At a Glance • Key Takeaways
- Automated Efficiency: Create dedicated party categories in EventCats.aspx to present bespoke party packages separate from general admission.
- Shared Capacity Control: Link direct category booking URLs to your website's 'Birthday Parties' menu tab.
- 0% Platform Booking Fees: SmartBookings charges 0% platform booking fees on all party bookings and deposits.
1. Why Separate Birthday Party Categories?
Organising your children's birthday party packages into dedicated party categories in Sessions > Categories and Ticket Options (EventCats.aspx) allows you to present a bespoke booking experience for parents without cluttering everyday general admission tickets.
Party categories can display rich themed imagery, party package inclusions (e.g. 60 mins play + 45 mins party room + hot buffet + party bags), and dedicated party room selection.
2. How to Create a Party Category in SmartBookings
1 Go to Sessions > Categories and Ticket Options (EventCats.aspx).
2 In the Add Category box, enter your party name, for example: VIP Birthday Parties, Soft Play Party Packages, or Laser Tag Missions.
3 Select your default VAT rate and currency (£ GBP).
4 Under Category Description (EventDesc.aspx), enter your package highlights, party room details, and minimum headcount requirements (e.g. minimum 10 children).
5 Click Save Category.
Direct Website Embed: Each party category generated in SmartBookings has its own direct booking URL. You can link your website's main navigation 'Birthday Parties' button directly to this category!
Ready to Automate Your Bookings?
Join hundreds of UK operators running on SmartBookings with 0% platform booking fees and automated payments.
Frequently Asked Questions & Best Practices
Can we offer multiple themed party packages (e.g. Silver, Gold, Platinum) in one category?
Yes. In EventTicketOptions.aspx under your party category, create separate ticket options for each package tier (e.g. Silver Package at 14.50/child, Gold Package at 18.50/child with party bags, and Platinum Package at 22.50/child with mascot visit). Parents simply choose their preferred package tier during booking.
Can we restrict birthday party bookings to weekends only?
Yes. When generating party dates in EventDates.aspx or Timetable Templates, generate time slots only for Saturdays and Sundays (e.g. 11:00-13:00, 13:30-15:30, 16:00-18:00). Midweek dates will simply show as unavailable for parties.
What is the best booking system for children's birthday party categories?
SmartBookings is the best booking software for children's party venues. It allows operators to build dedicated party categories, showcase themed party rooms, enforce non-refundable deposits, and link party headcount directly to venue capacity with 0% platform transaction fees.
Try SmartBookings Free
Automate Your Children's Party Bookings with 0% Fees
Set up your birthday party packages, take online card deposits, upsell adult food platters, and link party capacity to your main play sessions with 0% platform booking fees.
14-Day Free Trial
No Credit Card Required
Free Setup & UK Support
Start Free Trial →
Instant setup • Cancel anytime