate at high tea- cucumber sandwiches (or something more exciting!), tiny cupcakes, macarons, mini sausage rolls and quiches, the options are endless as long as you keep them small.

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Activities Get into the high tea spirit with some old fashioned garden games. Try quoits, croquet and boules to keep the kids entertained and burn off some sugar. The novelty of these garden games will keep them entertained for hours.

You could also have a dress up box and have the girls take part in a fashion parade of silly dress ups.

or in a large popcorn maker if you have access to one.

1. Dinosaur Party Decorations

Create a concession stand with pick and mix sized chocolate bars, hot dogs, popcorn and lollies in jars with lolly bags for the guests to fill.

You can even buy authentic popcorn boxes and cups from your local cinema for about 20c per item.

Activities

5. At the Movies/ Red Carpet

Put together a photo booth for the paparazzi to photograph the stars. Have dress ups, hats, sunglasses and props and let the kids go crazy!

Decorations

A movie/red carpet party is all about red, white and black!

Some red fabric from spotlight will make a great red carpet for the guests to arrive on and then set your table out with a red table cloth to match. Use black streamers curled and laid on the table to look like a film reel and hang some red, white and black You can also show a movie in pompoms above your table. the lounge (or the garden) for the kids while they eat their food. They’ll love it!

A movie needs popcorn!

Popcorn is one of the cheapest foods you can serve and is also one of the most popular! You Image Source: Pinterest can display it in big glass bowls

You can have so much fun with dinosaur decorations! Get some calico and paint dinosaur footprints on it to use as a tablecloth. Bunch together brown, green and orange balloons for an earthy feel and make bunting from dinosaurs cut out of coloured paper. Just buy a cheap dinosaur colouring book and trace the dinosaurs onto brown, green and orange paper and stick string across the back.

Food Make Pterodactyl nests by mixing melted chocolate with shredded coconut. Shape into nests and refrigerate. Add peanut M&Ms or chocolate eggs to the nest for instant fun!

Fill plastic cups with jelly and when half way set, drop a dinosaur lolly in. The kids will love digging them out.

Cups filled with veggie sticks make a great Herbivore’s garden and watermelon slices can be stegosaurus spikes.

Ice cupcakes with green icing and top with mini dinosaurs or dinosaur lollies. You can get big bags of dinosaurs at Kmart or your local bargain store.

Food

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Activities Fill a shell pool with sand and bury lots of little dinosaurs.

Digging for dinos will keep them entertained for hours!

Hard boil some eggs and give them some markers to create their own dinosaur eggs!

2. Truck Party Decorations

Activities Collect cardboard boxes and have the kids create their own trucks. They can paint them, add wheels and play games wearing them once they are done. You could even build an obstacle course they have to navigate.

Get a pile of play dough and some mini trucks and let them build mountains and drive their trucks everywhere.

Get out your Hi-Vis colours for a truck party! The decorations are all about orange and yellow for this theme. Print out some road signs, cut them out and stick them up.

Yellow and orange balloons and streamers work well and your little boy’s truck collection can earn its keep- looking great on the table filled with food.

Food We can really have some fun with this.

Chocolate covered doughnuts become spare tyres; cover milk coffee biscuits with chocolate icing and add a red, orange and green Smartie and you have traffic light biscuits; ice cupcakes and cover with chocolate biscuit crumbs to look like dirt; fill your trucks with chips or popcorn and serve up meat pies and sausage rolls.

Food You can make lots of things look like Lego bricks. Ice milk coffee biscuits in different colours and add six coordinating M&Ms to look like Lego blocks.

Cut sandwiches into rectangles with extra bread dots on top and fill bowls with red, yellow, blue and green M&Ms. Cut cheese slices in the shape of Lego men heads and serve on crackers or build Lego food cups and fill with fruit in matching colours.

Image Source: Pinterest Image Source: The Crafty Crow

Activities

3. LEGO Party Decorations

Have a Lego building competition or pin the hat on the Lego man.

