How to Plan a Birthday Party for Adults Within Budget

If you’re reading this, it means you’re in charge of planning a birthday party for an adult. And if you’re planning a birthday party for an adult, that means you’re probably feeling some way about it.

If you’re anything like me, you have no idea where to start. I mean, what do adults even do for fun? Besides drink, of course. Luckily, I’ve planned my fair share of adult birthday parties (including my own), and I’ve learned something about what does—and doesn’t—work.

Birthdays are a time to celebrate another year of life and all that comes with it. But sometimes, an adult planning a birthday party can feel a bit lame. After all, you’re not in elementary school anymore, and you don’t have the same birthday party options as you did when you were a kid.

So how do you plan a birthday party for adults that’s actually fun? Keep reading because I’m going to share an ultimate guide on how to plan an epic birthday party for adults.

Related: How To Throw a Virtual Birthday Party

Things to Consider Before Planning a Birthday Party

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of party planning, let’s first answer a few important questions that can help you determine things for the birthday party.

Who Is the Birthday Boy or Girl?

This may seem an obvious question, but it’s important nonetheless. The answer to this question will help determine the overall theme and tone of the party.

For example, if the birthday girl is a wine lover, you may consider having a wine-tasting party. Or if the birthday boy is a big fan of beer, you could have a beer-tasting party.

What Is the Budget?

Another important question to consider when planning a birthday party is the budget. How much money do you have to work with?

This will help determine what kind of party you can have and how many people you can invite. If you’re on a tight budget, you may consider having a small party at home.

But if you have a little bit more money to work with, you could have a bigger party at a venue like a restaurant or a bar.

What Is the Guest List?

The next question to consider is who you will invite to the party. Is this a close group of friends? Family members? Acquaintances? The guest list will help determine the overall tone of the party.

For example, if you’re only inviting close friends, you may want to have a more intimate party. But if you’re inviting a large group of people, you may want to have a more laid-back party.

Related: Awesome Things To Do on Your Birthday

How to Plan the Best Adult Birthday Party?

You can do perfect birthday party planning by following each step I mentioned below.

Start with a Guest List

The first step in planning any party is to create a guest list. This will help you determine the overall size and scope of the party. With that you can also make a budget for the party.

It’s important to be selective when creating your guest list. You want to ensure that you only invite people you know will have a good time. Also think about that children.

Because some of your guests might bring their kids. So if you’re uncomfortable with that, it’s important to clarify it.

Set A Budget For Birthday Party

As mentioned before, the budget is important when planning a birthday party. Take some time to consider how much money you have to work with.

This will help you determine what kind of party you can have and how many people you can invite. This way you can also set a realistic budget for the party. Having a budget will help you stay on track and avoid overspending.

Choose a Birthday Party Venue

The next step is to choose a venue for the party. This will be determined by the size of the party and the budget. If you’re planning a small party, you may want to have it at your house. But if you’re planning a larger party, there are plenty of venues you can choose for your birthday.

Some popular birthday party venues for adults include:

• Restaurants
• Bars or clubs
• Hotel function rooms
• Outdoor garden venues
• Wineries and breweries
• Dinner cruises

It depends on your budget and the number of guests you have. If you have a large group, you may consider renting a space. But if you have a smaller group, you can probably get away with having the party at your house.

The number one rule when choosing a venue is to ensure it’s comfortable for your guests. You want them to be able to move around and mingle with other people. So keep that in mind when choosing a venue for your party.

Choose Party Theme

One of the best things about being an adult is having a party with any theme you want—no matter how random or specific. And while that might sound like a recipe for disaster, trust me when I say that a good theme can be your best friend in party planning.

A few years ago, I threw a “Dirty 30” pool party for a friend who was less than thrilled about turning the big 3-0. To make her feel better about getting older, we threw her a “dirty” pool party complete with inflatable pool toys, Hawaiian print everything, and piñatas filled with candy and booze. It was so much fun that we made it an annual tradition.

Again, it all comes down to what kind of party you want. Ask your guests for suggestions if you’re unsure what theme to choose. They may have some great ideas that you never would’ve thought of.

