1st BDay Parties......How long?

I can't believe I am planning DDs party. The Fun Begins!

I rented the hall from 12:30 to 4:30 which includes set up time and clean up time. My question: How long was your dc's 1st Bday Party? Is 2 hours fine or is it too short?

This is what I was planning:

12:30-1:30 set up
1:30 Party begins
1:30-2:15 Eat and Mingle
2:15 -3:15 Legendary Entertainment (LIF Vendor)
3:15-4:00 Cake
4:00-4:30 Cleanup

Am I missing anything else? Is a 2 hour Party fine?

Re: 1st BDay Parties......How long?

We started my DD's bday party at 3. Had trail mix and Chex mix on tables upon guests arrival. Served dinner about 4:15. Had cake and coffee around 6 and by 6:30 most everyone was gone. 3 1/2 hrs. was plenty of time to eat and socialize and nobody seemed bored in that time. 2 hrs. seems a little short to eat dinner/lunch and have cake and coffee. It might feel a little rushed but it could work. I would see about getting in early to decorate if you can and then start the party at 12:30 so you have the extra hour since nothing ever really goes according to plan. Worse comes to worse you finish up a little earlier than expected.

Re: 1st BDay Parties......How long?

I also don't feel 2 hours is enough time.

We have never thrown a party were all the guests have shown up on time, regardless if it was a restaurant or at our home. If someone needs to come a little later they are basically there an hour to an hour half.

The only time I think a short party works is when it is just kids at party place.

Re: 1st BDay Parties......How long?

Our DD's party will be 3 hours!

Re: 1st BDay Parties......How long?

Thanks! I will probably do the 3 hour!

Message edited 10/17/2009 7:10:54 AM.

Re: 1st BDay Parties......How long?

Our DD's party is next weekend and the party begins at 3:00pm and ends at 7:00pm. We are going to be there between 1:30-2:00pm to set up. I am not sure 2 hours will be enough.