Colour in a Lego character or fill a jar with Lego bricks and have a guessing game!

The decorations for a Lego party are definitely primary colours!

Lots of red, blue and yellow and throw in some green too. You can download the Lego font to create your own signs. Make Lego bunting by buying sheets of paper and sticking six circles on them to look like Lego pieces then string them up like bunting.

Use a red or yellow tablecloth and red, yellow, green and blue balloons.

You can also use Lego to build containers to hold knives and forks etc.

Image Source: Pinterest

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4 Sports Party Decorations

Use sports trophies and balls from around the house to dress up your table. You can cut out footballs from brown paper and string them up as bunting and put a chalkboard up, drawn up like a scoreboard.

You can use white balloons drawn up as soccer balls and make food labels shaped as balls.

Food Serve up meat pies, sausage rolls and hot dogs for a genuine sporting experience.

5. Surfing Party Decorations

Get into a beach mood with blue, green and orange decorations. Buy paper lanterns from your local bargain shop to string up and make some colourful flag bunting.

Activities If you cant actually take your guests surfing or swimming then how about water games in an inflatable pool? They can play with water bombs, have water balloon races, and you can even set up a water slide.

Use the family surfboards for backdrop at the table and use a blue or orange tablecloth for a genuine beach feel.

Food Beach food is fun! Ice cupcakes with blue icing and cut out shark fins from grey card to place on top.

You could set up part of the table like the cart at a football stadium- with ice creams, chocolate and drinks to keep your sports stars happy!

Find an old surfboard, paint it white and have the kids decorate it for the birthday boy. They will have a lot of fun and it’s a nice keepsake.

For more great party ideas, tips and tricks, DIY, expert advice and a party directory visit www.littlepartylove.com.au or www.facebook.com/littlepartylove 123

Activities Sports mad kids need games to occupy them! Play traditional playground games like Kanga Cricket, Bin Ball, T Ball and Frisbee.

You could even make up some trophies or ribbons to award to the winners.

Put lolly fish in cups of blue jelly and serve ice cream in small baking cups with wooden spoons. These can all be found in sets at most bargain shops.

Put gumballs in a jar and label them ‘beach balls’; ‘lolly worms can be bait’. Cut sandwiches in the shape of surfboards and serve lots of fresh, tropical fruit.

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WORLD REKNOWNED PARTY STYLIST KARA ALLEN IS HEADING ‘DOWN UNDER’ TO SHARE HER TIPS ON PARTY PLANNING AND STYLING. One of the world’s hottest party stylists and creator of blog sensation www.karaspartyideas.com, Kara Allen is touring Australia in February and March 2014.

Based in UTAH with her husband and three boys, Kara had an early interest for party planning taking every opportunity to plan parties for family and friends from a very young age.

180K facebook fans, she has been featured on numerous USA morning shows and magazines and has launched her very own book , ‘Kara’s Party Ideas’ which gives you the inspiration you need to turn your special moments into unforgettable memories.

Kara Allen is bringing her knowledge and experience to Australia where she will be sharing DIY tips and styling knowledge at a number of fun Kara started Kara's Party Ideas and informative workshops in in January of 2009, as a creative Newcastle, Sydney, Melbourne, outlet & place to post all of her Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide. many events. Since then her following has grown to over Kara’s self-confessed #1 fan,

Australian Party Stylist Sarah Osmotherly from Sugar Coated Mama www.sugarcoatedmama.com saw an opportunity to bring Kara to Australia after realising just how popular Kara was down under.

Sugar Coated Mama has partnered with Australia’s biggest party planning fair Confetti Fair, brainchild of Sydney mother Claire Cassey to bring Kara out from the United States. Confetti Fair is a one‐day event that brings together over 60 amazing exhibitors in the categories of styling, sweets, 34 décor, stationery, flowers,

cakes, products, planning and dessert tables. It will be held in the same venues as Kara’s Workshops in Newcastle, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Auckland New Zealand.

Whether you are a budding party planner, party business owner or just love to plan amazing parties, Kara’s Aussie tour will cater for all her fans.

