Choose a theme for their party by considering your child’s interest, hobbies and favourite characters: Disney, Paw Patrol, Princesses, Superheroes, Sports or Animals. You will want to stick to this theme and colour palette for all parts of your party – from invitations to decorations, party favours and cake (and even to your child’s outfit or costume).

Before you purchase supplies and decorations, think about how many children will attend – allocate a budget for food, decorations, activities, performers and party bags.

Consider making your own decorations (hit up Pinterest or YouTube to see how you can create your own decorations with items used around your home or from a dollar store). Hiring an external party supplier to create a balloon garland could cost you $600, but if you plan your time ahead, you can create a balloon garland by stringing balloons together. Use a cardboard box and some paint to create a photo booth, in my case a Shopkins vending machine or a Barbie or Buzz Lightyear box.

Streamers fed through plastic mesh can make an incredible colourful backdrop.  

Desserts can help turn a cake table from a simple single cake and photo moment, to a smorgasbord for the eyes (and stomach). Purchase simple cupcakes and cookies from your local supermarket and use party printables found on Etsy or Canva to decorate and tie the theme in. Fun and cheap fabrics found at local craft stores can set the colour scheme and cheap props from the dollar store can help you build height on the table.

Give yourself plenty of time to plan and prep for the party to avoid last minute stress. Typically, I try to have all my decorations made a week out and spend the evening before setting up large props and decorations. Then the day of the party I set up the food and outdoor items.

My husband knows he is needed for hanging any decorations and setting up tables. Ask friends if they would like to help with a craft afternoon session. You may be surprised at how many adults will jump at the opportunity to have a craft.

1. TAKE PHOTOS (and videos) of your incredible set up before anyone hits the tables or the cake is cut. My biggest regret is when I have everything set up so beautifully and forget to take the “starter” photo.

1. Be sure to enjoy the party with your loved ones.