A milestone birthday, whether you’re turning 50, 60 or 85, can be the perfect occasion to organize a special party. The elements of a great party are a good host, good or interesting food, great music – whether a band, DJ or playlist – fun decorations, something interactive for guests to do and be a part of, and a good mix of people invited. You can plan the party on your own, hand the reins to a professional event planner, or ask a friend or family member to take charge. Regardless of who is doing the planning, there are a number of things to consider to ensure that everyone has fun – without breaking the bank.
Here’s how to throw a milestone bash to remember.
1. Set a budget
The first step is to figure out what you can spend. Once you figure out how much you’re comfortable spending, a party planner can help you stick to that budget. Or, if you’re planning the party on your own, you can start with the big-ticket items, like the venue and catering, and continue working down your list of priorities. If you’re looking to stretch your budget, consider cutting back your guest list. This allows you to spend more per guest on things like food. You might also consider different dining options.
2. Set the date
Decide on the date of the party, preferably close to the person’s actual birthday. Setting the date for a milestone birthday party depends on several factors, including the availability of the birthday person and key guests, as well as any special considerations such as holidays or significant events.
3. Choose a location
The next big decision is choosing where the party will take place.
a. At home
Hosting a party in your own home or backyard tends to be the most affordable option, but there are tradeoffs: You may end up running around making sure guests have something to drink or know where the bathroom is, or if you also assume the role of home chef, that might keep the guest of honor in the kitchen instead of chatting with friends. Hiring a caterer could cost more, but it will free you up to relax and mingle with guests. Another option is to go potluck style and ask everyone to bring a dish to share. If you wish to cook, choose to serve something that can be prepared easily prior to guests arriving.
b. Off-site
There are any number of spaces available for hosting a party – from an events room in a community center to a private room at a restaurant. Paying for a venue will certainly be more expensive than a house party, and it may also come with restrictions, like a requirement to use the venue’s caterer instead of bringing in your own food. A major benefit of an off-site party, however, is that you won’t have to worry about the setup or the cleanup.
c. Outdoors
If you’re planning an outdoor milestone birthday party, you’ll need to consider additional factors such as weather, space, and logistics. You might love the idea of an al fresco party, but you’ll need a plan B or the ability to cover the space with a tent in case of inclement weather. It is important to feel good about your backup plan because there is a good chance it will be used and you don’t want to feel disappointed or disorganized if the backup plan is used for the party.
3. Pick a theme
It’s not required, but attaching a theme to a party can bump things up a notch and make it even more memorable. The theme is like the “story” or “feeling of your event”. It sets the tone for the entire party and should be shared with all the vendors so everyone understands what guests should feel the instant they arrive at your milestone birthday event.
4. Make a guest list
Make a list of friends, family members, and acquaintances that the birthday person would like to invite. Your budget can help determine how many guests you can afford to host. Also, ensure that the venue can accommodate the number of guests you plan to invite. For milestone birthdays, make sure you invite guests who represent each important phase of your life, and include a mix of family and friends.
5. Send invitations
Distributing invitations for a milestone birthday event is a crucial step in ensuring guests are informed and excited about the celebration. Send out invitations well in advance, ideally 4-6 weeks before the party date. You can choose traditional paper invitations, digital invitations, or even create a Facebook event. Include all the necessary details such as date, time, venue, dress code (if any), RSVP deadline, and any special instructions.
6. Plan for the day
Planning for the day of the milestone birthday party is crucial to ensure that everything runs smoothly and that everyone enjoys the celebration to the fullest.
a. Plan the decorations
Planning decorations for a milestone birthday party involves creating a festive atmosphere that reflects the personality and interests of the birthday person. Decorate the venue according to the chosen theme. This may include balloons, streamers, banners, table centerpieces, and other decorative items. Personalize the decorations to reflect the milestone age and the interests of the birthday person.
b. Organize food and drinks
Organizing food and drinks for a milestone birthday party involves planning a menu that caters to the preferences of the birthday person and their guests. Decide on the menu based on the time of day. You can choose to have a sit-down dinner, a buffet, or a selection of hors d’oeuvres and finger foods. Don’t forget to include birthday cake or cupcakes for the cake-cutting ceremony. Arrange for drinks, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.