For those who want the rare opportunity to spend the day with Kara and learn the tricks of the trade they can attend Kara’s intensive workshops. Or for fans wanting to meet Kara, get their book signed and visit her shop, Confetti Fair is the place to be!

Tickets for Kara’s Party Ideas Workshops are available NOW at: www.sugarcoatedmama.com Tickets for Confetti Fair will go on sale in November 2013 at: www.confettifair.com.au

& Newcastle Newcastle City Hall Saturday 15.02.14 Kara’s Workshop 8am - 12pm Saturday 15.02.14 Confetti Fair 1pm - 5pm Sydney Byron Kennedy Hall, Fox Studios Friday 21.02.14 Kara’s Workshop 9am – 5pm Saturday 22.02.14 Confetti Fair, 10am – 4pm Melbourne Williamstown Town Hall Friday 28.02.14 Kara’s Workshop, 9am – 5pm Saturday 01.03.14 Confetti Fair, 10am – 4pm Brisbane RNA Showgrounds, Bowen Hills Friday 07.03.14 Kara’s Workshop, 9am – 5pm Saturday 08.03.14 Confetti Fair, 10am – 4pm Perth Perth Zoo Wednesday 12.03.14 Kara’s Workshop, 9am - 5pm Adelaide Latvian Hall, Wayville Friday 14.03.14 Kara’s Workshop 10am - 3pm Saturday 15.03.14 Confetti Fair 1pm - 5pm Full day workshop - $495 Half day workshop (Newcastle & Adelaide) - $295 Part payment plan available

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These are perfect because they won’t break! You get the nice awesome chic look and don’t have to worry about broken glass. Paper straws are also a must have. Not only do they prevent spills, but are biodegradable and come in all colours to match any theme.

The invitation is what sets the tone of the party. You want it to be fun and inviting.

Kids will be so excited to come to your party if you have a good invite!

2 You need something to immediately get the kids attention. You could have a fun craft for them to put together, a jumbo party themed colouring art to go at and more.

4 These add perfect flair to your event!

Save on the clean up work and add something completely adorable to your spread.

Much better than the regular old plastic utensils.

5 Kids go crazy over candy. You don’t have to go overboard here. A few jars full of different candies will be plenty.

Smiles all around!

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7 An inexpensive yet perfect way to decorate. Hanging up a banner or two will add so much to your party. They are super easy to make, too!

8 6 Keep the kids engaged with a fun party activity that will bring laughter and smiles!

9 Super easy to make, or very inexpensive to purchase; cupcakes are a must at a children’s party.

Often times kids don’t finish their piece of cake, so cupcake are perfect because they are just the right size.

Plus, cupcakes are the most adorable party dessert ever!

The saying goes that every party has to have balloons! But if you don’t want to run to the store to get helium filled balloons right before your party then you aren’t at a loss!

Adorable tissue balls and lanterns are a great balloon alternative!

10 / You want to say thank you to your guests for coming!

Send them home with something that will remind them of the party and how much fun they had!

A little party favor goes a long way 37

WANT TO CREATE A SPECIAL PARTY FOR YOUR LITTLE ONE BUT NOT TOO SURE WHERE TO LOOK? CHECK OUR FEATURED PARTY VENUES AND SERVICES FOR A MEMORABLE CELEBRATION. PLAYGROUNDS PARK 1/395 Hillsborough Rd Warners Bay Playgrounds Park is an eco training facility for all levels of action sports. There is an Indoor skate park with a 3ft Bowl & Mini Ramp, 6ft Halfpipe, Quarter pipes, Rails, Jumps, Huge Foam pit, Drops, Boxes, Resi jumps and Trampolines.

Birthday parties are three hours long and run at regular session times 9.30am, 12.30pm, 3.30pm & 6.30pm.

Cost per child for entry is $20 and there are additional costs for add-ons including food ($10 per child), coaching ($10 per child), Cake $20 for 10 children and a selection of more expensive add-ons.

