Birthday Wish - Great Ways to Say Happy Birthday

We celebrate are birthday every year as well as other people's. The old fashioned birthday card is becoming a thing of the past. With growing technology over the years wishing someone happy birthday has changed its form within time. You can see simple well wishes on your favorite social networking website, like Facebook, MySpace or even Twitter.

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You could also see wishes sent to you from an email. But what if that isn't enough, often times many people want to take the more creative approach in wishing someone happy birthday. There are a lot of options that are available that are simple that are very interesting to recognize you or someone else's birthday. One way you can wish someone happy birthday is sending them a quick and easy greeting card far the comfort of your own home.

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That's right, there are tons of website online where you can send birthday greeting wishes. One website in particular that you may like to visit is BlueMountain you can easily go on and visit this website and making a creating card of your choice. There are all sorts of varieties of music, funny animations, and cute messages that you could send someone. Other online greeting websites that are similar include Evite.com, 123greetings, eGreeting these are all varieties of websites that you can visit and create some wonderful birthday wishes.

Let's say you are more of the sense of humor type then you might want to visit this website, Someecards. This website has more of the humor type cards you cans sort through their database of cards.

All you have to do is search for a topic, let's say you decided to select a funny card the website will allow you to customize the card with a personal message of your choice and then you can email it of instantly to your recipient.

Let's say you are looking for a more creative way in sending a birthday wish to the special birthday person another option that is available is delivering a message through writing on baked goods. In certain areas such as New York, Mrs. Fields offers you to place custom birthday greetings written in icing on their delicious cookies.

That's right; Mrs. Fields will make a large custom cookie and write happy birthday for you on it. There cookies have all different kinds of varieties, styles, and shapes so depending on what you order and want is what you will get. If cookies are not your favorite choice then you can select to get a cake. You have the option of writing and birthday greeting right on a cake customized to your choice as well. All these choices are available to spice up your birthday greeting so give it a try.

Birthday Wish - Great Ways to Say Happy Birthday

Want to find out more about Birthday Wish, then visit Jitske Memoli's site on how to create a memolio album in a matter of minutes as one of the good ways to make Birthday Pictures.

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How to Fondue - Plan a Memorable Birthday Party For Less Than $50

Fondue is easy to setup and simple to make too! This is especially ideal for a teenage girl's party. But it also will work great for adult dinner parties, new year's eve parties, and for family reunions.

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Here's the checklist of how to plan for the upcoming event:

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Two weeks before the birthday party:

o Ask your daughter for the names of her three to five of her favorite friends.

o Call the parents of her friends and ask if they have an email address so that you can send an electronic birthday invitation.

o Visit the eVite.com website and with your daughter select a party invitation template to use. The service is free! This invitation website offers your guests to RSVP and it even sends a reminder notice.

o Remember in the invitation to mention that the luncheon (or dinner) is a dressy affair and that their daughter should dress up in a fun party dress. It's easiest to have the party on a weekend day or night.

o If you don't own a fondue of your own, ask your friends and neighbors if they have one that you can borrow. Many thrift stores have fondue sets at very reasonable prices. Depending on your fondue apparatus, you may need to buy sterno which can be purchased at any grocery store. Some are simple microwave safe containers that sit on a hot plate so sterno isn't necessary.

o Keep a lookout for a sale on cooking oil for the fondue. (peanut and sunflower work best). Plan on about 32 ounces for 4 to 6 people. For a lowfat and more inexpensive alternative, consider using a seasoned vegetable broth, also known as bouillabaisse fondue.

o A lazy susan (a serving platter that spins) makes fondue very user-friendly. This is optional though because you can accomplish the same thing by using multiple serving dishes on the table too.

1 Week before the birthday party:
Plan the menu with your daughter. Some ideas can include:
o Appetizer - cheese fondue with French bread with a small side salad. You can make an inexpensive vinaigrette from scratch.

According to the GourmetSleuth.com website, cheese fondue's Swiss history is explained as follows:
"Each component of a traditional Swiss fondue plays an import role. Most recipes we see for 'traditional' Swiss style fondue are a combination of two cheeses, Gruyere and Emmenthaler. These two cheeses are combined because either cheese alone would produce either a mixture that was too sharp or too bland. The cheeses are most commonly melted in a dry white wine which helps to keep the cheese from the direct heat as it melts as well as to add flavor. The Kirsch (a clear cherry brandy) was added if the cheese itself was too young to produce the desired tartness. The garlic was for additional flavoring while the flour or cornstarch assists in keeping the cheese from separating.

Given Fondue is a 'communal' meal there are a few basic guidelines to follow. To eat cheese fondue spear a piece of bread using a fondue fork and dip it into the pot. Twirl the bread cube gently in the cheese to coat it. You'll want to let the bread drip a bit before you put it in your mouth. This will allow the excess to drip back in the pot and also allow time for cooling. When you put the bread in your mouth try not to touch the fork with your lips or tongue because the fork does go back in the pot. Alternately you can use a dining fork to slide the bread off the fondue fork then eat it with the 2nd fork. This is probably more cumbersome than necessary.

