Plan A Virtual Party with LYFETYMES Party

How To Celebrate Virtually In 2020

Planning a Virtual Party and not sure where to start? You can plan any Birthday Party, Baby Shower, Graduation Party, Holiday Party, and more, with LYFETYMES - the fastest-growing party planning platform and app.

At-Home and Virtual Parties can still be festive and engaging. It does not just have to be a Face-time call, you can make it as memorable as you want and it is important to celebrate those milestones and recognize they have been accomplished. You can plan for free at LYFETYMES or if you don’t have the time or non-technical, head to the LYFETYMES Vendors Marketplace to find a party stylist or wholesale goods to help plan and style your entire party at an affordable price.

There are still many ways to still celebrate with your friends and family and put on the best celebration possible in 2020 you can give them while at home during quarantine and engaging in social distancing. Whether it is a Virtual Party, At-Home Party, Drive-by Party, or Hybrid of them all, we have gathered some innovative ways to celebrate the moments that matter most.

Virtual At-Home Party

Virtual Major Moments- Great for Proposals, Gender Reveal, Sip and See’s, and College Admissions

These are intimate feel-good moments that people are going to love to be a part of even virtually. We will celebrate more of them than ever because we want to connect even more with friends and family, as these are the precious memories that will bring smiles.

Most commonly, you will physically be with less than 10 people, most likely people that live in your home only, and having friends and family join virtually. You can still decorate, open presents, have party activities, etc. You may want to move things traditionally at the end of a party to the front- So start with singing Happy Birthday, Blowing Out Candles, opening gifts, that way if people cant stay they at least get the big highlight!

Add some front yard signs to add to the moment!

There are many sign companies where you can hire (and support small businesses) to come decorate your yard with personalized signs overnight so it is ready to go in the morning! You will be surprised by the smiles, great selfies, and honking you get from well-wishers driving by!

Hosting a Successful Virtual Party

At Home & Virtual Parties can be fun, but if you want it to be as successful as possible, then it does require some planning and effort. Here is a quick rundown of how to get it done!

• Start Planning Your Party at LYFETYMES -It is a free one-stop-shop for parties.

• No more Paper Invites-Create your Free Party Website to text/email to guests to RSVP to your party, you can personalize with a picture or a video and share your LYFETYMES Party Website on FB or via text.

• Add a virtual party link/URL to your LYFTEYMES from any of the services you use like Zoom or Goggle Hangouts, so all they have to do click it and party with you!

• Add a slideshow link! These are great to include on your website for guests to enjoy!

• Add an easy registry link for guests to send gifts to your door! Including a registry is a great way to receive cash or gifts directly.

• Determine where in the house, backyard, or space you will use for the party, a fun backdrop can be great for gift opening, a central focus of the room for photos.

• Determine Theme and Decor and order to your door ahead of time there are a ton of delivery solutions, like yard signs, food, cake, and balloons that can be dropped outside your door. You can add all your ideas to your LYFETYMES party!

• Make an agenda, especially for your video call - make sure you have put some thought into the call- the last thing you want is a boring virtual party! You can create an agenda and digital checklist in LYFETYMES to keep you on track for songs and games!

Best 1st Birthday Baby Shark Theme Party

Best 1st Birthday Baby Shark Theme Party

This beautiful 1st baby shark birthday party was submitted by Carter 7 Grand Events. This is what she said was her inspiration to create and style this party. “As a party planner/decorator; we are often asked to repeat a popular theme more than once; and BABY SHARK being as popular as it is; we have completed several setups; however, this was our first large setup and our first setup for the theme outdoors. 

It was a very HOT TEXAS DAY, but we managed to pull through. Our client was very excited to celebrate Romir's first birthday party and even motivated and gave us so much eagerness to set up such a memorable event. We took a little bit of everything we had previously set up before and added a little twist to it. 

Having the event outdoors under a tent; gave us a little more imagination to work with; from the balloons hanging from the center of the tent; to the props being placed in front of the water wave custom table cloth that was made by our business owner Carla Smith. The entire setup was  FUN - FUN -FUN. We never draw out a detailed setup map; we just bring what we need and then we allow our creative juices to flow and we create a GRAND-ness. 

Carter 7 Grand Events is our business name; which has a very meaningful meaning behind it; which is part of the reason we love setting up children's events. Carter is the name of the owner of our business’s first son; who passed away during birth; it was her only child; but was the 7th child of her deceased husband, who passed away suddenly 2 years after their son passed away from a blood clot. 

When hired to do children's events; it is always an exciting and fun time for us and most of our inspiration comes from our sweet and precious angels who watch over us from above. 

We would like to invite you all to our business page on Facebook @Carter 7 Grand Events and on Instagram Carter 7 Grand Events

We would like to give a special thanks to She's Making Sweets for the amazing cake, custom candy apples and cupcakes; and also La Casa de Carton for our amazing marquee numbers that we love so much. 

Romir's Baby Shark 1st birthday was definitely one of our favorite setups since dealing with this pandemic. Due to the pandemic of course business for us is not what it once was and parties are not how they use to be. Through the hand sanitizer on each table, and no candles being blown out on the main birthday cake, and food being served in to-go containers; we were still able to bring some sunshine with our decorations; even during the pandemic storm. We pray for the safety and well being of everyone and this too shall pass; we hope very soon. 

We’ve included lots of pictures for you to enjoy every child’s dream party!

Vendor Credits:

Party Stylist & Event Planner: by Carter 7 Grand Events

Cake: She's Making Sweets

Party decor: La Casa de Carton

LYFETYMES is the #1 party planning website. Check us out for all your party planning needs!

Want to be in the party business but don’t know where to start? Whether you specialize in party planning, baking, or balloons Hostessy Pro can help you get your party business off the ground. Hostessy Pro will create your personalized business webpage, URL, and email. As well as access to our digital media library with over 100 of our best content & more, Check them out to get started on your party dreams.

7 Unique Last-Minute Father's Day Ideas

7 Unique Last-Minute Father’s Day Ideas 

Father's Day is right around the corner; do you have your gift planned yet? If you said no, do not worry we do not judge, and we’re here to help you. With so much going on in the world now, a gift for the man in your life might have been overlooked. It is even more important this year as we face yet another holiday in some degree of quarantine to hold onto those who matter the most. Which is why we came up with some creative and unique ways to celebrate the father figures in your life. So ditch the button-ups and read on for 10 unique gift ideas for the super dads we want to celebrate!

Go DIY for Father’s Day

This is the perfect way to put your heart into dad’s gift and be creative. And who does not love homemade gifts? Dads do a lot of building and repairing so have the little ones build and create something for dad. You know what they say it’s the thought that counts and a DIY gift is sentimental, and dad can hold onto it for a lifetime. So, get crafty and DIY something special this Father’s Day. 

Backyard Camping

Want to plan a fun night full of adventure for dad, but are running short of time and money? Consider a backyard campout. Grab your tent from the garage. If you don’t have one ask a friend or family member so you don't have to purchase one.  Bring out the s’mores tasting and warm up those vocals for some campfire singalongs. Stargazing and letting dad share his childhood stories is the perfect way to spend some quality time with dad. 

Buy a Grill or Grilling Supplies

Every man needs a grill. This is the perfect time to give dad a nice BBQ pit. If he already has a grill maybe it’s time to replace it with one he’s been eyeing or gift dad with some new grilling supplies. Nothing says ‘Grill Master’ like having the latest grilling gadgets and tools. The Back of the Yards Collection by The Spice House is a great gift. It comes with four spice jars that celebrate locals whose families come from Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. Dad can add some flavors from all over the world to his favorite dishes. 

