Birthday party ideas for all ages

January 21, 2010

Almost everyone loves their birthday. It's like a personal holiday that allows you to reflect on the past year and be grateful for the friends and family in your life. Of course, it's also a great reason to throw a party!

If someone close to you will soon be celebrating their birthday, why not throw them a festive shindig to let them know how much you care?

There are plenty of great birthday party ideas out there, so check out your options before committing.

A very swanky fete

For friends who appreciate the finer things in life, organize a formal affair that boasts plenty of elegant and impressive touches.

Let guests know that it won't be just a casual get-together by sending out formal birthday invitations. Look for invitations that feature high-quality paper and calligraphy. Inform guests that formal attire is required so they'll know to dress up.

Consider giving the event a black and white theme for a chic and trendy vibe.

Before partygoers arrive, fill your party space will ornate birthday decorations like silver, black and white birthday balloons, streamers and plenty of candles.

Of course, a very fancy party requires a very fancy cake. Choose a tiered, frosted confection from your local bakery or make one yourself – a simple chocolate Bundt cake with a vanilla butter glaze will be as delicious as any store-bought dessert.

Toast to the guests of honor with some bubbly and enjoy the night!

Birthday parties for kids

It can be overwhelming to try and get deep into the mind of a seven-year-old. But if you're tasked with throwing a birthday party for a tiny tot or younger member of your family, just remember to incorporate colorful birthday decorations a full schedule of party activities.

Purchase plenty of birthday balloons in a variety of different styles. Fill them up with helium and allow them to float to the ceiling. Attach a string to the balloon's tie, and hand them out as party favors when the shindig is over.

Keep kids engaged by having plenty of party games prepared ahead of time. Even something as simple as Mother May I? could be a blast for the little ones.

Older children might be more engaged by crafts like creating iron-on designs for their t-shirts or making jewelry out of beads. Make a quick trip to the crafts store to get inspired.

Surprise parties

Surprise birthday parties might be the best of all. There's nothing quite as satisfying as seeing the shock and happiness on the guest of honor's face when they walk through the door and see a crowd of smiling well-wishers.

If you ever have the opportunity to throw a loved one a surprise party, go all out with birthday decorations and throw a bash that they won't soon forget.