First Birthday Party Ideas! [Archive] - Page 3

BooeyJ2

03-20-2006, 11:27 AM

Thanks everyone! :D

elnelson - I had my husband create the label in Illustrator (or photoshop?) and then my sister printed them out on label paper and we stuck them on ;)

club924 - Since you're doing a pink/brown theme and need 17 (yikes!), you might want to go a cheaper route since Jones Sodas aren't cheap (we only bought 6). You can do lots of things with pink and brown...

Brown root beer bottles (which is cheaper and would match better) with pink labels

Chocolates wrapped in pink cellophane (with coordinating ribbon)

Pink and brown M&M's (it's Easter time, so you'll have to buy a few packs of the Easter ones and pick out the pink and then pick out brown ones from regular M&M's) in clear cellophane (with coordinating ribbon)

Brownies wrapped in pink cellophane (with coordinating ribbon)

;)

Traciann

03-20-2006, 12:03 PM

club924 we are going 3 balloons per table and the regular bottle of bubbles works great. we are having 15 tables, so i needed something that was cheap...and i figured the kids could take the bubbles/balloons home with them when they leave.

alienhost

03-20-2006, 12:13 PM

Booey Wow everything looked fabulous, but I would expect nothing less! How did you cut out the picture circles? I have some Fiskars device for cutting circles but it is very hard to use.

PaulsGirl

03-20-2006, 12:36 PM

Booey You deserve a round of applause, seriously!!! WOW!!! I'll have to hit you up for ideas for my little one's bday in July! ;) You did a truly spectacular job!

Jessiesmama

03-20-2006, 01:26 PM

Booey what an awesome party! I may have to "leverage" some of your ideas for DD's first b-day in June! Everything coordinated so well!!!! Bravo!

BooeyJ2

03-20-2006, 03:07 PM

Thank again everyone! :)

DUH...I forgot to post pics of the goodie bags....

*GOODIE/FAVOR BAGS*.....
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v716/Booey143598/More%20pics/Newest%20Pics/Newest2/IMG_3941.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v716/Booey143598/More%20pics/Newest%20Pics/Newest2/IMG_3942.jpg

mia's mama

03-20-2006, 03:11 PM

Holy Sh*t Booey! Way to put us all to shame! ;) You did an AMZING job!!!!

Pink_Converse

03-20-2006, 03:13 PM

Booey-Everything turned out so cute.

dana b

03-20-2006, 03:30 PM

great job booey! her dress was perfect.

Carissa

03-20-2006, 03:50 PM

Booey WOW that looks awesome!

Subscribe'n for ideas!

genndan100502

03-20-2006, 04:20 PM

bowing down to booeyj2!! great job!

kelseyledare

03-20-2006, 05:00 PM

Wow, Booey, I am totally impressed and in awe. Everything was so well coordinated- What a great job!!!

MichelleRenee

03-20-2006, 05:47 PM

BooeyJ2, I LOVE your theme. Pandas are my weakness... I even have one tattooed on my ankle. I have been looking for panda stuff for my baby, whether it be stuff for the shower, the nursery, or future birthday parties. Thanks for the great ideas!!! I hope you don't mind, but I would like to save all your pictures on my computer for future reference.

Out of curiosity, do you know of any websites where I can find more panda ideas?

neenbean

03-20-2006, 07:10 PM

Booey~ of course everything looked completely fabulous! I hope you had fun, too. :D

MichelleRenee~ I found these finger puppets at Plum Party.com (http://www.plumparty.com/partysupplies/15443.html)
http://www.plumparty.com/Merchant2/graphics/products/large/15443.jpg

and these cookies from Beautiful Cookies.com (http://www.beautifulcookies.com/favPanda.HTM)
http://www.beautifulcookies.com/ProductPics/Large/favPanda.jpg

Both would be super cute favors! (though you do have a LONG time to prepare ;) )

This pinata from Pretty Party Place.com (http://www.prettypartyplace.com/unique-66116.html) is cute, too!
http://store1.yimg.com/I/yhst-99779105134110_1888_866733845

Congrats on your pregnancy!

alienhost

03-20-2006, 07:16 PM

Booey Can I ask where you found the pink and green cupcake sprinkles? I've looked at a bunch of places and can't find those colors. Thanks!

ETA - did you ask your guests to wear pink and green? So cute!

neenbean

03-20-2006, 07:20 PM

alienhost

03-20-2006, 07:22 PM

alienhost, I saw some at Target this evening and ALMOST bought some. They are in the Easter section, cake decorating endcap. HTH. :D They are probably different than Booey's but if you can't find something else, they are worth a visit. :) PLUS, they have tons of pink and green stuff in the $1 section. :)

I must go to Target again, I got some pink/green metal pails last time to hold forks/spoons. I'll have to see what else they have! Thanks!

BooeyJ2

03-20-2006, 10:19 PM

THANK YOU SOOO MUCH EVERYONE!! :D

MichelleRenee - I'll look around online tomorrow and see if I can find anything :)

alienhost - The sprinkles were from www.ThePartyWorks.com

ETA - SOLD :)
P.S - Anyone want to buy:
(5) pink lanterns
(5) green lanterns
(12) pink balloons (still in the package)
(12) green balloons (still in the package)
(1) roll of pink curling ribbon for balloons, gifts, etc (tons left)
(1) roll of green curling ribbon for balloons, gifts, etc (tons left)
(1) roll of pink streamers (still in the package)
(1) roll of green streamers (still in the package)
(1) rectangular pink table cloth

I know I still have favor/goodie bags left too, not positive how many, but i'm guessing 10 pink and 10 green.

$20 plus shipping? (I paid more than that for just the lanterns)

If so, PM me ;)

MichelleRenee

03-21-2006, 06:22 AM

Thanks, BooeyJ2. You really don't have to go looking for websites though... I was just wondering if you already knew of any.:D

LILRTL

03-21-2006, 07:31 AM

BooeyJ2 Your party was just beautiful!! I have a question about your invitations. We are doing a "round/ball" party, ala Martha Stewart. Did you print on regular 8.5x11 paper and then just cut? Did you use Word Art to do the "circular" writing on the middle? TIA! :)

LIZNKEITH

03-21-2006, 07:56 AM

Wow, Booey!!.....:eek: Everything looks perfect! I love the idea of hanging photos on the wall. May have to "borrow" that one. So manyy of your ideas work with my pink/green polka dot/flower ideas.

BooeyJ2

03-21-2006, 04:56 PM

LILTRL - My sister printed a bunch ( I have no idea about layout or anything since they were done when I got to her house) of them on each sheet and we used a large circle punch (from Michaels I believe).

