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Ultimate Tween Birthday Ideas

Everybody loves a party, especially tween girls.  But planning a party for this age group can be pretty tricky .  After all, they have outgrown the princess themes and are ready to move on to something more sophisticated.   The following ideas will show you how to plan an awesome birthday party for tweens and give you a guide of what to do and when to do them.

1. Two months before – start talking with the birthday girl what they want to do for their big day .  Have them start to think about how many friends they want to invite – the whole class or just a few good friends.  Suggest some themes , like a DIY spa  sleepover or  a ’70s retro party to get them thinking about the format of the party.  This is also a good time to talk about whether the party will be at home or out and budget.

2. Three to four weeks before – Pick your theme.  At this time , the theme should be firm , no matter how many times your tween has changed her mind in the past.  Based on the theme, your venue and budget, decide on a final guest list.    Now these points are all nailed down , you can make or buy your invitations.  If you’re not inviting everyone in your kid’s class, it’s best to mail out the invitations to the guests’ homes – this will spare any hurt feelings.

3. Three weeks before – Mail out those invitations, and be sure to include an RSVP date and contact – whether it’s an email address or phone number .  Make sure you put down the start and end time of the party and any other additional information – like sleeping bags required if you’re having a sleepover.

Start stockpiling paper goods and the decorations now. 

4. Two weeks before – This is when the RSVPs should be rolling in – track everyone who’s responded and those that haven’t.   Start working on the party’s menu, including the design of the cake. You might want to create a menu inspired by your theme – like green cupcakes, if your tween has picked an Irish theme .  This is where you and your kids can get creative, researching recipes and finding ways to incorporate the theme into kid-friendly fare.   You can also start purchasing non-perishable food items like drinks and chips.

Plan any games or activities you’ll want to play.  You can use the internet to research party games and find out what supplies you need to have on hand. 

5.  One week before – It’s almost go-time for your tween’s birthday party. Now’s the time to order the cake from the bakery or finish up the homemade version.   See if there are any other menu items you can prepare ahead and store in your freezer.

6.  Three days before – Purchase the rest of the food and beverages . Clean the house, if you’re having it at home, or confirm all the details with the venue. 

7. Day Before – start decorating and checking all the last minute items off your list.  Make sure the camera has batteries and film.

Day of – Enjoy!   By following these simple ideas you can create the ultimate tween birthday party, one that your daughter will remember for years to come .