c. Entertainment and activities
Organizing entertainment and activities for a milestone birthday party is essential to keep guests engaged and create a lively atmosphere. Plan entertainment and activities to keep guests entertained throughout the party. This could include music, dancing, games, photo booths, speeches or toasts, and any other activities that the birthday person enjoys.
d. Capture memories
Capturing memories at a milestone birthday party is essential for preserving the special moments and creating lasting keepsakes for the birthday person and their guests. Hire a photographer or designate someone to capture photos and videos throughout the event. These memories will be cherished for years to come.
e. Plan a special tribute
Planning a special tribute for a milestone birthday party is a thoughtful way to honor the birthday person and celebrate their life and achievements. Consider organizing a surprise for the birthday person, such as a slideshow of photos and messages from friends and family, a performance, or a heartfelt speech.
f. Prepare favors or gifts
Preparing favors or gifts for guests at a milestone birthday party is a thoughtful way to show appreciation for their attendance and to commemorate the special occasion. Show appreciation to guests by preparing party favors or small gifts to thank them for attending the celebration. Additionally, consider giving a meaningful gift to the birthday person to commemorate the milestone occasion.
7. Add a special touch
Adding a special touch to a milestone birthday party can elevate the event and make it even more memorable. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Personalized decor: Incorporate personalized decorations that highlight significant moments and achievements in the birthday person’s life. This could include photos, memorabilia, and other sentimental items arranged creatively throughout the venue.
- Memory lane: Create a “memory lane” display featuring photos, mementos, and milestones from different stages of the birthday person’s life. Guests can take a stroll down memory lane and reminisce about special moments shared with the birthday honoree.
- Customized entertainment: Arrange for customized entertainment that reflects the birthday person’s interests and passions. This could include hiring a live band or DJ to play their favorite songs, organizing a karaoke session, or hiring performers who specialize in their favorite genre of music or dance.
- Interactive activities: Plan interactive activities that encourage guests to participate and engage with each other. This could include a DIY cocktail station, a themed trivia game based on the birthday person’s life, or a group activity like painting or crafting.
- Signature cocktail: Create a signature cocktail or mocktail inspired by the birthday person’s favorite flavors or memories. Give it a special name related to the milestone age or a significant aspect of their life. Serve it as the featured drink at the party.
- Message board or guestbook: Set up a message board or guestbook where guests can leave heartfelt messages, well wishes, and memories for the birthday person to cherish. This provides a keepsake that they can look back on long after the party is over.
- Surprise element: Incorporate a surprise element into the party to add an extra element of excitement. This could be a surprise guest, a special performance, or a reveal of a heartfelt tribute video created by friends and family.
- Themed food stations: Set up themed food stations or culinary experiences that reflect the birthday person’s favorite cuisines, travel destinations, or culinary adventures. This adds an element of novelty and indulgence to the celebration.
- Outdoor activities: If the weather permits, consider hosting the party outdoors and organizing outdoor activities such as lawn games, a bonfire, or a sunset picnic. This allows guests to enjoy the natural surroundings and adds a relaxed vibe to the celebration.
- Late-night snack bar: Create a late-night snack bar featuring the birthday person’s favorite treats and comfort foods. Offer a variety of sweet and savory options to satisfy guests’ cravings as the party winds down.
8. Finalize details
Finalizing details for a milestone birthday party involves ensuring that all aspects of the event are well-planned and organized. Double-check all arrangements and confirmations a few days before the party. Make sure you have everything you need, from decorations to catering, to ensure a smooth and successful event.
9. Enjoy the celebration
On the day of the party, relax and enjoy the celebration with the birthday person and guests. Take a moment to soak in the atmosphere and appreciate the joy and excitement of the celebration. Focus on being present in the moment and enjoying the company of friends and loved ones. Ensure to mingle, dance, and create lasting memories together.
10. Planning for someone else
If you’re organizing a party for a friend or relative, make sure you’re guided by their taste and preferences. Think about their favorite things. Work in a special element about the guest of honor. There doesn’t have to be a true theme, but something that will make the honoree feel valued and appreciated. For example, if the honoree loves golf, you don’t have to make the party a golf theme, but it would be cute to add cookies with a golf club design on them and give those out as favors.
