22 Sparkly 30th Birthday Party Ideas for the Glitter-Obsessed Gal

May 19, 2016

Picking out an epic theme is one of the most exciting parts about throwing a party for the big 3-0. Whether you’re going for a preppy birthday bash or even one that’s inspired by your favorite food (lookin’ at you, grown-up pizza party), going *all* out for your birthday extravaganza is totally necessary. If you’re celebrating BIG this time around, opt for a glitter-themed party, because nothing screams birthday quite like sparkle-covered everything. Think: gilded garlands, balloons, donuts and more. Scroll through to take a peek at how to throw the ultimate party for the glitter-obsessed gal.

1. DIY Sequin Letter Garland: It’s not a 30th birthday party without a garland that fits the theme. Whip up this “Cheers” option using sequin trim and scrap cardboard to give your wall a total wow factor. (via A Beautiful Mess)

2. Glitter Candles: What’s better than blowing out normal candles on your birthday? Blowing out glitter ones, of course! Dip ’em in gold, silver or colorful glitter to make your cake that much more festive. (via Studio DIY)

3. DIY Confetti-Dipped Balloons: Blow up a set of colorful balloons and dip them in gold foil confetti to amp them up a bit. They’re so pretty you’ll want to decorate your space with them year round. (via Studio DIY)

4. DIY Confetti Poppers: Get the party started with confetti poppers for all your guests. Fill clear candy tubes with confetti and crepe paper that matches your color scheme, and get ready for your guests to pop them as soon as the candles are blown out. (via Bird’s Party)

5. DIY Glitter Ice Cubes: Are you ready to take your hostess skills to a whole new level? DIY these beauties so that even your ice cubes match your theme. Hello, hostess with the mostess! (via A Subtle Revelry)

6. DIY Glitter Sunnies: On the hunt for the perfect party favor for your glitter-filled event? Pick up some sunnies and add a pop of glitter to the frame to give them a little pizzazz. Trust us, your guests will thank you. (via A Beautiful Mess)

7. Girly Trend Glitter Striped Paper Plates ($2): Say goodbye to boring white paper plates, because you’ll never go back after picking up this gorgeous pastel and glitter striped set. Pair them with colorful plastic cups to take your party essentials from drab to fab.

8. Ring Toss Game: If you’re looking for the perfect way to add some friendly competition to your birthday party, then this is the DIY for you. Cover empty wine bottles in glitter so your guests can play the prettiest game of ring toss ever. (Photo via Honey Honey Photography / Style Me Pretty)

9. DIY #Boss Decoration: After you’ve picked up the booze and made the food, decorating for the party is next up on your list of to-dos. Use a Cricut to cut out your party hashtag, and make it top-notch with metallic gold spray paint and glitter to give your space the sparkle it’s waiting for. (via Damask Love)

10. Catbird A Tiny Celebration Glitter Confetti ($8): Who wouldn’t want a tiny celebration after the actual celebration? Send your guests home with a bag of confetti so the party can live on forever.

11. DIY Glitter Lollipops: All you need is white sugar, corn syrup and, of course, edible glitter to make these show-stopping suckers. They’re the perfect addition to your 30th birthday party, whether you’re making them to give as party favors or to sweeten up your snack table. (via Popcosmo)

12. Sequin Photo Booth Backdrop: A party in 2016 isn’t complete without a photo booth. Snag some sequin fabric at the craft store, add a picture frame and top it off with vibrant flowers to create a seriously Insta-worthy backdrop. (Photo via Bradley James Photography / Hey Wedding Lady)

13. DIY Glitter-Dipped Cups: Ditch the solo cups for the big 3-0. Instead, go for these DIY glitter-dipped ones for a glam option instead. They’re so pretty that your guests won’t want to toss them after they’ve finished their drinks. (via Evite)

14. DIY Floating Glitter Tumbler: The birthday girl *needs* a custom tumbler to sip out of all night long. Kick a simple tumbler up a notch with this DIY so she can feel extra special on her big day. (via Studio DIY)

