With average life expectancy in the UK now hitting 81 years, it's not unlikely that you'll need to organise a birthday party for an elderly relative. This can be a very special time to celebrate a life well lived and bring all the family together to share photos and memories, and create a few new ones. If you start your party planning well enough in advance, you'll create an occasion that will be remembered for years to come - and create a blueprint for your own big milestone birthday!

Book a venue

If the guest of honour is active and living independently, then ask them where they'd like to celebrate. Would a restaurant be more suitable, or would they prefer a summer garden party at home? If they reside in a care home, consult with the carers and see whether there's a suitable space to hold a party inside or out, or for a budget option, look into hiring your local church or community hall as these are usually very reasonable.

Send out invitations

It can be tempting to try and save money and print these yourself, or simply send texts or emails, but this is a special once-in-a-lifetime occasion so a formal invitation will be much more in keeping. Opt for an 80th birthday party invitation to celebrate the milestone, or for a touch of elegance, choose gold or silver foiled invitations. Customise with an appropriate message for a lovely keepsake of the day.

Decorate with style

Think carefully about your loved one's favourite things to help you set a theme for the decor. It could be their favourite pet, a sport or hobby they love, or simply a colour they've always worn. Use plenty of photos to encourage conversation and ask guests to bring any favourite photos they may have of the guest of honour.

That's entertainment!

Most 80-year-olds these days are in great health and will enjoy some entertainment, whether that's a live band playing all their favourites or a trivia quiz based on their life. A video or slide show would make a great memento of the day, so it's worth hiring a professional to create the perfect record of a very special birthday.

At Putty Print, we have a range of customisable invitations, banners and more to help you throw an unforgettable 80th birthday party!