X Marks the Spot for a SpongeBob Adventure

Last month, I Am Modern was treated to a weekend of parties in fabulous Hilton Head, South Carolina by the retailer Party City (www.partycity.com). Publishers and their kids from around the US were shown the latest trends by home stylists and celebrity event planner, Tara Riceberg. We will highlight additional parties throughout the coming weeks to give you the low-down on all the hottest trends.

It so much fun to see how Tara transformed a home on Hilton Head Island into  “a pineapple under the sea.” Our group was invited to help find SpongeBob and Patrick the Starfish’s sunken treasure. 

Layering bright royal blue and ice blue crepe streamers along the ceiling created the under the sea look.  

Mateys devoured the SpongeBob pirate inspired lunch buffet of “Krabby patties,” ”Larry the Lobster” sliders, and sliced “pineapple under the sea.” Then the “pirates” were off on a hunt for buried treasure hidden below at “Bikini Bottom.” A garland of children’s bathing suit bottoms were strung on lines with wooden clothespins and crossed to mark the “X” on the door. Inside the room, children found a piñata filled with pirate booty.  

Tara also shared the following tips for festive, budget-friendly birthday parties:

• A Pirate’s Life:
  • With the return of Jack Sparrow in theatres this spring, pirate themed parties will be on the rise for young boys everywhere.
  • Make sure all hearties dress the part by outfitting them in eye patches, pirate hats, bandanas and hooks. 

• Set the Mood with Food:
  • Style the menu according to theme.
  • A SpongeBob pirate party calls for burger sliders and tater tots appropriately names “Krabby patties” and “Barnacle Bill balls.”
  • Use pineapples as food cardholders on a buffet by standing whole pineapples up right and placing coordinating food cards from Party City within the stems.
    
    
• X Marks the Spot:
  • Entertainment is always a must at any over-the-top event but certainly at a birthday for young boys.
  • Invite the children to embark on a treasure hunt and make sure to provide a treasure map with clues leading to a piñata filled with chocolate golden coins or the guests party favor loot.  
  • Games like Party City’s pineapple bowling make a great obstacle along the way to finding the hidden treasure.
    
    
  
• Cake with Character:  
  • Birthdays are not complete without the cake and ice cream.
  • Party City carries character cake molds perfect for coordinating with a child’s favorite TV show or movie.
  • Ice cream bars are a popular alternative to candy bars and compliment the traditional cake – just make sure to offer a variety of everyone’s favorite toppings.