I put this event together last year with the help of my friend Tammy, since we wanted the celebration to be big, big, big! The party was actually a very non-traditional "baby shower" for a friend who adopted her 3-year-old foster daughter. Loads of family and friends came to wish them well - - and put together a stunning cash gift built entirely of small, voluntary contributions. (Presents weren't as practical, and this single mom needed a rainy day fund!) Tammy and I arranged the following kid activities:
- Bounce house (donated by another friend)
- Hay rides
- Pumpkin decorating
- Apple bob
- Face painting
- Balloons
- All the games had prizes, and each child took home a small goody bag.
The food was potluck, and ended up being an incredible spread. We're lucky to have so many "foodies" as friends, and everyone was beyond generous in bringing wonderful treats to share. Friends also helped us put together a small raffle, which added an extra touch of excitement to the party.
We dropped the tailgate on our old, red truck and turned it into a bar (the "booze wagon").
Our friend's mother popped acres and acres of popcorn, which we served to the kids out of our classic Radio Flyer wagon. All the great photos were taken by a talented friend, and each of the family members present took home a scrapbook to fill with wonderful memories of the party.
Some practical considerations for a party like this:
- With almost two acres, we had plenty of room to spread out and to park cars.
- We didn't get port-a-potties, but relied on the two bathrooms in our house.
- The weather cooperated perfectly, but we were prepared to move things indoors.
- Hay bales made easy, extra seating.
- Invitations were sent far in advance, allowing the maximum number of friends and family to attend.
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