AboutJohn Gordon Expertise Stuck for ideas? I can help with ideas on theming, entertainment and anything creative. I specialise in the unusual and have created party experiences for small gatherings right up to large international corporations. I have a great original idea that is totally flexible and personalises the party in a way that touches people.
Experience I have been involved with Corporate and Private Events for many years. I both organise and provide entertainment at a wide range from house parties, anniversaries, celebrations, fun days, conferences, seminars, workshops and street parties.
Expert: John Gordon Date: 7/26/2008 Subject: I need some help planning boyfriends 25th surprise birthday party.
Question QUESTION: Hello there. So I recently started planning my boyfriends surprise birthday party. He is turning 25 on the 25th of October. So its a really big deal because its his "champagne birthday". Im planning this pretty much on my own and am kind of getting freaked out.
This is what I have so far:
1. Location ( a room at a local tavern in his home town)
2. Food ( finger food, and a cupcake birthday tower)
3. Alcohol (beer, soda, water, wine) (if they want mixed drinks its on there dime)
4. And the starting of an invite list.
What I am having a hard time with is everything else. Should I get a d.j. or make cds with just music? My whole thing is that its friends and family and I want to make it enjoyable for everyone. My biggest fear is that this will go aflop, and he will have a horrible birthday. Should there be a theme because its his champange birthday?
Im not sure, whatever help you can give would be greatly appreciated!
Thank You!!!
ANSWER: Rene
Problem in helping you is I have no idea of the size of the party at all!
Sounds like, with 1,2,3 and 4 you DO have it under control! If your budget is tight I wouldn't bother with a theme. With the 25th theme and close friends and family type of event it isn't really necessary. Themes are great for frequent repeat events to keep on attracting the same people.
As you are in some doubt, I think I would have a DJ .... if you make your own CD or mps to play you'll be limiting the choice. An experienced DJ will have a wide range of music and the vision and ability to know how to change pace, style as the party progresses and also the volume as it moves perhaps from meet'n'greet, to chat to dancing.
A DJ will also provide a focal point and also (if you ask) come equipped with a radio mike (or one on a long lead) so you can use it for speeches, announcements etc.
Hope this helps and you have no more fears ....
Good luck
John Gordon
PartyMagic
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: John,
Well the party is going to be for the max of 50 people. Do you think that is to little to have a dj?
And thank you for the help! :)
Answer Hi
It's a smallish number and the answer to it is IF they are dancing people. IF you think they are of the right male / female mix, right age groups etc then yes, 50 will dance.
However, IF there is any doubt and maybe the venue space is not suitable, then I'd invest the same money on some live background musicians. Play recorded CDs and then have some live music doing perhaps 45 minute sets with 20 - 30 minute breaks.
The kind of band will depend upon music tastes and availability but I frequently work with:
=> A solo keyboard player who also sings. He works in lounges of chic hotels and private gigs
=> A guitar, bass duo perhaps with a sax or clarinet addition
=> String trio / quartet
=> Guitars and vocals
=> Keyboard, guitar, vocals