You can hire the park privately for use for a three hour period at $1200.

If you choose to take the food option children will be given a designated party table and will receive a sausage sandwich, can of soft drink and nibbles. www.playgroundspark.com.au

LITTLE PEOPLE NUTRITION PH: 0412858080 Little People Nutrition is about cooking classes, food education and nutrition for little people and their families.

Mandy Dos Santos, owner of Little People Nutrition ensures that her birthday parties are not about cupcake decorating. Little People Nutrition offers cooking parties that are all about the food and learning.

Mandy will come to your home or community centre of your choice and the cost is roughly $30-$50 per child with no more then 8 children. www.littlepeoplenutrition.com.au

TEEN AND TWEEN PAMPER PARTIES 216 Morgan street Merewether If you have a group of girls and aren’t too sure what party to have you might want to consider a Tween and Teen Pamper party.

Pamper parties are custom designed for your special occasion. Owner Tahnya Morris will treat your birthday girl and her guests to a party they won’t forget. Facials, make-up, manicures and hairstyling are all available as well as a fashion parade at the end.

Tweens pamper parties are $200 per party, with all equipment , and products supplied Click HERE to find out more.

MRAG PARTIES 230 High Street Maitland The MRAG art parties cover venue hire, decorations, party games, art materials and art activities, party host/s in costume and party novelty and lolly bags for all child guests.

MRAG will even give the birthday child a free membership to the art gallery worth $15 ! The only thing parents and care-givers need to organise is the party food and drink.

MRAG can host Art Parties on most Saturdays (gallery events permitting) in the morning from 10.30am – 12.30pm, or in the afternoon from 24pm. Art Parties can also be held on Sunday afternoons from 2-4pm.

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PURPLE PEAR FARM 131 Anambah Road Anambah Why not consider a natural food and natural fun party at Purple Pear Farm.

Purple Pear Farm is an organic working farm with ducks, geese, chickens, guinea pigs, cows and a pony for children to feed and pet. Children can wander through the market gardens and sample seasonal produce.

The parties are beautiful, natural and preservative free with activities based around what is happening on the farm.

Included are farm walks, animal feeding, stories, a craft activity and a small take home gift.

Your child and their guests receive home cooked, mainly organic morning or afternoon tea.

Parties are available Saturday and Sunday 10am to 12pm or 2pm to 4pm or Monday to Friday 3.30pm to 5.30pm .

The total cost for a Purple Pear party is $300 and includes •fabulous home cooked, mainly organic, morning or afternoon tea for up to 10 children •tea and coffee for 2 adults (extra adults are $2 each) •market garden walk to sample seasonal produce •a craft activity and/or story depending on age of the child •feeding the chooks, guinea pigs, horses and cows •a small take home gift for each child www.purplepearfarm.com.au

LITTLE KICKERS NEWCASTLE PH 40091545 Little Kickers football training birthday parties take the effort out of organising party entertainment for Mum and Dad and make the perfect birthday experience for preschool children.

The one hour party sessions include tried and tested fun and varied, energetic football related activities and games suitable for both boys and girls, helping them work off all that party food!

Little Kickers Football Parties include professional football coaches, full 45 minute Little Kickers football activity program plus 15 minutes after class with plenty of photo opportunities, fun and penalty scoring, Unique LKFC medals for every participant, all football equipment provided including goals, footballs and football training equipment plus much more.

Cost for up to 8 children is $140 (1 coach included) and up to 16 children is $180 (2 coaches included). www.littlekickers.com.au

teeny tiny rainbow garland Invite Me RRP $38.95

Icecream! Printable Invitation - Blue Style Me Gorgeous RRP $20

PLANNING A PARTY FOR YOUR LITTLE ONE? CHECK OUT OUR MUST HAVE ESSENTIAL PARTY ITEMS TO MAKE YOUR PARTY A SUCCESS. Sambelliina Ice Cream Cups Sambellina RRP $6.95 for 12

