Expert: John Gordon - 9/20/2009

Question
Hi
My name is Molly and my son is going to be 1 on Christmas day!!!  The worst day of the year to be born.... anyway I want to have a party for him in November since having a birthday party in December is near impossible for guests to attend.  
I am considering a western theme and having a pony come for pony rides.  I did have a cowgirl party for my 2 daughters with a pony so I don't want it to feel like its the same party just for a different child. So I guess my question is any other ideas for a Nov. birthday party theme or do you think its safe to go with another western party?  
I am also stuck on wording for the invite.  I wanted something catchy explaining to my guests why we are having a party for my little boy a month early!  My son's name is Jack Ryan and he was born Dec. 25th.  Any ideas would be great.  I also wanted to add that we have a huge family and Jack is the youngest of 15 cousins so I was really hoping to have a GREAT party something worth all the work and not the same old same old.  I want to have a cool cake, nice party favors, crafts, games and if I go with western theme the pony, rather then just letting the kids run all around just playing together and hitting a pinata that doesn't have enough candy for all 20 plus kids.  
Thanks in advanced
Molly

Answer
Hi Molly

What I am unable to understand about the party you describe is who it's for. I guess it's for the cousins.

I am sure guests will understand the party being early ... although I'd also have looked at having it in the 'dead' week after Xmas. Maybe it's different where you are.

I feel really unable to help as I am in the UK and this seems quite different from the 1year old parties I have been involved in.

On this occasion, I'll leave my creative thinking hat off for when I get a question I know more about.

have a great party with the help I am sure you'll get from others more used to themed fun parties for tinies.

John