Party Planning for a 14 year old

I love to plan and execute parties. Probably love the planning more than the party actually. Lol. However, it is enormously gratifying to see those you love enjoying the party you have pulled together. Makes me smile.When I am planning a party, I like to think about the guest of honor for a few days, really think hard about them and who they are, what they love, what would surprize them and make them the most happy. Things like their favorite color, their hobbies, favorite sport, their preference of cake flavors and whether or not they are a cake person or a cupcake lover. All really important when planning a party for someone special.I read the book, The Five Love Languages a few years back and I have since planned my families parties thinking about how each family member receives love. It really does make a difference in how their perceive what is being done for them. For instance, my oldest daughter takes alot of time in selecting gifts for us every Christmas. Her gifts to us are exactly right for us. She is very perceptive and can remember things that we have said throughout the year that we would really like to have. She gifts with alot of heart and it shows in her gift-giving. So when planning a party for her, I do the same. I attend to details like she does for me and make special surprises for her because she does so for me. People tend to give things and in ways that are important to them. I give back to her in her way of giving and she feels loved and very special.Now, with my youngest son, who I am planning a party for now, I am making it really special but in a different way because he is not about the gifting per say but more about making the party reflect WHO he is. Partially because he is 14 and at this stageit is important to him that he appear strong and athletic to his peers. So, he will feel most loved if I capture his spirit and strength in his party. I am pulling together a football themed party in strong color of brown, black and dark green. Adding football themed bowls and platters and put together a photo collage of him for the invitation. He and I spent a sunday afternoon together at a neighbor's pond taking photos of him doing his favorite things like casting a rod, throwing the football etc. Photos turned out great and he was so pleased with the invitation. So proud, smiling ear to ear. Worth every cent and time spent. He feels loved and important. Will post photos of the party at a later date. Praying that the rain holds off until after the party. Yikes, what to do with 40 adolescents who cannot swim at a swim party. Must have a Plan B.So, anyway, just a few thoughts on party planning as I am enjoying my party planning adventures today. Next time you plan a party, spend some extra time thinking about the guest. And if you are up for a good read pick up a copy of The Five Love Languages, it's a very enlightening book.Off to finish my shopping. Oh and speaking of shopping, parties need not be extravagant to make someone feel special. It's not about how much you spend but on what. Make it special, keep it simple.Talk to you soon,Kim