Every mom has to contend with birthday party planning at some point.  The biggest factor early on is whether to have a home-based party or a schedule party at a party center or recreational facility.

Home Parties are ideal for families that want to save money or plan something unique and creative.  Planning a party at home does take more forethought, but it can be a money saver.  The following are other advantages for a home-based party:

• A more intimate gathering with close friends
• Customized for your child based on his or her preferences, or needs, such as allergies
• No time limit – The party does not have to stop at the end of the reservation
• Allows for creativity – Parties can become sleepovers for older kids; themes and food provided can based on the preferences or needs of the birthday child.
• There is no loss of the deposit if there is a need to cancel or change a party date.

A great way to save money for home based parties is to use a generic theme based on your child’s interest.  For example, instead of having a Speed Racer theme, you could have a racing car theme.  Party favors would be less expensive because they would not require the licensed characters.

Great ways to keep kids occupied in a house party would be to incorporate arts and crafts.  Food preparation can be also geared towards a party theme and kids can have fun assembling creations that they will eventually eat.

The Dollar Tree and Five Below are great places to get party favors and prepackaged arts and craft items at a great price.  Examples of craft items would be sand art, jewelry making, and wooden painting sets.  Jo-Ann Fabrics also has a wide selection of craft items and party supplies.

Party centers for virtually any hobby, theme or interest have cropped up everywhere.  For families that don’t have a lot of time for birthday party planning, this may be the way to go.  This option is more expensive, but there are other benefits to investing in a party outside of the home.  The biggest advantages to reserving a party are:

• Convenience for those pressed for time
• A large number of friends can be invited easily
• No need to clean up at home before or after the party

For those seeking this option, even though there is no need to plan out the party, the reservations do need to be booked early.  Local options for great birthday parties are:  Severna Park Lanes, Rolly Pollies, Ultimate Play Zone and Big Vanilla. 

Severna Park Golf Center also offers birthday party packages featuring their nationally designed Putter Falls miniature golf course.  Another unique experience available locally is a party adventure provided by Chelonia Eco Adventures.  While they provide programming at the Severna Park Community Center, they would be happy to bring the party, complete with live critters, crafts and face painting to your home.

No matter how you decide, there are great options locally for helping your family celebrate birthdays.

Follow Maribel on Twitter at www.twitter.com/thefrugalwriter or on her blog at http://unworker.blogspot.com.  You can also join the #mommatters Twitter party every Wednesday evening at 9:30pm EST.