Birthday Party Menu Planning

No party is complete without food and drinks, so you must consider what you’ll serve your guests throughout the evening. No worries if you’re not much of a cook or don’t have the time to prepare everything from scratch.

Catering services can do all the heavy lifting for you so that you can enjoy your own party worry-free. Just be sure to give them plenty of notice (at least 2 weeks) and discuss any dietary restrictions upfront so they can plan accordingly.

Also think about what kind of birthday cake you want. If you’re not a fan of traditional cakes, there are many other options available these days, from cupcakes to pies. Just be sure to get something that you know your guests will enjoy.

And don’t forget the drinks. Make sure to have a variety of non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages available for your guests. If you’re unsure what to serve, ask your venue or catering service for recommendations.

Related: What is a Golden Birthday?

Choose a Date and Time

Choosing a date and time for the party is another important step in the planning process. You’ll want to consider a few things when choosing a date, such as:

• The birthday person’s schedule: You’ll want to make sure that the party doesn’t conflict with any other plans they may have.
• Your guests’ schedules: Choose a date and time convenient for as many people as possible.
• The venue’s availability: If you’re renting a space, you’ll need to make sure it’s available on the date and time you want to have the party.

When it comes to the day, most people choose weekends because it is more convenient for the guests and the hosts.

As for the time of day, most birthday parties are held in the evening. But if you’re planning a daytime party, that’s perfectly fine too. Just be sure to let your guests know when to arrive so they can plan accordingly.

Decorations for The Birthday Party

Now there are many decorations you can use for the party. But it all comes down to what kind of party you’re having and your budget. If you want to save money, you can always DIY your decorations. Many great tutorials online can show you how to make everything from streamers to centerpieces.

If you’re not the DIY type or don’t have the time to make your own decorations, you can always buy them. Party stores usually have a wide selection of supplies that you can choose from. And if you’re not sure what you need, the staff should be able to help you.

Party Games and Activities

Who says only kids can have fun at birthday parties? Adults can have a blast too. And one of the best ways to ensure that your guests are having a good time is to plan some party games and activities. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Charades – This classic game is always a hit, no matter what age group you’re playing with.
• Pictionary – Another classic game that’s great for groups of all sizes.
• Trivia – Test your guests’ knowledge with a fun trivia game. You can make your own questions or use a pre-made trivia quiz.
• Scavenger hunt – This is a great activity if you plan a party outdoors or in a large space.
• Relay race – A relay race is fun to get everyone moving and laughing. You can make it as simple or as complicated as you want.

There are endless possibilities when it comes to party games and activities. Just be sure to choose something appropriate for your guests’ age group and interests.

Related: Fun Swimming Pool Games for Adults

Time To Send Birthday Invitations

You have planned everything for the party, and it is time to invite your guests. You can either hand-deliver the invitations or send them through the mail. But first you have to create them.

• Canva: There are many great (and free) online tools you can use to create invitations, such as Canva.
• Microsoft Word: If you have Microsoft Word, then you can use that to create invitations. Search for “birthday party invitation templates,” and you’ll find many options.
• Printable Invitations: You can also find printable invitations online. Just print them out and fill in the details by hand.

Be sure to include all of the important information on the invitations, such as:

• Date
• Start and end time
• Address including venue name if not at home
• RSVP date and your contact information
• Any extra details they need to know or items they need to bring, i.e., BYO drinks, swimwear (for the pool party)

Don’t Be Afraid to Delegate

You don’t have to do everything yourself. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of planning an entire birthday party by yourself, delegate some tasks to other people.

Ask a friend or family member to help with the food, or see if someone else is willing to take on decorating duties. The more help you have, the easier it will be—and the less likely you will pull all your hair out before the big day arrives.

Ending Thoughts: Plan a Great Adult Birthday Party

Planning an adult birthday party doesn’t have to be complicated—or boring. Just pick a theme and stick to it, don’t be afraid to splurge on key elements like food and drink, and make sure the guest of honor feels like the show’s star.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to throw an epic birthday bash that everyone will be talking about long after the cake has been eaten and the last drink has been downed.

Related: What To Write In A Birthday Card For A Friend?