To eat meat fondue, spear a piece of meat and plunge it in the hot oil, [or broth fondue which is less expensive.] Allow it to sit until the meat is cooked to your liking. Remove the fork and place it on your plate. Use your dining fork to slide the meat off the fondue fork. Then use your regular fork to dip the meat in the sauce as desired. Then eat using your regular dining fork."

o Main Course - chicken, pork, or beef with vegetables such as mushrooms, green peppers, cherry tomatoes, etc.

o Desert - chocolate fondue with pound cake, strawberries, bananas, marshmallows

o Drinks - this can be water with beautifully cut fruit pieces such as orange and lemon slices in the bottom of the decanter. You may also purchase a bottle of sparkling apple cider to use as a toast in elegant glassware.

Watch the local grocery store circulars for sales on the different cheeses, chicken/pork/beef, and vegetables you will use.

Research and select cheese fondue recipes, chocolate fondue or desert fondue recipes, and meat fondue recipes.

Check your eVite invitation to determine how many guests will be attending. For anyone that hasn't responded, have your daughter ask her friend if she is coming or not.

3 Days before the birthday party:

o Ask your daughter to help iron the tablecloth and napkins. Again, if you don't have any, ask your friends or neighbors if you can borrow theirs. It doesn't make sense to buy linens for just one event. The idea is to do have a birthday party on a budget.

o Create seating cards

o Choose the candles you will use

o Select the plates, flatware, and serving dishes to make the table look great

1 Day before the birthday party:

o Buy the food. The freshest ingredients are always best when serving fondue.

o Bake the pound cake

o Set the table the night before

o Ask your daughter to select the music and have it in order for the birthday party

o Create a flower centerpiece from your own garden flowers. If you don't have flowers, purchase a bouquet and use a vase you already own.

The day of the birthday party:

o Chop the food into large bite sizes. The fondue forks you use need to have good size food chunks to skewer so that the food doesn't fall off the fork.

o Place the raw food into serving dishes. Presentation is everything so take your time to make it beautiful.

o Light the candles and sterno 10 minutes before the guests arrive.

o Play the selected music and have your daughter greet her guests.

o Enjoy!

The presentation of the food, the table, and your home will set the stage for an elegant birthday luncheon. This is also fun for adult birthday parties too!

Although European countries all serve fondue, it originated in Switzerland and the meals utilized standard ingredients that most homes would have on hand.

How to Fondue - Plan a Memorable Birthday Party For Less Than

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Planning Your Child's Birthday Party Without Breaking the Bank

As a parent planning your child's birthday party, your first impulse might be to go out and buy all the matching Elmo decorations and plates, plan a four-course meal and buy a huge cake for your child's birthday party. However, the number one ingredient for a great birthday party is fun! You can plan a fun birthday party for your child without spending tons of money.

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Party Location

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Instead of going to the expense of renting a place for your birthday party, why not have it at your house or at the park. It's free! And if your house is not big enough for the occasion asking grandparents or another relative to use their home is not out of the question. Be sure and clean up afterwards though.

Go Cheap on the Invitations

Instead of buying those expensive invitations, why not make your own? Handwritten and homemade invitations can add a personal touch. Or you can make computer generated ones and even add a picture of your child on the invitation. Another great idea is the almighty Internet. Email your invitation or use a website such as http://www.evite.com to send your invitations. This will save you on stamps as well.

Plan Easy Games

Plan easy games that will cost nothing or little. You can make your own pin the tail on the donkey game or play duck, duck goose, musical chairs or Simon says. There are also many game ideas on the web to choose from. If you are planning an outdoor party some inexpensive sand toys, Frisbees and balls can add to the fun.

Keep the Food Simple

Keep the food simple. Most kids love hot dogs and chips. Serve drinks of soda, juice and punch from large bottles and avoid those expensive cans and juice boxes. Store bought cakes are expensive so prepare your own birthday cake or let grandma or another relative prepare it as part of their gift to the child. Or it is not unheard of to just serve cake and ice cream at a birthday party. Usually that is what the kids want to eat anyway.

Don't Go All Out on Decorations

There is no need to buy all those matching plates and napkins. If your child really loves Elmo maybe have a few Elmo plates for the kids and use regular plates and napkins for everyone else. You can also use leftover plates and napkins from other events and purchase decorations from discount stores. Blow up some inexpensive balloons to add to the occasion.

Avoid Spending a Bunch on Treat Bags

Purchase some white paper lunch bags and let the kids decorate their own treat bags with stickers, crayons and glitter. Find inexpensive items and candy at discount stores to fill the bags.

Don't Sweat it

Children are pretty easy to please. At parties they mostly entertain themselves. Throw in some games, toys and cake and they will have the time of their life!

Planning Your Child's Birthday Party Without Breaking the Bank

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Birthday Invitation Phrases and Wording

Birthday invitations, and the wording and phrases that go in them, can run the gamut from witty and fun to serious and straightforward. The best thing to keep in mind when deciding upon birthday invitation verses and wording is who the birthday party is for. Age, personality, interests, and even profession can play a part. The invitation wording should represent the celebrant well.

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Children's Birthday Invitations are typically fun and lighthearted, and usually play a part in a larger theme. Sometimes inspiration for a theme can come just by browsing through some birthday invitations.

