Whether you're celebrating your birthday or someone else's, planning a birthday party can seem intimidating. Intimate or big? Indoors our outdoors? In the day or evening? Before you overwhelm yourself with the logistics. Start with a checklist to organize your thoughts.

Planning a birthday party should be easy, here is how:

As the host, start with these party foundations:

1. Pick a date
2. Get your guest list together
3. Choose the location
4. Plan your invitations
5. Set a budget

Picking a date

If luck has it and your birthday falls on a Saturday, you've got it made. Weekend dates are always easier for guests to attend. If you're the type of person who feels its appropriate to celebrate the day of, and not wait for the weekend, an intimate dinner is more logical for everyone invited during a weekday evening. Kid's birthday parties are weekend tasks for sure!

Get your guest list together

The main thing to keep in mind with guests is that most will want to bring a plus 1. This could double your attendance and leave you overwhelmed if not prepared. A couple of your favorite coworkers, your closest friends and family members is a recipe for a great time.

Choosing the location

The location really depends on how many attendees you're planning to host.  Its not the best idea to invite 40-50 people to your 1-bedroom apartment. If you have a large guest list, plan something outside. Meet up at a local festival. Have a potluck picnic at the park or brewery. Make it a beach day. Choose locations with a nice space for guests to be comfortable. Smaller groups are well suited for bars, bowling, or karaoke-type outings. If this party is for a child, you'll need a location that can keep them entertained and of course safe. House parties are your best bet. Kids will go nuts for bubbles and balloon animals so provide some activities you know they'll love.

Plan your invitations

"When do I send out birthday invitations?" The best practice for sending out birthday invites is 3-5 weeks. Mixbook has some awesome new birthday invites for different themes and party styles. Check out our latest cards:

Geometric Party Invitation

Confetti Surprise Party

Birthday Party Typography

Floral Over Watercolor

Party Invitation by Almost Makes Perfect

Gatsby Celebration

Mixbook has SO many more birthday invitations here. You'll find the perfect card for your celebration. The must-haves for invitations are the event name, date, location, and RSVP contact information. All Mixbook stationery is fully customizable to get all the information you need and want on your card.

Setting your budget

You don't want to spend too much money for your birthday. Its your day! Here are some great ways to keep your budget within limits:

• Do a potluck.
• Reuse decorations or make your own.
• Host the party at fee-free locations (parks, bars, local festivals). Venue reservations can be very pricy.
• If you're doing favors, keep the materials affordable. Check these ideas out.

Most importantly, have fun! Its a celebration and no matter what you decide to do, it'll be a great time. There will be many friends and family members who will offer to pitch in to help. Our recommendation, say "Yes!". You deserve some fun. Happy birthday!