Photo Slideshow

the idea

Invite friends, family, and colleagues to contribute photos and videos of the guest of honor to surprise them with an animated birthday photo slideshow

the how

Gather up old photos and video clips of the guest of honor that tell the story of their life (so far)
Transfer any old printed photos to digital format (link below)
Upload/email the photos to have them set to music, animated, and blended into one continuous presentation
Play the slideshow at the party, either on a loop in the background or gather everyone together to share the moment at a designated time

the why

Entertainment; whether a surprise reveal or continuous loop, it’s an easy way to keep party guests entertained
Surprise; creates a sentimental moment during the party (expect the odd tear!)
Nostalgic; a walk down memory lane is a wonderful way to celebrate a milestone birthday or anniversary
Thoughtful; celebrates the person’s life, not their age
Feel good; makes the guest of honor feel special, loved, and appreciated
Discovery; allows guest to discover things they might not know about the guest of honor
Inclusive; allows friends and family who are deceased, far away, or can’t attend to still have a presence at the party
Conversation-starter; gives guests something to talk about and discuss with one another
Custom photo; opportunity to show the guest of honor when they were younger or at different ages ‘through the years’
Funny; guests may not have seen funny or embarrassing old photos of the guest of honor
Unifying; provides an opportunity to bring everyone together as a group
Inexpensive; a cost-effective party idea that won’t blow your budget
Keepsake; creates tangible memories for the guest of honor to revisit in future
Bestseller; an idea that’s proved popular with my site’s visitors

ADVICE FROM A PRO

Matt’s tip

“Slideshows work best when they’re a surprise for the guest of honor.

Use them to create a focal point that brings everyone together at a certain time for a big reveal. Alternatively, have it playing on a continuous loop throughout the party to entertain guests during drinks; it can be a great ice breaker / conversation starter.

If you own (or can borrow) a projector for playback it will give a more special ‘big-screen’ event feel, fill a larger space, and enable more people to see easily in a crowded room. Alternatively, you could cast from a laptop or tablet to a large TV screen.”

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photo transfers

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