Apple Green Polka Paper Cups Little Big Company RRP $4.95 for 8

Striped Paper Pinwheel on wooden stick The Little Big Company RRP $19.99

Confetti Bomb LARK RRP $10.95

Pretty Princess Cake Stand Castle LARK RRP $19.95

wooden spoons confetti spots Invite Me RRP $9.95 for 20

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Rainbow tape bunting The Party Studio RRP 19.95 for 2.5m

ZZTotz Party Box Pirate ZZ Totz RRP $63.00

Chevron Pastels Large Plate Illume Design RRP $7.99 for 12

Sambellina Scallop Favour Box Rainbow Stripe The Party Parlour RRP $4.95 for 6

Cupcake Cookie Cutter Sweet Themes RRP $3.95

Circus Party Photo Prop Pink Frosting RRP $17.50

Need some party inspiration for your little one? Check out the gorgeous parties planned by the professionals.

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Hootabelle RED WAGON EVENTS Character parties don't have to be about using all licensed products, so when Adriana's mum contacted me to style a Hootabelle themed event for first birthday I knew I could immediately count on graphic designer Nicole from Pretty and Print to create something beautiful and girly which would tie subtle elements from Hootabelle to form the basis on the invitation and event paperie.

Pastel pinks, purples and peaches macarons and cake pops with button and butterfly details and sweet heart patch cupcakes were used to create a very feminine event which still echoed the Hootabelle theme with the use of Hootabelle's buttons, sewed patches and of course the sweet hootabelle cake from Cake-a-lishious.

Guests were given hand tied ribbon noodle boxes to fill with a selection of candy with a favour thank you tag from the birthday girl and an accompanied matching wrapped chocolate bar.

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For the love Of marshmallows and sprinkles LETTUCE & CO

When it came to theming this little three year old's party, it was a no brainer. Marshmallows are her favourite treat she practically swallows them whole, and then when asked what she would like for her birthday, her response was "lots and lots of sprinkles". So here formed... 'for the love of marshmallows and sprinkles'.

We opted for a bright colour palette with yellow and bright pink being the primary colours. august children will almost never enjoy a warm and sunny birthday so we thought to bring it to her.

With 20 of her best buddies to help her celebrate, we made sure there would be lots for them to keep them busy. From a babyccino station, a marshmallow pop making station, to drawing cards as placemats on their table and a game of pass the parcel.

The main cake table was filled with all things marshmallow or sprinkles. The super sprinkled covered chocolate birthday cake to the mini marshmallow cakes, choc coated oreo pops, cookies to marshmallow frosted cupcakes.

The party wouldn’t be complete without our DIY touches. Details such as the sprinkled filled balloons, sprinkle edged frames, the marshmallow ceiling garland, hand-painted (dotted) party bags, pom pom flowers and sprinkle rimmed drink bottles.

All in all the birthday girl was in her element and so were her little guests and there was no such thing as a sugar overdose...surprisingly.

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Lah Lah’s Big Live Band party

SAMANTHA YEP-Alphabet Street Reader With my daughter’s love for Lah-Lah's big live band I was ecstatic to discover they now held birthday parties and booked them the second I found out.

Upon Lah-Lah and Buzz's arrival, Lah-Lah entertained the children with face painting whilst Buzz set up. Lah-Lah and Buzz kept the children dancing, singing, partying for every.

I'd made red and white ribbons with bells attached to red hair bands so they could easily slip them over their wrists and dance along with them. I was also able to pick up a bunch of toy microphones.

I had focused on a red and white theme which was perfect being just after Christmas there seemed to be so many red and white (oh and also green) party supplies on sale.

The cake, my daughter wanted a Lah-Lah cake. So out on the hunt I found a doll, gave her a bob haircut and added a headband.

Then made up they Dolly Varden cake (we already had the tin from a previous year Belle themed cake) For the party food, I had purchased carriages and car meal boxes and added red and white themed food.

It consisted of red and white fairy bread, red and white striped jelly, strawberries, home made sausage (and vegie sshh ) rolls, nuggets, a small treat and water or juice depending on the child’s request.