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Once a theme is in place, you'll want to include birthday invitation wording to match. For a Circus themed party with Circus party invitations the invitation wording might read:

The giraffe stretches his neck to see;
the elephant waves his trunk with glee;
the seal twirls his ball with joy,
in honor of the birthday boy.
Come join Cody in celebrating his seventh birthday
Saturday, April 20th at 1:00 PM
RSVP (509) 123-4567

The older the child gets it may become easier to decide on a theme, or even forgo the theme as the child gets into its teen years. A sweet sixteen, for example, is a theme all its own. For this kind of party, you should pick out some Sweet Sixteen invitations that fit the personality of the celebrant. If it's a girl, something pink and frilly might be appropriate, such as Princess Tiara Birthday Party Invitation, with the following wording:

Steer clear! Brianna's got a license to drive!
Come celebrate her sweet sixteen.
Friday, March 14th
5:00 - 7:00 PM
at Big Daddy's Bowling
2850 S. Ray, Spokane
R.S.V.P. (509)-777-7777

If the birthday person is turning 18 years of age or younger, it is considered okay to include the exact age they are turning in the birthday invitation wording. When considering including jokes about age, do so with much consideration and sensitivity. Consider the formality of the party and who's being invited. If it's a formal dinner for a coworker, you may want to nix any thought of light-heartedness. If it's a backyard barbecue party for a close relative or friend, this may be the perfect time for a light-hearted jab. Generally, the rule is to only make an age-related joke if the person who's birthday you're celebrating would make the joke themselves.

When considering birthday invitation wording when the celebrant is an adult, it is common to point out the joys of growing older:

Some things are better the older they grow.
Antiques, wine and someone special we know!

You should still keep in mind who is having the birthday. You don't necessarily have to throw a themed party, but the wording for the birthday invitation cards should show a glimmer of who the celebrant is. Let's say the celebrant enjoys Gardening. You'll want to get Garden Party Invitations and include matching wording:

Friends are flowers in the garden of life . . .
and we've "picked" a great bunch to celebrate Jackie's Birthday.

Another avenue you might pursue is the surprise party. In your invitation wording, it should be expressed clearly that the celebrant doesn't and shouldn't know details of the party. Here are some examples:

Shh! It's a surprise party!
Please join us in celebrating
Holly Roberts 30th birthday
On September 2nd
At 7 o'clock pm
The Smith's House
1201 S. Wesley
Madison, WI

Our good friend Jerry is turning the big 5-0
We're throwing a party, and you're invited to show.
If you can make it, here's a word to the wise,
Keep it under your hat, 'cause it's a surprise!
July 10th at 6 PM
At the Rock Bottom Brewery
560 Main Street
Seattle, WA

Please join us in celebrating
Tina Clarks Birthday
on May 22nd
Cocktails - 6:00pm
Dinner - 7:30pm
Scratch Restaurant
345 W Ivy
It's a surprise!

Overall, your birthday invitation wording should not only convey the details of the party, but should also be a good reflection of who the celebrant is.

Birthday Invitation Phrases and Wording

Check out our entire collection of Birthday Party Invitations. Our cards are printed on high quality 100% recycled stock utilizing eco-friendly processes.

Tom Bross is a co-owner of http://www.MyGoodGreetings.com. MyGoodGreetings sells photo birth announcements, greeting cards, and party invitations, printed on eco-friendly 100% recycled paper.

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Making Birthday Invitations

Birthdays are an important occasion in an individual's life. National holidays are public holidays designated by the government of the respective country to honor the country itself. It is a day on which the citizens celebrate the nationhood of the country. Besides, the anniversary of a country's independence, many countries celebrate national holidays in connection with a variety of themes including signing of the constitution, a country's patron saint's day, emancipation, revolutions, or any other major event which had happened in that country.It is a special day and is usually made special by celebration. True celebration calls for participation of people who are special, and inviting them in a way that they feel wanted. Hence special care has to be made while making birthday invitations

Birthday invitations require use of creative ideas and techniques. If the party revolves around a theme, the invitation can give a hint about it. The theme should be communicated in a language, befitting the age of the person invited. The language can be simple or flowery depending on the theme, and the temperament of the person invited. It is advisable to come up with original ideas, though there are websites, which help people in getting messages for such occasions. The invitation can be made better by adding warm and personalized touch, though some people take advantage of card making software for the purpose.

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The invitations can be hand delivered, mailed, or sent online, and have to be timed accordingly. As a rule the invitations should be send two weeks before the party, as it enables the guests to put other engagements on hold.

An invitation should have the party occasion, name, and complete address of the place, where the party is to be held, along with the day and date. In case of the venue being difficult to locate, the inclusion of the maps can be of additional help to the guests.

It is advisable to include the time of the party as it helps the guests to plan their day accordingly. The phone number and e-mail address is another vital information to be mentioned in the card, so that the guests can acquaint the hosts of any changes in their plan. It is better to inform the guests beforehand, of the dress code, if any. If the party is restricted to the adults, it is always advisable to mention that the kids will not be accommodated, albeit in a polite manner.

Last but not least, it is always good on the part of the host to decide beforehand the number and kind of people to be invited and design the invitation or the framework of the invitation accordingly.

Making Birthday Invitations

Birthday Invitations provides detailed information on Birthday Invitations, Birthday Party Invitations, Printable Birthday Invitations, Free Birthday Invitations and more. Birthday Invitations is affiliated with Printable Birthday Cards.

