Need Great Ideas for a Pre-Teen Birthday Party

I used to work in a restaurant in Denver that did low tea every afternoon (vs. British High Tea). Girls that age loved having their birthdays there. It's so not something the boys would be into, and they get to dress up a bit. You definitely get to feel older, which is a bonus at that age. Plus, there really is a fair amount of food. Most fancy hotels serve tea, and it isn't all that expensive for what you get. Or wasn't the last time I went. I've been to the Ritz and the Rittenhouse, and the Bellvue long ago (the Barrymore room was very impressive). Actually, I recommend it to all the moms, too. It's really a lovely way to steal a little time with your girlfriends, or even go by yourself. And I always add a glass of champagne to my order. Why not? It might be too expensive with that many girls, but it's worth looking into.
Good luck!
Martha B.

How about a Hibachi restaurant? My daughter had a party there- the kids had a blast!!

Hi R.,
I am not sure where you reside but it will make a differance. and how much money are you will to spend? I have 3 dd's ages 16,14 and 11. we have had tons of partys cheap! one idea is a karoke party. make a mock stage with sheets or curtains, let the girls dress up and "sing" to their fav song, video their performance and then make copies for them to take home. ask you dd for some ideas. she has been to other partys and knows what the girls her age like and expect from a party. Good luck.
Jenn

Beat Street, Huntingdon Valley, pa

R.,

In what part of the city do you reside?

When my daughter turned 11, she invited about 12 friends for brunch at a local restaurant. There was an extensve buffet, and the kids still were eligible for kids' meals.

WHen my daughter turned 12, she went to a Japanese Hibachi table with 5 friends (Her choice to have just 5.), and we followed it with chocolate fondue at another restaurant. Everyone had A BLAST, including the other people at our Hibachi table, and the one adult chaperone (me)!

We also have looked into tea at a tea house about 1/2 an hour from us. We have been there before and it has a nice set-up and, depending on your numbers, you might get a room for yourself.

Of course, there's a pampering party, where you can get manicures at a salon. We haven't done that, but it's alwats been an option.

A dance party always is fun. Beat Street is a fun party, but it's pricey if you just want a small crowd. My daughter has been to parties there, and sometimes 2 kids double up.

Have fun!