Created: 8/21/2008 6:52:16 AM 
Greensboro, NC -- From expensive gift requests to unexpected extra guests, Seattle-based party planner and author, Lisa Kothari, says this is a hot topic right now. Nowadays for many kids, cake and ice cream or pizza parties just don't cut it. Be prepared this party season!
Golden Rule for How Many to Invite: Invite the number that matches your child's age plus one.
RSVP: When it comes to an RSVP, chances are you won't hear from many of the parents. It's not that they are being rude, today's parents are just busy. Always give an RSVP deadline and wait until it passes before you contact some of the guests for their responses.
How much to spend on a party present: Everyone feels gift-giving pressure. Spending anywhere form five to ten dollars is plenty for a thoughtful birthday gift. If your child has a special friend, you may spend more.
Children's Gift Registries: At first, the idea might seem ludicrous. But when you think about how many toys your child might actually have, and the possibility of receiving duplicate toys and gifts, it might not be that off-the-wall. Just remember to include gifts that are reasonably priced.
How to handle rude parents: If there is a rude parent who stays at the party along with the child, provide the parent with a role at the party. This way, she will be too busy helping and won't be a hindrance.
These are just a few of Lisa Kothari's tips. You can find more in her new book Dear Peppers and Pollywogs... What Parents Want to Know About Planning Their Kids' Parties or online at www.pepperspollywogs.com .
WFMY News 2