The party bags were simple. I'd given LahLah and Buzz the names of the children and they signed and personalised CDs for each child and I added a little musical recorder to it.

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Pastel Butterfly 1st B’day Party SUGAR COATED MAMA Lots of tulle, butterflies, ruffles, ribbons, boutique backdrop custom made by Style Me Gorgeous, pastel pretties and the most exquisite flowers by Cheryl at Rosehip Flowers made this party the lovely pastel beauty that it was.

The amazing ruffle cake by Jodie at Get Frosted was the feature of the dessert table, along with vanilla and lemon push pops, strawberry & white chocolate mousse, raspberry macarons, butterfly cookies, chocolate coated oreos, oreo truffles, peanut butter balls, vanilla and chocolate cupcakes, mini lemon meringue pies and pastel meringues.

The drinks table featured fresh lemonade and pink grapefruit juice with individual milk bottles and butterfly accents. The savoury table featured vegie stick cups, cucumber and salmon bites, fresh sandwiches, and lots of other yummies.

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Archie’s 3rd Birthday Alphabet Party RUBY MAY DESIGNS

The party was for my little boy's 3rd Birthday ( Archie). He had just started pre school, and was enjoying learning new things, so we decided to do an alphabet/pre school party.

The backdrop was by Sarah from Style Me Gorgeous.

It gave that classroom feel and set the tone for the rest of the elements in the party, also not having his age on it, meant that I could use it in his bedroom afterwards.

The Cupcakes and Cookies were by the very talented Donna from Sweet Table. Her work is so perfection, and she is always so accommodating and open to suggestions with designs and ideas. She did letters cookies, and blackboard style cookies, and then for the cupcakes, she had little pencils, books, and apples on top.

I made the birthday cake ( don't look too closely!!), and did the DIY on the lolly jars, and number. We also had colourful jelly with personalised spoons by Louisa at Bespoke Party Products.

Louisa from Bespoke Party Products, also did the labels for the favours.

The favours were little plastic Apple containers ( from Louisa The Little Big Company) as was the apple drinks Dispenser, and I filled these with some treats for boys and girls.

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Carnival Theme Party TINY TOTS TOY HIRE Tiny Tots Toy Hire was asked to style a circus/carnival theme for a five year old boy birthday party.

The room was decorated with bright colours giving it a carnival feel.

The balloon arch and cakes added to the wow factor for both adults and kids and the photo booth with all the props was a big hit.

The star of the show was the life sized TICKET BOOTH available for hire and can double up as a photo booth too.

Children were entertained playing carnival games such as duck game, ring toss, pin the nose on the clown, can toss, temporary tattoos and more!

Food included mini burgers, corn cobs, mini pizzas, toffee apples and hot dogs which were served from the hot dog stand, lemonade stand plus a cake and dessert table full of yummy treats.

All props are available to hire from Tiny Tots Toy Hire.

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Adam’s 1st Birthday Nautical Theme STYLED BY BELLE

Styled By Belle created a nautical themed birthday party for 1 year old little Adam.

The birthday was held at a Bayside events venue, so the nautical theme suited the setting perfectly by the water.

Adam's mother wanted to incorporate the traditional nautical red, white & blue with a touch of gold.

Lots of nautical props were used such as fish netting draped over the dessert table, red& white striped oars, as well as a life buoy which was attached to the front of the table.

Nautical inspired cord was tied around the candy jars, brown sugar covered the cake stands to imitate sand, and lots of nautical inspired desserts such as: •Raspberry macarons made as life buoys •Anchor cupcakes displayed on sand (i.e. brown sugar) •Nautical anchor cookies •Navy cake pops with jute twine tied to sticks •Layered jelly pots •Chocolate bars in custom wrappers (displayed on mini sun deck chairs)

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PARTY ABROAD EVER WONDERED HOW KIDS PARTIES ARE CELEBRATED INTERNATIONALLY? WE HAVE FOUND SOME OF THES BEST KIDS PARTY VENUES ACROSS THE WORLD.

