# Birthday party checklist — cake, balloons, nothing missed

Preparing a surprise or a big birthday party, tasks scatter quickly. Share the list with a room code and everyone can see who has the cake, who has the balloons and who has the snacks. No sign-up, just the code.

**In short:** A birthday party needs a cake, candles and a lighter, balloons, party decorations, drinks, snacks, paper plates and cups, napkins and a cake knife. Order the cake at least two days ahead and count about one slice per guest. Have helium balloons filled on the day, and don't forget gift wrap, a speaker and trash bags.

## What's on the list

### General

- Candles
- Lighter
- Balloons
- Party decorations
- Party hats
- Paper plates & cups
- Napkins
- Cake knife
- Ice
- Gift wrap
- Speaker
- Camera

### Sweets & snacks

- Cake
- Snacks

### Drinks

- Drinks

### Cleaning & household

- Trash bags

## Tips

- Order the cake at least two days ahead; bakeries fill up fast on weekends and holidays.
- Pick the cake size by headcount: about one slice per guest, fewer if there are other desserts.
- Have helium balloons filled on the day of the party, as latex ones don't stay afloat for more than about a day.
- For a surprise, ask everyone to arrive at least half an hour before the guest of honour, and keep this list hidden from them.

## Frequently asked questions

### How big a cake do you need for a birthday party?

Count about one slice per guest, so a cake for 15 if 15 people are coming. If there are other desserts you can go slightly smaller, but if you're unsure, take the bigger one, since leftover cake is a better problem than running out.

### How do you plan a surprise birthday party?

Gather the guests in a group chat that doesn't include the guest of honour, and ask everyone to arrive at least half an hour before them. Agree in advance with a close friend on a believable reason to get the birthday person there at the right time.

### When should you blow up balloons for a party?

Helium-filled latex balloons stay afloat for roughly a day, so have them filled on the day of the party. Air-filled balloons can be prepared and hung a day ahead.

### Can I change the list?

Of course. The ready-made list is just a starting point: delete, add, move items between categories.

### Do I need an account?

No. A room code is all it takes — no email, password or signup.

### How long is the list kept?

As long as you use it. A list is only deleted after a month without any activity; even opening the room resets the clock.

### Can I install it on my phone?

Yes. With the room open, tap "Save Room" to add it to your home screen and open it with one tap.

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[Start a room with this list](https://ortakliste.app/en/list/birthday-party-checklist) — 16 items go straight into your new room; delete what you don't need, add what's missing. No account needed.