My daughter just turned one and I spent the last two weeks to think about how to celebrate this important step. Indonesians have a tradition of making a big fuss about the children's birthdays, especially the first, and those who can afford it can make your wedding not look like much at all in comparison. If you've been invited to one of these extravagant events, you might be intimidated to invite them to return to a more modest celebration. Here are some suggestions.
places
Parks Play Indoor
game parks inside are an easy option; a reasonable price and there is one in almost every single shopping malls in Jakarta. It may be good to shop around because prices vary greatly. Indoor playgrounds are perfect for parents on-the-go. Facilities keep kids busy and there is no need to plan all kinds of activities, however, if you want a little entertainment, most of them offer birthday party packages, including food , decorations, face painting, DJ, etc. They have food service, but the food is not always the healthiest. It is also possible to bring your own cake.
Price :. The cheapest places are starting to Rp.50,000 per child
Some addresses:
- Pasya Playground and Corner (Pasaraya Blok M)
- Chipmunks (Mega Mall Bekasi & building Colony Kemang Raya): http: //www.chipmunks.co.id
- Lollipops Playland and Cafe (Senayan City, Gandaria City, Kelapa Gading Mall) http://www.indonesia.lollipopsplayland.com/
The playground at Kemang Dalam is a very interesting option where you can have a simple gathering children or a more organized setting with food and other entertainment. However, be aware that the place does not close for other customers because there are a membership system in place, which can be a great opportunity to meet new people. More the merrier, they say
Price :. Starts Rp.140,000 Rp.75,000 per child per adult for entrance fees and food
Email : the.playground@hotmail.com
event organizers
Home birthday parties can be a great option. You can opt for a simple event with a few games and a cake or go and order bouncy castles, clowns and more. There are several organizers of events that can plan your special day from A to Z. They can also provide to the card options if you are looking for a magician, decorations, face painting or piñata. They can make the dream birthday party of your child come true. It is a more expensive option.
Here are some options. I have not tried them, but know people who have and were happy with their services
- Jingles Party: http://www.jinglesparty.com
- Ceria Distraction: http: //www.ceriaparty.com
- Carousel Kids Party Organizers: caroussel_kidzclub@yahoo.com~~number=plural
Restoration
There are many places in Jakarta that offer affordable food. Among others, Uppercrust has diversified and complete menu, including appetizers, main dishes, cakes and fruit plates. They can adapt to your needs and preferences and provide samples if you want to taste before ordering. They have a barbecue option and they provide food and staff, allowing you to focus on your guests entertained and enjoy this special time with your little one.
site Uppercrust: http://uppercrustjakarta.com
cake
You may be amazed by the impressive cake decorations options out there, but I find too often turned down by the taste. Here are some tasty options:
- The Harvest Cakes offer a wide range, yet affordable cakes, sweet but very tasty: http://www.harvestcakes.com/
- For a more upscale option, the Mulia Hotel Chocolate Boutique pastry chef can make your dream into a beautiful cake without MSG and refined sugar: http://www.hotelmulia.com/mobile/mainpages/sub/dining/chocolate- shop
most supermarkets have paper birthday hats, candles and trumpets, packing if you find yourself in need of last minute supplies. But I find that the Grand Lucky has more choices at a reasonable price and also goodies bags and most loads. You can also try to visit a market to buy loads. You might be surprised what you find with a very limited budget.
What I decide to do?
After shopping around a lot and talk to other parents, I decided to opt for a part of the pool of the house to celebrate the first birthday of my little girl. I thought it would be a great opportunity to meet neighbors, as we have just moved into a new house. I decided not to seek the services of a party organizer and do a lot myself, but I'm lazy and I have a limited budget so I sent all invitations by email and put some signs in our compound.
I took care of the decorations and put up pink and white balloons on trees. I wanted the adults to have fun too, so I find games that children can play on their own without the need of an artist. I put on some paint and brushes and hung a white sheet between two trees for kids to paint something for the birthday girl, I'm also on some chalk and a lot of bubbles. Children ran between stations all day and we ended up with a colorful mural and driveway. My little one had a blast and collapsed in bed for 12 hours straight after that!