How to Drop the Mum Guilt Around Party Planning

As mums, we want nothing but the best for our children, and that includes giving them memorable and magical celebrations.

However, it's not uncommon to feel the weight of mum guilt creeping in when it comes to party planning 😓 The pressure to create picture-perfect parties, coupled with budget and time constraints, can leave us feeling overwhelmed and doubting our abilities.

But fret not 🤗 We're here to remind you that it's time to drop the mum guilt and embrace the joy of party planning.

Here are 5 practical tips to help you navigate the process with confidence and excitement 🥳 

1. Set realistic expectations for the party

Parties don't need to be extravagant or expensive to be memorable. Embrace the beauty of simplicity and focus on creating a fun atmosphere that reflects your child's interests and personality. Remember, it's the moments shared with loved ones that truly matter. Also, recognise that you cannot do everything and be everything to everyone at the same time. It's okay to ask for help or to delegate tasks. Asking friends or family members to help out with inflating balloons for a garland the day before the event or asking everyone to bring a plate to share can help take the stress out of planning your party. 

2. Keep it simple

Opt for easy-to-prepare snacks and activities that will keep the little ones entertained. Simple decorations like paper tassel garlands or a DIY balloon garland kit or simple balloon bunch will bring lots of joy without adding unnecessary stress to decorate an entire room / space. There’s no doubt your child will remember more about who they celebrated with than the physical aspects of the day.

3. Make a list and prioritize

Use our FREE Party Planner guide to make a list of everything you need to do and prioritise them based on what's most important to you and your child. This way, you can focus your efforts on the aspects that truly matter and let go of the rest.

Embrace the imperfections

Here's a secret - no party is perfect! Don't be too hard on yourself if things don't go as planned. Have you ever seen the ‘soccer ball’ cake we did for my little boy’s 3rd birthday that more resembled a deflated black and white blob?! He still loved it and to this day talks about his soccer cake! Embrace the imperfections and unexpected moments that make each celebration unique and memorable. Sometimes, it's the little mishaps that create the best stories to share in the future.

I'll finish up with possibly the MOST important point of all...

SELF CARE

As Mums we tend to do so much for everyone else and rarely take that time out for ourselves to rest and centre ourselves, have some fun and unwind - especially around busy times like birthdays and holidays. Take this as your sign that it's time for a little YOU time. However that looks or feels to you. 

A happy and relaxed mum is the best gift you can give your child. 

Remember, you are more than capable of creating a wonderful celebration for your child. You don't need to compare yourself to others or feel pressured to live up to unrealistic expectations.

The love and effort you put into the party will shine through, and your child will cherish those moments for years to come. 

So, drop the mum guilt and let your creativity and love lead the way.

If you are feeling emotionally distressed or overwhelmed please don't hesitate to reach out to your GP or call Lifeline 13 11 14 or Parentline 1300 30 1300.