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First Birthday Invitation Sayings

Your child's first birthday is definitely a reason to celebrate and invite the whole world over to join you. For that you'll need birthday invitations, but even more important, you'll need some first birthday invitation sayings to put on them. Typically, the birthday invitation wording should be fun and playful, and perhaps matching an overall theme of the party. It's very common to see invitation wording for first birthday's to have a rhyming scheme or be in verse form. Here are some examples of some possible first birthday invitation verses:

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"Our baby girl is turning one,
Come join us for a day of fun!"

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Or,

"It's already time for his first birthday party,
Come celebrate with us and don't be tardy!"

You might consider including a theme. For example, if you want to have a princess themed party, you'll want to have the Royal Princess Party Invitations or the Little Princess Party Invitation. With wording to match, such as:

"Our little Princess requests your presence at a party in her honor,
To celebrate her first birthday.
Please join us at our castle on August 1st at 1PM."

Or if your little boy is having a dinosaur themed party, you'll want to have the Dinosaur Birthday Invitation with wording to match, such as:

"Saturday the 12th Alex turns one,
There's sure to be cake, ice cream and fun.
We can't wait to see you at our door,
You might even see a dinosaur!"

It's also recommended that you include a map with directions with the First Birthday Party Invitation, along with a contact phone number so that people can contact you in case they get lost. You can include this information in the body of the party invitation, such as:

"One candle on the cake,
On August 1st, don't be late!
Our baby's wish, he's turning one,
Is that you'll be there for all the fun!
Join us at 1234 West Park Street at 1PM
Please RSVP by July 25th
212-567-8910"

It can also be written on the back, separate from the birthday invitation wording, whatever your preference.

Some additional first birthday invitation saying suggestions:

"Fee, Fie, Foe, Fum,
Little Johnny's turning one!
His nursery rhyme party is almost here,
We hope we'll get to see you there!"

"Ice Cream, Cookies, Cake, oh my!
You're invited, so don't be shy!
A party for our little boy,
He's turning one, oh what a joy!"

Remember, you don't have to use rhymes.

"It's party time!
Join us for Ryan's 1st Birthday
Saturday 14th 2:00 - 4:00 pm
The Larken house
1603 "N" Street
Regrets only 707-234-5678"

First birthdays are fun so don't hesitate being creative and crafting a message that makes people smile. Or keep it simple, convey the facts and share the smiles during your little one's special day.

First Birthday Invitation Sayings

Tom Bross is a co-owner of http://www.MyGoodGreetings.com MyGoodGreetings sells photo birth announcements, greeting cards, and party invitations, printed on eco-friendly 100% recycled paper.

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Party Panache - How to Budget Your Kid's Birthday Bash With Style

Whatever the budget for your kid's birthday party, you can create a birthday bash with panache. It's creativity that makes an event memorable. To that happy ending, here are some ideas to get the party started:

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Hand deliver the invitations. Present a mini "glass" slipper for a princess party, or a small dinosaur figurine for a Jurassic party, then direct parents to check their e-mail for the Evite. This will make a big impact on your kid's party, and probably cost you a lot less than paper invitations with postage.

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Invite fewer guests. No one says you have to invite all 22 kids from school. Besides, having just a handful of kids at the party is more manageable and makes your guests feel privileged for attending. Just be sure to handle invitations discreetly.

Double the fun. Divvy up the costs of entertainment and food by combining a party with another kid. Even if you hold separate parties when it comes to the food and drink, you could trim expenses on the location, decoration, bounce house, or talent by partnering with someone you know.

Set the scene at home. Your toy chest likely holds heaps of decor in your selected party theme. So get out the horse figurines for a pony party. Create a carnival atmosphere by hanging sheets on a line and floating rubber duckies in the kiddie pool. Run a DVD on continual play (Nemo's virtual aquarium works great for an under-the-sea theme party). Insert a glass with flowers into a cowboy boot for an instant vase. Your creativity will find new uses for old things.

Turn your guests into the decorations. Have kids bring their own cuddly bear for a teddy bear tea party. Give the young buckaroos a mustache you draw with an eye liner and outfit them with a bandanna or cowboy hat for a Western theme. Provide home-made fairy wings, and rainbow face painting for a fairyland theme party. Or invite guests to dress the part of a knight, princess or pirate.

Skip the helium balloons. Standard balloons are just as festive when attached to chairs, walls or the floor. For an underwater birthday theme, try affixing blue and green balloons to the floor to create an ocean effect. Instead of balloons, buy some inflatable toys on eBay -- they double as decorations and favors. You'll find a selection of affordable 15-inch inflatables from horses, cows, and monkeys to pink poodles, swords, magic wands and more on eBay. Or try a festive life-size monkey for a luau party, or red dragon for a knights and princess party: also found on eBay.

Do without. Sure, you can borrow tables and chairs, but why not have fun with your theme and do without them? Set up bales of hay for a horse theme party. Sit on towels for a pool party. Create a faux campfire for a cowboy theme party. Or just put picnic cloths on the lawn for your guests. You can do without some utensils too, if your food is portable. Ice cream cone cupcakes, for example, make a substantial impact on your budget when compared to a store bought cake. Instead of paper cupcake cups, just pour cake batter into colorful ice-cream cones and bake. You save on plates, forks and ice cream.

