When throwing a birthday party there should be no question who the party should be based around; the birthday girl or boy. Think about the person whom you will be throwing this special gathering of and try to incorporate decorations and accents that represent that person. For example, if you are throwing your father a 65th birthday bash and he loves antique cars, try to get a cake shaped like a car and matching plates and napkins with that old 65 ford mustang he loves on them. It will be the little things that make the birthday person smile.

Decorations - Again sit down and think about the person in which you will be celebrating. Write down three things that remind you of this person. Whether it is flowers and candles, or antique cars and fire trucks, every person has passions and likes and if you think really hard you're sure to find at least three things that make you think about a certain person. It may even be a color that comes to mind. For example, if the colors pink and red come to mind, choose decorations like plates, napkins, streamers, and balloons in those colors. After you have found three main things that make you think of the special birthday person base all of your decorations from these themes and colors.

Games and Themes - Adult or child games are fun to play at any party. It is a wonderful way to get your guests off their feet and interacting. Here are just a couple age appropriate games and themes:

• Ages 1-3: This age you should keep it simple. Only invite about 3-4 playmates, so this party should be for adults as well. Play a simple game with the children like "who can stack the blocks the highest."
• Ages 8-11: This is a great age to start having sleepover parties. A great sleepover activity for the children is to make ice cream sundaes and watch scary movies.
• Ages 15-16: Teenagers can be funny at this age so if they allow you to have a party for them you should go all out. A pizza or pool party is always great for this age. Make sure to have your teen involved in the planning. Sweet sixteen is a big year so make them feel really special.
• Adult Ages: Having a themed party is a great way for adults to relax. Making them think of other things besides the stresses of everyday life can be invigorating. Taking them to another place will create a memory they will never forget. A few good ideas here include themes around poker, movies, Hawaiian Luau or even Mardi gras.

Food - Serving food or appetizers is a must at any party. Depending on the age or the theme of your party will determine the food you shall serve. For example, if you have a dozen 15 year old boys staying over pizza is your best bet; however, if you are hosting your husband's 40th birthday homemade guacamole and margaritas may fit in with your Mexican fiesta theme. Again, think of the person whom you are celebrating and serve their favorite dishes and drinks. It is always about them on this day. Unless it's a surprise party, don't hesitate to ask the birthday person what he or she wants you to serve for their party.

Any reason to celebrate is always welcome with open arms, but when you are celebrating for someone you love it makes them feel special. This is their day so focus on them. If you ever question anything when throwing birthday parties for someone sit down and think of that person, and you are sure to find the answer. When all else fails ask the special person for help.