Unless you happen to have a birthday very early in the year, chances are you (or someone close to you) has a birthday still to come in 2017.
If you’re a blogger like me, sometimes the pressure to pull of a pinterest worthy party is a thing, every year.
But when it comes down to it, parties are a great excuse to get everyone together, make memories and have an all round good time.
Here are some of the ways you can plan an epic birthday party, either for yourself or someone else.
Decide on a Theme
Setting a theme is a fun way to go about planning a party. It helps to bring everything together, and many people love having an excuse to dress up.
It could be anything from a ‘back to prom’ or Hollywood glamor theme to a toga party, pirates, film characters- whatever your heart desires!
Try not to go with a theme that’s not too overdone, that way your party will stand out and be even more memorable. If you’re throwing the party for someone else, have a good think about the things they love most and go from there.
Get Your Home (Or Venue) Party Ready
Decorating your home or the venue will make it look extra special. If you’re crafty, you could make some decorations yourself using DIY sites as a source of inspiration.
Decide on your color palette and incorporate it into varying yet complimentary patterns and prints.
Designate a space for people to take photos. Ensuring a beautiful background and items to frame the shot.
Set the mood with the lighting, and the right music can take a party from good to great with just a bit of planning.
Keep all of these small details in mind when planning the day. Putting yourself in your guest shoes and thinking about what details you would notice in someones home.
Have Fun With The Food and Drink
Get creative in the kitchen and create a cupcake tower or a novelty birthday cake.
If you’re not much of a cook, focus on the smaller pieces you feel comfortable with (a crazy charcuterie board, lots of little toasts) or hiring a professional to help create an easy menu. It’s always a safe bet to order at your favorite restaurant.
If your friends consist of foodies, consider throwing a potluck where everyone brings a dish, or if the weather is good fire up the grill. Decide how relaxed or formal you want the food to be which will help you to decide.
For drinks, you could set up a drinks station to allow guests to help themselves. If you’re doing a brunch, I love bellini and bloody mary bars.
If you have an existing bar cart, make it more of a focal point with a bit of extra decor.
I love to mix and match glasses of varying heights and patterns while staying within the same color palette. It stops the table from feeling too forced, planned, or perfect.
Take Photos
Designate a space for people to take photos. Ensuring a beautiful background and items to frame the shot.
If the budget allows, considering renting a photo booth which would allow you and all of your guests to get incredible pictures of the day without the hassle of the picture taker being excluded.
If your budget is on the smaller side, you can set up your own photo booth. Find a plain wall and buy fun props, like the oh so popular inflatable numbers to signify your new age.
Create your own custom Snapchat filters to match your color scheme and encourage people to capture (and share) the evening. These can be personalized however you like.
Another fun thing I like to do, is dress up the bathroom everyone will be using. Frame the mirror, provide mints and a fancier soap, and write a fun saying on your mirror.
Plan a Little Me Time
Don’t forget to carve out a hiding place for yourself if you need a minute or two to breathe. Planning and executing a party can be stressful and downright tiring.
Popping into a quite space can help you gather your thoughts, reinvigorate you, and get you ready for the next few hours with your guests.
Don’t Forget to Shine
Add a bit of sparkle to your day, whether it be in your outfit, makeup, or fun sparklers you hand out to guests when they’re on their way out.
Every day you’re able to bring your friends and loved ones together is a chance to celebrate. Make sure they feel loved and celebrated!