This grill set by Wüsthof is just what dad needs for a quality grill setup (And it’s on sale right now.) All handles are heat resistant and have hooks that make them easy to store. Make it extra special by engraving it with a sweet Father’s Day message.

DAD’s Old Records

If your dad has a collection of old Vinyl Records in the attic it's time to dust them off and bring them out. If he doesn't already have a record player this is the perfect time to purchase one. Kohl’s has a great collection to choose from like this Victrola Suitcase Turntable Record Player that is currently on sale. Play some records and revisit the memories. Let dad tell you all about his Vinyl record days and don’t forget to take lots of photos or videos of your father and family dancing around the living room to his favorite tracks. 

Learn About Your Family History

Nothing shows you care about your dad’s future and past like an Ancestry DNA kit. You can help your father learn more about his origins while also learning about his health. This DNA kit is a great way to get to know your dad. Your dad will love to uncover his ancestry and maybe learn more about his father as well. Ancestry.com is having a Father’s Day Sale on their kits so grab one today and share a unique interactive experience with dad. 

A Monthly Membership

One of the best Fathers Day gifts in 2020- a Dollar Shave Club monthly subscription. Every month dad will get a box full of everything he needs to have a clean and sharp shave delivered straight to his door. From super sharp razors to moisturizing shaving creams this gift is the perfect mix of convenience and quality. It will have dad feeling young and hip.

Breakfast In Bed

Start dad’s special day with a great early- morning surprise. We all know mom usually gets the breakfast-in-bed treatment. But that does not mean dad wouldn’t enjoy the same indulging. Everyone loves a good breakfast in bed, especially when eating in your room is normally off-limits. So, let dad relax and make his favorite breakfast food and have your little sous chefs join in on the fun and create cute drawings or a sweet message to accompany dads’ breakfast. 

Game Night With a Twist

If your Father is a board game kind of guy or loves to play parlor games such as Charades and Pictionary, then the best way to celebrate Father's day at home is to have a game night where you play all his favorite board games or parlor games. To make it more special, put a twist in every game. For example, you can have prizes that will be beneficial to your dad, or you can make the topics of the charades about your Father.

Father's Day is a time to express your love and let him know that he is appreciated. Recognize his hard work. Express all the things you love about him and things he does for you. That’s why we’ve got you covered with this fun and creative Father's day ideas and things to do with dad. 

10 Awesome Social Distancing Kid Birthday Party Ideas

10 Kid Birthday Party Ideas For Social Distancing

When life gives you a global pandemic, you turn your creative caps on. Although we've been stuck at home, the world around us is still moving. Our kids are missing their proms, graduations, and friends from school. Children's birthdays are being canceled. It might not be traditional, but it can still be special. 

We all want to make our kids happy and lighten their spirits even in these difficult times. Here are ten ideas to celebrate your Child's Birthday while practicing social distancing. 

1. Have a Virtual Party!

Virtual parties have been a big talk worldwide recently due to the CoronaVirus. With plenty of streaming platforms to use from, having a Virtual Party can be accessible to anyone anywhere.  Platforms like Zoom, Google Hangouts,  FaceTime, Skype, and more all have unique features for you and your guests to play with. It's essential to do your research before choosing a platform to make sure the platform you select is manageable for all your party guests. You can also check out Lyfetymes Blog to learn how to throw the Ultimate Virtual Party. 

2. Virtual Princess/ Character Visit!

You planned a Frozen party or Superhero birthday party for months only for it to be canceled. There's an even better solution. Your kid deserves to have that theme party, and you can turn it up a notch by having a real-life character of choice join in on the fun. So let it go and let Elsa sing and dance at your child's virtual birthday party

3. Birthday TikTok Challenge

I'm sure by now you have all heard of TikTok. Most kids have been spending most of their time at home practicing their TikTok dance moves. Have the birthday kid pick a song on TikTok for everyone to dance to. Have your friends and family send in their dance version to the song. The fun challenge will get everyone excited and moving. You can even create a unique hashtag for the birthday dance. Seeing all your child's friends and family dancing will put a smile on their face. 

4. Host a Virtual Movie Night

Invite your child's family and friends for a Movie Night In and include the link to Kast. Kast allows you to video share through your screen. Have your child pick out the movie they want to watch with their friends. Once your invitees download Kast, you can watch the film and have a live chat during it. Netflix also currently added an option to watch movies together and chat from your couches. It will be a virtual slumber party!

5. Drive-By Celebration

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Set a time and date for your party guests to line up their cars and drive-by. You can set up a table for gifts and goody bags for your guests to take on their way! Decorate your driveway with balloons, garland, or sidewalk chalk for your guests and your little one to enjoy. To add some extra excitement for the birthday kid, purchase some confetti poppers for them to pop as guests drive by. 

6. Decorate the Front Yard

Kids love surprises. Decorating your whole yard will make your kid's birthday! With these excellent birthday signs, surprise the birthday kid as they walk outside in the morning. You might also get some honks and cheers from neighbors passing by. Make your kid like you're throwing a big celebration even though you can't. 

7. All Aboard the Party Express- Drive-By

If you don't live in a close neighborhood or don't want to bring the party to your location, you can try this alternative! Let your neighbors, family, and child's friends know that there's a birthday celebration coming up. Ask anyone who wants to join in on the party to put up signs, balloons, or anything else in their yards, driveways, or windows on the day of the birthday party. 

Decorate your car with balloons and party decorations and take your children for a drive around the neighborhood to see all the birthday surprises. If you want to set a time, let everyone know so they can stand outside to cheer and sing for the birthday kid as you drive by. 

8. Virtual Game Night

Don't let your kids' special day go without any fun games. Many Livestream platforms allow you to share your screen so the kids can play online. If your kids are at writing age, you can download the Mural app and use it as a whiteboard for Hangman and Pictionary. You can also play games like Guess that Song. Or even have the kiddos bust out some dance moves. 

9.  Birthday Scavenger Hunt

Everyone loves a good scavenger hunt, especially when there are gifts involved. Start your little one's special day with a fun scavenger hunt game around the house. You can create your clues or find some Birthday Scavenger Hunt printables/ ideas at Playtivities.com. Have the clues lead them to special surprises throughout the house. 

10. Celebrate at Home- Mail it in

Have an at-home celebration for your child like you usually would, minus all the party guests. Decorate the house with balloons and garlands for your child to wake up to. Give your address to your friends, family, or close neighbors and ask them to mail postcards, birthday cards, letters, or whatever they would like for the birthday kid to open. My favorite kind of gifts are the ones that had much thought put into them, so these will be heartwarming gifts. Plus, your child will feel extra special, seeing what their loved ones took the time to do. 

What will be your first Virtual Celebration?

At-Home and Virtual Parties can still be festive and engaging. It does not just have to be a Face-time call, you can make it as memorable as you want and it is important to celebrate those milestones and recognize they have been accomplished. You can plan for free at LYFETYMES or if you don’t have the time or non-technical, check out our LYFETYMES Vendor Marketplace to find party services such as event planners, photographers, bakers, catering, balloon stylists and more.

