2nd bday parties

septbaby2008

So last year we spent a TON of money on two birthday parties for ds...one for his "friends" and one for family.  Looking back, it was fun and I'm glad we did it for his first birthday, but not sure I want to do that again this year.  My dh has a huge family...both of his parents have tons of brothers and sisters...so when we have events there are always a bunch of people that come.  I'm still in the beginning stages of planning his party, and am considering doing just family this year...but my question is what would you serve at a party in the park?  I really want it to be super simple and have even considered having the party from 3 til 5pm and just serving cake and ice cream.  Someone I talked to about this suggested ordering sub sandwiches from schnucks and just having the sandwiches and chips along with the cake and ice cream.  I'm not opposed to cooking, I just want it to be easy since it will be for around 40 people. Considering the weather here could go super hot, rainy, freezing cold, etc...I'm hoping a party in the park isn't a bad idea.

weebaby

we did 2-4pm and had chips, dip, apps and cupcakes and cake.  it was perfect and no one complained about not having lunch served.  i listed on the invite that we would just have apps and dessert.

6fsn

Our families travel anywhere from 45 mins to 3 hrs to get to the parties so they tend to turn into all day affairs.  Since people are usually here from noon to 8 we serve meals. 

If people are local I see nothing wrong with serving cake and ice cream and playing. 

armywife7205

HAHA.... order sandwiches! I totally contemplated that and I am sort of kicking myself.  In my family... it is sort of understood that there will be food. Although most people who are coming Sat. (OMG it is Sat) are friends.