You’re finally an adult and so it’s your rite of passage to throw a super sick b’day bash. And trust us, you’re definitely going to be hitting up Liquorland for this one.

But before you go all out like that MTV show My Super Sweet 16, stick to what you know – and by that we mean pizza and booze.

Free Alcohol Should Not Include Spirits

We might be sounding like The Flying Nun but we’re not trying to ruin your night. This tip is totally well-intended and will hopefully ensure that you have a vomit-free party. You don’t want to have to clean up that mess the next day.

You might think that after years of rough nights you finally know how to hold your booze, but we guarantee that not everybody will be as whisky-neat as you are. People are bound to get swept up in the celebrations and drink a few too many, so hand out free wine and beer, or a jello shot per party-goer, but don’t be giving out bottles of tequila.

Sure you want people to hit the d-floor, but not from passing out.

DJ And Bands, Not Spotify

Don’t let your guests do the whole Spotify battle trick. You’ll end up listening to Nicki Minaj one moment and then show tunes the next. And the worst part is that you won’t listen to any one song for more than a few minutes.

If you’re willing to fork out a little more cash, hire a DJ or band. Make sure you give them a list of your favourite songs to play on the night, and don’t just let your mate’s friend who doubles as a bartender and DJ play on the decks for a free invite to the party and some booze. Chances are they’ll do a rubbish job.

There’s Nothing Wrong With Keeping It Small

A small, modest party will be way more fun than inviting heaps of awkward acquaintances from uni just to fill the room.

You don’t want a bunch of random people bringing their mates and invading your good vibes. You might feel obliged to make small talk if they come along, instead of spending time with your main peeps.

This is your night, so you owe it to yourself to spend it with people you actually like.

Themes Make Everything More Fun

Even if you go as simple as cocktail or black tie, themes are the pinnacle of a successful party. They give guests who don’t know each other an icebreaker and something to chat about, and will make for some totally Instagram-worthy shots. This is your excuse to wear a totally ugly Hawaiian shirt.

Keep The Snacks Simple

Fancy food’s got nothing on pizza and garlic bread. Or for a total people-pleaser, go for Thai. Both options are cheap af and will make your guests the total opposite of hangry.

If you feel like masquerading as an adult now that you’re of an acceptable age to do so, serve up cheese and dip platters. And a $10 white wine will do (nobody will know the difference).

So now that you’re armed with some 21st bday tips, don’t forget the booze.

Eden Gillespie is an International Studies/ Media student at UNSW with a love for breakfast bagels and Louis Theroux.

(Lead image: Sisters/Little Stranger)