15. DIY Gilded Piñata Makeover: If you’re searching for the perfect piñata for your party, look no further. Upcycle a boring piñata with some gold spray paint and bright crepe paper to give your bash an extra festive touch. Take it to an even *more* gilded level by sprinkling on some gold glitter to give it a little extra shine. (via Studio DIY)

16. DIY Glitter Pills: Snag a set of empty capsules and add chunky glitter to make these sparkly pills that can be used as decoration or party favors. Adding this DIY will totally make you the hostess of the year, but be careful… we do not advise that you consume them ;) (via A Bubbly Life)

17. La Luna Designs Glitter Birthday Invitation ($17): Instead of sending out a text to your besties, go old school with this beautiful snail mail. Not only will it prepare them for your festive AF party, but it’ll give their stack of mail the punch of color that it needs.

18. DIY Glitter Ball Ornament Decoration: Okay, so these are *technically* ornaments, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use them for your birthday party. Make minis to add to tabletops or opt for a jumbo size to hang above the dessert table. Either way, it’ll make your party even more glittery and beautiful. (via Design Improvised)

19. Glittered Strawberries: It doesn’t get any girlier than glittered strawberries. Pick your favorite colors of edible glitter and dip your delicious chocolate-covered strawberries so they can shine just as bright as the birthday girl. (via Best Friends for Frosting)

20. DIY Glitter Drink Stirrers: Greeting your guests with a glass of champagne is great and all, but adding a drink stirrer that fits the theme is what will really wow them. Use this DIY to show your besties that you are the *best* party planner in town. (via Vicky B. TV)

21. DIY Glitter Friendship Bracelets: Since all of your BFFs will be at the party, it’s only fitting to gift them a friendship bracelet. Fill clear vinyl tubing with baby oil, water and glitter to give your friends’ outfits a little extra oomph for the party. (via Bitz + Giggles)

22. Glitter Donuts: Last but not least, glitter-dipped donuts are the *ideal* way to give your dessert table some serious style. All you need is your favorite flavor and some edible glitter to make the prettiest donuts out there. (Photo via Gemini Photography / Style Me Pretty)

Are you hosting a birthday party this summer? Follow us on Pinterest for even more inspo.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

20 Stuffed Mushroom Recipes For The Best Christmas Appetizers

Mushrooms act as a wholesome, earthy base for easy, one-bite Christmas appetizers. Once the stems are twisted off, the ‘shrooms can be filed with a host of flavorful toppings like bacon, cheese, and aromatic veggies, then roasted or slow-cooked until bubbly and tender. Start prepping your turkey, because we have irresistible stuffed mushroom recipes below.

Slow-Cooked, Stuffed Mushrooms

Brit + Co

Feast your eyes on a stuffed mushroom that’s filled with spinach-artichoke dip. (via Brit + Co)

Easy Stuffed Mushrooms

Brit + Co

If you don't have a ton of time to bake your mushrooms, this is literally the perfect appetizer. It can be served cold, but between the onions, olives, cheese, and tomatoes, there are so many amazing flavors your guests won't even care. (via Brit + Co)

5-Ingredient-Stuffed Mushrooms

A Spicy Perspective

The star ingredient in these Asian-inspired bites is plum sauce, which offsets the savoriness of pork sausage, sesame oil, and mushrooms. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Jalapeño-Cream-Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms

Peas and Crayons

Looking for a healthier alternative to deep-fried jalapeño poppers? These baked bites, which still taste indulgent, fit the bill. (via Peas and Crayons)

Chorizo-Stuffed Mushrooms

The Real Food Dietitians

These vibrant, slightly spicy ‘shrooms make a flavorful appetizer for a Mexican-inspired meal. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms With Hollandaise

Foodie Crush

These three-cheese hollandaise-drizzled mushrooms are the new brunch attraction in town. (via Foodie Crush)

Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms With Garlic and Gouda

Peas and Crayons

Make a platter of these, and your seafood-lovin’ friends won’t know what hit them. (via Peas and Crayons)

French-Onion-Soup-Stuffed Mushrooms

The Veg Life

These mushrooms pack all of the flavors of French onion soup, including the signature cheesy crust, into one convenient bite. (via The Veg Life)

Goat-Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms Wrapped in Bacon

Port and Fin

These cheesy mushrooms are wrapped in a crispy bacon hug. (via Port and Fin)