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The At Home & Virtual Quarantine Survival Guide

How To Celebrate In 2020

by Liz Grisham and Katie Cunningham

Celebrations both large and small have been canceled or postponed that was planned for the Spring and Summer, which are the most popular Seasons for major milestone life events such as Weddings, Showers and Graduations. Not only has this interrupted these important life events friends and family had looked forward to, but the entire event infrastructure we use to help us with these Celebrations mostly made up of small businesses, have been severely impacted.

Many of us have considered canceling a Birthday Party, Baby Shower, Graduation Party, etc that are coming up in the next few weeks or months due to Social Distancing related to COVID-19. This may seem like a realistic approach to celebrating “when this is over” leaving some very disappointed kiddos, graduates, and moms to be, but the Leading Physiological Experts say this does more damage than good.

Take Your Party Medicine

It’s important to revisit why we celebrate milestones in the first place and the positive emotional effects brought forth by continuing it. It is not just important for our children, but there are major benefits that we as adults can benefit from celebrating.

According to social psychology researcher Fred Bryant and others, when we stop to savor the good stuff, we buffer ourselves against the bad and build resilience—and even mini-celebrations can plump up the positive emotions which make it easier to manage the daily challenges that cause major stress. Which is so important for all of us right now.

When we have something to look forward to or look ahead to something worth celebrating, we feel more optimistic, according to research led by Hadassah Littman-Ovadia.

Dr. Allen Schwartz states:  In my opinion, as a therapist, mental health worker, and human being, these (Celebrations) things are not only not childish, but are extremely important. These celebrations are markers of achievements in our lives and the celebrations to recognize or remember these events help to reinforce to each of us our significance as unique individuals. Perhaps the most important celebration of all is the birthday because it demarcates our arrival on this earth.

Traditions and celebrations surrounding birthdays are important for other, deeper reasons, too, and are a “special – and necessary – part of childhood,” says Heather Ulrich, Ph.D., child, and family psychologist in Asheville.

“Children come to depend on these events for consistency and continuity in their lives and birthdays, in particular, provide unique benefits for children cognitively, socially and for parent-child relationships,” says Ulrich, who is also an assistant professor of psychology at UNC Asheville and the parent of two girls, ages 4 and 7.

“Celebrating a child’s birthday allows parents to demonstrate the joy and love they have due to the addition of that child to our world (and the family),” says Ulrich. “Sharing special experiences and creating memories enhances the bond and security between parent and child, and increased secure attachment has lasting effects on a child's self-esteem, development, behavior, and emotions.”

Celebrating a child's birthday every year helps them to understand “the growing up process of aging each year and assists them in understanding what each age means and its developmental significance,” says Ulrich. “It’s not the party or elaborate celebration that matters; it’s the focus on the individual child for that day and a focus on their new age and development.”

Neuroscience on https://www.psychologytoday.com/ explains what impacts by having positive celebrations can have on emotions:

• Celebration Conversations elevate the level of such “feel good” chemicals like oxytocin and the endorphins—neuropeptides produced in the central nervous system. Their release into our system gives us a sense of well-being.

  • Serotonin that is boosted by cheering and pleasant conversations is widely known for increasing motivation and can even transform stress into success. 

  • When you celebrate, endorphins are released inside your body and you feel incredible. When you accomplish something and don't take the time to celebrate, you are robbing yourself of an important feeling that reinforces your success.

  • Conversely, if you fail to celebrate, you are training your brain that what you are doing isn't all that exciting and important. Simply put, the lack of celebration will lead to a feeling of emptiness lower our self-esteem over time.

So What in the Confetti do we do?

There are still many ways to still celebrate with your friends and family and put on the best celebration possible in 2020 you can give them while at home during quarantine and engaging in social distancing. Whether it is a Virtual Party, At-Home Party, Drive-by Party, or Hybrid of them all, we have gathered some innovative ways to celebrate the moments that matter most.

Virtual At-Home Party: Great for Birthdays and Baby Showers

Most commonly, you will physically be with less than 10 people, most likely people that live in your home only, and having friends and family join virtually. You can still decorate, open presents, have party activities, etc. You may want to move things traditionally at the end of a party to the front- So start with singing Happy Birthday, Blowing Out Candles, opening gifts, that way if people cant stay they at least get the big highlight!

Do a Drive-By: Great for Birthday Celebrations

Even though we’re social distancing, that doesn't mean you can't get into your car! Deck out your car with balloons and signs then drive by your friends or family’s house. Tell them to look outside and start singing "Happy Birthday" when they come out to look! The extra thought, time and attention decorating your car will make anyone smile.

Trunk Party! Great for Graduation and Baby Showers

The way this works is you have a specified time and date at your house, you turn your vehicle around or put up a table and friends get out of their car (one at a time) and drop off the gift and set it in the trunk or leave on the table. We have many vendors that offer services that set up some amazing banners and balloon displays in the front yard. You can say hi and wave from a socially safe place.

Virtual Major Moments- Great for Proposals, Gender Reveal, Sip and See’s, and College Admissions

These are intimate feel-good moments that people are going to love to attend. We will celebrate more of them than ever because we want to connect even more with friends and family, as these are the precious memories that will bring smiles. These can last around 15-30 minutes, decorate a cute backdrop and have confetti bomb ready!

Hosting a Successful Virtual Party

At Home & Virtual Parties can be fun, but if you want it to be as successful as possible, then it does require some planning and effort. Here is a quick rundown of how to get it done!

• Start Planning Your Party at LYFETYMES -It is a free one-stop-shop for all thing parties.

• No more Paper Invites-Create your Free Party Website to text/email to guests to RSVP to your party, you can add a virtual party link, so all they have to do click and party with you!

• Add an easy registry link for guests to send gifts to your door! Including a registry is a great way to receive cash or gifts directly.

• Determine where in the house, backyard, or space you will use for the party, a fun backdrop can be great for gift opening, a central focus of the room for photos.

• Determine Theme and Decor and order to your door ahead of time there are a ton of delivery solutions, like yard signs, food, cake, and balloons that can be dropped outside your door. We are obsessing over Hero parties where they dress as our Front line Hero’s reinforcing how critical these roles are in our community.

• Make a mental agenda, especially for your video call - make sure you have put some thought into the call- the last thing you want is a boring virtual party!

What will be your first Virtual Celebration?

So At-Home and Virtual Parties can still be festive and engaging. It does not just have to be a Face-time call, you can make it as memorable as you want and it is important to celebrate those milestones and recognize they have been accomplished. You can plan for free at LYFETYMES or if you don’t have the time or non-technical, head to the LYFETYMES Vendors Marketplace to find a party stylist or wholesale goods to help plan and style your entire party at an affordable price.

LYFETYMES: Why it's The New Way to Plan a Party in 2020

Here’s a little backstory of why LYFTYMES was created.

I volunteered to plan my close friend’s baby shower; I figured I'd crush it. I’ve been the right-hand gal supporting huge corporate organizations in many roles for years. If I could do that, how hard could it be?

So when it came time to start planning, I started with what everyone does. I pulled out my laptop and entered:

"How to plan a baby shower."

"Tools to plan a baby shower."

"I need help planning a baby shower."

I kept getting printable checklists, helpful blogs, and great articles. There were plenty of pictures and inspiration, but I could not find an end-to-end website for all things party outside of weddings.

I went through the same thing planning my niece's graduation party (and let me promise you one thing, you do not want to screw up a teenage girl’s party). I was running around like a crazy person, trying to divide and conquer with co-hosts, worried sick it wouldn’t be the guest of honor’s vision, or I would forget something important.

