Throwing a Surprise Party for 13

[kennedy444]

I remember so clearly a nice little surprise party my mom threw me when I turned 13. I was babysitting and she had the mom keep me there until my friends (all girls) arrived. I came home to a chorus of "surprises." It still brings a smile to my face.

So, now my big girl is nearing 13 (where has the time gone?) and I'm thinking it would be fun to do this for her too. I'm not thinking at huge party (like a sweet 16) but just some of her school friends for a surprise dinner at a local restaurant. I don't want it to be astronomical $$$ so would limit it to 6-8 girls. I could have it at home but then I realize that a renovation will be underway at the house and I don't really want to worry about dirt, dust and debris. I could have the dinner at the restaurant and have them back to the house to watch a movie, do girly things like their nails and then sleepover.

So, I guess my question is, does this seem fun enough? Too little, too much, just right?

This won't be until April but I want to gather thoughts and ideas. Thanks!!

[Shanna2007]

My daughter is not quite there yet, but she LOVES having sleepovers. We rent a couple of g - or ok pg - movies and just let the girls stay up late. We do have a couple of rules, such as not bothering her brother, and no phone after 8pm (we have not given our daughter a cell phone yet - I am sure we are in the minority!) . They also enjoy washing each other's hair and eating pizza. I think girls this age just enjoy being together. However, I wouldn't want too many over at one time! I think the most we have had over is 5 including our daughter. Good luck!

Shan

[Eli's_mommy]

You could just have them all at your house for the big SURPRISE! and have pizza on it's way. I loved slumber parties when I was younger : You could rent movies and buy face mask and nail polish and the such. Fun!

[sweetfiend]

Hey there, 14 year old daughter of sweetfiend here. I thought you might like the advice of someone near her age.
I think it's a very good plan. And it's not to over the top too. I wish someone would throw me a surprise party!
Good luck!

[kennedy444]

Originally Posted by sweetfiend

Hey there, 14 year old daughter of sweetfiend here. I thought you might like the advice of someone near her age.
I think it's a very good plan. And it's not to over the top too. I wish someone would throw me a surprise party!
Good luck!

Thanks! I'm excited about doing it for her. Glad to hear from a teen.

I've decided to hold it a her fave restaurant - Not Your Average Joes.

I'm having the girls meet me there. I've reserved a round table in the corner and will decorate with balloons and will bring a cake.
Her best friend and her mom (my friend) will bring her in, as if they are going out to eat after a stop at the mall. She'll just walk into the party. As long as no one says anything at school, she'll be sooooo surprised.