Roxy Jacenko defends lavish $40K party for daughter Pixie, 11

Roxy Jacenko has defended the lavish party thrown to mark her daughter’s 11th birthday after it left many Australians furious.

Roxy Jacenko is copping criticism for throwing a lavish birthday party for her daughter Pixie Curtis, 11, but the mum-of-two is staunchly defending the celebration.

The PR mogul’s eldest child enjoyed a nightclub-themed bash in Sydney on Saturday with highlights that included a 360-degree photo booth, a personal hair stylist, a professional DJ, two zebras and even fireworks.

The extravagant event reportedly cost $40,000 and critics were quick to label the eye-watering price tag a “joke” on social media – with many pointing out Australia was in the grip of a cost-of-living crisis leaving people struggling to pay for basics such as rent, energy bills and groceries.

However Jacenko has been quick to defend the party, stating it was paid for with money Pixie has made from the toy business she launched in lockdown that went “gangbusters”.

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Roxy Jacenko has been criticised for throwing Pixie Curtis a lavish 11th birthday party. Picture: Supplied

The mum-of-two defended the party, adding the family regularly donates to charity. Picture: Channel 9

“It was a celebration of not only her 11th birthday but her business,” Jacenko told Today hosts Karl Stefanovic and Allison Langdon.

“She has a toy business. She started in Covid... and it went gang busters.

“It is a celebration, and no, I am not low key, but it was a celebration because a she has done so well.”

Jacenko, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016, said while she appreciates “everyone has an opinion” she knows life doesn’t last forever and tries to make the most of each day.

“The reality is we are here for a short time and I want to make sure that my children have the best opportunities they can, and if we can afford to do it – whilst at the same time being charitable,” she said.

“It is not for everyone, but I don’t worry about the noise.

“I had cancer, we have lived a life that has been under scrutiny a lot, so I want to make the most of my life because you don’t know what happens tomorrow.”

The bash reportedly cost $40,000, with Pixie funding it with money earned from her toy business. Picture: Supplied

The boss of Sweaty Betty PR went on to explain that Pixie knows how fortunate she is and the family regularly donates to charity.

“We do a lot for the Children’s Hospital, we don’t like to scream it from the roof tops, but Pixie does do that,” she said.

“She has donated so many toys... and the most important thing for he is yes, she knows that is not the norm, but she also knows that for every supplier that was there they were paid.

“It wasn’t just a free for all because we said we will Instagram.”

However, critics said the party – held at luxury event facility La Porte Space in Alexandria and organised by renowned party planner Mary Ronis – was a “gross display of wealth”.

“What a joke. Talk about teaching such bad lessons and expectations,” one angry commenter wrote.

“They have the money and can afford to do what they please but I feel as so many people can’t afford to pay their rent and buy food, it is in bad taste to flaunt it in the media,” another said.

“Some people have too much money.... and out of touch with the real world...spoilt to the max,” one stated.

While one ranted: “Disgusting amount of money to spend on a birthday party it certainly doesn’t teach anything except if you have it flaunt it not a good example to live life by.”

Guests were also treated to a fire breather, who put on a show. Picture: Jessica Abraham

The space was transformed into a nightclub. Picture: Supplied

However, some argued it was “their money” and they can “spend how they wish”.

“Who honestly cares if I could do the same for my kids I would,” one said.

“Her life, I don’t care even though it is ridiculous to spend that much for a birthday party,” another agreed.

The event 45 guests were welcomed to “Pixie’s” nightclub by hospitality staff serving mocktails, with a number of extravagant decorations and activities awaiting them in the party’s main area.

Inside they were greeted by neon lights, a personal hairdresser, a DJ and professional photographer.

There were also lolly bags, a pizza bar, a dessert table and custom “VIP” lanyards for every attendee.

The party wrapped up a week of celebrations that included family dinners and multiple birthday cakes.

Pixie is a budding entrepreneur, already co-owning two businesses with her famous mum, her hair accessory brand “Pixie’s bows” and her toy business “Pixie’s Pix”.

The now 11-year-old has outdone her previous parties, particularly her ninth birthday, which had a beauty theme and was accompanied with manicures and pedicures at Langham’s spa.

It’s not the first time the family has come under scrutiny for their spending, with social media users slamming Jacenko for buying Pixie a $270,000 Mercedes Benz GL in 2021.

Younger child Hunter helps out with the business, packing orders and making buying decisions, with Jacenko previously telling news.com.au she’s “super proud” of her kids.

“I’m super proud of her and her brother. Pixie’s idea to add fidgets and sensory toys to her bow business, which many people said wouldn’t be popular, has been a huge success,” she said at the time.

“We’ve made a pact, we must keep going, work harder. Next it’s a Rolls Royce.”

News.com.au contacted Jacenko for further comment.