Best Birthday Party Ideas for Adults

Create your guest list. Is this party for close friends only or will family or co-workers be invited too? A smaller guest list creates a more intimate setting, but if your pal is more extroverted, a huge birthday bash may be the way to go. If kids are invited, be sure to include non-alcoholic drinks, kid-friendly recipes, and activities to keep little ones busy.

Choose your date and party venue. Will your party be on your friend's birthday or on a weekend? If your party's on a week night, keep work commutes and kids in mind. Try to avoid scheduling a party on major holidays and try to find a date when most of your guests will be available. Decide on where to host your birthday party. Local restaurants may be a good location but have stricter rules on bringing in outside food, like cakes or cupcakes. If you're lucky enough to have room at your house or apartment, or have a large backyard, consider having your party at home. Just make sure parking won't be an issue.

Send out your invitations. A few weeks before your party date, send out your invites via snail mail or send a fun e-vite. If you're worried about costs, then ask each guest to bring a bottle of alcohol, dessert, or finger food.

Choose your party theme. What is your friend passionate about? Are they obsessed with pop culture or are they super stylish? Picking a unique party theme that matches your pal's personality is key. For example, if your friend loves Harry Potter, there are endless options for an excellent Harry Potter-themed party, from serving butterbeer to handing out wands as party favors. If your friend can't get enough of Bob's Burgers, then throw a fun backyard cookout where friends can compete to come up with the most unique flavored burger. Is your friend a fashionista? Try throwing a party using colors like black, white, gold, and hot pink for a Kate Spade-inspired party. Make sure to choose a theme your friend will love.

Plan your party menu. If you're having a small get together, then don't splurge on a large cake and make a delicious DIY cake at home. Cupcakes or brownies are great for larger crowds and are kid-friendly. If you're planning a huge bash, then consider opting for a large sheet cake or creating a buffet of several small desserts. Make sure to have savory finger foods, like appetizers and dip. For a smaller party crowd, make a special meal of your friend's favorite food.

Make your DIY decorations and set up your party venue. Decide on decorations that compliment your theme. Any complicated decorations should be completed ahead of time. If you'll be hosting your party at a restaurant or other eatery, make sure they're okay with decorations like streamers, hanging decorations, etc. Create DIY party favors to hand out to guests. Make sure all guests know where your party location is and can easily access parking.

Have a killer time! All of your hard work is over, so sit back and have a blast enjoying yourself. Your friend will love how much thought you've put into throwing them the best birthday party ever!

Keep food allergies in mind. As with any cookout or gathering, be aware of possible food allergies when creating your party menu. Be sure to ask about other dietary restrictions, such as whether your guests need gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan food.

Think about restaurant restrictions. If you'll be throwing your party at a local restaurant, see if you can possibly book a private room. Make sure they're okay with bringing in decorations or food, and have enough parking to accomodate all guests.

Have activities for kids. If little ones will be attending, make sure to have fun activities planned to keep kids occupied. Food and drinks should be kid-friendly.

Create a playlist to compliment your theme. If your party theme is based around a certain movie, then make sure to play the soundtrack. If your party is classy and elegant, then have something like jazz or vintage music playing. Colorful and bright parties should have a playlist filled with bubbly, upbeat pop music.

Document your party with fun photos. Consider setting up a photo booth filled with props so that party guests can create wacky photos or pass a camera around from guest to guest.

Make sure there's a designated driver. If you'll be serving alcohol, make sure there's a designated driver who can get guests home safely.

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