The Ultimate Birthday Party Planning Guide

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Updated 05/04/19

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A birthday is always a time for celebration and, unlike other celebrations during the year, a birthday focuses on one special person. If there's a special person in your life, whether it's a parent, a boyfriend or girlfriend, a spouse or a best friend, show them just how much they mean to you by hosting a party for their next birthday.

01 of 11

Milestone Birthday Party Ideas

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All birthdays are special, but some are more special than others. Think back to those birthdays when you were teased, congratulated, or celebrated in an extra special way. It was probably a milestone birthday which can happen when you reach legal age, a new decade, or one of the quarters of a century. So, basically, there's a milestone opportunity every few years. Which means another chance to become creative if you're planning someone's milestone birthday party. There are several things to consider when you plan one of these special parties. This article will take you through those planning steps.
02 of 11

50th Birthday Party Ideas

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There are milestone birthdays, and then there are even more special milestone birthdays. Such as 50 years old. That milestone usually catches the attention of friends and they'll let you know it in either a very gentle, considerate way, or by telling you just how old you really are! If you're planning a 50th birthday party for someone, here are ideas for making the day special in a more gentle way that will still be lots of fun.
03 of 11

100th Birthday Party Ideas

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A 100th birthday may just be the granddaddy of them all. So few of us actually reach that number that we're thrilled to know someone who does. They've lived so many years and have so many memories and accomplishments to share that it shouldn't be difficult to plan a celebration befitting the occasion. But if you're stumped for a few creative ways to dramatize this milestone, look no further!
04 of 11

Summertime Birthday Party Ideas

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I'm a summer baby. It is always hot and sweaty out on a mid-July birthday. All people want is cool and refreshing food and drinks to take their mind off the heat. So, if you're hosting a party during the summer, this menu will help you put everyone in a fantastic mood so they can enjoy the part from start to finish.

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05 of 11

50th Birthday Gift Ideas

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It's so easy to choose gifts for kids. They're always telling you about their latest interests and showing you their latest collection or creation. And you know those toy manufacturers are more than happy to comply with the hot fads by making add-on products. Adults, on the other hand, do nothing but work, right? Don't be fooled. There are many fun things you can get for a grownup birthday gift too. You just have to take a few extra minutes to think about it. This list will give you a good place to begin.
06 of 11

Use a Theme

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Kiddie birthday parties are often designed around a theme. Are they at the pink princess stage? The pirate or race car driver phase? Monkeys? Dinosaurs? Will there be games? Or if there's a television or music celebrity they love, bam! you have a theme for a party. Well, we're here to tell you that grownups like themes too, especially if it's an all-ages birthday party. If you're planning one of those cross-generational events, a Nifty Fifties Soda Fountain Theme will be appropriate for all guests at your party.
07 of 11

Make It a Surprise

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While we're on the subject of theme parties, a surprise party is in itself a theme. But it isn't for the faint of heart. You really need to know your guest of honor to be sure they won't pass out from the shock or be very upset with you that they showed up in dirty clothes from doing chores all day, only to be seen by a room full of well-dressed and well-coiffed guests. Not a good idea. If you do decide to proceed with this plan anyway, here are the steps you should take to make sure it really is a surprise.
08 of 11

An Elegant Birthday Party

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There are some people, and from what I've been reading more than you would imagine, who are a bit introverted and enjoy smaller get-togethers over big bashes. They like the intimacy and conversation that comes with a small, close group of friends or family. And since your guest list won't be that large, you can afford to splurge a bit on your menu and party supplies and make it an elegant birthday celebration.

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09 of 11

Party Checklist

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Hosting a get together isn't difficult once you have organized the details. It's getting to that point and making sure you know what needs to be done when that can be overwhelming and discouraging. But, take heart, this handy checklist will take you through all of the details you need to remember so that you can focus on the fun and not stress over your to-dos.
10 of 11

How Many Drinks Do You Need?

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You never want to run out of drinks when you entertain. Of course, you don't want to buy too many and be stuck with more than you can store. With these helpful tips, you'll know just what to buy to keep your party stocked with glasses and drinks.
11 of 11

How Much Food Do You Need?

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If you're worried about drinks then you're probably also worried about food. You don't want your guests to leave your party and go looking for food after. This article will help you plan how many portions you need for appetizers, entrées, and dessert. Then, of course, there's always the most important thing: the cake!