Sweet 16 ideas

mom2more · #1 October 2nd, 2012, 06:54 AM

My sd is turning 16 this year and we want to do something special for her birthday. Usually we have a small family party and then she has a sleepover with friends. This year we want to do something a little bigger and let her invite guys and girls. Nothing like those TV show parties though! lol

Any ideas? So far we thought of maybe renting out the park district gym and getting an inflatable obstacle course and inviting family and friends. Or having a family party at home and then taking a group of friends to the local roller rink. Not really sure...

Ideas please!!!

plan4fate · #2 October 2nd, 2012, 08:54 AM

My parents rented a firehall and a DJ for my 16th. I had no idea it was happening and showed up cranky and battling allergies (their ruse for getting me there was my ex's family had to drop off flowers from their business to the hall for a banquet the following day.. and I ended up being allergic to the flowers). But it was a fun night!

the obstacle course sounds like fun too though.

pickle0313 · #3 October 2nd, 2012, 09:44 AM

That obstacle course sounds like a great idea. Only you really know what she's into... Also, you may want to consider a place that is already set up, where you can just rent it out. Sometimes it's easier and they generally set up and clean up.

Keep in mind I have no idea where you. When I was on the east coast we had a place called Monkey Joe's but I would think that'd be too "young" for a 16 year old. Out here they have indoor trampoline parks that are pretty cool too.

Other than that, I'm not sure what suggestions to offer. I just know when I have done the kids' parties elsewhere it's proved easier because they set up & clean up and supply all the plates/cups/utensils/etc. I just bring the cake, and done!

K.A.T · #4 October 2nd, 2012, 12:13 PM

We just has a big party for my eldest. Not TV big but big enough. It wasn't cheap at all. If we we're trying to be more frugal at the time, I would have rented space, hired a DJ and cooked our own food. My SIL is working on her photography interest and she brought her camera, green screen, and printer. The kids loved posing for pics and getting them on the spot. Other than that, I don't have any other ideas. At 16 kids really just want to party with friends and music.