LIZNKEITH - Thanks :) Borrow away ;) Looks like many people love that idea. My sister did it first for her sons b-day (Circus theme party I posted way back in this post)...so I can't take credit for it....just the pink/green circle part ;) LOL

cela-bela

03-21-2006, 07:56 PM

I love all the pictures and ideas in this thread! I'm so excited to finally be sharing some pics from my DD's 1st birthday party on Feb. 25. We had a barnyard theme:

Her invitation (I couldn't find a cute "girly" barnyard type one so I went with this one)
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i315/marcela79/cc_invitation.jpg

Some of the balloon decorations
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i315/marcela79/cc_balloons.jpg

Isabela by her cakes
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i315/marcela79/cc_bdaygirl.jpg

cela-bela

03-21-2006, 07:59 PM

Close-up of her Farm cake
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i315/marcela79/cc_farmcake.jpg

Favor boxes
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i315/marcela79/cc_favorbox.jpg

For entertainment, we had an animal show. She brought about 20 animals, including snakes, goats, baby chicks, sheep, a baby pig, a chinchilla, and some others I can't remember right now.
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i315/marcela79/cc_snake.jpg

cela-bela

03-21-2006, 08:00 PM

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i315/marcela79/cc_goat.jpg

...and finally, Isabela enjoying her birthday cake :D

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i315/marcela79/cc_cake.jpg

I didn't get a picture of the food, but we just had a local taco joint cater it. They did tacos, burritos, beans and rice. It was more expensive than I would have liked but it was worth not having to stress about cooking for 60 something people.

neenbean

03-21-2006, 08:27 PM

Hey Cela!!! You were a March Momma on the other site, right? Great party! Your little one looks like she had a blast. :) Thanks for sharing the pics. Love the cakes.

vjel

03-22-2006, 05:59 AM

cela-bela, what a great looking party, wonderful job!

LILRTL, You can do your circle invites in Word using Word Art. I have done that in the past. Then cut them out using a circle cutter (I have a Coluzze which is not great. have heard good and bad about Fiskars and all good about the Creative Memories circle cutting system).

LIZNKEITH

03-22-2006, 06:32 AM

Cela,
What a cool birthday! I love the idea of having animals!!

Jessiesmama

03-22-2006, 07:57 AM

cela-bela
Great party! Where did you get those favor boxes?

cela-bela

03-22-2006, 10:24 AM

neenbean...Yep, that was me :D. Weren't you my labor buddy? Isn't it crazy how fast this year has flown by?!

Thanks for the compliments everyone :). It really was a lot of fun, although stressful at times. I can't wait to start planning her 2nd birthday party!

Jessiesmama...I got the favor boxes on ebay. Here's a link to the girl's store that does them: http://stores.ebay.com/Taras-Party-Favors-and-Gift-Boxes She does every theme imaginable!

LILRTL

03-23-2006, 01:42 PM

Confotti Question! For those of you that used it, how many places was it used? Do you think only 1 order is enough? TIA!

janders6

03-23-2006, 01:48 PM

LILRTL one order is plenty. I used it on all of the tables (we had 6 long tables of 10) and still had half a bag left over.

LILRTL

03-23-2006, 01:57 PM

Thanks! :)

BooeyJ2

03-23-2006, 09:24 PM

LILRTL one order is plenty. I used it on all of the tables (we had 6 long tables of 10) and still had half a bag left over.

Ditto!

tgray99

03-23-2006, 10:29 PM

Yay! I ordered my Confoti today. I bought 2 bags because I'm having 2 parties and I'm not too into trying to salvage the Confoti after the first party. I wish that they offered brown so I can do the pink and brown theme. I have some circle punches, I'll probably wind up punching some brown pieces. Thanks for the recommendation ladies!! :D

BeachBum

03-24-2006, 05:46 AM

Pink and brown M&M's (it's Easter time, so you'll have to buy a few packs of the Easter ones and pick out the pink and then pick out brown ones from regular M&M's) in clear cellophane (with coordinating ribbon)

You can also order specific colors only of M&Ms from the company. I don't know how small your minimum order can be though.

dana b

03-24-2006, 11:25 AM

i got m&m's at a local party/candy store. they had them all separated in bins.

Hawaii2SJ

03-24-2006, 12:25 PM

*subscring* DS is only 4 months and I'm starting to plan his 1st bday already:p Kinda early, I know, but I'm loving all the ideas.

Booey your so creative and everything looked so awesome.

cela cute theme...that snake was huge:eek: !

lelee17

03-26-2006, 07:31 AM

Is anyone having a Jungle theme party? I was cleaning out DS's closet and I found some left over supplies that we won't be using. All of the items are brand new and never been used.

24 - 4x6 Empty Favor Boxes
8 - Madagascar goodie bags
1 - Jungle/Madagascar Cake Topper
12 - Zoo Animal Puzzles
Pack of 100 Zoo Animal Stickers

If anyone is interested, I have listed them for sale here. (http://www.constantchatter.com/classifieds/showproduct.php?product=181&cat=15&page=1)

Thanks!

ash313

03-28-2006, 11:57 AM

I unfortunately did not get any good pics from DS's party. I am sick over it. I did have several people shooting pictures but they did not take any of us singing Happy Birthday or of DS with his smash cake or of him in his beautiful bailey boys outfit!

But here are a couple of the cake and set up...

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6dd06b3127cce97aa4991872300000026108MZtWzRq0w
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6dd06b3127cce97aa49ed875f00000026108MZtWzRq0w

Pink_Converse

03-28-2006, 12:28 PM

ash-Is your DS's name Hayden? That's what I'm naming my baby :).

maplekitty

03-28-2006, 01:25 PM

ash313

03-28-2006, 01:35 PM

Pink Converse yep. We thought it was very original when we picked it out. Turns out it is not so original but we love it. It was the only boys name we agreed on.

Maple Kitty I will repost. Thanks for the headsup.

NYN

03-28-2006, 01:47 PM

if anyone is doing a safari theme, target had some really cute stuff in their dollar section, (i assume it is the same from store to store?) including a set of frames that had a monkey, a giraffe and a tree on them respectively. really cute stuff. also a lot of pastelly easter stuff that might work for a girl's party if you are going the pink route.

Pink_Converse

03-28-2006, 03:21 PM

ash-I always felt the same way about the name. It was my Grandpa's name tho and I always wanted to name a son after him so I am still going with it. I hate that more people have the name now, but it's a nice name, I love it.

