How to Plan a Birthday Party Inspired by Jennifer Garner's "13 Going on 30”
Plan a Magical '13 Going on 30' Party with Custom Cookies, Balloon Garlands, and Wishing Dust
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Planning a "13 Going on 30"-themed birthday party is the ultimate throwback to the early 2000s, bringing all the nostalgia and feel-good vibes of Jenna Rink's iconic journey from awkward 13-year-old to fabulous 30-year-old. If you're a fan of this beloved movie, you're going to love how to create the perfect party inspired by it. From custom cookies to "Wishing Dust" party favors, here’s how to channel your inner Jenna Rink and throw the ultimate 13 Going on 30 celebration!
1. Custom-Designed Cookies That Are Almost Too Cute to Eat
No party is complete without themed treats, and for this party, custom-designed cookies are a must-have. The cookies are inspired by three key elements from the movie:
The Colorful Dress: One of the most recognizable moments in the movie is Jenna’s transformation into her 30-year-old self, where she rocks a bold and bright, rainbow-colored dress at the magazine party. Having cookies shaped and decorated to match this dress adds a splash of color and fun to the dessert table, and it’s an ode to one of the movie’s most memorable scenes.
The Sleep Mask: Another classic element is Jenna’s pink and girly sleep mask. Shaped like the one she wears during her 13-year-old sleepover, cookies in this design bring a playful, youthful vibe, reminding guests of those carefree teenage years.
Razzles Candy Bag: No "13 Going on 30" party is complete without a nod to Jenna and Matty's favorite candy: Razzles! Having cookies shaped like the Razzles bag is a fun way to incorporate this quirky candy into the party without actually having to track it down. Plus, it’s a fun detail for those who know the sweet significance.
2. Balloon Garland in "13 Going on 30" Color Pattern
Next up is the decor, and one of the best ways to make a big impact is with a balloon garland. For this party, the color palette should reflect the vibrant, whimsical energy of the movie. Think bright pinks, purples, and blues—colors that will make everyone feel like they’ve stepped into Jenna’s world. Arrange the garland as a photo backdrop or place it around the dessert table to really make the space pop with that early 2000s charm.
3. "Wishing Dust" Party Favors
For party favors, get creative with a nod to one of the most magical parts of the movie: Wishing Dust. In the movie, Jenna makes a wish with Wishing Dust to become "thirty, flirty, and thriving," and this magical element ties the whole theme together. For your party, create Wishing Dust favors by using pretty tea packets. Decorate them with glitter or sparkly ribbon to match the theme, and include a little tag that explains the connection to Jenna’s wish.
Not only is this favor a cute keepsake, but it also adds a touch of movie magic that your guests can take home with them. And just like in the film, they can make a wish of their own while sipping tea!
4. Additional Fun Touches
To round out the event, consider these extra ideas to truly make the party stand out:
Music: Create a playlist featuring songs from the movie’s soundtrack, such as "Love is a Battlefield" by Pat Benatar and, of course, "Thriller" by Michael Jackson for a throwback dance-off!
Photo Booth: Set up a photo booth with props like oversized sunglasses, feather boas, and even cutouts of the famous pink Barbie Dream House.
Movie Screening: End the night with a cozy movie screening of "13 Going on 30," complete with popcorn, cozy blankets, and maybe even a mini candy bar filled with nostalgic treats from the early 2000s.
Dress the Part: Scoop up a 13 Going On 30 party dress that looks exactly like the one Jen’s character wore in the movie.
With these tips, your "13 Going on 30" themed birthday party is sure to be a hit! Whether your guests are revisiting their own awkward teen years or just appreciating the feel-good vibes of this timeless movie, they'll leave feeling like they’ve had a taste of "thirty, flirty, and thriving!"
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