How to host the ultimate sleepover

Got grand plans to pull off an epic sleepover? Let us be your accomplice! Whether your kids have been nagging you to have their friends over, or you’re recreating the cherished childhood tradition with pals of your own, we’ve got you covered with a bunch of ideas. 

From sleeping setups to snacks and of course entertainment—here’s our ultimate sleepover planning guide. And hey, don’t forget we’re experts when it comes to thoughtfulness (the clue’s in the name), so we’ll dive into those all-important finishing touches too. 

Heading to a slumber party-themed birthday celebration? You don’t want to turn up empty-handed. So, grab a super thoughtful card from our lovely little (or should we say huge) collection: 

And if you’re wondering what to write inside, go ahead and steal an idea from our what to write in a birthday card guide—not forgetting to add a little note to say thanks for the invite! 

How to host the ultimate sleepover party

From settling on a theme to stocking up on food, there are various things you’ll need to add to your pre-sleepover checklist. And if you’re hosting for a good few people, things can get pretty overwhelming. Not to worry though, as this is where we swoop in to save the day. Cue our guide to hosting the ultimate sleepover!

1. Sort the time, place, and theme 

First thing’s first, it’s time to think about what kind of sleepover you’re hoping to host (as well as when you’re going to host it). Is it a chilled wine and cheese night with your best mates? Or are you finally caving and allowing your little one to invite over friends for a night of zero sleep? 

If you’re hosting a kid’s sleepover, it can be a nice touch to set a theme. So, here are a few of our favourite sleepover party ideas: 

  • Night at the movies: blankets, popcorn, and movie marathons—a retro movie night sleepover is bound to be a hit. Hang some fairy lights, press play, and let the kids get comfy for a night of cinema-themed fun. 
  • Indoor campout: for the next of our sleepover ideas, we’re thinking blanket forts, air mattresses, and of course a toasted marshmallow dessert. Perfect for those who love the idea of camping but hate the reality of it, treat your guests to a cosy indoor campout! 
  • Sweet dreams: all you’ll need for this one is a bunch of treats—we’re thinking cupcakes, ice cream, and a variety of sweets. Five kids and a sugar rush, what could go wrong? (Rather you than us). 

And who’s to say you can’t set a theme as an adult? Inspired by childhood nostalgia, pick one of the above and encourage your mates to surrender to the fun of it. 

 2. Send out your invites 

Once you’ve got the theme and date sorted, it’s time to get those invites sent! If you’re hosting a themed sleepover, make sure to send them with plenty of time to spare, letting your guests know all the important details. Also, it can be a nice touch to ensure the invite mirrors your theme, giving people a sneak peek into what they can expect. 

Alternatively, if you’re keeping it casual with friends of your own, a simple text in the group chat will probably suffice. 

3. Set up your sleep zone 

Arguably the most important part of the sleepover checklist: it’s time to sort your sleeping zone. If you’re hosting friends, ensure their bed is extra comfortable with freshly washed bedding and plenty of blankets.  

For kids, sleeping is probably the last thing on their priority list, but you’ll still need to set up a cosy area. Air mattresses on the living room floor are a classic—just make sure to gather plenty of pillows and add some fairy lights for a magical touch. 

4. Sleepover entertainment 

Not quite what to do at a slumber party? Well, the options are pretty much endless. A movie marathon is a sleepover classic, so why not pop on your favourite franchise from start to finish and enjoy a chilled-out evening in front of the TV? 

If you’re looking for things to do at a sleepover that involve a little less lazing around, there’s always the option of setting up a craft or pamper night. From DIY coasters to painting candles and making your own jewellery, there are a variety of options that are perfect for little ones and adults alike. 

Or, facemasks are a sleepover ritual, so enjoy an evening of pampering instead! Pop on your pjs, paint your nails, and do some DIY facials while you’re at it. Oh, and of course, remember to press play on a relaxing playlist to create the ultimate zen vibe. 

5. Food to fuel the fun

There’s no sleepover without a midnight feast, so don’t forget to add food to your sleepover checklist. If you’re having friends over, why not host a somewhat sophisticated affair, treating them to a three-course meal you’ve lovingly prepared? 

Make DIY place tags, then set the table with your fanciest glassware and tall taper candles. Finally, settle down to an evening of delicious food and drinks. Speaking of drinks, have fun with making some themed cocktails or mocktails—how about midnight mimosas or dreamy daiquiris for some inspo? 

Feeling lazy? We don’t blame you. Order in everyone’s favourite takeaway and skip the kitchen stress. And don’t forget breakfast (pancakes with syrup and an assortment of berries will do). 

Thoughtful finishing touches

Thoughtfulness is our forte, so here are a couple of ways in which you can make your sleepover that little bit more memorable. 

Grab some matching pyjamas

Sleepovers and matching pyjamas go hand in hand. So, if you’re thinking of going all out with hosting duties, why not treat each of your guests to a new set? Or if you’ve got a fair few guests and splurging is off the cards, just grab some fluffy socks, slippers, or individual sleep masks for a similarly thoughtful touch. 

Create a hotel-like setting 

Got your best mates heading over for an end-of-week get together? If so, it’s a nice idea to make things super homely for them. Gone are the days when the sole goal was to be the last to fall asleep, your guests are more likely to appreciate a cosy evening and a good night’s rest. 

We’re thinking soft robes, clay facemasks, and a few glasses of wine. And don’t forget those finishing touches like freshly washed towels and scented candles. Ahh, sounds lovely…Can we come? 

Feeling inspired by our sleepover party ideas? It’s time to message the gang or finally say yes to your little one’s sleepover-related nagging. Blow up the air mattresses, pick out a classic movie franchise, and get ready for a night filled with fun. 

On the hunt for more occasion-themed inspo? Well, what are you hanging around here for? Head over to the thortful blog for plenty more! With tips on what to do on your birthday as well as how to throw a Valentine’s Day party, you won’t be disappointed.