OP - how did the party go?

Yeah, doing this for the first time was stressful for me too. I analyzed how many kids typically RSVP No when the entire daycare class (30 kids) were invited. I rented a place with a max of 22 people. Higher than expected number of kids said Yes and I was soooo stressed out, especially when some parents asked to bring their siblings along and I had to say No. The following year, I learned my lesson, invited only 15 classmates in a venue with no max capacity, and it was so much better.

But OP, just pay up for the Carousel. If your child goes do daycare, you're already paying hundreds of dollars per week. I vote for save the $70 elsewhere. House repairs already cost you a ton. What is adding 70 to the deficit.

Anonymous wrote:My agenda
10:30 - 11:30 - arrive and play - finger snacks and water in the pavilion. Coloring pages for kids who want a break
11:30 carousel / bubble machine
12:00 - lunch (sandwich platters)
12:25 - cupcakes and singing - everyone goes home or stays to play

So you’re skipping the craft after all?

My agenda
10:30 - 11:30 - arrive and play - finger snacks and water in the pavilion. Coloring pages for kids who want a break
11:30 carousel / bubble machine
12:00 - lunch (sandwich platters)
12:25 - cupcakes and singing - everyone goes home or stays to play

Anonymous wrote:We went to Costco and the most cost effective seems to be those sandwich wheels and some fruit. Not going super elaborate with food but waters, cake, sandwich trays, and juice for kids is 120. We priced out pizza and it was the same cost. I am not even doing full sized sandwiches, but with 50 people it is 3.00 a person. I can’t figure out how to get it lower than that.

OP, just how bleak are your finances? Is this party going to mean you can't make your electric bill payment this month? Or are you just being cheap?

You are the host. You are supposed to provide for the guests you invited and make sure they are comfortable. Your guests will feel uncomfortable if you are visibly struggling with the cost.

RSVPs will change this week especially if you sent an evite and there will be a couple no shows as well. If money is tight, send someone to buy carousel tokens when everyone sits down to eat so you have an accurate count

Send the craft home in the goodie bag. Your DD will be too into playing to even care about it at the party.

Pizza, cut up fruit, water gallon jugs and cups if you want to spare the expense of individual water bottles, goldfish crackers and pretzels are also good to have on hand. Grocery store cupcakes are fine.

I ageee with the poster who suggested a new schedule and don’t break up pizza and cupcakes. Your schedule has 20+ four year olds corralled in the pavilion which is totally unrealistic. Enjoy the party!