First Communion parties have become a big deal

First Communion parties have become a big deal
By Anna Maria Mannarino

When having a celebration for a child's milestone, such as First Communion, consider having a themed party. A carnival theme offers fun and entertainment for guests of all ages.

No longer do spring celebrations simply conjure up images of graduation parties or the beginning of the wedding season. First Holy Communion, a ceremonial admission of young Catholics to the community of the church, is becoming a main event. "Grand" and "elaborate" describe many an after-celebration for this rite of passage for 7- and 8-year-olds.

What used to be a simple family gathering to mark the occasion has become a major affair that brings together family, friends, and classmates of the child. However, even though the guest of honor may be learning the latest Britney Spears routine or trading Yu-Gi-Oh cards, it is important to keep in mind that this is not a typical child's party. Unlike a wedding, which is primarily designed for adults, or a child's birthday party, which is geared toward children, a Communion party will no doubt have guests of all ages. While the overall feel or theme of the party should be reflective of the child, it must also cater to adults as guests rather than as chaperones.

If you are planning a traditional banquet hall reception, be sure to include activities for the children, especially during cocktail hour. Face painting, caricatures and sand and spin art are crowd pleasers. A disc jockey can certainly keep everyone entertained, and will usually offer a variety of packages to choose from, which could include a master of ceremonies, lights, dancers and giveaways. Be sure to give your DJ a list of special requests, such as significant dances and the child's favorite songs and artists.

For something different, you might consider a themed event. Theme parties have become a popular trend. Why not incorporate this idea into a Communion party? For example: A casual outdoor affair could have a carnival theme, complete with rides, games, clowns, jugglers, hot dog and ice cream carts and cotton candy. This is sure to please guests of all ages. Scale back on the number of attractions and, with a few colorful decorations and a little imagination, this very festive afternoon could work with many budgets. A fun theme for an indoor event could be The Wizard of Oz, Harry Potter or Spy Kids. Imagine cocktail hour (featuring mock Shirley Temples, of course) in Munchkinland or drinking a magic potion in Hogwarts dining hall.

The Communion season is a short one, so planning ahead is crucial, especially if your desire is to have the party at a site other than your home. Banquet halls and catering facilities book very quickly. As you begin to plan your big event, as with most events, consider the following: First and foremost, decide on a budget. Second, put together a guest list. (This is especially important if you are to use an off-site location.) Third, think about the type of party you would like to have (casual, formal, indoor, outdoor, themed, etc.) Fourth, secure a location that accommodates your budget, style, theme and number of guests. Once the date is set you can begin to book musicians, entertainment/activities and photographer, and select invitations.

Mail invitations approximately six to eight weeks prior to the event. You may want to give out-of-town guests notice prior to the invitations going out. If there are many out-of-towners, you can send out "save the date" postcards, but in most cases a phone call will do.

Remember though, much like that of a wedding, the ceremonial significance of this day is what counts. So, whether you choose to do something intimate or extravagant, plan it with your child in mind, and it will be a special day that you and your child will remember always.

Anna Maria Mannarino (ASID, IP, ISES, IRN) is the owner and president of Mannarino Designs Inc., Holmdel, and has been transforming spaces in the metro area for 12 years. E-mail inquiries to mannarinodesigns@comcast.net, or call (732) 741-1444.