Whether you’re tasked with planning a birthday bash for a family member or friend, or you’re taking the reigns and putting together the agenda for your own birthday, the fact remains that you only have one chance a year to do it right. That’s a lot of pressure, but don’t worry: you’ve got this! All you need is to set your sights on some exciting — yet affordable — birthday celebration ideas. Here are three that are guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face, and ensure that the occasion is remembered for many years to come:
1. Local Hotel Staycation
One of the most important obligations for any party planner is to ensure that their guests get home safely — which can be challenging and expensive for those who partake in multiple adult beverages. One of the best, and indeed most affordable ways to make this a non-problem is by booking a block of rooms at a local hotel. Find one with a party room that you can reserve, and speak to the manager about getting a discounted rate. And don’t feel that you need to head out to a 4 or 5-star hotel, either. Many 2 and 3-star hotels will have exactly what you need, and at a much lower cost.
2. Rent a Party Bus
Another way to celebrate a birthday in epic fashion is by renting a party bus, which is basically a stylish nightclub on wheels. You can pick-up and drop-off your guests at their door, and you don’t even have to go anywhere in particular. You can drive around until dawn — or until people get tired (whatever comes first!). What’s more, you can book themed party buses to reflect the motif of your bash, such as “Bachelor Party,” “Girl’s Night Out,” and so on.
3. Go Retro
And last but not least, you can hit the way-back playback button and go retro, which means decorating a home or party room to capture the essence of the 60s, 70s, 80s or 90s. And of course, you need your guests to buy into the throwback concept by dressing and styling themselves up accordingly. Don’t forget the music, either — nothing takes people back to the old days faster than a song from the past (did someone say The Eagles?).
Final Advice
Birthdays only happen once a year, and really, the whole idea of a birthday party is to celebrate with family and friends — not to count candles on a birthday cake. All of the ideas above will help you plan an unforgettable bash, while staying within your budget. Have fun!