How to organise a memorable birthday party
Whether it is for 20 or 100 people, here is a checklist so you don’t forget a thing.
The timeline
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| 2 months before | Set the date, book the venue, define the budget |
| 1 month before | Send out the invitations, book the entertainment (photo booth, DJ…) |
| 2 weeks before | Confirm guest numbers, order the cake and the catering |
| 1 week before | Buy the decorations and props, prepare the playlist |
| The day before | Put up the decorations, take delivery of the photo booth, prepare the room |
| On the day | Set up the photo booth (5 min), put the music on, enjoy |
The budget
| Item | Budget guide |
|---|---|
| Venue (community hall) | €100-500 |
| Catering / buffet | €15-30 per person |
| Cake | €30-100 |
| Drinks | €5-10 per person |
| Decorations | €50-150 |
| Photo booth | €129-359 |
| DJ | €300-600 (optional) |
For a party of 30 people, allow €500-1,000 all in. The photo booth is one of the items that gives the most impact for the money.
Entertainment that works
- The photo booth: the highest participation rate, physical keepsakes
- Blind test / quiz: free, and it gets the party going
- Karaoke: once the party is in full swing
- The surprise speech: loved ones prepare a few words
- The photo slideshow: a look back at the best moments
Decoration tips
- Choose 2-3 colours max and stick to them
- A decorated photo wall or photo booth corner acts as a focal point
- Balloons remain a timeless classic
- Fairy lights transform any room
The photo booth: why it’s the no. 1 entertainment
- €129 for the whole evening (50 printed photos)
- Set up in 5 minutes
- Guests love it: participation rate > 90%
- Everyone leaves with a physical keepsake
- No need for Wi-Fi or an attendant
Book a photo booth for your birthday → · Photo booth ideas by age →
