‍

How To Plan A Birthday Party For Adults: 12 Things To Consider

Remember when birthday parties were easy? You just showed up, ate cake, played games, and you're done. Those were the days, right? But now that we're in our 30s and 40s, planning a birthday bash for our adult friends is a different ballgame.

So, how do you plan an adult birthday party? If this question fills you with dread, fear not! This handy birthday party checklist has your back. 

From choosing the perfect theme to keeping your guests entertained, it has all the tips and tricks to make your party a roaring success.

‍

1. Consider The Birthday Celebrant's Preferences

The most important factor in planning the perfect birthday party is understanding the guest of honour's interests and preferences. Are they more inclined towards a lively social gathering, a relaxing spa day, or an adventurous outdoor experience?

Tailor the party to reflect their personality and what they would enjoy most. After all, it's their special day, so make it all about them!

‍

2. Pick A Theme

‍

‍

Decide on a theme (or don't—it's your party, and you can be basic if you want to).

Themed birthday parties are popular these days, but let's be honest - sometimes the simplest approach is the best. You go all-out with a murder mystery party, a dance-themed extravaganza, or a good old-fashioned cocktail soirée.

The beauty of adult birthday parties is that you can make them your own. If the birthday person is a die-hard movie buff, lean into a cinematic theme with movie-inspired decor and activities. Or, if they're outdoorsy, plan an adventure-themed celebration with lawn games and a campfire vibe.

The options are endless, but ensuring the party reflects the guest of honour is important.

‍

3. Create A Guest List

Adult birthday parties can range from intimate gatherings of close friends to larger celebrations. When creating your guest list, consider the birthday person's comfort level and the size of your venue. Aim for a guest list that allows for mingling and conversation rather than feeling overcrowded.

Include only the closest friends and family members who will actually have a good time. Remember, the key is to create an intimate, comfortable atmosphere where guests can relax and enjoy.

‍

4. Find A Party Venue

‍

‍

The venue sets the tone for the birthday event, so choosing the right space is crucial. Options include your home, a private room, a restaurant or bar, an activity-based space like a bowling alley or escape room, or even outdoor gardens.

When selecting the location, factor in the party size, theme, and budget. A garden party or backyard bash can be a lovely option for outdoor enthusiasts. Just ensure you have a backup plan in case of unexpected rain.

Remember to consider things like accessibility, parking, and restroom facilities.

‍

5. Plan The Birthday Party Menu

Food and drinks are central to any good party, so put some thought into your menu. Opt for a mix of passed hors d'oeuvres, stationed small bites, and a signature cocktail or two. Cater to dietary preferences and consider a theme-appropriate menu.

If hosting at home, a potluck-style meal can be a fun, interactive option (and it takes the pressure off you to do all the cooking). Book a caterer or add live stations to impress your guests. Think taco bars, pasta stations, or a build-your-own-salad situation.

Remember to include some healthy options because we're all health-conscious now (or at least trying to be).

‍

6. Pick The Birthday Cake

‍

‍

No birthday party is complete without a cake; this is your chance to shine. Choose a flavour the birthday person loves, and don't be afraid to get creative with the design.

Go for classic vanilla or chocolate, or mix things with a unique flavour like salted caramel or red velvet. As for the design, the sky's the limit. Keep it simple with beautiful buttercream frosting and fresh flowers, or go all-out with fondant decorations and edible glitter.

Just make sure it's Instagram-worthy. Let's be real: no birthday party is complete without a cake selfie.  

‍

7. Plan Activities And Entertainments For The Adults

‍

‍

Adult birthday parties are often centred around shared experiences and activities, so planning something that will keep your guests engaged is important. Some popular options include:

• Game night with board games, trivia, or video games
• Cooking class or wine-tasting
• Outdoor adventures like hiking, kayaking, or mini-golf
• Spa day with massages, facials, and pampering
• A themed party with music, dancing, and costumes
• Bouncy castles for a memorable, energetic, and fun party

To impress your guests, consider hiring party entertainers like musicians or singers. Just be prepared for the occasional burst of uncontrollable laughter and the inevitable dance moves that make you question your friends' sanity.

‍

8. Don't Forget Birthday Party Decorations

Decorations can enhance the party's theme and ambience. Keep décor simple yet impactful, focusing on statement pieces rather than cluttering the space.

Incorporate the birthday person's favourite colours, patterns, or motifs. Avoid overdoing it; too many decorations can feel overwhelming in an adult setting.

‍

9. Choose Party Favours

Small parting gifts or favours are a nice touch to send guests home with a memento of the celebration. Choose something your guests will use and appreciate. Personalised cookies or candies, such as mini bottles of wine or liquor, are always a hit.

For the practical-minded, consider items like phone chargers, sunglasses, or even a small succulent or potted plant. These kinds of favours will actually get used rather than ending up in the back of a drawer, never to be seen again.

‍

10. Send Birthday Party Invitations

‍

‍

Decide how guests will RSVP and how you'll communicate party details. E-vites, paperless posts, and private Facebook event pages are convenient digital options. Provide clear information on the date, time, location, and dress code.

If you are planning a surprise birthday party, remind guests not to post about it on social media to maintain secrecy.

‍

11. Be Ready With Icebreaker Activities

For adult birthday parties where guests may not all know each other, it's helpful to plan icebreakers or activities that foster interaction.

This could include name tags, conversation starters, or group games. Ensure plenty of opportunities for mingling, whether during cocktails, a seated dinner, or an activity.

The goal is to get people talking and laughing so they don't feel like they're back in school, introducing themselves like it's the first day of classes. Be strategic with your icebreakers, and don't be afraid to mix things up throughout the party to keep the energy high.

‍

12. Make It Kid-Friendly For The Little Ones

If the adult birthday party will include children, it's important to plan some activities for them as well. Consider setting up a dedicated room or area with age-appropriate activities to keep the little ones engaged.

Provide kid-friendly snacks and beverages, and consider hiring a babysitter or childcare provider to supervise the kiddos. This way, adults can enjoy the party without constant interruptions (and the kids can have a blast without driving their parents crazy).

Consider setting up a craft station with colouring books, markers, and stickers. You can even set up a mini dance floor with some fun, kid-friendly music to get them moving and grooving.

‍

Conclusion About How To Plan A Birthday Party For Adults

Planning an adult birthday party in Singapore requires careful consideration of the guest of honour's preferences, the guest list, venue, food, drinks, activities, and entertainment.

Funco's experienced party planners can help you create a personalised and memorable celebration that caters to the needs and interests of your adult guests. From themed decor to live food stations and fringe activities, we offer various services to make your adult birthday party successful.

Schedule a consultation today!

‍