I was so stressed over it and a full-time job working mom with little time.

I love to celebrate life’s milestones or just throw a party on the weekend, just because. My fondest memories are from these moments, and I hope there are many more.

But as I sat at my computer and thought of everything that needed to be done for my friend’s baby shower, I knew it should not be full of pain points—a baby shower should be full of joy and most of all, fun!

That's why I decided enough was enough, and LYFETYMES was created.

LYFETYMES is a free, fun, DIY website that is easy to use for any celebration or party. It's like having a personal party planner. It’s great for baby showers, birthday parties, bridal showers, graduation parties, holiday get-togethers, or ANY occasion. LYFETYMES has you covered, no matter what you are celebrating!

When you join our party, you will have access to powerful tools like:

• Celebration Dashboard

  Easily to read dashboards to keep track of important information and updates, including countdown clocks.

• Free Sharable Party Website to share celebration details with guests and gather RSVPS

• Invitation Station

  Build easy email, mailing and texting lists(coming next month), import previous guest lists or from your contacts, send invites and track RSVPs and the numbers of attendees. Great for Save the Dates & Thank You notes. Email & message co-Hosts and guests party updates.

• Inspiration Boards

  Upload and share your favorite pictures to capture or inspire your vision for decor, cakes, themes, etc.

• Vendor & Venues

  Your “party motherboard” of all the things you may need for a party all in one place!

• Registry & Gift Board

  Create wish lists or add registry URL’s that can be shared with guests or begin a new registry with your favorite store.

• Planning & Tools

  Interactive checklists, add and track to-do’s, assign tasks and due dates. Assign your celebration a budget and track spending.

• Food, Drink & Dessert Center

  It’s the center of every celebration! You can order catering, book a restaurant, order food delivery or DIY grocery lists – it’s all in one place!

• Decoration Center

  Browse decorations based on the occasion, purchase from top suppliers or get inspiration for your celebration!

• Include the Guest of Honor

  Are you hosting for someone? Maybe graduation or baby or bridal shower? No problem, with LYFETYMES you can send your guest of honor a link to help personalize the celebration with a limited view (so you don’t give all the details away!) to help with invites or provide registry information or theme favorites.

• Guest View

  Guests will be able to view invitation details, mapping directions, gift, and registry information and send the host or co-host questions.

We know that not every day is a party, but it’s still important to remember someone's birthday, anniversary, or any special day. To keep you organized so that you never forget one of these special days, we created LYFEMINDERS: Lyfe’s little reminders - you pick the day, and we will send you a reminder so you can send your love.

You can even plan multiple celebrations at the same time and access past celebrations to reuse tools and information like past invite lists to make LYFE easier!

LYFETYMES has also personalized the experience for all party goers including:

• Star of the Show (Guest of Honor)

• Hostess with the Mostess (Host & Co-Hosts)

• LYFE of the Party (Guests)

We can't wait to start celebrating with you. Come for the party, and stay for a LYFETYME!

Check out our website at www.lyfetymes.com and start planning in 30 seconds and follow us on social media for the best tips, inspiration, and trends.

Fun Party Planning Trends in 2020

Who doesn’t love a good party? There are so many cool party planning trends that we’re spotting in 2020 and you know we love to share all things party! We’ve rounded up the top party planning trends for 2020 below.

LYFETYMES Best Party Planning Trends 2020

Balloonscapes

Balloons have come a long way…they can add great color, and an overarching balloon installation is a fantastic way to compliment the theme of a party and fill up the room at a low cost to bring even more joy to a party. By using different sizes and colors and even incorporating some flower elements you can transform your balloons into the centerpiece of any celebration! There are plenty of online tutorials and examples of balloon garlands you can create on your own!

Trendy Cake for Parties

Let them eat cake? Trendy drip cakes, cupcake towers, donuts, cake pops, and more are taking on an architectural theme. Higher and more creative options are popping up at baby showers, graduation parties, and holiday celebrations!

Dessert options have evolved and are more innovative to reflect the tone of the party. Instead of going the normal sheet cake route, there are creative and delicious options for every celebration. We are seeing pie bars, cannoli pyramids, and ice cream stations. Just have fun!

Bonus: you don’t have to break the bank! Talk to your neighborhood grocery store bakery to talk trendy cake options. They’ll love having something different to create and you can save money.

Cake & Cupcake Toppers

Speaking of creative dessert and cake ideas, many people are using cake toppers to elevate classic cakes. Cake toppers are a party planning trend that will allow you to bring some personality into your party. They can be funny, milestone specific, personalized, and more! Cake and cupcake toppers can be anything you can dream up.

Not only do they look great on cakes but they look adorable on cupcakes also. Fun for all ages!

Food bar

This is a fun creative way to feed the hungry gang! Everything can go into this category. If you are having a shower with a brunch menu, for example, try a parfait bar with fruit and granola. For drinks, create a mimosa bar where the guests can add fruit or fruit juice of their choice.

Food bars are a trend that has staying power because they’re so convenient to implement and they are crowd pleasers. They also help you deliver healthy options like fruit and salad bars!

Other Ideas:

• Taco and Nacho Bar

• Hamburger Bar

• Pancake Bar

• Biscuit & Bagel Bar

• Shellfish Bar

• Coffee/Hot Chocolate Bar

Backdrops for Photo and Selfie Stations

A party trend in 2020 is creating a photo station with a backdrop for selfies or group photos. These are widely popular and are an inexpensive feature to plan for your party.

This can be extravagant backdrop with flowers or lights or as simple as a homemade decorated picture frame that people can hold up to frame their face!

People love to take pictures, it’s a fun activity to have at any celebration and a great memory of your event!

Party Planning Has Gone Digital in 2020 with LYFETYMES

LYFETYMES Digital Party Planning

We created LYFETYMES for busy parents, one place where they could manage and plan important moments and celebrations like Birthday Parties, Baby Showers, Graduations, Holidays, etc. As moms ourselves, we spend hours and days planning, we get it. We want to be able to save moms all over the world hours and days of stressful planning.

Another reason was to create a place to share tutorials, DIY Ideas, and support women and build a community of sharing. And we wanted it to be free.

Planning Has Never Been Easier

To us, planning a party is more than décor, that's why we created a Platform and Marketplace that is one-stop and will help you plan from ideation to memories. When you join our party, you will have free access to planning tools where you will be able to start planning in 30 seconds. Anyone that is the family or friend designated “Party Planner” knows there are many verticals to plan for.

Party Planning for The Future

Party Planning for birthdays, baby showers and Holidays. Plan any party for free. All in one party planner. Free event planning for any party. Easy party planning tools and checklists.

• Create Personalized Party Websites to text email your guests who can RSVP and get party details. LYFETYMES just launched where you can send a video, not just a picture, and we think it will really knock your guest's socks off!

• Celebration Dashboard-Easily to read dashboards to keep track of valuable information and updates, including countdown clocks.

• Invitation Station- Build easy email, mailing and texting lists, import previous guest lists or from your contacts, send invites, and track RSVPs. Save the Dates & Thank You notes.

• Inspiration Boards-Upload and share your favorite pictures to capture or inspire your vision for decor, cakes, themes, etc.

• Vendor & Venues- Your "Party Motherboard" of all the things you may need for a party all in one place!

• Registry & Gift Board- Create wishlist’s or add registry URL's that can be shared with guests or begin a new registry with your favorite store.