Make food and drink memorable. Try themed shaped cookie cutters for sandwiches. Set up the toy farm and create a "paddock" for the cupcakes at your barnyard party. Turn a submarine sandwich into a pirate ship with sails for the little scallywags. Use colored sugars like margarita salt for your princess party drinks (just wedge a lemon around the glass, then dip with blue or purple sugars and pour pink lemonade for an ethereal look that kids won't soon forget). Decorate water bottles with stickers in your party theme. You'll find a great selection of affordable stickers in on eBay. For a pink pirate party, we chose a pink colored Vitamin water and decorated the bottles with pirate stickers.

Create your own themed favors and treats. Use your computer and printer to make new labels for candy. Send kids home with a doggie dish of dog-bone shaped gingerbread cookies. Wilton makes several great candy molds to make lollypops or chocolate treats. You can also use them to mold crayons or soaps to match your theme.

Hire student performers or helpers. The hired help doesn't need to have artistic talent - just supply some tattoos you find on eBay and they can become instant "face painters. Helpers can also organize games and activities, serve the cake, help with the presents, or read a theme related book so you can enjoy your party.

Think ahead. Find candy on sale for the pinata after Valentine's Day, Halloween, or Christmas. Purchase costumes after Halloween, but in advance of your party. Stock up on drinks and chips when they're on sale to save money.

You can create the perfect party in your mind and deliver memorable results for your child as you save money. Be sure to include your child in as much of the pre-party planning as possible -- you may be surprised at the wonderful party ideas that may surface as a result.

Party Panache - How to Budget Your Kid's Birthday Bash With Style

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Halloween Birthday Invitations - Two Parties in One!

There's an old saying that a person who was born on Halloween can see and talk to spirits. There was also a belief that people who were born on Halloween are creepy and rather odd. But in this modern technological age, we know better. People born on this special date can be very normal, and rather sweet! Sweet enough to deserve cleverly-designed Halloween birthday invitations, certainly.

For someone who's celebrating his or her birthday on or near this favorite holiday, Halloween birthday parties are pretty much a given. You can celebrate more than one occasion with just one party! Besides the savings you could make by rolling two gatherings into one, you could make the celebrant feel more special if you acknowledge the holiday that coincides with his or her birthday, as well. Making Halloween birthday invitations would be a great way to express your appreciation for this special day.

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It may be hard to find ready-made Halloween-themed birthday invitations in bookstores and stationery shops. Halloween is generally not thought of as a "happy" occasion, after all - most of the motifs used for this holiday are associated with doom and gloom. Even the colors are not so festive! Halloween-themed decor is typically done in red, orange and/or black. Not a typical color combination to find on anything related to birthdays!

So instead of going from one end of the shop to the other trying to find a design that brings the best of both worlds together, as it were, why not make your own design? Combine familiar motifs and color combos in order to come up with witty, eye-catching invitation covers. An old-fashioned Dracula-type vampire wearing a party cap, for example, is sure to be a scream. You can also have a smiling witch riding on a broomstick, ready to deliver a birthday cake! Or a few lines of cartoon bats with their wings spread out, spelling out "You're Invited!" on their bellies. A cutaway orange pumpkin lit up by birthday candles would be another good design idea.

Birthday invitations sent out on or near Halloween need not be drab. Some people choose to make out their Halloween party invitations in black or red paper, and this may work for a birthday party invitation as well. If the person you're going to throw the party for is inclined toward gothic themes, you should have no problem with sticking with dark or scary colors - but if the birthday celebrant happens to be the cheerful sort, your Halloween birthday invitations could have some glitter on them, or colorful paper, even if you're using dark-colored cards.

Halloween Birthday Invitations - Two Parties in One!

Find loads of birthday invitation information and advice, articles and Halloween birthday invitations at your #1 Birthday invitation resource: http://www.birthday-invite.com

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First Birthday Ideas for Families on a Budget

Are you looking for first birthday ideas that will help make your party special without costing a fortune? First birthdays are an important milestone and you want your baby to be able to share the day with family and friends, but if you do not set a budget, it is very easy for costs to rise higher than you planned or expected. The main purpose of a birthday party is to have fun and celebrate your child's life. Of course you want it to be unforgettable, even scrapbook worthy, but you don't want to spend the rest of the year paying for it. After all, your baby isn't going to remember, so why not find ways to plan a fun and special event that will fit your budget. With proper, careful planning, an economical party can be as great as an expensive one.

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1. Make your own invitations. With so many creative ideas available online, it is possible to design your own invites much more reasonably than having them professionally printed, and they will look better, too! Use cookie cutters to make shapes such as stars, hearts, or teddy bears, decorate with supplies from a simple art kit, or enlist the help of older children to give your invitations a charming touch. With the ease and accessibility of technology, you can even send an evite. Not only is this free, but you can include a picture of your child for family and friends to use as a an adorable computer screensaver. This method makes RSVPs easier, too!

