You could hire an elephant, rent a fleet of mini motor cars or recreate the interior of Hogwarts.

But you’d rather not.

When birthday time comes around, put your faith in Betty Blythe. The West London deli and food pantry now hosts tea parties for kids of all ages, with homemade brownies, sarnies, butter-iced cupcakes and vintage teapots of hot chocolate.

A well-stocked dressing up box is available to all, as is a supply of sparkly makeup. Biscuit decorating and jewelry making workshops are optional, and helium balloons, party bags and a photographer can also be arranged.

So little guests can have their cake.

No doubt they’ll eat it, too.

Available at Betty Blythe, 73 Blythe Road, W14 0HP (020 7602 1177 or bettyblythe.co.uk).

GO
Design & Make It
What: A weekend packed with free activities for all the fam, including fashion workshops and storytelling.
Why: Free be.
When: Sat. & Sun., times vary.
Where: Somerset House, Strand, WC2R 1LA (020 7845 4600).

PREPARE
Prebaby Prep
What: New treatment for mums-to-be offers a skilled leg wax, pedi or mani and eyebrow threading in one session with the speedy Kamini.
Why: You’re a smooth operator.
When: Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: Kamini Holistic Beauty, 14-16 Lancer Sq., W8 4EP (020 7937 2411). Mention DailyCandy Kids to get the package for £98 (usually £150) until Aug. 20.

MAKE
Traditional Cuban Costume Workshop
What: Crafty kids (ages 5-11) create fiesta-fit frocks and suits out of paper and fabric.
Why: It’s smokin’.
When: Sun., 11 a.m.-noon.
Where: London International Gallery of Children’s Art, Waterlow Park Centre, Dartmouth Park Hill, N19 5JF. To book, call 020 7281 1111.