Today is my youngest daughter’s 10th birthday. I’ve spent the morning reminiscing about all of the amazing memories we’ve shared with her. Some of the best memories I have with all of my girls are their birthday parties. I’ve thrown lots, and have to admit that I’ve sometimes fell into the trap of trying to “keep up with the Jones’s” by throwing huge parties with elaborate décor, and have broken the bank doing so. Thankfully, with age and experience comes wisdom, and I’ve toned down these extravaganzas in the past several years, and have instead focused on creating memorable experiences with fewer people, while still keeping in mind each child’s personality and the hobbies they enjoy.
So, in honor of my sweet girl Paiton, I thought I would share some of our party ideas and locations in the OKC area that offer a ton of fun and most importantly, are more affordable than many other popular party destinations.
- Unpluggits Paint & Play. Located in Edmond, OK, this art studio is specifically designed for kids with a creative flare. They have party packages and party rooms, but also welcome small groups who want to come in and celebrate without booking a room. There is a wide range of arts are crafts to choose from that vary in price, as well as free paper to paint and draw on. For a budget friendly party, I suggest taking a small group of friends and using the open table areas instead of a party room. I also suggest selecting some of the smaller wooden or ceramic crafts to paint. We have spent a few birthdays here. I let my birthday girl pick 4 of her best friends, packed birthday donuts (for morning fun) or cupcakes, and drinks, and headed off for an exciting day of art. There is also a large play place within the facility, complete with draw-bridge, and dress up costumes for hours of imaginative fun.
- South Lakes Park. This 158-acre park is located in Southwest OKC. Complete with soccer fields, a skate park, fishing ponds, and play areas, this park offers fun for the entire family. My kids especially love the tall slides, some of the tallest we’ve seen in our area. There are also several pavilions, some of which are free of charge, and do not need to be rented in advance. I suggest sending the hubby or relative out a few hours before the party, to scope out and secure one of the free pavilions. Bring a few table decorations, extra outdoor chairs, cake or cupcakes, drinks, sub sandwiches or even some pizzas, and you’ve got a fun and festive party with very little work involved or money spent.
- Andy Alligator’s Fun Park & Water Park. This fun park is located in Norman, OK, and offers everything from bumper carts, video games, to laser tag. There are also outdoor activities to enjoy. If you are looking to keep the expenses lower, I suggest booking an indoor only party, and keeping your guest list at 8 kids. There is still plenty to do inside, and you don’t have to chase kids nearly as much. I like keeping my little hens close by! The package includes a party room, party host, pizza, and drinks. Bring a few balloons and a cake or cupcakes, and you are all set. Your kids will be talking about this party for months! Since there are other popular adventure parks nearby, the crowds aren’t usually bad either. If your kids are older, the upstairs laser tag room is sure to entertain them, and the lines and wait times aren’t as long as many places we’ve played at. They often run birthday party deals, so be sure to check their website for special offers and coupons. We’ve gotten as much as 30% off of our parties in the past.
One of the lessons I’ve learned when it comes to birthdays is not to compare myself to other moms, and do what works for our family and budget. Even though it is sometimes a struggle, I try not to feel pressured to keep up with Pinterest, Instagram or Facebook when it comes to parties. It is possible to create amazing birthday memories without spending loads of cash and time, and do so without losing my sanity in the process. Everyone doesn’t have to be invited, and every picture doesn’t have to look like it belongs in a magazine. Years from now, I don’t think my kids will care how much money I spent and how perfect the decorations were, they will care that I loved them and celebrated them, in all of their uniqueness and personality.
Happy memory making mom friends!