• Planning & Tools- Interactive checklists, add and track to-do's, assign tasks, and due dates. Assign your celebration a budget and track spending.

• Food, Drink & Dessert Center- It's the center of every celebration! You can order catering, book a restaurant, order food delivery or DIY grocery lists – it's all in one place!

• Decoration Center- Browse decorations based on the occasion, purchase from top suppliers, or get inspiration for your celebration!

Hostess With The Mostess

Are you hosting for someone? Maybe a graduation party or baby or bridal shower? With LYFETYMES, you can send your Guest Of Honor a link to help personalize the celebration with a limited view (so you don't give all the details away!). That way, they can help with invites or provide registry information or theme favorites.

We know that not every day is a party, but it's still important to remember someone's birthday, anniversary, or any special day. To keep all those dates organized, we created LYFEMINDERS: You pick the day, and we will send you a reminder so you can send your love.

You can even plan multiple celebrations at the same time and access past parties to reuse tools and information like previous invite lists to make LYFE easier!

To Infinity and Beyond!

As we grow LYFETYMES, we will continue to share party ideas via our blog. So you can bring a party together quickly with the latest insights around themes when it comes to décor, food, games and activities, and everything party. Hopefully, make some friends, collaborate, and have some laughs along the way!

LYFETYMES Your Celebration Platform and Marketplace

We are committed to eliminating the pain points in planning celebrations and the stress that comes with it. We want to enable you to spend more time with your family and friends enjoying the moment and less time sweating over the details.

Here at LYFETYMES, we want to hear from you as far as the information you want to learn about. With the holidays fast approaching we will have a ton to share with each other, and we can’t wait to start Celebrating all of the milestones in LYFE with you.

Please feel free to reach out to us directly at katie@lyfetymes.com if you have feedback, ideas, or just want to connect. We have BIG things coming for the rest of the year and can't wait to share them.

Keep Partying,

Katie Founder & CEO LYFETYMES

Best Back to School Party Ideas

Back to School Party Ideas

Can you possibly imagine that summer is ending and it’s almost the beginning of the school year? It seems every year that the start date creeps a little closer and closer and the summers get shorter and shorter. Most parents are going through some range of emotions: A child starting kindergarten for the first time; entering a middle school; a first-year high school student or a senior preparing for adulthood. No matter where you are in the circle of life, it's normal for parents to feel anxious with any changes coming to their child's routine or environment.

So the good news is we are all going through this emotional roller coaster together. And yes, it’s a roller coaster: the other side of the coin is the guilty exhilaration we parents feel with back to school; doing cartwheels of freedom; full time accredited child supervision; grocery bill going in half by not having to feed "human food inhalers."

But the more significant point should be, it's a milestone, and it's worth celebrating. It is essential our children feel loved, excited, and confident going back into school and we are a part of that ecosystem.

To help navigate these waters for parents AND your kids, we wanted to share some of our favorite Back to School/end of Summer Party ideas to celebrate another year passing and another milestone beginning, So before you go, Saber that Champagne bottle, we put together a list of fun ideas to wrap this summer up! Also, head over to LYFETYMES Pinterest page for over 60,000 Party Ideas and Themes.

Slumber Parties and Camping Under the Stars

Sleepovers are a great way to bring kids back together and help them keep reacquainted after a long summer. They help keep friendships intact to ease those "first day of school" nerves. Host a Spa Party for girls to give some well-needed pampering before going back to school. We have great DIY inexpensive ideas and hacks from cucumber slices, facials, DIY Mani and Pedis, and more. https://blog.lyfetymes.com/home/slumber-party

Host a Camping or Glamping party, timing is great before we head into fall and then winter and nothing bonds friends more than stories by a campfire, making smores and gazing at the stars. Check out our favorites here https://www.pinterest.com/lyfetymes/camping-birthday-party/ Highly recommend pitching a tent and asking the kids to bring a sleeping bag and pillow. Even if you have it inside, there is nothing better than building an indoor fort!

New Adventure Class Party

If you have a youngster that still has a teacher and same class most of the day, you usually know who the teacher and kids in the class are prior to school beginning. Those are the children who most of your kids will be with most of their time. Arrange a "Back to School" party or "Meet & Greet" at the local park for a picnic with the kids. Think of it as a large organized play date. Have each parent bring a treat that wants to participate. Trust me, and these parents can really help you in a jam and its since classmates usually change every year, nice for your little one to know some familiar faces Day 1 of school.

Too Cool for School

This is fun for pre-teen/ teen kids who can be awkward and goofy and probably the most nervous about school. This age is also the age where you as a parent may not realize that adorable angel that said "I love you" every second, may morph into Satan's little helper at times no matter what you do. So while you are trying to help "kid network" like you would a LinkedIn even, you can also go on recon for who is going to be around them. Get their guard down by organizing an activity like Skating- 80's neon theme- bonus they won't be on their phones on skate due to fear of dropping their precious ring, I mean phone. Get neon inspired ideas at https://www.pinterest.com/lyfetymes/80s-party-ideas/

"Backpack Bash"

This can be done with friends, family, or classmates. All the kids bring backpacks, and each parent is responsible for bringing one supply from those god-awful supply lists kiosk at a Walmart that looks like it's been ransacked as if it had free money in it. Have the kids hand them out the supplies or trade t with each other. Makes a great scavenger hunt or treasure hunt activity by providing each child the list and clues or a map. It does take a bit to organize, but if you use www.lyfetymes.com – it will be painless to pull your party and school items together. Remember its all about the experience and building confidence and social skills and having fun doing it.

Coachella Party, Festival or Fair

The end of summer can be a great time to hold a festival, fair, or carnival. A great reason to bring a community together, and have a fundraiser for a great cause.

So many DIY inspirations and parents are eager to help. It can set a fun, positive tone for your group and school and become an annual event.

You can split it up in age-friendly groups k-5 Farmers Market Fair, Grade 5-8 Carnival and High School age Coachella. Fun activities ring toss, face-painting, and crafts. As well, you can help keep families cool in hot weather by renting a blow-up water slide and offering items such as shaved ice and water toys. Check out amazing Coachella ideas at https://www.pinterest.com/lyfetymes/coachella-theme-party/

Planning a Back to School Party?

Planning a party can be stressful and time-consuming, and that's why we created LYFETYMES. LYFETYMES is Your All-In-One FREE Digital Party Planner. We will help you plan your perfect Back to School party stress-free so you can soak up every moment. Start Party Planning in 30 seconds: Create a Party Website, manage guests & track RSVPs, add a registry, shop for decor, make food and items lists, add Co-Hosts to help, and more! You will never know how you did it before LYFETYMES. Follow us for the latest party ideas and trends at here.

Best Tips for a Magical Unicorn Party

Create a Unicorn Party that is Magical

Do you still believe in Unicorns? It’s been a couple of years and this trend is always at the top of the lists. There have been millions of pictures, decor ideas, purple and pink food combinations shared with edible gold glitter. I mean we really (I’m looking at you moms) have beat this horse to….never-mind.

It’s not going away anytime soon so slap on a horn and let's talk dreamy decor, gorgeous cakes, and magical moods - it’s what all unicorn parties are made of. We've rounded up some of our favorite ideas for throwing an awesome mythical unicorn party kids will love and will make you look like you have magical powers.

