Me&Riley Founder Emma Riedel’s 5 Tips to Plan the Perfect Kids’ Party
Me&Riley has been crafting spectacular children’s celebrations for the past 16 years; from budgets to bakeries, owner Emma Riedel discusses the dos and don’ts of curating parties
My focus is on the celebrant having the best day” mum-of-three Emma tells us. “I am completely hands on from the planning to the set-up on the day – sometimes involving the celebrant – ensuring they are happy with everything,” says the party planner known for her attention to detail and intricately themed events. Follow her top tips to ensure memories of the best possible kind.
Have a Budget, and Don’t Be Unreasonable
We all know the cost of living and we all know the value of services as well as products. Know how much you want to spend. Sometimes that will mean compromising and prioritising on elements, but don’t let that ruin your celebration, find ways around it – do some DIY or drop the additional invitees that your child doesn’t really want anyway.
Hire a Photographer
And if you have a planner don’t tell them you will take photos on your phone – you won’t – you won’t have time. I can’t emphasise strongly enough the value of taking beautiful images and the memories these will evoke forever. Personally, I would drop the budget on a highly decorated cake and opt for a delicious Magnolia Bakery one so that I can afford professional photography.
Plan In Advance
Plan in advance and purchase things when you see them on sale. Don’t leave anything until the last minute – the birthday is coming whether you admit it or not. You can buy fantastic giveaways on sale throughout the year and also keep the birthday hype going for longer – your child will love you for this too. My top tip is to grab giveaways in summer when I travel so that the items have more meaning, and are generally less expensive.
Make Sure That Your Entertainment Is Relevant
For example don’t hire entertainers to organise party games if your own child is too shy and doesn’t like to join in themselves. Pick entertainment that covers all bases: crafts, games and static items like a bounce house. Where you can, choose entertainment that is relevant to your theme – Pinterest or your planner can help with this.
Make Sure You Have Enough Cold Drinks And Food
It’s hot in the UAE for most of the year and there is nothing worse than having thirsty, hungry guests. A cool drink on arrival is honestly a big flex and guests will be super appreciative of this. Don’t overbudget on this – get in the kitchen if you need to, and if you are going solo without a planner Pinterest is again a huge asset to take advantage of.
For more information, visit @meandriley_events.
Images: Supplied
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s Junior Autumn/Winter 2025 issue.