Oscars ninth party was very much a last minute affair. His approaching birthday had me undecided for weeks as to whether we would mark it with his friends or just a quiet celebration with his siblings at home. My indecision most years, is based purely on whether I feel up to arranging and hosting a gathering (I find social meet ups on a large scale anxiety inducing – who doesnt?) Also, the weather is often poor (his birthday is at the end of October) and a restricted budget with which to work, given the close proximity to christmas. In the end, I threw myself in at the deep end and invited all his classmates and set to organising our meet up with a days notice.

An outdoor celebration seemed the most affordable option. After picking our location – some woods 30 miles from home – I found myself loading a shopping trolley with party food (before i’d even asked any guests!) and less than 12 hours later we all gathered amongst the trees.

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And, it was hands down one of the most relaxed and simplest of birthday parties I’ve ever hosted. Here’s what we did:

• I asked parents if their kids could bring a rucksack with a change of clothes and a flask of juice (making an easier load for me to carry to the party site)
• All of the kids arrived wearing waterproofs or old clothes, ready and prepared to get as mucky as they liked (always worthwhile reminding parents)
• Our party was 2-4 so I packed a picnic of sausage rolls, boiled eggs, croissants and cake.
• Tins of food were laid out and napkins keep on hand.
• Rainbow coloured bunting was hung between the trees. I’m glad I made this effort as it only enhanced the party atmosphere. Battery powered fairy or festoon lights would have been magical too.
• Blankets were laid on the ground which the kids sat on to eat birthday cake. These also came in handy when they inevitably got wet. Held up they offered privacy whilst they changed.
• And the biggest saving? No party bags as it was so last minute, and really, most kids were happy to leave with a handful of food.

Our day was pretty much perfect. In amongst the trees, we were sheltered from the wind and the rain only began to fall as we were calling it a day. The glittering sunset danced through the trees as I packed up all the empty tins and Oscar declared it ‘the best party EVER!’.

Have you hosted an autumn birthday party outdoors, I’d love to hear!