K

Depending on your budget or specific requirements you can to be becoming bigger and secure a party at The Plaza from bigger but it seems that $700 to $1,150+ for a minimum internationally they can be a of 8 children. The room rental major production depending on for the cheapest party is one the budget you have in mind. hour only and three hours for We have found some of the best the more expensive party. party venues across the globe that make children’s parties a Most of the themed parties memorable occasion. include Tea Party rental, themed decorations, invitations and thank you notes, a keepsake favor bag for each guest and Kay Thompson’s Eloise Book for Many of you would be familiar the birthday girl, arts and craft with the ‘ELOISE’ books which activity, cupcake tower and a are a series of children's books selection of delicious treats to written in the 1950s by Kay dine on. As the parties get more Thompson. expensive there are more Eloise is a six-year-old girl who lives in the "room on the tippytop floor" of the Plaza Hotel in New York City with her Nanny, her pug dog Weenie, and her turtle Skipperdee. ids parties in Australia seem

Eloise Party at the Plaza NYC

inclusions for your little one and her guests including, children’s entertainers and face painters, Warren-Tricomi beauty service (includes either hair, make-up, or nails), dress up and fashion show plus a more upmarket menu that caters for both children and adults.

You also have the opportunity to upgrade your favor bags and your party with additional options to make your little one’s day even extra special. For more information go to www.theplazany.com

“What a marvelous idea, you will have such fond memories!

Charge it please, thank you very much!” –Eloise

Not only do the Plaza have an Eloise Suite which is located on the 18th floor and decked out in an Eloise-approved palette of pink and black, there is an equally splendid Tea Party room that is dedicated to Rawther Fancy Teas and birthday parties.

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FAO Schwarz Toy Store NYC

FAO Schwarz Party Room

I think for many of us, our first introduction to the FAO Schwarz Toy Store and the “Big Piano” was during that memorable scene in the movie ‘BIG” of Tom Hanks playing Heart and Soul and Chopsticks as everyone looked on.

FAO Schwarz is not only the oldest toy store in the United States, but one of the oldest retail establishments of any kind. It has been trading for more than 150 years and draws thousands of visitors each year who come to witness the magic and wonder of FAO Schwarz.

Many children in New York are given the opportunity each year to celebrate their birthday at this iconic toy store.

Parents can book the private party room which is located on the second floor just near the ‘Big Piano’.

The fun begins as your guests are greeted by an FAO Toy Soldier and are personally escorted to the Party Room.

The party room is decorated beautifully with balloons, along with items from the store that follow your particular theme!

The party room can be booked on weekends or weekdays with weekend parties priced at $1500 for 1.5 hours and $1250 for 1.5 hours and $750 for 1 hour.

Themed decorations, party games, FAO Scwartz toys in the party room to play with, pizzas and beverages are all inclusive in the price but on weekend parties, guests will be treated to a special piano dance show by FAO Schwarz staff.

Parents are also invited to upgrade their children’s party with a selection of craft and entertainment options including Disney Tiara making, magician or musicians, face painter, balloon sculptors and the famous Muppet Whatnot Workshop at an additional cost.

For more information on parties at FAO Schwarz go to www.fao.com

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Maggie and Rose London UK

Maggie & Rose is a private members club for toddlers. The exclusive club accepts day old members and offers organic gardening, and cooking lessons, flamenco dancing, Jackson Pollock inspired art classes, a soft play area, playroom and cafe.

A membership will cost families £585 a year or you can pay by term.

In addition to the daily membership activities that are planned, Maggie and Rose offer parties at their Kensington and Chiswick locations.

Maggie and Rose have the most extensive range of party offerings which is categorized by age groups. Party packages are offered for 1-10 year olds and a range of organic food is offered for both children and adults.

A party at this exclusive club starts at £225 for member and £375 for non members for venue hire . You can then choose to add on other items such as entertainment £195£450, food £8.50- £9 per child, goodie bags £5.50- £6.50 per child and photographers, decorations, birthday cake and party invites all at an additional cost.