LyLMyssChaos

03-28-2006, 03:40 PM

ash - your pictures won't show up because shutterfly has disabled linking pictures. There are many threads and stickies about it in all the forums. you can read up about which upload sites are compatible for CC

I can see the pics just fine. I still don't understand what everyone is talking about having trouble seeing shutterfly pics! :confused:

happy1nuv

03-28-2006, 05:31 PM

Ok... I have a really silly/stupid question - I really shoulda paid attention at one of the many first birthdays I've been to.... I'm all into making Nic a smash cake...but... how do I let him eat it? He just got into eating foods by himself at 10 months, and still most of the food falls on the floor/his chair/to the dog... I can't remember seeing anyone cutting up the cake in pieces for their kids (I don't think)... Do I just put him in his high chair, put the smash cake on the tray and let him go to town? Won't he choke if I don't cut it up???

sunmoonstars75

03-29-2006, 07:04 AM

We did smash cupcakes for the girls on their birthday, and pieces of cake at their party (supposed to be cupcakes, but the cake decorator took liberties with my order :mad: ), and they both did really well with them. They have been self feeding for awhile, so I don't think it would be a problem for your little one. Most cakes tend to crumble when they stick their hands in them to eat, so I don't think big chunks will be a problem.

jrdhbunny

03-29-2006, 02:48 PM

NYN- It's funny you posted that. I was so beyond excited when I found that stuff at Target yesterday because we're doing a Curious George theme and the monkey frames are close enough! That's going to be our favor for the adults; we're putting a "thank you for coming" version of the invite in the frame and each guest will have the chance to take his/her picture with James and have it printed right there. (We'll try to spread out the picture taking out so DS doesn't get freaked out.)

Just a rec: we used the design service at www.babyfaceinvitation.com and the invite turned out beautifully. Very fast service and easy to work with.

Here's the invite (I did the smudging on the personal info):
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v284/heatherroal/4x6_smudged.jpg

neocorgi

03-29-2006, 03:11 PM

just coming out of lurkdom...

i should've checked this thread before DD's 1st bday. so many great ideas. thanks for sharing...

and

Hello Julie and Lez!!! i see that both of you are here. ;-)

BooeyJ2

03-29-2006, 03:23 PM

Hi Rej!! :) OMG I looooooooove that picture of Taylor! SO cute! Oh and you need to add some pics of Taylor's 1st b-day party! It was awesome! :)

lelee17

03-29-2006, 04:30 PM

Hi Rej!! Love that pic of Taylor...such a cutie pie. :D

jrdhbunny - Cute invite! Love the Curious George theme. I soo want to do a Curious George party for DS's 3rd bday.

BusyBee

03-30-2006, 01:12 AM

Booey - I love your pink-and-lime-green theme - I'm using your party for inspiration as I decorate! Everything looks so great!

BooeyJ2

03-30-2006, 11:18 AM

Booey - I love your pink-and-lime-green theme - I'm using your party for inspiration as I decorate! Everything looks so great!

Thank you! :D

Chylynn

04-03-2006, 01:01 PM

DDs first birthday party was yesterday and overall, it was a big success! Here are a few pics:

Favors

http://images.snapfish.com/34672%3C64%3A%7Ffp345%3Enu%3D3237%3E%3A8%3A%3E6%3C 4%3EWSNRCG%3D323362%3B86999%3Anu0mrj

Front of Candy bar wrapper

http://images.snapfish.com/34672%3C64%3A%7Ffp33%3B%3Enu%3D3237%3E%3A8%3A%3E6% 3C4%3EWSNRCG%3D323362%3B8789%3B6nu0mrj

Back of Candy bar wrapper

http://images.snapfish.com/34672%3C64%3A%7Ffp346%3Enu%3D3237%3E%3A8%3A%3E6%3C 4%3EWSNRCG%3D323362%3B8776%3B%3Bnu0mrj

Cupcake stand with "R" initials

http://images.snapfish.com/34672%3C64%3A%7Ffp344%3Enu%3D3237%3E%3A8%3A%3E6%3C 4%3EWSNRCG%3D323362%3B877759nu0mrj

Cake

http://images.snapfish.com/34672%3C64%3A%7Ffp33%3B%3Enu%3D3237%3E%3A8%3A%3E6% 3C4%3EWSNRCG%3D323362%3B878%3A9%3Anu0mrj

Chylynn

04-03-2006, 01:07 PM

Smash Cake

http://images.snapfish.com/34672%3C64%3A%7Ffp346%3Enu%3D3237%3E%3A8%3A%3E6%3C 4%3EWSNRCG%3D323362%3B8777%3A4nu0mrj

Plates and Napkins

http://images.snapfish.com/34672%3C64%3A%7Ffp346%3Enu%3D3237%3E%3A8%3A%3E6%3C 4%3EWSNRCG%3D323362%3B878%3A%3A9nu0mrj

Simple decorations

http://images.snapfish.com/34672%3C64%3A%7Ffp346%3Enu%3D3237%3E%3A8%3A%3E6%3C 4%3EWSNRCG%3D323362%3B89%3B93%3Anu0mrj

http://images.snapfish.com/34672%3C64%3A%7Ffp346%3Enu%3D3237%3E%3A8%3A%3E6%3C 4%3EWSNRCG%3D323362%3B89%3B949nu0mrj

Digging into her cake

http://images.snapfish.com/34672%3C64%3A%7Ffp342%3Enu%3D3237%3E%3A8%3A%3E6%3C 4%3EWSNRCG%3D323362%3B883%3A78nu0mrj

Washing it down with her water

http://images.snapfish.com/34672%3C64%3A%7Ffp339%3Enu%3D3237%3E%3A8%3A%3E6%3C 4%3EWSNRCG%3D323362%3B88%3A%3A5%3Bnu0mrj

tgray99

04-03-2006, 01:19 PM

So cute, Chylynn! I can't believe one of our babies is 1 already!!!

Pink_Converse

04-03-2006, 01:33 PM

Rebecca's party was so cute!

kindermom

04-03-2006, 06:27 PM

Chylynn - The water picture is fantastic. Thanks for sharing with us all!

BooeyJ2

04-03-2006, 09:25 PM

VERY cute! :)

LexyLou

04-03-2006, 09:37 PM

Did you guys post a link for the confeti? I tried searching on google and couldn't find it...I'm pretty lame though.

BooeyJ2

04-03-2006, 09:42 PM

www.confoti.com

tgray99

04-04-2006, 12:16 AM

I got the invitations done for Aidan's first party, the second invites will look the same, just with different info inside.

http://static.flickr.com/39/123061722_da04660454.jpg?v=0

I'm not digging them as much as I thought. :shrug: I guess I should've used more of a pinky pink rather than a peachy pink. And the flower looks dirty rather than aged...oh well, the people who will get them won't know. ;)

BooeyJ2

04-04-2006, 10:05 AM

tgray - I think they are very cute and unique :)

Club924

04-04-2006, 12:11 PM

chylynn - great bday party! love the last pix of your DD digging into her cake!

tgray99 - your invitation is cute! your guests will love them!

kelseyledare

04-04-2006, 12:33 PM

chylynn - look the photos! Rebecca is sooo cute in her little glasses! The cake photos are classic

tgray99 - I think your invitations look great. It's amazing how much work that kind of handicraft can be

usafwife

04-04-2006, 02:03 PM

chylynn ~ Adorable pictures!

Booey2 ~ I love the pictures from the party! You have given me some ideas for DD's upcoming party.

tgray ~ Love the invites!

cela-bela ~ I love the farm/barnyard theme cake. My DH might actually want that cake for his next b-day.

