Saturday, May 31, 2014

Happy Birthday!

I am guilty! I love throwing a great party for my Lyric. I always said I wouldn't go overboard, but I always do. Pinterest has become my best friend and I have 2 built in party planners who have the best ideas ever. Yep, that would be mom and Brittany, but don't tell them I told you so.

Lyric's THIRD birthday is coming up. Can you believe that? Time flies! His first birthday party went along with his name sake, and I chose a whimsical rock star theme. We used bright colors, some neon, instrument decor, etc. I made the cake with my mom, but you would never know. Yes, I just bragged  a little. I used the church as my venue (which we will be doing again this year), and we set out a pool and water table for outdoor fun. We grilled hot dogs and burgers for our guests, and had several craft stations for our kiddos to enjoy. They could create their own guitar, decorate a guitar cookie, make a magnet, and some other stuff, too! My favorite part was the photo booth. Between Dollar Tree and a few garage sales, we had some neat props to use. Overboard? Oh yes. Too much for a one year old to remember? Absolutely. BUT- I wouldn't have it any other way. You'll find some pictures below of Lyric's Rockin' First Birthday!


His second birthday party was just as big of a production, but I paid someone to clean up all of the mess! Lyric loves animals, especially farm animals, so a farm party it was. We chose to have it at the Louisiana Children's Museum located in beautiful downtown New Orleans. We paid $195, and I considered that a great deal for the service and playtime our guests received. If you are interested in any of the packages, you can visit this link. I used Pinterest again to help with some ideas. Our food was themed, so I stuck with generally inexpensive food that was yummy and creative: chicken salad sandwiches, ham and cheese sandwiches, chicken feed (Chex Mix), veggie garden (Veggie Straws). Barn yard humor anyone? Top them off with tiny chalkboard easels I bought from Michael's for $1, and VOILA! I also created my own barn backdrop that was easy to transport and can be seen below. I always use Oriental Trading Company for my cute favors, Dollar Tree for table clothes, napkins, and serving wear, and thrift store/garage sale finds for most props and decor. I ordered basic cupcakes from Sams for around $20 (some of the tastiest cupcakes, seriously). The cute little guys sticking out of the them were ordered from Etsy. These were my splurge. Check out the pictures below!


My TIPS:
  • Use what you already have, you'd be surprised!
  • Budget, and stick to it. You can look like you have a big budget without spending a boat load!
  • Provide yourself LOTS of time to buy. I just bought favors for Lyric's 3rd birthday party. I'll buy some decorations when we get our next pay check, etc. His birthday isn't until July.
  • Plan ahead of time. The more time you have to shop around for your theme, the cuter your party will be!

Happy Birthday planning, shopping, and celebrating to you!
-Ashley


1 comment:

  1. I do enjoy a good party!! Little Details are the key!! AND......we made a pretty darn good looking guitar cake!

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