Birthdays for the Autistic Person

So it's no secret I am on the Autism Spectrum; in actual fact, I'm quite happy being on the spectrum...  But what happens when you're an aspie on the spectrum, have sensory issues but want to celebrate you birthday with a party? 

Firstly, if you decide to have a party (as I am having for my 27th birthday this coming Saturday) I would recommend planning to feel exhausted for a good 24-48 hours afterwards.  My housemate and I are already prepared for this.  It's not all the games, preparation and cleaning up that will lead to this state of exhaustion for me, it's the large number of people and all the socialising and sensory stimuli that will be present.  Fortunatley I like everyone who is coming to my party (which is a huge bonus).

Parties can be extremely anxiety provoking for someone on the spectrum.  Some reasons follow:
- People!  People everywhere!
- Unpredictability (this has to be the worst part)
- Making social conversation (I can guarantee you not all of my guests will want to chat about pharmacology/toxicology, Rubik's Cubes and forensics with me for 3 hours!)
- Gluten and dairy containing foods (yes, they accentuate my autistic behaviours, but oh!  They taste so so good!)
- Reading people...
- Juggling activities like hosting and socialising.

How am I going to survive a birthday party I so desperately want?
1)  It's a really well planned party.  Guests were invited well in advance (a month) and this final week leading to the party I've been confirming with everyone whether they are definitely coming or not.
2)  Most food has been purchased well in advance (non-perishables)
3)  I will be using disposable bowls to serve lollies etc in!  No washing up!
4)  The party incorporates one of my special interests (I am having a giant Rubik's Cube cake!)
5)  I invited people who know me well and who I don't have to pretend to be too normal around - so I can have fun being myself.
6)  The party has a children's theme.  Kid's parties are centred around activities (not socialising and having to make conversation) and having activities allows for structure (and gets everyone involved).  So by making it a childrens' theme party I am able to fill the party time with activities and even have a schedule (very anxiety reducing to have a schedule).  It also guarantees I don't have to be able to make conversation the whole time...  I'll be able to engage through participation.
7)  Most of the party is going to be outside the actual house.  The inside of the house will serve as a retreat for anyone attending who is a little overwhelmed with the number of people and all of the sensory input.  Obviously as the birthday girl my opportunities to retreat will be minimal (but I have plenty of spectrum dwelling friends attending who may appreciate this escape). 
8)  I am minimising my exposure to socialising and social contact as much as I can leading up to the party so that I have plenty of socialising energy in reserve.
9)  Most things have been oragnised at least a week in advance (all the party bags were packed last weekend - and planned the weekend before that).  The cake has been gradually prepared throughout the week leading up to the actual party.  All the food is sitting on top of the plastic bowl it will be served in.  The outdoor area has been cleaned and the drinks are in the fridge ready and waiting!
10)  The final thing I have done to make this party enjoyable for myself (and hopefully others) is made it something I feel comfortable doing.  It's hard for guests to be comfortable at a party if the birthday boy/girl isn't happy with the event.

So here's to a well planned and anticipated party.  I'll update on how this autistic friendly party plan worked out next week...