How to throw a pastel polka party

For her very first birthday, your baby won't appreciate extravagance and less is definitely more at this age! There are a few special circumstances to keep in mind. 

Remember that she's still little and can easily be over-stimulated. So keep her first party intimate, set a time limit and keep the catering simple.

We've chosen pastel polka dots for our first birthday party theme. You can have such fun with the food and dceorations, choosing anything round.

Polka dots are very versatile, as it works as a theme for boys and girls.

Dotty, spotty food!

Every party should have fun foods that are not on the menu every day (that's the cue for sweets and chocolate), but we also firmly believe that every party should have fruit and vegetables as well.

And these don't have to be boring!

Polka drinks

• Serve jugs of water with ice and fruit balls to quench everyone's thirst.

Cupcake tower

• Cupcakes are an ideal first birthday cake, because they're not too big for your little one to handle.
• This might also be the first time she'll eat cake, so keep portions (and the mess) small.
• We got our cupcakes from www.ilovecupcake.co.za, but you can make your own or buy ready-mixes.

Popcorn balls

You'll need: 

• 80ml  Butter
• 2 bags  Marshmallows
• 10 cups  Popped corn

Method

1. In a very large saucepan, melt the butter and marshmallows together over low heat.
2. Add the popcorn and mix well.
3. Remove from heat and cool a little until easy to handle.
4. Rub a little butter or sunflower oil on your hands and roll the mixture into balls.
5. Place on wax paper to cool further.
6. When completely cooled, tie a pretty ribbon around each ball to form a little "handbag", or stick a sosatie stick into each ball to form a lollipop.

Makes about 40 balls

We love hearing from you! Send us your birthday party photos and stories to chatback@parent24.com and we may publish it on our website.

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