Get Ready, Get Set, Play Ball

• 1). Invitations are the first impression of any party. The first step for a successful football inspired party is to send out invitations that impart the theme of the event. There are several options for creative invites including making cut-out photos of the party recipient posed as their favorite NFL player. To do this use a computer and download pictures of your child's favorite NFL player. Using PhotoShop or similar program cut and paste a picture of your child over the player's face to make an authentic replica. Print the photos and fill in party info on the back.
  
  
• 2). One of the first considerations is the atmosphere. Create a fun and festive atmosphere full of football related props. Footballs are obviously a must. Utilize party stores where you may find inexpensive small plastic footballs and helmets. Use solid tablecloths and accessories that reflect the colors of your child's favorite team. Use any props that you may have including football posters, cardboard cutouts or team paraphernalia to create a sportsman atmosphere. Scoreboards or football schedules add a nice touch. These can be made easily with a steady hand, poster board, a bold marker and a ruler.
  
  
• 3). A football-inspired gala should have fun finger foods in abundance. Find recipes over the Internet several days in advance to ensure that when game day approaches you are prepared. Look for popular appetizers such as stuffed potato skins, which can be made to resemble footballs. Other common goodies may include football or helmet-shaped cookies. Try some healthy snacks such as cream cheese celery sticks, a layered bean dip and fruit wedges. Gatorade or another sports drink could be served straight from an ice chest to resemble the way drinks are served on game day.
  
  
• 4). It is crucial to provide entertainment. Games and activities will vary significantly depending on the age of the guest of honor as well as the invitees. Ideas include a football bean bag toss, which can be made out of plywood and a small football shaped bean bag. Cut the plywood into the shape of a goal. Be sure to leave a hole in the goal for the football bean bag. Paint it accordingly. Using two scrap pieces of wood fashion two legs that can be attached to the goal from behind propping it up. Sew a small football shaped bean bag or use small plastic footballs and allow children to take turns trying to throw them in the goal.
  
  
• 5). Once all the food is completed and games are set up it is time for the adults to let the kids have fun. Be sure to incorporate drinks and finger foods for the parents of partygoers. Turn on the game and enjoy.