This past weekend, I turned 21. Without a doubt, it was one of the best weekends of my life thus far, and I believe this is because I had everything I needed to have the perfect 21st.
I didn't go anywhere special like Vegas or the Bahamas--everything I needed was easily available on and around my college campus. So I compiled a list of these things, so that you and your friends won't forget any of the essentials for celebrating your 21st.
1. Alcohol, duh.
This one should be obvious. While you'll be going to bars and there's plenty of alcohol there, you should still stock your freezer with a few fifths for pre-gaming.
2. "21" Mylar balloons for pics.
They will provide you with the perfect 'BDay' selfie for Insta.
3. Other decorations.
Including confetti, streamers, and more balloons. This is pretty much your last landmark birthday until you turn 30, so take full advantage of the situation.
4. Perfect drunchie food stocked in the pantry.
You will want this all day and night long. You'll thank yourself more than you know.
5. Awesome cake.
Also doubles as great drunk food.
6. Water.
Don't be dumb and think that you can just wait until you're hungover to drink water. If you do that, there's no way you'll be able to rally, and on your 21st birthday, you NEED to rally.
7. Light-up birthday pin.
This might sound obnoxious to some of you, but it helped me cut the line at both of the bars I went to and provided me with plenty of free drinks. I'd wear it every weekend if I could.
8. An alternate form of ID.
You may or may not need this, but have it with you just in case.
9. A wristlet that tightens up.
This is to hold your ID, your alternate form of ID, and whatever else you bring out with you. Do NOT set it down anywhere. Just keep it tight on your wrist and know that you'll wake up in a better mood, knowing that your stuff is safe.
10. A Uber account and plenty of cab numbers.
Just don't drink and drive. Whatever you do, don't do it. You'll ruin your life, as well as others', and it's just not worth it, EVER.
11. Excedrin Migraine.
This stuff works magic when it come to curing hangover headaches. Drink plenty of water with it and you'll be feeling better in no time.
12. Brunch.
Another great hangover cure--greasy breakfast food and more alcohol.
13. Great friends.
Some of these things would be sad if you bought them yourself. If you're lucky enough to have friends as great as mine, then you don't have anything to worry about. They'll make sure you don't lose your stuff or your dignity. They'll hold your hair back if necessary. They'll even buy you drinks when there are no boys around to do it.