The entertainment component include a number of themed activities from cooking to craft to more active parties like cheerleading parties. The themes are all age dependant and offer a wide range of activities for the birthday child

and their guests.

The Maggie and Rose Boogie Bus is a double decker bus where party goers can dance to their hearts content. Guests will also be able to show off their party skills with kiddie karaoke and when they get hungry they can head downstairs to the dinkie diner for some organic hot dogs, perfect popcorn , crispy crudites, magnificent milkshakes and seasonal fresh fruit. www. maggieandrose.com

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Red Carpet Kids New York USA

One of Manhattan’s most unique and exciting experiences for children’s birthday parties, family events and other social occasions is Red Carpet Kids.

Located at 231 East 62nd Street inside one of the grandest townhouses on the Upper East Side, Red Carpet Kids provides a once-in-a-lifetime, interactive, Old Hollywood inspired event experience and venue concept, where the party host and guests are led by working actors to get styled, walk the red carpet, star in an original film, and attend a premiere party with an awards ceremony.

Leaving no conceptual detail spared, the 5,000 square foot space is outfitted with a film studio, red carpet patio, art deco lounge, and luxurious screening room with a concession stand. Guests are guided through a simulated VIP check-in, red carpet interview and paparazzi shoot, hair, makeup and wardrobe, greenscreen film shoot, wrap party, film screening, and miniature Oscar hand-out.

For the actual film, clips from the green-screen shoot are dropped into one of several different 7-minute, pre-shot films created by Shure, Saslow and the Red Carpet Kids staff, who are all working actors and assume the roles of directors, producers, cameramen, stylists, reporters, and assorted butlers to fuel the adventure.

Several different all inclusive experience packages are

available and include invitation and RSVP management, refreshments, cakes, gift bags, and a take home DVD for the host.

Parents can choose from four all inclusive packages including Royalty on the Red Carpet Party, The Hollywood Improv Bash, The Movie Buff Party, The World Premiere Party and The Academy Awards Gala. All packages start from US$2500. www.redcarpetkidsnyc.com

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Hamleys London

What better place to hold a children’s birthday party than one of the biggest toy stores in the world.

Hamleys gives parents the choice of five different party packages, each containing various inclusions.

Parties start from £150 for the basic Hamleys party. The Official Hamleys Tour caters for a family of four (2 adults and 2 children) and includes and official Hamleys Tour Guide, birthday cake and refreshments served in the Hamleys Party Room and 2 x Hamleys goody bags.

If you were looking inviting more guests, there are four other packages to choose from.

The Weekday Party £350 , The Themed Party £650, The Exclusive Sunday Morning Party £1800, and the Hamleys Dream Sleepover £4500.

Each of the parties include party entertainers, party food and goody bags but depending on the cost of the party, there are additional inclusions in each party.

The most elaborate party on offer is the Hamleys Dream Sleepover.

For £4500, you will have Hamleys all to yourself and your guests for a weekend sleepover. Walk the red carpet for a sparkling OJ on arrival, smile at the cameras for your very own photo shoot with your friends, enjoy your movies at midnight and choose from a delicious menu including late night snacks. www. hamleys.com

Fabrik Prima Ballerina Milk Dress $118 Fabrik Soiree Dress Milk $89.95 Fabrik Betty Dress Milk $89.95

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A PARTY IS JUST NOT COMPLETE WITHOUT THE PERFECT PARTY FROCK. WE HAVE FOUND SOME OF THE MOST GORGEOUS MUST HAVE PARTY DRESSES THIS SEASON.

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1. Hide and Seek Summer Dress-Ocean RRP $44.95 2. Tutu Du Monde Upperclass Tutu – Apricot RRP $179 3. Rock Your Baby Blue Floral Dress RRP $39.95 4. Coco & Ginger Maya Dress RRP $121 5. Fred Bare Muslin Frill Dress RRP $64.90 6. Country Road Embroidered Dress RRP $59.95 7. OOBI Isabella Pink Dress RRP $69.95

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