Subscribing to get some ideas for DD's upcoming 1st b-day in late June. Thinking of doing a Winnie the Pooh, Princess, or 4th of July/patriotic theme (since her b-day is only about a week before the 4th). My mom and I are going to bake her cake (in the shape of a number one....my mom used to bake and decorate cakes so she has all of the supplies and know how). Now just need to decide on the theme and decorations. The food is going to be cookout and summer type foods.

tgray99

04-04-2006, 02:16 PM

Thanks y'all! I painted a plate for her party too if for nothing else than to display.

http://static.flickr.com/40/123271670_bbb3cae7af.jpg?v=0

tgray99

04-04-2006, 02:20 PM

4th of July/patriotic theme (since her b-day is only about a week before the 4th).
I think a patriotic theme would be absolutely precious!

BooeyJ2

04-04-2006, 03:16 PM

CUTE plate tgray!!

I painted one for DD's party too. She wasn't with me at the time (in was a spur of the moment "Girls Night Out" with my sister and my mom) so unfortunately we didn't get her handprints or anything :(

Here is the one I made....
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v716/Booey143598/More%20pics/Newest%20Pics/PandaPlate3.jpg

...and displayed at the party....
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v716/Booey143598/More%20pics/Newest%20Pics/Newest2/IMG_3968.jpg

usawife - amberwaves had a 4th of July themed party for her DD's 1st birthday too :) She might have some ideas to throw your way :)

usafwife

04-04-2006, 05:09 PM

tgray ~ I love the plate. I like that you used her handprints as well. That maybe something we do as well.

I've been thinking of the patriotic theme because of her b-day being so close (6 days) from the 4th, DH being military, and my mom's b-day two days after the 4th.

Booey ~ Cute plate as well. Thanks for the info about amberwaves having a patriotic theme. I may have to track her down and see what ideas she has. If you see her please send her my way (either by PM or journal). Thanks.

tgray and Booey ~ Where did you find the plates, what kind of paint did you use on them, and how did you protect the paint/make it so that you could have food on it? (or did you?)

BooeyJ2

04-04-2006, 05:27 PM

Booey ~ Cute plate as well. Thanks for the info about amberwaves having a patriotic theme. I may have to track her down and see what ideas she has. If you see her please send her my way (either by PM or journal). Thanks.

tgray and Booey ~ Where did you find the plates, what kind of paint did you use on them, and how did you protect the paint/make it so that you could have food on it? (or did you?)

Thank you and no prob :)

As for the plate, I made mine at one of those "Ceramic Cafe" type places where they provide everything for you as well as "bake" the plate :)

tgray99

04-04-2006, 07:01 PM

tgray ~ I love the plate. I like that you used her handprints as well. That maybe something we do as well.

tgray and Booey ~ Where did you find the plates, what kind of paint did you use on them, and how did you protect the paint/make it so that you could have food on it? (or did you?)
Thanks! I did it at a place here in town called The Painted Potter. They had lots of raw pottery pieces that you buy then they have paints and lots of different sized of brushes. They also had stencils and stamps to use too but I didn't use those. They helped me do the handprints, I held her and the owner painted her hands and pressed them onto the plate and then filled in where she didn't get any paint. Once I got it painted, I turned it in and paid, they glazed it and then fired it. It took about a week then I picked it up. I probably won't put it in the dishwasher, I have other handpainted pottery pieces and they recommend handwashing. It really was easy and fun (except for Aidan almost slipping out of her stroller!)

dana b

04-04-2006, 07:45 PM

all your plates came out so good. i made one, too with dd's handprints, but it came out kinda funky. i used it to hold her individual cake.

neenbean

04-05-2006, 05:41 AM

Sorry it took me so long to post these. I only use Shutterfly so our family back home can look at recent pics of DD. I finally uploaded these to www.flickr.com!!!

Goody bags:
http://static.flickr.com/1/123678083_f551e94563.jpg?v=0
http://static.flickr.com/37/123678089_45982cc240.jpg?v=0

"Lollipop plant"
http://static.flickr.com/1/123678085_686173153b.jpg?v=0

Cookies
http://static.flickr.com/35/123678086_21f5b9cdf5.jpg?v=0
http://static.flickr.com/43/123678088_b681324d24.jpg?v=0

more to come...

neenbean

04-05-2006, 05:49 AM

Let's Eat!
http://static.flickr.com/38/123678542_3eaab66956.jpg?v=0
http://static.flickr.com/37/123678541_dc74fad615.jpg?v=1144236778
http://static.flickr.com/38/123678543_a313d788fb.jpg?v=1144236466

All dressed up
http://static.flickr.com/36/123678090_891e2340a0.jpg?v=1144236806
http://static.flickr.com/41/123678540_052b3f353a.jpg?v=0

My CC pal Oakley helped me decorate and she did a great job with the streamers and lights and I am so sad I never took pictures of the room decorations. :(

more to come...

neenbean

04-05-2006, 05:52 AM

Dessert... yummy
http://static.flickr.com/43/123678544_16dd538f6c.jpg?v=0
http://static.flickr.com/40/123678548_a8c35007bb.jpg?v=0

Is this for me?
http://static.flickr.com/35/123680035_bbaeef27fc.jpg?v=0
http://static.flickr.com/1/123680036_f1f6a18665.jpg?v=0
http://static.flickr.com/36/123680037_098f61ee94.jpg?v=0

Look Momma, I found more cofoti!!!
http://static.flickr.com/13/123680038_e6162ef9de.jpg?v=0

vjel

04-05-2006, 07:29 AM

neenbean, fabulous job! everything turned out wonderfully (I love how you incorporated pink/green in the food as well)!!! Where did you get your goody bags? I'm still working on making ours but yours are SO much cuter. :)

Pink_Converse

04-05-2006, 08:36 AM

neenbean-Everything looked so pretty!

Sasha

04-05-2006, 09:26 AM

I've been lurking along as DD's first birthday is next month. Everyone has such neat ideas!

What time did all of you have/are having the parties? We have an issue with DD's naps - she is a terrible napper. She usually takes a 1/2 hour nap around 10:30am-ish, but the afternoon nap is all over the place, she can take it anywhere from 2:30 to 4:00 (again, it is only a half hour long). The party is not going to be at our house but at a park, so it has to be during an awake time. I have this fear of her getting miserable during the party and needing a nap! And I need to make a decision pretty soon!

neenbean - What great pics, everything looks beautiful!

njnewyearsbride

04-05-2006, 09:41 AM

sasha -- we have the same problem -- dd's naps are all over the place.. so we just bit the bullet and booked her party from 12-4 -- its about a 45 min drive to the party so we're hoping shell nap a little in the car.. and then nap on the way home...

kelseyledare

04-05-2006, 09:42 AM

neenbean - Great photos- looks like a terrific party! Did you just change DD into a tee-shirt for her cake eating? I've been wondering how to plan that out so she doesn't ruin her party dress..

