We wanted to share some fun, inspiring ideas for hosting your child's next birthday party. So, we asked the best in the business, Jennifer Sbranti, Co-Founder & Editor-in-Chief of Hostess with the Mostess and Hostess Blog to share her tips & tricks for hosting a hassle-free, and FUN celebration for your little one.

Take it away, Jenn!

It’s time to celebrate your kid’s birthday! Take a deep breath and don’t stress. There are so many cool new trends that you can easily incorporate into your child’s next birthday celebration, and they just might be a bit easier than you think!

*All images courtesy of HWTM LLC www.hwtm.com*

1. Pick a theme, and then create your own hip version the guests will love. Whether it’s a very specific idea like a circus parade or a character theme, or something as general as a color palette or favorite pattern, having a theme to reference always makes your planning and decision-making processes for all aspects of the party so much easier.

2. Display framed photo collages or arrangements featuring your child—the guest of honor—at different stages throughout the last year. Simple frames are very inexpensive these days—you can find great frames at target, IKEA or craft stores for about $5 or less each. To tie the frames to your party décor, use craft paint or spray paint to add color, mat the photos using gift wrap or patterned paper that coordinates with your theme, or embellish the outside of the frames with fun 3-D details like candy, gumballs, mini animal figurines, and faux butterflies.

3. Creating custom paper confetti and cupcakes toppers is an easy & inexpensive way to tie your theme together. Use craft punches to punch out circles or shapes from scrapbook paper or downloadable party prints found online, then sprinkle the confetti throughout the party area or attach them to toothpicks to create easy, festive cupcake toppers.

4. Keep the ages of your guests in mind. If you’ll be hosting many young children, set up a special area for them to play so parents get a chance to enjoy some adult conversation too.

5. Play up the theme with decor that can also double as a favor. For example, set up a candy bar or dessert table using clear glass containers filled with bulk candy and treats. Label each candy so guests know what they are getting, and set up bags or “to go” containers for the kids to fill up on their favorites. Cake pops are a fun new trend that can tie into the party theme and double as a favor. Plus, they’re delicious!

Don’t stress, keep your budget in check, take advantage of inexpensive paper elements to dress up the party, and – most importantly – have fun with it!

For more information & inspiration for hosting parties, please visit www.hwtm.com.