Build-a-bear birthday party, foood

[Riva]

My daughter is having her birthday party in Build-a-bear this year. It is on a week day, after school. I am considering food options now, as they don't allow food in the shop. It seems the local McDonald's is a popular option, but I have the feeling that would not go down well as most of the mums seem very health-minded. I will look at other food places nearby but failing that, I am also considering doing packed/takeaway boxes. Never seen that being done though, has anyone?

Don't they have a relationship with a local Pizza Hut? Most seem to push that when you call them to ask.

WHen my DD has been to those parties, she's always gone right to Pizza Hut afterwards...bt of a pain as you have to crocodile the kids there and that means extra parents often.

Is there a park nearby for the packed lunch thing? I would think that's a great idea....but what if it rains? You could speak to some of the smaller cafes and see if they'll cater for you? They might cut you a deal...maybe you could arange a "party platter" for each child...little sandwich, crisps, carrots, cucumber and a cake and drink?

I don't mind McDonalds at all by the way....our school is VERY middle class and my DD has been there a couple of times with parties.

We have a build the bear type party at home earlier this year and cooked for them which was far easier. Have you considered something like that?

Thank you all for your ideas! One of the difficulties is that the party is after school on a week day. Build-a-bear have confirmed they can let the party run until 5:30pm (they close at 6 and need time to clear up) but most local food places close at 6 as well (it is a shopping centre). So by the time we got there, there would be only a few minutes for the childrent to eat...

I guess a party platter for each child would be fine provided the weather is fine, and we can have a picnic in the local park.

thanks again!