Throwing Your Own Party

Choose a time and place for your party. If you want to have a small, intimate gathering, try hosting the party at your home or see if you’re able to reserve an area at a local cafe. For larger parties, you may need to find somewhere like a restaurant or public park to hold your party. Choose a time where you think most of your guests could come and spend time with you while you celebrate.

For example, many people wouldn’t be able to come to a party at noon in the middle of the week. Instead, choose an evening or weekend to host the party. You may have to schedule your party on a day that isn’t your birthday.

Talk to your parents about hosting a birthday party before telling any friends about it.

Send invitations to the guests you want to attend 2-3 weeks in advance. Once you have a time and place chosen for your party, think about what people you want to spend time and celebrate with. Give each of your guests an invitation that clearly states the time, place, and expectations of the party. Make sure you send the invitations at least 2 weeks in advance so people have time to RSVP or let you know if they have other plans.

You can give out invitations in person, through the mail, or in a group message.

Realize that not every person you invite may be able to attend your party. If you notice that multiple people can’t make it, then you may be able to reschedule it for a different time.

Set up decorations to make your party feel more festive. The decorations you choose for your birthday party depend on what type of theme you want. If you want a classic birthday look, hang colorful streamers and inflate balloons so they can float around. Include party hats, signs or banners, and confetti to make your party more fun.

Some party venues may provide decorations like tablecloths or balloons, but you can still bring your own if you want to.

Provide enough food for your guests. Even though it’s your party, you still need to provide your guests with snacks or a meal depending on the time. If your party is only for a few hours in between meal times, then have things like chips and dip, vegetable platters, or cheese and crackers. If you’re planning a meal, choose something easy, such as pizza or burgers. Also, make sure that you provide enough drinks for your guests so they don’t get thirsty at your party.

Many locations with a birthday package offer drinks and meals for you and your guests.

If you’re able to, pay for catering so you don’t have to stress about preparing food.

Thank your guests for celebrating your birthday with you. Even though your guests will be celebrating your birthday, it’s important to let them know you appreciate them. At the end of your party, tell them that you’re thankful that they spent time to celebrate with you and that you’re glad they came. This makes your guests know that you care about them and that you enjoy their friendship.