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2. Choose a less expensive venue. Party venues can be costly, so rather than booking an expensive hall or restaurant, why not plan to host the party at home, where your child will probably be more comfortable anyway. If the weather is nice, you can move the event to the backyard or a local park, many of which are free to use and offer lots of room to run around as well as plenty of fun equipment to play on. If you want something a little more private, many conservation areas or botanical gardens have pavilions that can be rented for reasonable fees.

3. Choose simple and plain colored decorations. Babies do not really care about decorations, but are only interested in things that they can play with. It doesn't matter to them if you use expensive streamers and balloons, so save money by shopping around and looking for deals at discount stores. You can still have a themed party without purchasing expensive theme patterned party supplies and decorations. Use solid colored plates, cups, and napkins that fit well with your chosen theme but can be found at dollar stores. If you plan far enough ahead of time, your party can still look spectacular without breaking your budget.

4. Keep the menu simple. Food is often the most expensive part of any party, but you can trim costs with economical choices that will still satisfy hungry tummies. Young children are often too busy to stop and eat so finger foods such as goldfish crackers, cheerios, and Teddy Grahams are a perfect choice, while sandwiches, salads, and veggie or fruit trays are a tasty and inexpensive way to please the adults. Choose a mid-morning or mid-afternoon party so that you only have to prepare snacks rather than a full meal, or have a 'cake cutting' where you serve only cake and ice cream. Make your own cake and purchase only one small themed cake for pictures. Or, opt for cupcakes which are easier to decorate and neater to eat, especially for children. If you want to serve a meal, why not host a barbecue with hamburgers or hot dogs? Remember, kids don't care about specialty foods or theme oriented menus, so don't spend a lot of time and money creating fancy items.

5. Simplify the entertainment. Forget the clowns, magicians, and storybook characters when simple games and toys will work just fine for first birthday party entertainment. Little ones love singing, dancing, or playing musical chairs and Simon Says. They are happy with a room full of balloons and balls, and enjoy playing with each other. Hire a favorite babysitter to help out, ask a family member to dress up in a costume, or bring in a friend who is a great storyteller. Basically, if the babies have toys, music, and fun shows to watch, they will be happy for hours while the adults talk and visit.

6. Choose inexpensive favors. Giving favors at a first birthday party in unnecessary, but if you want to thank guests for coming, choose inexpensive items such as stuffed animals or toys purchased at a dollar store. Bubbles are also a great option, as well as homemade non-toxic playdough.

7. Trim the guest list. You probably want to celebrate your child's first birthday with the entire world, but a shorter guest list means you can plan a great party on a smaller budget. Besides, a large crowd can be overwhelming to your baby, so limiting the invites will help you create a more relaxed atmosphere.

With a little forethought, you can find inexpensive first birthday ideas that will allow you to plan a fun and exciting party without going over your budget.

First Birthday Ideas for Families on a Budget

Suzanne Daykin is an event manager and mum of two little ones who shares a variety of budget friendly first birthday ideas and party tips. Celebrate your child's first birthday with help from www.1st-birthday-party-ideas.com

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Coming Up With Witty 50th Birthday Sayings for Invitations

With age comes wisdom, we say. What we don't often hear is: With age also comes wit! You'll notice that quite a few advanced adults have a full stock of witticisms, guaranteed to put the cheekiest of youngsters to shame! Making birthday invitations for such witty people is bound to be a daunting task, if you haven't turned 50 yourself. You may feel at a loss for 50th birthday sayings for invitations.

evite.com

Invitations for older people are known to be dull and rather plain, but you can break the mold if you include witty 50th birthday sayings for invitations. It's not good to celebrate a date as special as the one which marks one half of a century on this Earth with somber words - don't hesitate to be colorful! Find a lively, optimistic quote to mark the occasion. In fact, funny and uplifting words would be perfect.

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You don't have to be Shakespeare to come up with something clever. Keep your birthday celebrant in mind when making the invitations. What is a witty phrase that this celebrant is likely to say? Does he or she have a catchphrase which friends and family have come to identify with him or her? Perhaps "Oy vey!" or "Great scott!" - a phrase that the celebrant uses often. With cheerful lettering and a bit of graphic design skill, you can turn that simple catchphrase into an invitation cover that would make all the recipients smile!

If you don't want to use your own words, though, it is perfectly all right to borrow others'. You can look through the Internet for witty quotes about looking at 50. Quotes from contemporary comic poets like Ogden Nash, or from comedians like the timeless Bob Hope and George Burns are always a treasure.

You may opt for something touching instead of witty, if the celebrant's personality calls for something a bit more serious. Quotes from inspirational poems, or uplifting quotes from religious text, are always welcome additions in cards. The important thing is not to cloud over the occasion by presenting the celebrant and his or her guests with a boring, lifeless, standard invitation. Touch up your card with bright or pastel colors. Although if the celebrant's personality calls for an earthlier look, earth colors like sepia and old rose should also be acceptable.

The design of the invitation should match the liveliness of the quote you have chosen. Don't match funny 50th birthday sayings for invitations with a shot of pensive scenery, or an inspirational quote with a goofy graphic! Although if wit is called for, perhaps the latter technique could be used to your advantage. Mix and match inspirational or touching quotes with happy, cartoonish images, geared especially to calling forth a smile from the lips of the recipients.

