I’m a FREAK when it comes to planning my kids’ birthday parties.

They really aren’t as extravagant as many I see on all the darling party blogs out there, but I try to keep them fun yet frugal.

I usually have a “theme” about a year ahead of time. I get an idea and build from there…over the course of about 12 months…I gather little things here and there that I find on sale or for cheap. I stow them in a “secret place” away from the kids (& Jay!). I also cruise around the net and pick up ideas from this site and that site, jot things down and get the creative juices flowing early on.

Elliott’s birthday is in May and I just found what I think are going to be her invites.

I had something in mind and when I saw these on my TJ Maxx excursion yesterday, I knew I had to grab them since they’d be long gone if I decided to go back down the road and look for them again.

They fit the color scheme that I had in mind and reflect the party’s venue.

I am so excited that I crossed paths with these.

Here’s a sneak peek…

I think I need help.

Because there are a million and one things that will take place before her 6th birthday that I need to think about, but I just couldn’t pass these up.

If I can give my unsolicited party planning advice I would say to start early {obviously}.

But is 9 months to a year TOO early?

I find that when you have an inspiration far enough out, you can pick things up bit by bit and won’t have to shell out a grip of cash all at once. I save receipts in case I need to make returns or exchanges.

How many others out there suffer from OCPP?

Obsessive Compulsive Party Planning

I bet Jay wishes there was a medication for this!

Happy Friday!

Party ALL weekend long…