February invitations

If you do decide on a Valentine's theme for your birthday, start off with a red or pink party invitation. Get your guests in the Valentine's mood with these colors and even symbols and images that fit; for example red hearts and cupids can make great birthday invitations. Just make sure you're clear on your invitation that it's a birthday party, not a Valentine's Day party.

Party themes

A couple's Valentine's birthday party can always be fun, but you might want to focus more of the attention on the birthday guest of honor. And this wouldn't be such a great theme for the kiddies. Skip the hearts and make your February party into a winter wonderland with snowy invitations and activities. Send out a wintery invitation and tell your guests to bundle up for snowman building, sleigh rides or even a snowball fight. Once everyone is done with the outdoor activities, make sure you've thought of plenty of warm treats to take off the February chill. You don't have to plan for an all-indoor event just because it's February.

February is also the month for Mardi Gras. This theme is all about decadence and celebration so your guests will know that you mean business when they receive your Mardi Gras birthday invitation.

Any hot summer celebration would be most welcome for a chilly February birthday party. Host a late winter luau or a mock beach party to warm up your guests. A fun summer invitation and party will warm up your guests in no time.

Menu ideas

With the winter weather you might want to consider a hearty menu. For the grown-ups a Cajun menu would be a perfect fit with a Mardi Gras theme. For the kids you can't go wrong with a home made take on fun fast-food items like tacos, burgers and even pizza. It's not too fancy, but it makes ‘em happy. Opt for heart shaped cookies or cupcakes to add just a dash of Valentine's flair

For your beverages, you'll probably want to have both hot and cold options. Red, fruity drinks are always a hit for kids and grown ups. A Mardi Gras cocktail can be anything from Hurricanes, Mai Tais or any bourbon concoction. Warm up your guests with a selection of coffees or hot chocolate with additions like whipped cream, flavored syrups and candies. Don't forget its still winter and your guests might enjoy a warm beverage on a chilly winter night.

Don't feel like you have to have a Valentine's party just because it's February. There are many great themes to make your birthday party special. Draw on the parts of the month and season that you love and make your February party extra special. Or pick a theme that is outside of the season for a unique birthday party.