Sasha - DD is also a horrible afternoon napper at daycare, but a little better when home with us. I am planning a 3 pm party and will just try to get an early am nap, early lunch, and then early afternoon nap.

allyray231

04-05-2006, 09:49 AM

Aiden is a getting better at napping in the AM then in the PM. However since his party will be at my parents house upstate who knows how he will nap! i have a feeling it will be around noon or so.

BooeyJ2

04-05-2006, 09:59 AM

VERY cute neenbean! I LOVE the lollipop plant! :)

Club924

04-05-2006, 10:02 AM

neenbean - great job on the party! i love the favor bag and lollipop planter! i almost went the same route with the lollipop planter, but with 15 tables, it was going to get costly! it looked like your DD had a great time with her cake!

sasha - DD's party was from 12-4p and i was hoping that she would take her morning nap before her party, but no luck. she actually wasn't grumpy during the party, but of course, she fell asleep during her cake. the guests had to sing "happy bday" to a sleeping baby...it was kinda funny :D

usafwife

04-05-2006, 12:21 PM

Booey and tgray ~ Thanks for the information about how you made your plates. I hope to make one for DD's birthday as well. I'd really like to have her handprints on it as well.

neenbean ~ I can't believe your DD is already a year old! Time really does fly by doesn't it? The party looked very nice.

Treats/Goodie Bags ~ What is everyone doing for the goodie bag? I don't remember who it was but back a few pages (or more) someone posted candybars that had homemade type labels with something similar to this printed on them 'thank you for coming to my 1st birthday party, DC.' I think that is a nice idea but not too sure how it would work in the midwest in the summer (think hot and humid).

DisneyGirl

04-05-2006, 01:37 PM

booey & tgray AWesome plates! I'll ahve to look for a place like that in my area.

Neenvery cute and the lollipop plant is so cool!

Natrat80

04-05-2006, 09:41 PM

What great ideas! neenbean I love your goody bags!

question I've recently decided to do a "no gifts please" party (DD has so many toys, she doesn't NEED anything else, I don't want her to associate the day of her birth with expecting "stuff", lots of other reasons too). Anyways, we're doing a flower themed party. I thought it would be so cool to plant a flower garden in our front yard for Addie (we'll probably do it this summer regardless), would it be weird to say "no gifts please, but you may bring a flower to plant in Addie's garden"? I don't like telling people to bring something, but thought it would be a good compromise between gifts/no gifts and the flower would be something Addie could enjoy all summer.

Dumb idea????

MurphysLaw

04-05-2006, 10:27 PM

So many great ideas!! Subscribing. :D

DanaLynn

04-06-2006, 02:25 AM

neenbean Your dd's party was so cute. I loved your lollipop plant. Can I ask you where your bought the lollipops from??
You did an awesome job. :)

neenbean

04-06-2006, 05:06 AM

vjel~ Thanks, the goody bags are from the Dansk outlet. They were $1.40CDN on Clearance. :) I wished I lived closer to it, I could mail you a bunch.

Thank you Pink_Converse.

Sasha, thank you! We have the same problem with our afternoon nap. DD's party started at 1, I would recommend beginning it at noon if she naps from 2:30 on so she will only be a little cranky toward the end- which may be avoided because of all the excitement. Good luck!

kelseyledare~ yes, that is exactly what we did! Thank goodness we did, she was a mess! After the cake, we brought her up for a quick bath and back down again in a different outfit (pink with jeans).

BooeyJ2~ thank you! I bought them and had no idea what to do with them all, so I just got out my floral supplies from our wedding (2.5 years ago!) and threw it together. :)

Club924~ 15 tables!? Yikes! We ended up putting the "plant" on a side table for the party. I snapped the pic the night before. The cost was minimal for me because I already owned it all except the lollipops.

usafwife~ thank you! Maybe you could do beach pails with little shovels. They sell them at Target for $1.99 in the toy section and include a cheap beach toy (think: Dollar Store); even though I know you don't live near the water, kids love that sorta thing!

Thank you DisneyGirl! I had fun making it.

Natrat80~ maybe try "Please help plant a garden for DD enjoy. Instead of gifts we would love a packet of seeds or a flowering plant to grow with DD in her garden." Or something like that. ;)

DanaLynn~ I got them at the Dansk outlet store. I know they were less than $1CDN, but I never even asked the cashier, I just thought they were super cute. :) I looked at the wrapper, they are made my Cupcakes & Cartwheels (a division of two's company) in Toronto, but I know I have seen Two's Company products in the states. I tried to do a search of google and did not find anything. Sorry.

jrdhbunny

04-06-2006, 08:11 AM

neenbean- Everything looked wonderful!!

shamocha- I love how easy it's been to find favors and other stuff for the party with the CG theme. eBay has been invaluable!

usafwife- Count me in on the vote for the patriotic theme!

cake mess- I'm not sure how I'm going to handle his personal cake. We're doing everything at a restaurant and I'm sure they're going to frown on DS throwing cake all over the place. We're going to bring a mat- hopefully that will contain the carnage.

happy1nuv

04-06-2006, 09:50 AM

natrat ~ I would totally bring a flower/seeds to a party if you wrote something like neenbean suggested... in fact, since having ds, I would welcome something like that (before ds, I tried for the "coolest" toy... now I try to get something fun but educational - or something that they won't lose interest in in .5 sec ...). Actually, I'd think I was getting off easy...

Carissa

04-06-2006, 10:13 AM

neenbean Awesome job I am thinking of doing something similar for DD birthday next month.

alienhost

04-06-2006, 11:10 AM

chylynn and neenbean your parties looked wonderful!

tgray99 and BooeyJ I love your plates! You have given me inspiration to maybe do one.

Natrat80 I think plants/flowers are a terrific idea: how about something like:

If you wish bring a plant or seeds for DD to enjoy.
We all know she as too many toys!
DD has her own little garden to grow
these plants will be planted with a shovel and hoe.

party timing We are having ours from 2-4 - we should be able to get in a good morning nap and lunch and be good to go.

question on favors are most of you doing favors for the adults too? What are you doing for the grown ups if anything?

jrdhbunny

04-06-2006, 11:16 AM

Favors for adults- I bought 4x6 frames from Target (for $1 each! Woot!). Each one will have a "thanks for coming to my party" card and then they'll have the chance to take their picture with DS. We have one of those portable phote printers so they can get the photo right away.

neenbean

04-06-2006, 11:37 AM

Favors for the adults: I made chocolate lollipops in pink or green with colored sprinkles for the adults and also had individually wrapped cookies for them to take home. They seemed to be a hit- as the last people were leaving, they argued over who got what, so I was glad I had more than enough. ;)

dana b

04-06-2006, 11:42 AM

If you wish bring a plant or seeds for DD to enjoy.
We all know she as too many toys!
DD has her own little garden to grow
these plants will be planted with a shovel and hoe.

this is such a cute idea!

alienhost

04-06-2006, 12:02 PM

Kid's favors I'm having kids ranging from 1 to 13 so I'm planning on doing the following:

Aged 3 and under:
Bubbles
Board Book and bookmark
Stickers
Rubber Duck
snack sized bag of goldfish
box of animal crackers

Aged 4-8
Bubbles
Book and bookmark
Stickers
Rubber Duck
snack sized bag of goldfish
box of animal crackers
Kit Kat (that's her nickname)

Aged 9 and up (girls mostly)
Bubbles
Book and bookmark
Stickers
Rubber Duck
snack sized bag of goldfish
box of animal crackers
Kit Kat (that's her nickname)
nailpolish and toe separators, nail file

I have two nine year old boys coming. I'm stumped with them - what can I give in place of the nailpolish and toe separators, nail file

Also what books are good for older girls/boys that aren't too pricey?

