TOP TIPS TO MAKE A CHRISTMAS BIRTHDAY EXTRA SPECIAL

Party Delights creative manager, Sarah Allsop, shares her top tips on throwing a memorable birthday party in December.

December is a busy month, full of festive events, nativity plays and family gatherings, but if you have a birthday or are a parent of a child that has a birthday during December it can be even more hectic.

Having a birthday at Christmastime can bring its own set of challenges, not least, what gifts to buy (on top of the Christmas list!), how to make it a special occasion in the midst of the festive noise, and who to invite to your party!

Decide on a theme

“With so much festive cheer going on, Christmas is the last thing you’ll want as a theme. Approach a party like you would at any other time of the year and make it perfectly suited for the individual celebrating.

“Depending on the age of your child, there are a multitude of themes to choose from, such as film and TV favourites, gaming, cartoon characters and more. Stepping away from all things Christmas will make the day feel more special too.”

Set time aside to celebrate 

“If you are holding a party outside of the home then book a venue that isn’t too Christmassy. Swimming parties, trampolining, outdoor activities, or even a private cinema screening of their favourite movie will remove guests from the festive fanfare.

“If celebrations fall on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day itself then commit to making part of the day focused only on the birthday celebrations. Pick a room in the house to decorate, away from the tree and baubles, and make sure there’s a cake!”

Don’t combine gifts

“It can be tempting to combine Christmas and birthday gifts but don’t! Once you get into this habit, you’ll find it hard to break. Plus, the recipient will start to feel that they are missing out on the birthday treats that their other friends and family get to enjoy.

“Start planning and buying your birthday gifts before you think about Christmas and make sure that you always use birthday wrapping paper – not Christmas paper - to wrap them in.

Invite early

“Getting people to commit to a party in December in amongst all the carol concerts, school plays and visits to Santa can be tricky, so get those invites out nice and early.

“If you need a venue this will need some forward planning too, many will be booked up months in advance around Christmastime, so secure your date at least six months before if you can.

“Keep invites in keeping with your party theme where possible. If you’re giving out goody bags, keep these a Christmas free-zone too and fill them with treats that you would expect all year round.”

Mix it up!

“Of course, there’s nothing wrong with bringing some Christmas-themed fun into your celebrations if you want to.

“Keep it subtle though with a red and green or winter wonderland theme, and steer clear of Santa and his elves!

“You could also include a few festive activities into the day with bauble decorating or get everyone baking gingerbread cookies to take home.

“Alternatively invite guests to wear a Christmas jumper to bring some festive cheer to the party.”

Party Delights is the UK’s largest online retailer of party products. For more celebrations tips and advice visit www.PartyDelights.co.uk