To do pizza and a film for dd's next birthday?

[Rattusn]

We went to the effort of hiring a lovely space, doing loads of food, plenty of games organised etc this year, and nearly half of those who had RSVP'ed as coming didn't turn up (and didn't say anything). The space felt empty, and I was rather annoyed I had made so much effort, for people who were too rude to say they couldn't make it.

Next year I've told dd we are doing a small party for about 5 friends at home. She had asked for pizza and to watch a film together. Would this be acceptable? It would make me far less stressed about the lack of RSVPs, as I could just order pizza once the children arrive.

Ah, rat that sucks! I hope she wasn't too disappointed.

I'm sure she'll suprise herself with how much she likes a pizza/film party

How about home made pizzas could prepare the bases so all they have to do is decorate

7th and 8th birthdays were similar to this for ds. His 9th will be too. First year we went bowling and then pizza hut. This year was a cinema trip. Both times he had four friends. No cancellations, no party bags to sort etc. Much less stressful and cheaper.

Brian sadly she did notice, and the venue felt rather empty. I tried to focus on the special friends who were there, but I'm done with big parties.

I'm fed up with the lack of RSVP's as well. The majority did not bother to reply to the invite at all, despite it being bilingual, and inviting siblings. I would have put 'gift not required' too if I didn't think that dd would not forgive me for that!