Teen Beat via a Pizza Meet... Happy 13th Birthday!
Feb 06 '05
The Bottom Line For our daughters 13th & 14th birthday we kept it simple, allowing the guests plenty of time to mingle. Everyone had a ton of fun!
First of all let me say that I was initially caught in a fog of denial that my first born was nearing her 13th birthday, AKA official arrival at teenville. It was clear that avoiding the event wasn't going to keep her young, nor was that my true desire. But I was confused with regard to what to do for her party. Normally I have a full theme-oriented event planned, much in advance. I pondered multiple options and decided, that considering my daughters somewhat introvert personality, a surprise party wasn't the best option - nor was I certain exactly who should be on her guest list. So I brought her in on the planning. It was clear that she wanted a party, and given the amount of friends that she was considering inviting, it was also evident that I probably didn't want to have it at our home.
Having worked with teens for a considerable amount of time, in the capacity of teen group youth leader, I knew that the event shouldn't be over-scheduled, rather we would allow the guests plenty of time to mingle. I also knew that teens appreciate having their own space, but still need adults somewhat near.
There are a few eatery establishments in this region that offer banquet room service. The place that we decided upon is a pizza restaurant, a local pizza franchise that most teens really like. This eatery has three large rooms, decorated with team sports themes. The decor includes such things as team pictures and Jerseys from the local middle schools and high school. I requested a certain room, which happens to be on the corridor which contains the video game hub. This room has a large screen television. The room was ours for 1 1/2 hours, pizza would be half price during that time, and we were allowed to bring in cake and ice cream.
For invitations we purchased template stationary at Hallmark and allowed our daughter to create her own invites. She hand delivered most, mailed a few, and did this approximately two-weeks prior to the party date. The response was good, and I have to admit that I was slightly surprised that she received prompt RSVP's (I thought the guests would actually just show up).
She created several gift bags, using a simple colored bag stuffed with items such as lotion, nail polish, lip gloss and gel pens. We took her to a local bakery to order her cake. On the day of the party we arrived at the pizza establishment early and set up. We ordered pizzas and waited for the guests.
The turn-out was excellent! As the guests arrived we let them mingle for awhile, and then gave everyone several quarters for the games and such. The young ladies had unlimited beverage refills, which also seemed to be appreciated. My spouse and I sat back and let the teens enjoy their time together. We knew that everyone was safe in the party room and that they appreciated having 'their space'. They ate pizza, chatted, laughed, and -yes- got loud at times. But it was a teen friendly environment and the best part is that our daughter and her party guests were having a lot of fun. After cake and presents, our reserved time for the room was over, therefore the party wrapped up.
The 13th Happy Birthday party was such a hit that our daughter did the same thing for her 14th, which was also a success.
If you are in the planning stages for a teen party, you might check what local eateries have banquet rooms. The parties that my teen has most enjoyed include those at the pizza establishment, slumber parties, and most recently a dance (the parent rented a local dance studio). The dance establishment has a large great room, complete with a stage. There was a DJ on site, disco balls, and security at the door. This party was a big hit, but at 3 1/2 hours of rental versus the 1 1/2 hour at the pizza place (with no room rental fee, just pizza order mandate).... I am so thankful my daughter liked the pizza option!
(c)2005 Lisa_J
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Epinions.com ID:
Lisa_J
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Location: Pacific Northwest - Washington State
Reviews written: 1010
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About Me:
Mom of two wonderfully spirited daughters. Childcare Director. Spectator fan of dance.
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