I might add some more candy to the older kids' bags....

eta: I forgot that I bought rubber ducks and stickers too...

Sasha

04-06-2006, 12:42 PM

Thanks for all the time suggestions. It will either be 12-3 or 1-4 - I guess I'll see how her naps go this weekend and make a decision based on that.

Alien - Great ideas for your goody bags. I've got kids ages 15 months - 10 years old coming, so I need a wide variety of items too.

Adult Favors - I've never been to a child's bday party where I got a favor, so probably not.

tgray99

04-06-2006, 01:33 PM

cake mess- I'm not sure how I'm going to handle his personal cake. We're doing everything at a restaurant and I'm sure they're going to frown on DS throwing cake all over the place. We're going to bring a mat- hopefully that will contain the carnage.
I've never seen a 1 yr old throw cake, mostly they get it all over themselves, their clothes and the high chair.

dana b

04-06-2006, 02:32 PM

cake my dd got it on her face and hands, not even on her dress. it didn't make much mess at all.

jrdhbunny

04-06-2006, 02:40 PM

I've never seen a 1 yr old throw cake, mostly they get it all over themselves, their clothes and the high chair.
Unfortunately, DS is a big thrower. We'll be lucky if he doesn't heave the entire cake off the tray before he has a chance to play in it. He certainly won't eat it- he doesn't put any adult food in his mouth; every time we try to feed him anything that's not out of a jar, he backs away from it mouth shut tight, shaking his head at it, basically reacting like we're giving him poop. :rolleyes:

I'm actually thinking that since he won't feed himself, we may just skip his cake and only have one for the guests.

neenbean

04-06-2006, 09:06 PM

Natrat80

04-06-2006, 09:11 PM

verseit.com :)

DanaLynn

04-06-2006, 10:07 PM

Thank neenbean:)

BooeyJ2

04-06-2006, 10:23 PM

Can someone help me?

I thought someone posted a link to a website that gave suggestions for wording an invitation... I searched this thread for everything from "invite" to "wording" and a few in between and cannot find anything. I thought it was called Phrase It dot com or something, but site does not exist. You can buy it, though. ;) I want to help another friend plan a party and would like some fresh ideas.

TIA!!!

Here are a few I thought of when brainstorming for DD's invites (we used the first one):

#1
A year's gone by with lots of fun,

can you believe she’s turning 1?

Please join us as we celebrate

Paige’s 1st Birthday!

#2
A year of smiles, a year of laughs,

a year of diapers, a year of baths.

Paige is turning ONE!

Join us as we celebrate!

#3
A year's flown by, who would have thought?

Our little baby will soon be a tot!

Paige is turning 1!

Please join us as we celebrate!

#4
Someone sweet is turning ONE,

please join us for some cake and fun!

It's Paige's 1st Birthday!

vjel

04-07-2006, 06:51 AM

alienhost

04-07-2006, 08:04 AM

smash cake question Did you just do a regular (i.e. w/ eggs, sugar and regular frosting) cake or have one or make one special for your DC? I'm trying to avoid excess sugar etc. an am trying to decide what to do.

thanks!

DisneyGirl

04-07-2006, 09:12 AM

janders6

04-07-2006, 09:32 AM

Alienhost - we just did a regular cake. She got more on her than in her. I wouldn't worry about it unless there's some kind of allergy involved.

tgray99

04-07-2006, 09:46 AM

Julie: Saw these and thought of you and PJ:

http://www.cutebabyshoes.com/images/products/pandasm.jpg
http://www.cutebabyshoes.com/index.php/action/category/id/10/subid//start/32/

dana b

04-07-2006, 10:08 AM

cake we did a regular cake with whipped cream frosting, she barely ate any of it and i would say it was mostly the frosting.

I really like the idea, but part of me thinks thats rude to request what someone buys.

i think there's probably a clever way that you can request a book instead of a toy, but generally i think any mention of what a guest should do regarding gifts is rude.

twinnyme

04-07-2006, 10:11 AM

i think there's probably a clever way that you can request a book instead of a toy, but generally i think any mention of what a guest should do regarding gifts is rude.

I agree - BUT what is the theme of your party, DisneyGirl? Maybe you can make it a book-themed party and that might *suggest* (without your saying it) to guests to bring a book as a gift? Of course, some guests still may not bring a book as a gift but you also might get a few more books than you would have. My family threw a book-themed baby shower for me, and did request books for the "wishing well" (which really was the matching nursery bookcase that was then filled up with books that guests had brought by the time I walked in). It was great! (I posted some ideas way back in this thread that came from the book theme.)

Btw, I *love* the idea of giving a book instead of a card with a gift. I usually typically give a book in addition to a toy or clothes present, but in place of the card is a nice idea. I just may steal it in the future. My sister got DD a book called "A Treasury for One Year Olds" for her 1st birthday and wrote a note in it - she also gave her a card, though! :)

BooeyJ2

04-07-2006, 10:42 AM

Julie: Saw these and thought of you and PJ:

http://www.cutebabyshoes.com/images/products/pandasm.jpg
http://www.cutebabyshoes.com/index.php/action/category/id/10/subid//start/32/

Hehehe. Actually one of my awesome CC/LJ pals (jewamese) sent those to her for her b-day! :)

alienhost

04-08-2006, 01:23 PM

Disneygirl we are doing a book themed party. I didn't specifically ask for books as gifts but hope people will "follow the theme" since the invitation clearly indicates the theme is book related. Also if people ask what we would like them to get DD I am suggesting books.

I think it is a little trickier asking people to replace the b'day card w/ a book since that isn't really "traditional" but I think people would be more inclined to give books as the gift instead. Just my 2 cents. :)

kimthebride

04-09-2006, 09:11 AM

QUESTION!

Has anyone been to a party where they requested childrens books instead of birthday cards? I have never known anyone to do this but have read about the idea on the net someplace and a few people have mentioned the idea. So, my question is how would you tell people to buy a book instead of a card.