Coming Up With Witty 50th Birthday Sayings for Invitations

Find loads of birthday invitation information and advice, articles and 50th birthday sayings for invitations at your #1 Birthday invitation resource: http://www.birthday-invite.com

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Birthday Invitation Wording

Your birthday invitation wording is key to letting your guests know the who, what, where, when and why of your birthday party. This all comes into play once you've selected your birthday party invitations and any themes for the party as well as accompanying birthday invitation phrases based on that theme. For information on birthday invitation phrases and matching themes, check out our article titled Birthday Invitation Phrases. This article will give you many ideas about picking a theme with invitation cards to match and coming up with creative and unique invitation phrases.

evite.com

The wordings for your birthday invitation cards will typically follow a simple structure. First, your creative phrase or verse, followed by all the information needed to let your guests know where and when. You should include the exact address of the party, whether it be at your home or the local pool, and should also include the time everyone should arrive. You can include a contact number for your guests to R.S.V.P. if you wish them to do so.

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So you've got your invitations picked out and a clever verse to put on them. Lets say you've selected our Fun Bubbles Party Invitation and you're having your party at home. Your birthday invitation wording would look something like this:

"Come join the party, come join in the fun
It's a bubble party for our number one son!
Cody is turning eight!
Come help us celebrate!
Saturday, June 14th at 11:30 PM
At our home
2020 S. Cromwell
York, PA
Please RSVP to Julie
(222) 789-1234"

Let's say you've selected our Hoo Hoo Owl Birthday Invitation and you're having your party at a local park. Your birthday invitation wording would look something like this:

"Our little girl is turning nine
Out in the sun, it's party time!
Come join the celebration!
Saturday, May 16th at 4:00 PM
At Liberty Park
On Franklin St. between 3rd and 4th ave.
Salt Lake City, NV
Please RSVP to James
(801) 998-8888"

You've got the who, what, where, when and why all covered. If you're inviting people who don't live in town, it would be a good idea to include a map with directions along with a contact number for them to call in case they get lost.

As the birthday celebrant gets older, or if the birthday party is in a more formal setting, you may want to exclude a creative birthday phrase, instead opting for just the information wording. Either way, your birthday invitation wording should convey all the information necessary for your guests.

Birthday Invitation Wording

Tom Bross is a co-owner of http://www.MyGoodGreetings.com. MyGoodGreetings sells photo birth announcements, greeting cards, and party invitations, printed on eco-friendly 100% recycled paper.

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Save Money by Hosting Your Child's Birthday Party at Home

In today's economy, hosting your child's birthday party at a local pizza parlor, skating rink, or other party venue is an expense that is hard to justify. That doesn't mean you can't still throw your child a memorable party. By hosting the party in your own home, the party will be more unique and special - and much easier on your wallet!

evite.com

The first step is to send out invitations at least 2-3 weeks in advance of the party. There are many affordable invitation choices available online or at stores like Target. If you wish to save, though, it's perfectly acceptable to send email invitations via sites like Evite or MyPunchbowl.

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It is important to decide on a theme for the party. Pick a theme that your child will love. Dinosaur, Princess, and Space are all popular themes for younger kids. For older kids, consider a Movie Night or Scavenger Hunt. Your theme will help every other aspect of the party fall into place easily, as it will determine what your invitations, cups, plates, and overall decor should be.

Food is generally the biggest cost for any party. However, with the right approach to the food, you can still have a nice spread without spending a lot of money. It's best to serve a buffet so guests can help themselves, and parents can choose what their child eats. You can always pre-buy foods to just reheat and serve, but it's generally more cost-effective to prepare your own. If you stick with preparing finger foods - baked chicken nuggets, mini pizza bagels, and the like - your cooking duties will be minimal, and there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

It's not necessary to go out and buy an expensive birthday cake, either. Consider making cupcakes instead. Allow guests to decorate their own cupcakes by putting out different bowls of candy and fruit out. The kids will far more enjoy eating something they helped decorate.

As for decorations and favors, keep things simple. All you really need to decorate with is streamers and balloons that coordinate with your theme. Adding a few accents to your serving tables, such as Matchbox cars if you have a Car theme or plastic tiaras for a Princess theme, is also an affordable way to make things feel festive. For favors, gift bags filled with finds from your local 99 cent store will work just fine - kids are just happy to have something they didn't have before.

There's no need to spend a lot of cash on your kid's birthday party. With these money-saving tips, throwing the party in your own home is the way to go.

Save Money by Hosting Your Child's Birthday Party at Home

Amanda DeSeta & Michelle Sy

Founders, [http://www.TheSimpleFeast.com]

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Birthday Invitation - A Really Useful Guide

What type of occasion?

Your birthday invitation could be an invitation to a normal birthday party, or a surprise party, or the birthday invitation could be an invitation to an outing at a special location or event. There are lots of possibilities, so take a while to think about what sort of party or event you wish to organise, and where you wish to hold it. Your birthday invitation should then give a flavour of the event, the level of formality and tone.

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What type of birthday invitation?

The main point to make here is that you need to think outside of the box--the mail box. These days, birthday invitations can be delivered via e-mail/internet, special delivery, or by conventional mail, and each method will have its own cost implications. The possibilities for the format of your birthday invitation are also wider than you might think.