Your Free Digital Party Planner

LYFETYMES PARTY

Start Your Party

Planning Your Unicorn Party

LYFETYMES is Your FREE Digital Party Planner. We will help you plan your perfect unicorn party stress-free so you can enjoy the party and soak up every moment. Start Stress-Free Planning in 30 seconds: Create a Party Website, manage guests & track RSVPs, add a registry, shop for decor, and more! You will never know how you did it before LYFETYMES. Follow us for the latest party ideas and trends at https://www.pinterest.com/lyfetymes/

Pick a Unicorn Theme

Didn’t know this was a thing? Yes, it is. Good news is you can't mess it up; it could be pastel and magical, purple and mystical, or rainbow color scheme. Usually, if you consult the H.C.I.C. (head child in charge), then they will let you know their preference. After all, you are their party stylist. Check out LYFETYMES Unicorn Pinterest boards at https://www.pinterest.com/lyfetymes/unicorn-birthday-party/ to get inspiration

Unicorn Treats and Eats

The gift of Unicorn Parties is that as long as you put edible sparkle, glitter or sprinkles on it, it looks like Unicorn Food! Easy to make Unicorn Dip, Unicorn Bark, Unicorn Fudge, Unicorn Pretzel Horns, Unicorn Sundaes, and Unicorn Party Snack Mix. Click on any the images to get the recipes!

Unicorn Drink Ideas

You can also get in the Unicorn Mood with some amazing drinks. Click on the image below to get easy DIY recipes.

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Healthier Unicorn Party Food Options

OK, we get it, you cant just pour sugar on everything. Click below to stay on theme and not become the most hated parent in the group!

Unicorn Party Decoration Ideas and Unicorn Party Favors

The best part of a Unicorn Party is Decor! Here are the top picks for the Ultimate Unicorn Party! We have researched Amazon and looked at the customer reviews and selected the best rated products.

Unicorn Party Activities

With every great Unicorn party are the Unicorn Games and Activities. And let’s face it, you and the other parents will appreciate anything that will drive down the sugar rush and tucker those kids out. A great DIY idea that is cost effective, great take home gift and party favor is Unicorn glitter play dough. Click on the image above to get the steps from a bubblylife.com

Other activity ideas that make our horns glow?

Make it Super Special for the “Star of The Show”

There is nothing better than owning your role as the H.U.I.C. (Head Unicorn In Charge) by adding some special items to really make her stand out. Below are the favorites and a hot Unicorn toy idea for 2019/2020!

Most Important tip for a successful Unicorn Party?

Enjoy the moment and take in the experience. If you would like to share your party ideas, pictures and memories, contact us at LYFETYMES here to be featured on the #1 Party Planning Site!

7 Tips to Plan an Epic Slumber Party

Are you organizing the perfect slumber party or sleepover for your boy or girl? We gathered up seven tips to plan a slumber party that will make your life easy, and your child ecstatic! With school out soon, slumber parties are a great way to bring kids together and help them keep in touch over the summer. They help keep friendships alive even when they aren’t in school.

Slumber parties can be chaotic and they aren’t for the faint of heart! But you can control the chaos with these tips. You can throw a trendy and unforgettable slumber party and live to tell about it!

7 Slumber Party Planning Ideas and Tips

LYFETYMES can help you plan your perfect slumber party stress-free so you can soak up every moment. Start Stress-Free Planning in 30 seconds: send E-vites, plan food, track RSVPs, pin inspirations, and more! Follow us for the latest party ideas and trends at https://www.pinterest.com/lyfetymes/

Movie Night Slumber Party

Organize the best movie night around! So you can now easily set up outdoor Movies thanks to technology or indoor with pillows everywhere for ultimate comfort. Have some fun and introduce them to movies you grew up with and fell in love this.  Make a sweet and salty DIY popcorn bar or candy buffet and enjoy watching their favorite animated movie in pajamas!

See hundreds of ideas on our Movie Party Pinterest Board here: https://www.pinterest.com/lyfetymes/movie-party/

Pajamas and Pancakes

A pajamas and pancakes slumber party can be done two ways: For Dinner (Who doesn't love breakfast for dinner?) or Breakfast!

Pancakes and pajamas are precisely what it sounds like. Kids arrive later in the evening in their pajamas and after whatever evening festivities (maybe a spa evening or movie night), they stay up late having fun. In the morning, Mom or Dad can whip up a fabulous Pancake Feast for all the guests to attend and eat in their PJ’s. Then parents pick them up. It’s genius because it’s a cool theme, inexpensive, and easy to execute.

Plus, since they show up in their pajamas and leave in their pajamas, it’s less packing for the guest’s parents! Win-win.

Here is some inspiration to get your griddle going: https://www.pinterest.com/lyfetymes/pancakes-and-pajamas-party/

Tents, Forts, BoHo Teepees

image: Sprinkle and Dot

Whether you are glamping, camping, building an indoor fort with sheets or going all out and letting a vendor set up like one of our favorites above from Sprinkle and Dot .

Building a blanket fort is one of those things that is fun to do at any age! Even as an adult! It's a great place to get away with friends and drink mocktails. The kids love to sleep in them, get a couple of strands of twinkle lights and some pillows or couch cushions and let the kids create ultimate experience of a slumber party.

Spa Slumber Party

The big party trend right now, especially with older children, is a slumber spa party. Guess what? It does not have to be at an actual spa! There are great fun, low-cost, home-based spa treatments. Drop cucumber slices in ice water to cover their eyes while they let a face mask settle in and offer soft and cozy robes and slippers and twirl their hair up in a towel for pampering.  

Camping or Glamping

This slumber party theme works great for boys and girls. For a camping slumber party, you could pitch a tent in your backyard if the weather allows and have a night under the stars. If the weather won’t cooperate, set up inside and they can “glamp!”

Whether they’re camping, or glamping: Kids.Love.Tents. Maybe it makes them feel secure? Or maybe it makes them feel like they’re in a secret hideout? Either way: slumber parties are a great time to break out the tents!

Bonus points if you have a fire pit: Have everyone bring sleeping bags, BBQ some hot dogs & dig into s’ mores. https://www.pinterest.com/lyfetymes/glamping-party-ideas/

Slumber Party Game Night

Every party needs games! Why not make it the theme of the slumber party? It’s a great way to get the kids interacting, having fun, and off their phones.

Game night at your house will be a night they won't forget; complete with snacks, drinks and all the board games you can imagine! Twister is great for kids, monopoly to teach finance (nerd mom) or even team-based games- get them up moving, interacting, and laughing.

You could keep track of how many times a kid wins and hand out a low-value/high-fun prize at the end of the night! A cheesy trophy will do the trick.

A Slumber Party Tip for Parents (you don’t have to lose sleep)

If you’re worried about turning into a zombie after your kid’s slumber party, we highly recommend: EARLY PICKUP! That’s right; if you pull an all-nighter, you have every right to send those rascals packing after breakfast. That way you have the rest of the day for yourself and family, and you just made yourself look like a hero with your kid.

More Slumber Party Inspiration

Check out our Slumber Party Pinterest Board here for the best ideas and inspiration. You can pick any theme you want or combine them. For example if you’re planning a slumber party after seeing the new Aladdin movie, you can plan a Moroccan Slumber Party…you can go any direction, but the ultimate goal should be to bring friends together and create LYFE-long memories!

