How to Plan a 50th Birthday Celebration

Plan ahead so you can throw a 50th birthday party to remember.

Whether you are planning a surprise 50th birthday party or the guest of honor knows of the impending celebration, planning a 50th birthday party is no small feat. A well-planned party should include thoughtful decorations, savory food and entertainment. Milestone birthdays, such as the 50th one, are important celebrations, so plan at least two or three months ahead of the big day to ensure that you throw a party to remember.

Instructions

1. Select a date, time and the location of the party. One of the most important parts of planning any celebration is to secure the date; however, when you are planning a party for the big 5-0, choose a date that will accommodate as many friends and family members as possible. To accommodate as many guests' schedules as possible, select a weekend evening or afternoon that doesn't fall on or near a holiday. Also, an evening cocktail party may be the perfect time to celebrate turning 50; however, if children will be attending the celebration, consider throwing the party in the late afternoon or even holding a brunch.

   When it comes to location, select a venue that will appeal to the guest of honor. A house party is a great way to surprise someone if you plan to hold a surprise party. However, holding the party at the birthday honoree's favorite restaurant or park can remove some of the prep work, such as decorating and cooking, from your shoulders.

2. Choose a theme. Have fun with the theme, but keep the guest of honor in mind. If he enjoys humor and gag themes, go for the traditional 50th birthday "over the hill" idea or even a mock funeral. However, some people prefer a more sentimental, classic theme that could be based on his favorite movie or era (such as the 1950s or the year he was born). Before committing to the theme, ask the birthday boy for input if he knows about the party.

3. Book the caterer, entertainment and flowers. Secure catering, entertainment and other party amenities at least two months in advance, especially if you want to retain the services of a specific catering company or entertainer.

4. Send invitations. Create invitations based on your theme announcing that your dear friend or family member is turning 50. Depending upon your budget, have invitations professionally designed and printed. Make a statement using die-cut invitations in the shape of the number 50, or run with your "over the hill" theme and send invitations in the shape of tombstones.

   Mail the invitations at least three weeks prior to the party to give guests enough time to RSVP, but not so far in advance that guests forget about the party.

5. Gather RSVPs and prepare for the event. Update the caterer on a regular basis to ensure he knows how many guests will arrive. If you are throwing a 50th birthday party at home, purchase or rent decorations and party items, such as extra tables, tents and chairs. Enlist help from friends and other family members to decorate and prepare the home prior to the party.

Tips & Warnings

• Create a slideshow featuring the birthday honoree from days gone by---ask for old photos from friends and loved ones to create a memorable showing.

• Invite surprise guests to this milestone birthday party. For example, if the birthday guest of honor's sister lives abroad and she hasn't seen her in years, invite her sister to surprise her during the party. However, only invite surprise guests you know the birthday girl wants to see.

References

• Keep and Share: 50th Birthday Party Ideas