Kids’ birthday parties are getting more elaborate and more extravagant every day. Websites like Pinterest are full of ideas for parties with themes photo booths, and petting zoos, but you will likely need to take out a second mortgage in order to afford these parties. A recent post on Modern Parents Messy Kids discusses how to throw a laid-back birthday party that everyone will enjoy.

When it comes to party planning, what is one thing that guests always remember? The food. This doesn’t need to be anything elaborate — you can have an incredible celebration with pizza and cupcakes. Keeping it small is also a good way to keep it simple. Invite close family and a few friends to have your nearest and dearest around without going overboard. One trend that is increasing in popularity is the no-gifts party. People are forgoing gifts with a suggestion of a donation to a particular cause.

Read the full article here: Kids’ Birthdays — How to Get Back to Simple