American Idol Birthday Party

Since her older sister auditioned for American Idol this summer, our younger daughter embraced the American Idol idea for her 11th birthday party.

The Invitation:

The invitation was a photograph of the birthday girl dressed up like a rocker, sporting a microphone. It listed all the party basics-date, time, etc but also encouraged each girl to prepare a talent for the Alayna Idol contest that would take place at the party.

Upon their arrival each girl was "arm banded" American Idol style with a bracelet which allowed them FULL Party access and the opportunity to compete later in the evening.

Treat Bags:

Each IDOL required her own set of accessories to assist her in being the most beautiful contestant. We gave each girl a treat bag and herded them outside for a scavenger hunt to find the contents to fill their bags. The first clue was put in the mailbox and directed them in rhyme to the first stash of prizes. At each location another clue directed them to the next station. Prizes were lip gloss, nail polish, bath sponges, home-made soap, tattoos, etc. This took about 15 minutes to complete and gave them a chance to burn off some energy.

The Food:

We didn't have anything special: just frozen pizzas, drinks, chips and dip. These were easy to prepare, inexpensive and a hit with all party attendees.

The Makeover:

Alayna's older sister and her friend served as makeup artists. I provided some face paint, makeup samples and individual applicators. There was a curling iron station, a straightening station and a dress up station where old prom dresses, jewelry, boas and hats were made available to each "contestant."

The Contest:

Each girl was allotted 5 minutes to muster up enough nerve and actually complete her "audition". Score cards were made on the computer and the judges were the teenagers doing the makeovers. Every girl was a WINNER! The categories were: Most Athletic, Original, Funniest, Spirited, Magical, Incredible, Remarkable, Melodious, Dramatic, Intelligent; which were written on ribbon which we crafted to resemble M.s America style sash.

Each Winner was awarded a tiara and the corresponding sash. We made a BIG deal about the awards ceremony

The Cake:

At the conclusion of the contest we settled down to eat cake and ice cream and open gifts. Alayna is FROG crazy so we decorated Cupcakes with a FROG theme. Cute! This was followed by the movie Mean Girls and popcorn. A good time was had by all and everyone ended up a winner.

The Cost:

Treat bags for 9 girls was $12 (all purchased at the dollar store), I had soap making supplies on hand. Food ran about $25 (9 party girls, 2 teenagers and 2 adults). The biggest expense was for the sash (blanket binding) and ran about $10. Movies were "rented" free of charge from our local library.

Source: Our own imagination and a desperate desire to have a unique birthday!

By Diana from Prospect, KY