Unique 30th Birthday Ideas That Don't Involve a Nightclub
This year I’m turning 30. And while saying goodbye to my 20s is a bit sad, I am excited to celebrate the next glorious chapter and decade of my life. Now, how to celebrate? Lately I’ve been keeping my eye out for creative ways to usher in the big 3-0. A milestone this big deserves a shindig or adventure all its own. Whether you’re ready to jet-set on a new adventure, face your biggest fears, or pick up a new skill, I’ve got a few ideas just for you.
1. Plan a girl’s weekend
Grab your gal pals for a weekend of bonding, eating, exploring, and catching up. Jet set on a quick adventure, or bunk up at a nearby hotel or Airbnb. Twenty years ago sleepovers were all about staying up late, watching movies, and noshing on sweet treats (my mom’s chocolate chip cookies were a staple). Why should 30 be any different?I have a few fun destinations on my must-visit list, all a short trip from San Diego:
Catalina Island:Beach, spa, and a tropical island feel just a short trip away
Palm Springs: Feel the heat poolside and enjoy great shopping and dining.
Newport Beach: A spa day at Pelican Hill, a boat adventure, and delicious eats.
2. Sign up for a Wellness Adventure
Travel internationally to experience a different culture and new workouts on a wellness adventure (yes please!). I recently discovered Fit & Fly Girl, a company that hosts week-long retreats just for women in locations all over the world. Held at a private villa or boutique hotel the companies flies in a personal trainer for daily fitness classes. Enjoy healthy meals, spa treatments, and participate in excursions nearby. Sign me up!If you can’t escape for a week-long adventure opt for a wellness retreat nearby. A weekend of healthy cooking classes, yoga, hiking, and pool-side lounging is the perfect way to recharge for a new decade. (Idea: This retreat in Arizona is on my list!)
3. Run A Marathon (Race)
Running may not sound like the party you had in mind. But, finishing 26.2 miles is an empowering way to kick off a new decade. Running my first marathon, with my mom cheering me on, felt amazing. Get some extra motivation by picking a charity you’re passionate about. With support from friends and family you can raise funds, run strong, and add some gold to your jewelry box ;) Who knows--running may become your newest addiction.
4. Take a Dance Class
My husband and I have been talking about dance lessons for a while, and I think it’s time I get to work on my dance moves (and you can too!). As a teenager I danced with a local DJ company at weddings and Bar/Bat Mitzvahs. And while my YMCA is on point, I’ve always struggled learning new steps. So, next year my goal is to learn Swing (there are several forms) Here goes nothing!
5. Eat all of your Favorite Foods
No seriously. What are your favorite restaurants and sweet treats? Are there any foods that make you feel a bit nostalgic? For me, pretzels and frosting (aka spooey) takes me back to hanging with my girlfriends, listening to NSYNC, and gossiping. Enjoy a blast from the past, or treat yourself to a delicious meal with all of your favorites. You deserve it.
6. Update your Wardrobe with a Personal Stylist
Out with the old, in with the new! Every year I go through my closet and discover items I forgot I had. It’s natural for our style to evolve, and that’s where a stylist comes in handy. I love shopping, but for the big 3-0 I’m recruiting the help of a professional.Before you hire a personal shopper check in with some of your favorite stores. For my husband’s birthday I gifted him two hours with a Men’s Stylist at Nordstrom. He picked up new jeans, shirts, shoes, and a jacket. Beyond discovering a love for Paige denim he had a great time getting help from someone who understands fit and fashion. Nordstrom, J.Crew, and more offer free appointments. Give it a try and get ready to look and feel your best in the decade ahead.
7. Face your Biggest Fears
One of my dearest friends did something this year completely out of her comfort zone: improv comedy. To her, getting on stage is scary, and trying to be funny too—well, that’s just scarier. Facing your fears is no joke, but the feeling of accomplishment is well worth it. Whatever your biggest fear is, tackle it.
8. Write a Letter to Yourself in Five Years
Trust me on this one. In middle school my 7th grade Science teacher had us write letters to our future selves. She mailed them after our Freshman year of college. I was so thankful to receive that letter five years later. Although my life was a bit different than originally planned (Justin Timberlake was taken), I could see how far I had come.What is your life like right now? What do you hope will be different in five years? Do you have any advice for the future YOU? Write it down and create your own time capsule. It will be the greatest 35th birthday present you ever received.What are some of your favorite ways to celebrate a new year? Let me know in the comment section below! Happy birthday :)