Spanakopita-Stuffed Mushrooms

Wholesome Yum

Flaky, feta-rich spanakopita is a staple at cocktail parties. Enjoy a low-carb version by replacing the pastry with mushrooms. (via Wholesome Yum)

Easy Pizza Portobello Stuffed Mushrooms

The Girl on Bloor

These stuffed mushrooms are basically just mini pizzas, and what could be better than that? Nothing. (via The Girl on Bloor)

Vegetarian, Italian-Stuffed Mushrooms

Bowl of Delicious

You don’t need meat to give stuffed mushrooms a robust flavor. These get plenty of pizzazz from shallots, garlic, parmesan, and herbs. (via Bowl of Delicious)

Bacon-and-Blue-Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms With Creamy Hot Sauce

The Food Charlatan

These saucy bites will be a welcome addition to any spread, be it a game-day party or movie night. (via The Food Charlatan)

Vegan, Pesto-Stuffed Mushrooms

Hummusapien

This guilt-free appetizer gives you a healthy dose of greens from spinach and basil. (via Hummusapien)

Shrimp-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Little Spice Jar

You’ll be transported to a little restaurant by the sea when you take a bite of these mushrooms. The breadcrumbs on top add a crunch that complements the tender shrimp. (via Little Spice Jar)

Italian, Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms

The Chunky Chef

These breakfast-friendly ‘shrooms would make a deliciously unexpected side to sweeter pancakes or French toast. (via The Chunky Chef)

Buffalo-Chicken-Stuffed Mushrooms

My Life Cookbook

Whether or not you’re keto, you’ll find many things to enjoy about these low-carb, high-fat mushrooms like cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chicken, and a touch of hot sauce. (via My Life Cookbook)

Goat-Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms

Food Fanatic

In this case, stuffed mushrooms are really just an excuse to eat ample bites of gooey goat cheese, and we’re all for it. (via Food Fanatic)

Pizza-Stuffed Mushrooms

Plain Chicken

If you ask us, you can have pizza without crust but never without cheese. Enjoy all the flavors of a meat lover’s pie in these easy, stuffed mushrooms. (via Plain Chicken)

Curry-Potato-Stuffed Mushrooms

The Pretty Bee

Indian flavors, including garam masala and coconut milk, fill these white button mushrooms. (via The Pretty Bee)

Follow us on Pinterest for more stuffed mushroom recipes *and* more amazing ideas!

This post has been updated.

7 “Impressive” Whole Foods Deals Will Save You Major Cash On Your Grocery Bill

I truly feel like I’ve been living under a rock when it comes to what’s good at Whole Foods. Turns out, they’ve been hiding some really impressive deals on groceries in the shadows, but I’m here to shed some light on ‘em. Whole Foods offers savings every week, and I’m fully convinced that my local Whole Foods will be seeing a whole lot more of me from now on.

Scroll on for details on Whole Foods’ top deals to shop starting today!

Kaboompics / PEXELS

1. BOGO 50% off packaged soups (Tuesdays)

Tuesdays and Fridays are the main days of the week that Whole Foods offers savings on their groceries. The first amazing deal for Tuesdays is BOGO 50% off packaged soups – perfect for this time of year!

They’ve got every kind of flavor from minestrone and chicken noodle to Italian wedding and broccoli cheddar. Their packaged soups average out at about $9 per 24-ounce tub, so saving 50% on one when you buy one is pretty good, especially for meal prep purposes.

Lukas / PEXELS

2. $2 off classic and organic rotisserie chickens (Tuesdays)

You can take $2 off two kinds of Whole Foods’ rotisserie chickens every Tuesday. Their classic rotisserie chicken goes for $9 while the organic version sells for $13. I love using rotisserie chicken for soups, sandwiches, wraps, and pastas, so getting a whole chicken to use for recipes all week long for just $7 is so nice!

Nadin Sh / PEXELS

3. $8 large cheese pizzas (Friday)

Sometimes you just do not feel like cooking on a Friday evening after work – that’s where this Whole Foods savings hack comes in! Every Friday, you can get a large cheese pizza for $8. While there’s nothing wrong with a plain cheese pizza (nostalgia galore!), I’d take advantage of this deal then bulk up my slices with various toppings like peppers, pepperoni, and olives.

