How to Throw a First Communion Party

A child's First Communion is a special time and an occasion for celebration. Getting ready, attending mass, posing for pictures and the celebration afterwards can be stressful for the child and the family. Good preparation is the key to making this event a memorable one.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Party Preparations

1. Determine the place where the party will take place and who will attend at least a month or two in advance.
2. Prepare invitations and send them out. If ordering from a printing place, allow sufficient time for the invitations to arrive well in advance. To ensure that guests "save the date," send out emails or phone them to let them know of the upcoming party.
3. Order a cake from a bakery or local store at least a week or two in advance. Write down what you want engraved on the top of the cake and submit it to the bakery. By writing it down, you will eliminate the potential for mistakes. If you are baking a cake, bake it a day or two before. Store it covered in a dry place.
4. Hosting at a restaurant requires a menu that is flexible for the dietary needs of most guests. Often, catering companies stretch the amount of food for each guest. Order a bit more than the amounts listed on their menus. Home Cooking? Prepare your food in advance and enlist help if needed.
5. Decide how to decorate your room/s for the party. Will you be using a theme? Purchase supplies in advance. If you are having it in a home, decorate it the night before. If it is in a restaurant, arrive early and allow sufficient time to decorate.

The Day of the Party

6. Greet your guests as they arrive and have your child greet them too.
7. Serve the food. Make sure each guest has enough food and drink.
8. Serve the cake. Serve with ice cream for guests who desire it.
9. Open any gifts or cards. Have your child thank each guest.
10. Record the party using a video camera and take photographs. For a special touch--ask your child to share their feelings about this day and record it.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure your child gets a good night's sleep the night before.
• Prepare your child for what to expect from the event--who will attend, what will be served and any activities that are planned.
• If you plan to preserve the Communion dress or suit, you will want to provide another outfit to wear during the party.
• Enlist help from your family or a friend to make sure everything is running smoothly. By delegating some of the work, you will be able to enjoy the day with your child.
• A wicker basket can make a great place to put cards and presents that the guests bring.
• If your child needs a break, allow some time in a quiet room or run a favorite video.

Who Can Help:

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