6 Unforgettable Destination Party Tips

Whether it’s a celebration for a 21st, a 30th birthday, a 40th, 50th, 60th, or a 100th birthday (or anywhere in between) a milestone birthday party is a special birthday party for adults! The festivities surrounding another decade of life deserve extra attention no matter how simple or elaborate the actual party is.

While destination weddings have been the hot trend for a decade, boomers are jumping on the bandwagon and celebrating milestone birthdays or anniversaries in exotic locales. Whether you’re turning 60 with a view of the Eiffel Tower or reuniting with a dozen college friends beach side in Mexico, a party like this is a way to honor the occasion, make it truly memorable and maybe even cross an item off your travel bucket list.

If you love the idea but all the planning terrifies you, fear not. Armed with a little information — and a lot of tips — you can pull off the party of your dreams.

1. Plan early

Typically for milestone adult birthday parties, close friends and family will not want to miss the party. Because of that, it’s important to give guests enough notice so that they can save dates and plan travel. Save the dates should set the tone for your destination event.

2. Work with a professional planner

While a simple gathering or dinner party might be something you can plan on your own, a destination event can really take over your life and cause stress during the planning phases. A professional planner will help you with travel arrangements, set (and stick to) a budget, make creative design decisions (including suggesting ideas you may never have thought of), connect you with trusted vendors, and ensure that everything runs smoothly. That allows you to sit back and enjoy the getaway with everyone else.

3. Location Location Location

You may love the idea of a family reunion on a remote island, but if the only accommodations are in an uber-expensive resort, be prepared to compromise. Because of different travel budgets, a location with a variety of lodging options will improve your chance of having a greater number of guests. And the more activity options available, the more appealing the destination will be. It may be your party, but it’s also their vacation.

Another thing to consider is weather. For example, it’s not a smart idea to plan an event in the hurricane belt during peak storm season. “Factors to keep in mind are the time of year that will allow full participation, ease of travel to the location, weather and affordable airfares.

4. Itinerary

While it is not necessary to plan out every moment of the occasion, it is important to give guests a general idea of things to do when they arrive! Planning out dinners and activities while leaving the rest of the time open is a great way to give people time to recharge and explore on their own while also keeping things structured enough to omit confusion.

5. WOW Experience

The more of an experience you create, the more memorable the destination party will be for your guests. For example, welcome bags, beach partygoers could put flip-flops or a tote bag to good use. If your party is overseas, check customs regulations and packing restrictions — and never give out favors that will be difficult to transport home.

Host a welcome cocktail party beach side. Have interactive food or drink stations, live entertainment, games or activities, or a photo booth during the private dinner.

6. Make it Memorable

One area that’s often forgotten (outside of weddings) is having a photographer. Not only do you want to capture all that gorgeous décor you spent so much time working on, but it’s a rare opportunity to have someone’s favorite people travel for a destination party. Document the moment! Those photos will be precious memories in years to come.

Are you planning a milestone birthday party this year? Rea Danielle Designs would love to chat and hope these tips help to make it amazing!