Nadin Sh / PEXELS

4. 12 for $12 wild caught oysters (Friday)

Ooh, fancy! Every Friday, Whole Foods’ wild caught oysters go for $1 a pop. Buy a dozen for just $12, and you’re golden. This deal would be perfect for a bougie at-home date night.

Pixabay / PEXELS

5. BOGO 50% off packaged sushi rolls (Friday)

This is another great date night pick! Buy one packaged sushi roll, and get another 50% off on Fridays only. From rainbow rolls to California rolls, this Whole Foods savings hack has my cravings going crazy.

Minchephoto Photography / PEXELS

6. $10 family-sized tiramisu (Friday)

Got a hankering for a sweet treat? Don’t fret – you can shop a whole family-sized serving of tiramisu at Whole Foods for just $10 every Friday.

Kseniia Lopyreva / PEXELS

7. $12 bottles of prosecco (Friday)

The death of the work week and start of the weekend is obviously a cause for celebration, and Whole Foods has you covered with $12 bottles of Presto prosecco every Friday. Cheers!

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more deals!

food news grocery shopping whole foods deals food

Target Is Selling Tons Of Gorgeous Party Dresses Under $30 Right Now

Forget what Big Internet is telling you: you don’t have to shell out hundreds of dollars for a single dress. Target has tons of dress styles that rival that of Nordstrom and Reformation, available for way less. In fact, all of these Target party dresses are on sale right now through November 9. These luxe-looking designs will ensure your look is the talk of the party, no matter what you’re getting up to. From company Christmas parties to a New Year’s Eve night out, you’re most definitely going to find a dress fit for the occasion.

Our top 14 favorite Target party dresses for the 2024 season:

Target

A New Day Midi Lace Trim Dress

The chic v-neck on this silky midi dress is lined with a lace trim that make it all the more elegant. Pair this pick with a contrasting clutch and your favorite tall boots to totally rock the look!

Target

A New Day Drop Tier Maxi Dress

This is a dress style I gawk over all the time, thanks to none other than Sex and the City. The dramatic drop-waist helps elongate and flatter your figure, so you'll be feeling uber-confident the moment you walk into any party. Plus, this sultry burgundy color is such a perfect fit for winter functions.

Target

Wild Fable Rosette Tube Maxi Bodycon Dress

A tube dress is gonna get me every time. The strapless look is simply iconic because you can show up to the party covered up in a cardigan, then make the big reveal once things start to turn up. The statement rosette on this pick's neckline is a whole accessory in itself, so all you need is a good pair of statement earrings to complete the ensemble!

Target

Wild Fable Long Sleeve Flocked Mini Fit & Flare Dress

Want a bit of coverage, but still want to feel sexy? This off-the-shoulder party dress is for you! The long sleeves and textured velvet material make it feel much more winter-appropriate, but you still get to show off your neckline.

Target

Wild Fable Tiered Bow Mini Lace Dress

I am still thoroughly obsessed with bows, which is why I'm definitely snagging this style for any upcoming holiday shindigs. The tiered styling is undeniably flattering, and the black trim qualifies this party dress to be a good match with other black pieces, from jackets to boots.

Target

Ava & Viv Long Sleeve Rosette Midi A-Line Dress

When it comes to wintery fabrics, velvet reigns supreme. This playful square-neck mini dress is super soft to the touch and has the perfect amount of personality, thanks to the lil' rosette decal up front.

Target

Wild Fable Open Work Sequin Midi Dress

Yes, yes, and yes. This is my favorite Target party dress of them all. Though simple in its silhouette, the multicolored sequins do all the talking. Since this long dress makes a statement all on its own, I'd style it with some simple heels.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more holiday outfit inspo!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

dresses target fashion party ideas holiday shopping style

Elle Fanning "Uncontrollably Sobbed" During One Of Dakota's Movies As A Kid

As much as I love celebrity couples, I love celebrity sibling relationships even more. And Elle and Dakota Fanning are two sisters I've grown up watching since I first saw Dreamer in 2005. Considering Elle Fanning is only five months older than me, and I have a sister of my own, this is one relationship that feels particularly familiar. And while Elle has also watched Dakota Fanning act since we were kids, Dakota just revealed seeing Elle onscreen is just as special for her.