Mermaid Birthday Party Ideas

Mermaid party themes are making a bit of a comeback. It might be because of Disney’s upcoming remake of their 1989 classic animated mermaid tale, The Little Mermaid . Or maybe it’s just because mermaids are mystical and beautiful and magical. With summer just around the corner and everyone has beaches/pools/water fun on the mind, we thought it would be a perfect time to do a round up of mermaid birthday party ideas.

We know if you search Pinterest for Mermaid Parties, you will be overwhelmed, so we cataloged some of our favorite ideas that will have everyone parting under the Sea. Check out all our favorite ideas on our mermaid birthday party Pinterest board.

Mermaid Party Invitations

Start the theme off strong with an under the sea or mermaid party theme. These birthday invites with the phrase, “You Mermaid to be Awesome” is so cute!

Get your child involved and create homemade invitations by cutting out mermaid tails and shells made from folded over construction paper! There are so many under the sea/mermaid party ideas you could use to create a one-of-a-kind party invitation.

Mermaid Birthday Cake

A mermaid birthday party has to have a mermaid birthday cake! You can order a cake, or try your hand at making your own. If you’re no Martha Stewart, make a sheet cake and add in a mermaid tail and shells and call it a day!

Shell Decorating Table

Nothing controls the chaos like an experience where we put those busy little hands to work. Also, parents salivate at anything their little Picassos create and display those works of art with pride. “Shell Station” is like an Easter egg decorating but with sea shells.

You can go to Hobby Lobby and get more giant shells, glue, glitter, markers, etc. to let them create. Buy inexpensive wood frames and let the kids go crazy! It’s guaranteed to keep them entertained for 30 minutes or more, and they’ll have an awesome party favor to take home.

No Sew Mermaid Tails

image: Living Locurto

What could be better than going home from a fantastic mermaid party with your very own mermaid tail?

Amy at Living Locurto made these DIY Mermaid tails for all the guests at her daughter’s 3-year-old mermaid party. You can have a “Tail Station” like above, or make them ahead of time and personalize them for each party guest. And the magical part is that you need no sewing skills at all; great news for a lot of busy moms.

Watch the video here https://www.livinglocurto.com/mermaid-tails-party-craft/

Sand Castle Station

If you don’t already have a sandbox, you can purchase bags of sand (You don’t need a ton, found at Walmart, Lowes, etc.) and a plastic kiddie pool. Fill the pool with sand, get some cheap buckets and pails and you’ve got a faux beach for your mermaid birthday party!

Divide your guests into teams and have a Sand Castle Competition. The winning team wins a small prize!

Fun Food and Drink With a Mermaid Twist

Fun ocean-themed food is an easy way to decorate for a mermaid themed birthday party. Goldfish, Swedish Fish, or chocolate shells are an obvious choice.

Naming common party foods to fit the ocean/mermaid theme is an easy way to create a mermaid menu (triangle shaped cheese as 'shark teeth,’ cut sandwiches into ‘starfish’, etc.)

Other ideas include this fruit basket and adding a few cheap bananas that are DIY dolphins is a fun idea (photo source unknown: found on Pinterest).

Mermaid Ice Cream No-Churn Mermaid Ice Cream is a colorful swirl of easy homemade ice cream filled with sprinkles that are perfect for a mermaid party and a hot summer afternoon treat! Find a great mermaid ice cream recipe here: https://www.homemadeinterest.com/no-churn-mermaid-ice-cream/

Mermaid Sea Water or Ocean Water

Ocean water is easy fun, innovative drink that can be made ahead in batches and set out so all your guests can help themselves (one less thing to worry about!).

We loved this recipe from Stephanie Stremler’s sea life birthday party for her daughter:

Mermaid Birthday Punch

Ingredients:

• Blue Hawaiian Punch

• Lemonade

• Ice

Directions:

Mix half Blue Hawaiian Punch and half lemonade in the dispenser and add ice. Done! It doesn’t get much easier than two ingredients.

Other Fun Mermaid and Ocean-Themed Foods

Candy buffets like rock candy can be “Coral Rocks” or Sour Apple Candy ropes as “Seaweed.” are fun interpretations. Adult options for a mermaid party include “seaweed dip,” which is artichoke dip or spinach dip with some yummy bread on the side to spread them on.

Check out our mermaid birthday party Pinterest board for more with great food Ideas!

Mermaid Photo Backdrop

image: etsy

Recreate this gorgeous fabric mermaid photo backdrop using teal and purple balloons and streamers. It’s easy and inexpensive! Mix in iridescent streams to elevate and add in some sparkle and it will look amazing. You could add fish and mermaid tails made from simple construction paper—great for younger kids.

Kids and adults will have so much fun posing like mermaids or sharks!

As we say at LYFETYMES: a party is more than décor! Make it a memorable experience and spend time enjoying you’re child and the party, they will never remember that you did not have a life size aquarium there!

Taking selfies with your child using this mermaid birthday party photo backdrop is a great way to create lasting memories.

Mermaid Parties Require: COLOR!

Speaking of décor, for a party to feel truly mermaidy, you’ve got to go crazy with the décor. There are a ton of inexpensive DIY mermaid ideas we love that are inexpensive, and the kids can help put it together. And any color works, don’t feel like you need to go deep purple or blue, we have seen fantastic pastel mermaid parties.

LYFETYMES is like “The Knot” for everything BUT Weddings!

LYFETYMES takes the stress out of planning allowing you to spend more time celebrating and making memories. LYFETYMES is your free All-In-One Party Planner; you can plan all the aspects of celebrations in one place. It's great for Birthday Parties, Baby Showers, Bridal Showers, Holiday Get together, Graduation Parties, Engagement Parties, or Any Occasion to Celebrate.

You can start planning a party in 30 seconds from your couch in your pajama’s. You can send Invites, RSVP’s & manage guest lists, create a celebration website, add registry & gifts, checklist & budgets,shop decorations, pin pictures, and DIY ideas and more. You can plan various celebrations at one time. And you can invite other hostesses to help with planning and assign tasks, share ideas, etc. 

It is the fastest growing website for moms planning celebrations and will save you HOURS.

The Best Kids' Birthday Party Trends!

Top Party Trends for Kids

Celebrating your child’s birthday? Thanks to DIY, ETSY, Amazon, Instagram, and Pinterest- parents are more inspired and empowered to get creative when it comes to planning their child's birthday celebrations! Get ready to explore the biggest upcoming kids’ party trends for 2019. Parents and kids are now looking for bigger and better ways to be entertained as they celebrate. We've rounded up an incredible list of ideas to get your creative juices flowing and plan a kid's birthday party that everyone will enjoy!

Birthday party trend we're seeing in 2019 is breaking away from traditional gender-based themes. Parties are now geared more towards themes, personalities and experiences that play into the child’s interest, whether it be baking, painting, spa party, or camping – there are so many low-cost options to make everyone feel like a rock star.

Need some inspiration and ideas we've got you covered in our list below, or check out our Pinterest boards here.

Trending Kids' Birthday Party Ideas

Floral Arranging Birthday Parties

Custom floral arranging parties including children's birthday parties where participants learn how to create a beautiful floral arrangement or a beautiful flower crown (huge trend) fit for a queen.

You can do this at home or at a local florist venue! The kids will learn a skill and you will enjoy the fruits of their labor all week.

The New Princess Parties

Mermaid, unicorn, and rainbow themes are popular alternatives to the traditional princess party.

Unicorns and mermaids are fun, ethereal, glittery, and build a child’s confidence through traditional and inspirational story telling. You can really get creative with these themes: from the cake to the party favors you can get as creative as you want.

