By asking yourself the essential questions:
Choose a strategic date:
You want everyone there to celebrate with you, so go for a weekend where your guests will be more free to join in. Avoid school holidays and public holidays, as this can reduce attendance. Save the date as soon as possible using a "Save The Date".
Define the number and the guests:
The size of your party venue will play an important role in selecting your guests, or vice versa. Estimate the space needed, count about 1 square meter per person (or 2 square meters if you plan to dance until the end of the night). Make a methodical selection in three circles:
-First circle: Your loved ones, without whom the party would lose its luster.
-Second circle: Family and friends that you must invite out of politeness.
-Third circle: Less close friends, colleagues or people you would like to see again.
Make sure that your guests will get along well with each other and that their presence fits with the theme of the evening. You don't want awkward situations.
Set a budget:
Get ready to dive into the numbers so you don't spoil the party. Determine a maximum sum not to be exceeded, according to your savings and your desires. Then, divide the budget into essential expenditure items:
- The place: Are you booking a whole bar or a partial one?
- Food and drinks: Buy on site or bring them yourself?
- Decoration: Provide flowers, balloons, garlands, etc.
- Equipment: Think of the sound system, video projector, etc.
- Animation: Microphone, karaoke, photobooth, etc.
- Other expenses: Birthday outfit, hairdresser, etc.
Estimate the cost of each position by searching the Internet to get an idea of the prices. You may need to adjust some choices depending on your budget.
Tip to save money without sacrificing pleasure:
- Opt for a simple decoration with inexpensive candles, affordable garlands and natural elements found in your garden or at your parents' house.
- Organize a candy bar with candy bought in bulk.
- Prepare a unique cocktail yourself or opt for natural sparkling instead of champagne.
Be creative with animations, set up a temporary tattoo stand or ask a friend to read tarot cards.
- Rent your birthday clothes so you don't spend too much.
Finally, do not hesitate to launch a common pot upstream so that your guests participate financially in the party. Platforms like Le Pot Commun, Leetchi or Paypal can be used for free. Now that you have these answers in hand, it's time to start planning for a memorable birthday!