Here's why Dakota & Elle Fanning get emotional seeing each other onscreen.

Elle remembers "sobbing" during one particularly emotional Dakota Fanning movie.

“When Elle’s in anything, it makes me feel it deeper,” Dakota Fanning said at TheWrap’s Power Women Summit on December 3. “She never can fully disappear into a character totally for me as her sister. She obviously does an amazing job, but I’m always gonna see my little sister a little bit.”

And Elle is just as touched by Dakota's roles, and remembers "uncontrollably sobbing" after seeing Now Is Good, a movie where Dakota's character was dying of cancer. “Because it was my sister, I had a real traumatic reaction after that premiere and the screening,” Elle says. “Obviously the acting, but it was something felt on a deeper level.”

“I’m doing this job, I’m an actor because my sister started before me and I watched her,” Elle continues. “I wanted to do exactly what my big sister wanted to do.”

And their movies have also made an impact on everyone who watches them.

When Brit + Co caught up with Dakota Fanning at the world premiere of The Watchers, I had to ask about one of her most iconic movies: Uptown Girls. "I love it," she says of TikTok memes and edits giving the movie new life. "It's nostalgic for people who are kind of around my age, who grew up watching that movie, I think it's like a comfort movie for people. And so I love that people are still revisiting it and loving it. And maybe now that everyone's older [they're] understanding different things about it."

Dakota starred opposite Brittany Murphy, who also had roles in movies like Clueless, 8 Mile, and Girl, Interrupted. Brittany passed away in 2009 when Dakota was 15. "I loved Brittany so much and I still miss her," she says. "So anytime that she has, you know, a moment where people think about her is also nice."

You can see Elle Fanning in A Complete Unknown, in theaters December 25, and you can also stream Dakota Fanning's new show The Perfect Couple on Netflix now.

pop culture relationships celebrity

13 Yummy Christmas Cookies From Around The World

Heaping plates of Christmas cookies are synonymous with the holidays. It seems that nearly every country around the globe has their own variation on the holiday classic. In fact, some of these regions have been making their version of Christmas cookies for literal hundreds of years.

If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with your heritage, or maybe just want a little baking inspiration, check out our picks for the yummiest Christmas cookies from around the world.

The Noshery

Mantecaditos con Guayaba

These may look like ordinary thumbprint cookies, but these almond shortbreads from Puerto Rico are filled with a special guava marmalade. (via The Noshery)

Broma Bakery

Meringues

French meringues are a classic crumbly egg white cookie with a chewy interior. These get an extra European twist with the addition of Nutella. (via Broma Bakery)

Pretty. Simple. Sweet.

Alfajores

Deeply flavored dulce de leche, a caramel made from whole milk commonly found in Spain and many Latin American countries, is the key ingredient in these super pretty sandwiched Christmas cookies. (via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.)

Fancy Peasant

Melomakarona

These Christmas cookies that hail from Greece get their sweetness from a generous soaking of fresh honey! (via Fancy Peasant)

Very Eatalian

Baci di Dama

The name of this Italian treat translates to “lady’s kisses” — how adorable is that? These bite-sized cuties are made with ground hazelnuts and filled with a dollop of dark chocolate. (via Very Eatalian)

Cooking Classy

Linzer Cookies

These Austrian Christmas cookies are typically made with raspberry jam, but feel free to get crazy with a filling of your choice. Plus, the gorgeous windowpane look will make them a prize takeaway at your next cookie exchange. (via Cooking Classy)

Olivia’s Cuisine

Basler Brunsli

If you’re hanging out in Switzerland around Christmas time, you’ll definitely see these chocolate treats around. They’re often described as Swiss brownies due to their deliciously chewy texture. Perfect with a cup of eggnog or coffee! (via Olivia’s Cuisine)

Cilantro Parsley

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Lead image via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.

cookie recipes dessert recipes christmas cookies international foods christmas recipes