I really like the idea, but part of me thinks thats rude to request what someone buys.
I am trying to get DH to agree to letting me use this ditty a friend wrote for me in the invites:

Please help us give our little boy
The start of a lifetime of learning and joy
That can only come when you start to look
Through the pages of wonderful, magical BOOKS!

Instead of a toy, we'd love if you'd give
Thomas a book that YOU loved as a kid!

It kind of adds the nostalgia vibe to the invite, like "please come bring a part of your past to share with DS". And of someone wants to ignore it, so be it. :)

neenbean

Check out www.VerseIt.com for invite wording.
I was helping my friend word her invites, and between that and just looking at the wording on invites on different websites inspired some good ideas. You know, not "verse" sites, just regualar sites like My Gatsby (which I love! and they do great work!) where you can see the printed examples.

tgray99

04-09-2006, 02:26 PM

Please help us give our little boy
The start of a lifetime of learning and joy
That can only come when you start to look
Through the pages of wonderful, magical BOOKS!

Instead of a toy, we'd love if you'd give
Thomas a book that YOU loved as a kid!

I adore this and totally think you should use it.

DisneyGirl

04-09-2006, 10:09 PM

Kim I totally think you can put that inside the enveople with your Birthday invite...actually i may steal that from you..LOL My DD needs no more toys as she plays with a lot of the toys I received or bought for my DS when he was a yr old.

DisneyGirl

04-09-2006, 10:12 PM

FriendsOfGrey

04-10-2006, 01:39 AM

One idea I always thought was creative was to invite parents of other kids in their 1s, 2s, and 3s, and then the parents have to play games to win the kids prizes.

tgray99

04-10-2006, 08:13 AM

Tgray99 Where did you get the stuff to make your invites from? I'm looking into possible making my own invites and was wondering where to start looking. I went to a few stores today and only found very plain things or something was to fancy.
The card itself is Bazzil Basics Paper cardstock cut into 6x12 strips. You can get BBP at pretty much any scrapbooking store. It doesn't have to be Bazzill, any 12x12 cardstock will do, which you can get at Michaels, Hobby Lobby, AC Moore, etc.
The patterned paper on the front is Chatterbox Scrapbook Walls Garden Room Dark Kelley. This I bought online (there are TONS of scrapbook stores online) or it's also available at you local scrapbook store. It's cut into 6x6 squares and adhered to the front of the card.
The strip is a 1x4 strip of cardstock, run through a crimper (available in the scrapbooking section of Michaels, Hobby Lobby, AC Moore, Joanne's), inked with brown ink (stamping section of previously mentioned stores), I stuck 2 All My Memories chocolate mini brads (found on Ebay but brads are available at any LSS or previously mentioned stores) in the top and adhered it to the card.
The flower is a pink silk daisy from any floral section, dissassembled, inked and glued to the card.
The circles are just brown tiaras I printed out on my computer, punched out with a circle punch from Creative Memories (but any of the previously mentioned stores carry circle punches), inked on the edges and adhered to the center of the flowers.
The info inside the invites is printed in brown ink with my printer.

Hope this helps!

DisneyGirl

04-10-2006, 09:20 AM

The card itself is Bazzil Basics Paper cardstock cut into 6x12 strips. You can get BBP at pretty much any scrapbooking store. It doesn't have to be Bazzill, any 12x12 cardstock will do, which you can get at Michaels, Hobby Lobby, AC Moore, etc.
The patterned paper on the front is Chatterbox Scrapbook Walls Garden Room Dark Kelley. This I bought online (there are TONS of scrapbook stores online) or it's also available at you local scrapbook store. It's cut into 6x6 squares and adhered to the front of the card.
The strip is a 1x4 strip of cardstock, run through a crimper (available in the scrapbooking section of Michaels, Hobby Lobby, AC Moore, Joanne's), inked with brown ink (stamping section of previously mentioned stores), I stuck 2 All My Memories chocolate mini brads (found on Ebay but brads are available at any LSS or previously mentioned stores) in the top and adhered it to the card.
The flower is a pink silk daisy from any floral section, dissassembled, inked and glued to the card.
The circles are just brown tiaras I printed out on my computer, punched out with a circle punch from Creative Memories (but any of the previously mentioned stores carry circle punches), inked on the edges and adhered to the center of the flowers.
The info inside the invites is printed in brown ink with my printer.

Hope this helps!

Thanks! I didn't realize how much work went into making Inites..:D Hmm I may end up buying them...LOL i don't think I can handle that type of project..AHAHAHA

alienhost

04-10-2006, 08:37 PM

Club924

04-10-2006, 11:15 PM

confoti question Did it take the full 2.5 - 3 weeks to arrive? I ordered it today and the confirmation said it should arrive by 4/26 but that's cutting it close for a 4/29 party. I hope it gets here in time! I really didn't think it would take that long.

i was concerned about their turnaround time too, but was able to get my order 1 week after i placed it. i was pleasantly surprised with the quick turnaround since they mentioned 2-3 weeks for delivery....maybe i ordered it during their "downtime"?

allyray231

04-11-2006, 06:59 AM

Can I have the link to the website that does the confoti please! Thanks!

kimthebride

04-11-2006, 07:14 AM

Can I have the link to the website that does the confoti please! Thanks!
www.confoti.com ;)

allyray231

04-11-2006, 07:15 AM

Wow that was easy-should have figured that one out! Thanks Kim!

Carissa

04-12-2006, 05:30 PM

We are going with a flower theme.

Here is our invite

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/ericfulkerson/birthdayinvite.jpg

To match her outfit:

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/ericfulkerson/IMG_3192.jpg

BooeyJ2

04-12-2006, 05:36 PM

neenbean, mygatsby.com (http://www.mygatsby.com) also has a "word wizard" you can use to help with invite wording. I've been checking it out for DD's invites also.

booey, those are great...got any ideas for a 2nd birthday party? ;)

"So much to see,
so much to do,
you'll never believe
who's turning TWO!
Please join us for Paige's 2nd Birthday Party!"

"One was fun, but now that's through.
Can you believe she's turning TWO?
Join us for Paige's second birthday party!"

I'll brainstorm more later...off to head home from work now :)

vjel

04-12-2006, 06:40 PM

Originally posted by booey

"So much to see,
so much to do,
you'll never believe
who's turning TWO!
Please join us for Paige's 2nd Birthday Party!"

"One was fun, but now that's through.
Can you believe she's turning TWO?
Join us for Paige's second birthday party!"

:eek: I know I asked for ideas but you SO did not have to do that! Those are awesome! I am going to use the 2nd one. Good thing I saw your post. I was going to print up the invites w/ wording I got from mygatsby and send out this weekend. Your wording is WAY cuter and it RHYMES. :D Thank you VERY much! :)

ETA: Carissa, very cute invites and dress!