Make it a Rainbow Unicorn Party to take it to the next level. Activities can include decorating unicorn headband horns.

If you want to add an actual unicorn or mermaid, more and more companies are providing services where a character will come to you- check out lyfetymes.com to see what is available in your area.

Tea Party & Fairy Party

This is one of the sweetest trends coming on from creating a backyard team party, in the house or at an actual venue. Tea parties are becoming more popular. From Alice to Wonderland Themes to Shabby Chic Vintage Themes, kids love playing dress-up- not to mention those yummy tea sandwiches and pastel macaroons are darn cute!

Have them decorate crowns or wings as activities. Or they can paint their own tea cup.

Check out more amazing tea party ideas here from modern to vintage.

Spa Party, Glamping, Camping & Slumber Party

The big trend being seen, especially with older children are sleepover spa party. This does not have to be at an actual spa! The market is flooded with fun low-cost home-based spa treatments. Drop cucumber slices in ice water to cover their eyes while they let a face mask settle in and offer soft and cozy robes and slippers and twirl their hair up in a towel for a day of pampering.

Image: Sprinkle and Dot

Slumber parties make some of the best memories, string up some garland and lights, a few decorations, music and it’s a party! If weather permits- go glamping outside. Sleep easy by checking out some great ideas here.

For a Camping theme, you could pitch a tent in your backyard if weather allows and have a night under the stars or set up in a room inside. Have everyone bring sleeping bags, BBQ some hot dogs & dig into s’mores.

You could apply lumberjack or forest or woodland animal party theme. Mix in some bandannas, nature decor and lanterns and have activities like a scavenger hunt list.

Experience/Activity Trend

Instead of doing a typical pizza party at the same place every year, mix it up: Trampoline Park, Bounce Houses, Bowling Alley, Go Carts, Indoor Climbing, Video Gaming, Laser Tag & Skating Rinks are great options. There are so many event venues to choose from now!

Pro tip’s for parents: These activity-based birthday parties are usually low cost, plenty of room to run around, private rooms if needed, and no clean up required.

With all the options available you can really make sure it is geared towards the kids’ interest and everyone gets some exercise!

Cooking and Baking Parties

Another idea for both boys and girls is to have a cooking or baking party. With kids cooking competition shows rising in popularity, kids are being encouraged and inspired to learn to cook or have some creative fun decorating cupcakes and cookies.  

You can do this at home by putting out different colored icings and sprinkles. As an activity them could decorate and personalize their own aprons. Bakeries are also great venues to host a party! Check out venues here.

Mad Scientist or Exploration Party

This is all the rage! Kids will love being hands-on with a science-themed bash! Hand out lab coats and safety goggles, drink from beakers, and put together simple experiments.

You can do this at a home party or most children’s museums offer kids birthday parties at a reasonable cost, so the kids can party SMART! Don't go mad trying to think of everything yourself, check out some great ideas here!

Arts and Crafts Party

These are great opportunities for kids to do something different and use creativity to create something to hold on to forever. Keep kids busy with art and craft stations during the party. Kids can create a painting or a craft that will also serve as a party favor.

Whether you are planning a painting party where the kids can paint on canvas or a ceramic party where they can mold and decorate their special piece, a great opportunity to capture their imaginations with a keepsake to remember! Check out some our favorite ideas here.

If you can't stomach the chaos (and mess!) Craft stores like Michaels and Jo-Ann also offer birthday parties which will save you from the mess!

These are the top birthday party trends we're seeing for 2019! Pin the next image to your Pinterest and save it for later:

LYFETYMES: The New Way to Plan a Party

Here’s a little backstory of why LYFTYMES was created.

I volunteered to plan my close friend’s baby shower; I figured I'd crush it. I’ve been the right-hand gal supporting huge corporate organizations in many roles for years. If I could do that, how hard could it be?

So when it came time to start planning, I started with what everyone does. I pulled out my laptop and entered:

"How to plan a baby shower."

"Tools to plan a baby shower."

"I need help planning a baby shower."

I kept getting printable checklists, helpful blogs, and great articles.. There were plenty of pictures and inspiration, but I could not find an end-to-end website for all things party outside of weddings.

I went through the same thing planning my niece's graduation party (and let me promise you one thing, you do not want to screw up a teenage girl’s party). I was running around like a crazy person, trying to divide and conquer with co-hosts, worried sick it wouldn’t be the guest of honor’s vision, or I would forget something important.

I was so stressed over it and  a full-time job working mom with little time.

I love to celebrate life’s milestones or just throw a party on the weekend, just because. My fondest memories are from these moments, and I hope there are many more.

But as I sat at my computer and thought of everything that needed to be done for my friend’s baby shower, I knew it should not be full of pain points—a baby shower should be full of joy and most of all, fun!

That's why I decided enough was enough, and LYFETYMES was created.

LYFETYMES is a free, fun, DIY website that is easy to use for any celebration or party. It's like having a personal party planner. It’s great for baby showers, birthday parties, bridal showers, graduation parties, holiday get-togethers, or ANY occasion. LYFETYMES has you covered, no matter what you are celebrating!

When you join our party, you will have access to powerful tools like:

• Celebration Dashboard

  Easily to read dashboards to keep track of important information and updates, including countdown clocks.

• Invitation Station

  Build easy email, mailing and texting lists(coming next month), import previous guest lists or from your contacts, send invites and track RSVPs and the numbers of attendees. Great for Save the Dates & Thank You notes. Email & message co-Hosts and guests party updates.

• Inspiration Boards

  Upload and share your favorite pictures to capture or inspire your vision for decor, cakes, themes, etc.

• Vendor & Venues

  Your “party motherboard” of all the things you may need for a party all in one place!

• Registry & Gift Board

  Create wish lists or add registry URL’s that can be shared with guests or begin a new registry with your favorite store.

• Planning & Tools

  Interactive checklists, add and track to-do’s, assign tasks and due dates. Assign your celebration a budget and track spending.

• Food, Drink & Dessert Center

  It’s the center of every celebration! You can order catering, book a restaurant, order food delivery or DIY grocery lists – its all in one place!

• Decoration Center

  Browse decorations based on occasion, purchase from top suppliers or get inspiration for your celebration!

• Include the Guest of Honor

  Are you hosting for someone? Maybe graduation or baby or bridal shower? No problem, with LYFETYMES you can send your guest of honor a link to help personalize the celebration with limited view (so you don’t give all the details away!) to help with invites or provide registry information or theme favorites.

• Guest View

  Guest will be able to view invitation details, mapping directions, gift, and registry information and send the host or co-host questions.

We know that not every day is a party, but it’s still important to remember someone's birthday, anniversary, or any special day. To keep you organized so that you never forget one of these special days, we created LYFEMINDERS: Lyfe’s little reminders - you pick the day, and we will send you a reminder so you can send your love.

You can even plan multiple celebrations at the same time and access past celebrations to reuse tools and information like past invite lists to make LYFE easier!

LYFETYMES has also personalized the experience for all party goers including:

• Star of the Show (Guest of Honor)

• Hostess with the Mostess (Host & Co-Hosts)

• LYFE of the Party (Guests)

We can't wait to start celebrating with you. Come for the party, and stay for a LYFETYME!

Check out our website at www.lyfetymes.com and start planning in 30 seconds and follow us on social media for the best tips, inspiration and trends.