My Favorite Birthday Party Tradition

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I absolutely love birthday parties! I love everything about a kid’s special party; from dreaming a theme, planning the details, hosting the guests, and watching the wonder in my kids’ eyes. It is safe to say that I’ve spent a lot of time over the years trialing new ideas. Some of the ideas stick around for the next party and some I don’t repeat.

There is one idea that has now become a tradition during the birthday parties I host. It is super simple, but it is so special and carries a lasting effect. I like to call it…

SIGN THE GUEST BOOK

Here’s the gist. Get a book within the party’s theme, set it out, and ask guests to sign their name and/or a message on a page. It becomes a living memory of the special day. My kids read their messages and the names of their guests over and over again.

Here’s a few things that I’ve learned from doing this time and time again. First, you don’t have to go out and buy a brand new book. If you’re doing a themed party for your child, chances are they already have a book with that theme. Shop your house! Or you can always check out your local thrift store or buy used online on Amazon or Thrift Books. I’ve used Thrift Books several times and been happy with my used books.

This next tip might seem kind of obvious, but make sure you find a book with plenty of empty white space. It also helps if the background color is lighter so you can read the messages. Make sure to have several markers (I just use regular Sharpies) to go with the book. Personally, I like to include a few color choices to correspond to the book. Plain black works too! :)

I like to write a special message in the book before the party. Include their name, year, and how old they are turning. I like to put this on the front cover, front page, or back cover.

It is important to have a small sign instructing guests what to do. Something like “Please sign ____ guest book” or “Write a message to the birthday girl!” I like to use these mini chalkboard signs. They double as food signs or anything else for the party. Best part: use them over and over again. Order once and you’ll be surprised with how many uses you get out of them.

I hope you try this fun birthday party tradition at your next birthday party! Happy party planning friends!