E birthday invitations are either very cheap, or they are free. They are easily available on the internet and are easy to send. If you decide to send your birthday invitation in this manner then make sure that you have all your recipients' e-mail details.

You can send a birthday invitation on a DVD or computer disc, and there are a number of suppliers that will produce these for you (try Show & Tell Invitations). As you can imagine, the cost of a DVD invitation is likely to be more than for a conventional birthday invitation. Alternatively, you could create this the DVD invitation yourself! All you need is a digital camera that can record digital film, a DVD writer, some basic computer know-how and a dash of imagination. If you don't have all this, perhaps you know someone who does who can help you. These unusual birthday invitations can be great fun to make (you'll be giggling through the first few takes) and offer huge scope for innovation and personalisation of your birthday invitation. They can also be loaded with lots of information, such as maps, visual dress guides, and personalised information to set the tone and spirit of the event. There are no boundaries, you are the director and can be the star in a location of your choosing. DVD invitations can be easily mailed, but they are likely to be a little more costly to mail than a conventional birthday invitation card due to size and weight.

Conventional birthday invitation cards available on the market generally come in the standard rectangular format, but do a bit of research on the internet and you'll find square ones and other shapes. Square, or unusually shaped or over-sized birthday invitations will cost more to mail, so it's best to work out your budget first. The tone and theme of the event will give you ideas for the type of paper to use. For example, a heavy weight linen or smooth creamy paper might be appropriate if you wish to hold a formal or traditional affair, whereas brightly coloured or contemporary designs lend themselves to casual birthday invitations. Traditional invitations are generally printed or embossed with black or gray ink on white or ecru paper, whereas casual announcements can be made on any coloured paper you like, using any ink and often include graphics or photos.

Where do I get the birthday invitations from?

It is of course open to you to make your own birthday invitations, whether they be DVD invitations or conventional
ones, but only if you have the time. You'll get lots of inspiration by searching the internet. All you will need are the basic materials, paper and card for conventional invitations, and a bunch of writable DVDs if you are making DVD invitations.

You may decide to download cheap or free birthday invitations from the internet for home printing. However, keep in mind that you are unlikely to create a real sense of anticipation and excitement for your birthday by sending out internet freebies. You can also send free E invitations by logging onto one of numerous websites. Again, just search the internet and you'll find them.

For formal events and larger gatherings, or events where the birthday invitations has to look just right, most people contract with a birthday invitation company to supply conventional invitations. For conventional invitations, the choice of ink colour, the paper, the designs, the font styles, etc., will be limited to the range of a particular company, but your choice of company is very broad and the variations between companies are almost unlimited. Shop around, search the internet. You can often download a company's whole catalogue on line and then order on line at your leisure. You should also be aware that companies outside your country may be able to supply
birthday invitations more cheaply (e.g India) but the lead time in supply of the invitations may be longer, and you'll have to pay particular attention to spelling and the details of dates and times. Always ask to see a sample for approval before you place the order.

If you plan to hold the birthday celebration at an outside location, keep in mind that companies that regularly hold birthday celebration events will often do the birthday invitations for you. This can save on time and expense, since the invitation may be a free extra.

Birthday Invitation Wording

Your aim here is to set the tone and theme (if any) and to answer all the questions that your invitees will have about the birthday party. Make sure you cover time, place, dress, nature of the party, whether it is a surprise party, and think about travel and parking information. Give direction where appropriate. Formal events include a note of who the host is.

You can get ready made wordings over the internet, or from your invitation supplier but remember that it is your invitation, so personalise it as much as possible to create the atmosphere and anticipation you wish for your
birthday celebration.

The reply

Give thought to how you wish your birthday invitation recipients to reply. You could ask them to e-mail you, or
post a special reply provided by you, or you may ask them to phone you. The choice is yours, but keep in mind the costing implications of your choice. If you ask for a written reply then make it easy for the recipient and provide a reply device, like a reply card, and make sure you cover the postage on this. Then all the recipient has to do is pop it in the post.

Birthday invitation - the cost

The cost of your birthday invitation needs to cover production of materials and printing and postage. Even standard sized invitations may cost a little more than the standard postal rate due to their weight, which will depend on how many enclosures you have and the weight of the materials. A good
idea is to cost postage for one invitation (with all the enclosures) by taking a sample to the post office and have
them weigh it for you.

When to mail an invitation?

For casual parties, try to post the birthday invitation so that it arrives 2-3 weeks in advance. For formal events, the invitee should receive the birthday invitation around two months in advance. Some people like to send out a pre-invitation letter, say, four to six months in advance, so that the invitee can 'save the date'. The letter will explain that a proper invitation will be sent out later.

Keep all of the above in mind and you'll be sure to get your birthday invitation message across.

Happy Birthday!

Birthday Invitation - A Really Useful Guide

© Stephen Turner 2006.

Stephen Turner has set up an information and resource website called Birthday Invitation [http://www.invitationbirthday.co.uk]. On the site you'll find loads of birthday invitation information and advice, articles, features, discussion and specially chosen links to other birthday invitation websites, so please take a look. Stephen would also welcome your feedback on the site: click on the contact link on the site.

This article may be reproduced in its original form provided that the author's copyright note and this 'author resource box' paragraph are displayed below the article.

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