Planning a birthday party that’s out of this world doesn’t have to cost a fortune. My boyfriend, Russell, is a die-hard fan of Star Citizen and Squadron 42 by Roberts Space Industries (RSI) & Cloud Imperium Games (CIG), so I threw him a “Squadron 26“ themed bash for his 26th birthday. With a budget of ~$150, some creative shopping, and incredible gifts from the CIG team, this cosmic celebration was a hit. Here’s how I pulled it off, complete with a budget breakdown, party plan, and tips to replicate the magic.

The Inspiration: A Star Citizen Superfan

Russell’s love for Star Citizen runs deep. For nearly five years, I’ve watched him geek out over space whales, seamless gameplay with no loading screens, and CitizenCon, where he’s glued to the screen for a week to score new ships. He’s invested $5,000–$10,000 in the game, bought me a penguin plush and an account to play alongside him, and dreams of living in a Star Citizen VR universe. For his 26th birthday, a Squadron 42–themed party was the perfect way to celebrate his passion.

I reached out to Sandi at CIG with a heartfelt email, pitching the party idea and asking for help to incorporate Star Citizen’s quirky elements. Sandi’s response was a game-changer: two signed posters and two fictional health shot aux pens—unique swag that made Russell’s day and is now transforming his office into a Star Citizen shrine.

The Email That Started It All…

Here’s the email I sent to Sandi at CIG, which sparked their generous contribution:

Hello, to whomever may read this. My name is Baleigh, and I was hoping to have a moment of your time to pitch an idea for the marketing department responsible for Star Citizen (S.C.) and Squadron 42, and seek your help.

Firstly, you read the subject right, I’m looking to host a S.C. birthday party—more specifically a Squadron 42-themed one—for my amazing boyfriend.

For as long as I have known him (nearly five years together now), my partner, Russell, has been a super fan of S.C. and all things Roberts Space Industries. For a fun gift he got me the penguin plush, purchased an account for me to play alongside him once released, and has spent nearly $5,000-$10,000 on your games. I’m telling you he is a mega fan. He is 26, and loves space whales. He nerds out on the continuous play through with no loading screen. Every time CitizenCon comes on he tells me he will be “dedicated to that and don’t ask him for anything for that week” so he can get new ships. This cracks me up every time. Essentially he lives and breathes S.C.. I’m sure if someone could jump into the screen and live in this VR he would. He says nearly as much.

Anyway, I’d love to know more about the little fun things that make S.C. fun and quirky, as well as some help brainstorming how I can incorporate these icons/themes into the party. I’d also love to know if there is anything specific that you might have for merch that might make the event for him all that more special.

Sorry if this is rambly, I have no clue about a lot of this stuff, only that he is obsessed with Squadron 42 and Star Citizen. Please let me know if this is something that I can get help with, or if there is some information you can send me to get started as the lore of this epic world is a bit overwhelming.

Thanks. – Baleigh (an excited girlfriend).

Sandi’s response was short but sweet:

Hi Baleigh,

2 signed posters and 2 fictional pens have been sent! Couldn’t get into more as some of the swag was packed up already.

Hope he likes it and has a fun Bday!

Best,
Sandi

Bringing Squadron 42 to Life

Here’s how I transformed our space into a Star Citizen universe:

Invitations

• Theme: Digital invites styled like Star Citizen loading screens, created using Canva (free). Included phrases like “Russell is joining…SQUADRON 26!”
• Cost: $0.

Food & Drinks

• Galaxy Glitter Cocktails: Mixed blue curacao, grenadine, and pink lemonade with edible glitter for a cosmic swirl. Served in clear cups to show off the effect.
• Charcuterie Platter: Budget-friendly snacks from Dollar Tree and Aldi, arranged in a circular “space station” layout.
• Cake: A custom space-themed cake from Cakes by Lavonne with Squadron 42 vibes (think galaxy).

Decor & Atmosphere

• Ambiance: The Amazon disco light speaker cast starry patterns across the room, paired with hanging stars and a black tablecloth for a space-like void.
• Balloons: Peacock latex balloons mimicked planets, with confetti adding a festive touch. (Free via my job, but ~$50 to replicate.)
• Pro Tip: Reuse decor like tablecloths and lights for future parties to save money.
• Photo Booth: Set up a corner with a starry backdrop (black tablecloth + confetti) and RSI swag for guests to pose with.
• Music: A Spotify playlist of sci-fi soundtracks and Star Citizen OSTs (free).

Tips for Your Own Star Citizen Party

1. Embrace the Theme: Lean into Star Citizen’s sci-fi aesthetic with starry lights, metallic colors, and cosmic cocktails.
2. Shop Smart: Dollar Tree, Aldi, and Amazon are your friends for affordable supplies and food. Reuse decor to save long-term.
3. Personalize It: Highlight your partner’s favorite game elements.
4. Reach Out: A heartfelt email to the game’s team can yield merch or ideas. Sandi’s response made this party unforgettable.
5. Balloon Hack: Buy latex balloons in bulk (by the bag) for impact without overspending.

Final Thoughts

This Squadron 26 party was a cosmic success, and Russell’s reaction to the RSI swag was priceless. With $150, some creativity, and a little help from Sandi and the RSI team, we created a birthday he’ll never forget. The best part? Reusable decor means future parties will be even cheaper. Here’s to celebrating your loved ones among the stars!

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Have you thrown a themed party on a budget? Share your tips in the comments, or let me know if you want that balloon tutorial!