Natrat80

04-12-2006, 07:10 PM

Carissa I love the wording on your invitation! So sweet. We're doing a flower theme too!:)

BooeyJ2

04-12-2006, 07:17 PM

:eek: I know I asked for ideas but you SO did not have to do that! Those are awesome! I am going to use the 2nd one. Good thing I saw your post. I was going to print up the invites w/ wording I got from mygatsby and send out this weekend. Your wording is WAY cuter and it RHYMES. :D Thank you VERY much! :)

ETA: Carissa, very cute invites and dress!

No prob! :) I'm just sorry I didn't see it sooner! Glad I could be of help. I'm pretty good with the rhyming thing. My sisters always make me do it for the invites LOL :)

Maybe i'm in the wrong field! Move over Dr. Suess! ;) Kidding.

NYN

04-12-2006, 07:21 PM

you really do have great ideas booey.

we are doing a ladybug theme for DD's b-day. i pretty much have it down. i am working on the invites and paper stuff now b/c we will be gone the entire month of june and then i start working again the first week of july so i want to have everything ready before then. we're doing a small party w/ just a few kids my DD's age which is great b/c it is the first time that i can really afford to do all the stuff i want to. it's so hard to pay attention to details when it's a big party and you don't have the cash to spend. sticky wooden ladybugs really add up, HAHA.

anyway, like i said i pretty much have everything planned but other ideas wouldn't hurt. and i will totally admit that i swiped many, many ideas from this thread so thank you all.

BooeyJ2

04-12-2006, 07:36 PM

Thanks NYN :)

Cute ladybug cupcakes...
http://www.sugarplumgals.com/images/cookies/ladybug%20cupcakes.JPG

http://www.pfaltzgraff.com/connections/media/recipes/ladybugcupcake.jpg

http://www.kraavings.com/kraav-web/kraav-images/LadyBugCupcakes.jpg

http://www.corwin-millman.com/katherine/other/3rd_birthday_party/p9070003.jpg

BooeyJ2

04-12-2006, 07:40 PM

Cute ladybug cakes......

http://teresascakeart.com/images/ladybug.jpg

http://coolest-birthday-cakes.shippony.com/images/theme/garden/ladybug/ladybug-cake-06.jpg

http://thepartyworks.com/images/ladybugdowd.jpg

http://image05.webshots.com/5/6/91/59/71969159kkOKGq_ph.jpg

http://thepartyworks.com/images/cakedec/ladybugcake.jpg

Need to feed the little one some dinner, but i'll be back later with more ideas/pics.

MichelleRenee

04-12-2006, 11:41 PM

How fun!

birthdayexpress.com

http://birthdayexpress.speedera.net/images.birthdayexpress.com/bexpress/assets/product_images/E24871.jpg

http://birthdayexpress.speedera.net/images.birthdayexpress.com/bexpress/assets/product_images/E5559.jpg

http://birthdayexpress.speedera.net/images.birthdayexpress.com/bexpress/assets/product_images/E4487.jpg

Cute invitation idea!

http://www.dltk-kids.com/crafts/insects/sladybuginvite.jpg

http://image.orientaltrading.com/otcimg/70_1096.jpg?resize(250x250)

http://image.orientaltrading.com/otcimg/70_1199.jpg?resize(250x250)

BooeyJ2

04-13-2006, 12:11 AM

Cute plates...
https://www.allthatstuff.net/BugsandBees/ladybug.jpg
From https://www.allthatstuff.net/BugsandBees/bugsandbees.htm

Cute favor idea...
http://www.thesweetestmemories.com/ProductImages/mints/ladybug-PI308-shower.jpg

Play tent for the kids to play in?...
http://www.hearthsong.com/assets/images/hearthsong/images/shop/catalog/714849.jpg
From http://www.shoptony.com/hearthsong/ladybug-play-tent-103.html

Floating ladybug candles, lady cellophane favor bags, pick candles, etc at
http://www.aperfectpartyzone.com/ladybug-birthday-party-theme.html

alienhost

04-13-2006, 07:32 AM

Carissa cute invite and dress!

Ladybugs In the May issue of Family Fun magazine there is a cute recipe for ladybug candies (made w/ peanut butter). I'd scan it in for you but my scanner is on the fritz.

NYN

04-13-2006, 07:42 AM

thanks so much you guys! i'll definitely pick up the family fun mag.

jrdhbunny

04-13-2006, 07:44 AM

Carissa- Love the invites and the dress!

alienhost

04-13-2006, 07:53 AM

BooeyJ2

04-13-2006, 08:07 AM

Goody Bag question I think my previous question might have gotten buried in the pages, so I'll ask it again, if that's OK :)

What do you recommend for 8-9 year old BOYS?

What books would be good for 8-9 Yr old BOY and 13-14 year old GIRL? I'm trying to find some inexpensive books for all (i have the little guys and gals covered).

8-9 year old boys loooove "Captain Underpants". It's kind of a "gross" and funny book ;) My nephew just turned 9 and loves Captain Underpants books.

13-14 year old girl is a little harder. I would *guess* they might like books similar to the old "Babysitters Club" books or maybe some books with more of a teenage/girly edge.

Other than books, just include candy. Seriously once they are past about 5 or 6 all the really care about is candy :rolleyes:

shellbell516

04-13-2006, 08:20 AM

What books would be good for 13-14 year old GIRL? I'm trying to find some inexpensive books for all (i have the little guys and gals covered).

I have a cousin that's 12 yrs old and she's a big reader. She loves reading everything from Harry Potter to anybook with dragons in it. I could get a list of her current books for you if you'd like. I'll be seeing her this weekend.

alienhost

04-13-2006, 08:41 AM

BooeyJ and shellbell516 thanks for the suggestions. I'm going to look around Border's today. shellbell thanks for offering the book list, if you think of it when you see her that would be great.

tgray99

04-13-2006, 09:42 AM

You could also try a Seventeen or YM magazine or Teen People if you can't find a book. I think there's also a Teen Glamour or Cosmo too.

allyray231

04-13-2006, 09:44 AM

You could also try a Seventeen or YM magazine or Teen People if you can't find a book. I think there's also a Teen Glamour or Cosmo too.

Oh that is a good idea.

Did you guys have a cut off age for your good bags? I have a 16 year old coming-not sure if I should make her one.

alienhost

04-13-2006, 02:25 PM

You could also try a Seventeen or YM magazine or Teen People if you can't find a book. I think there's also a Teen Glamour or Cosmo too.

That's a great idea thanks!

Did you guys have a cut off age for your good bags? I have a 16 year old coming-not sure if I should make her one.

We are doing them for all the kids b/c the oldest will be 13 (niece). If you just have the one 16 yr old then I'd probably make her one with candy, nail polish or lip gloss, nail file, teen mag like tgray suggested etc. What's the next youngest kid? If the rest are really young and there is a big gap in between then you could skip it and it probably would be OK.

Cali_Katy

04-13-2006, 02:47 PM

Here's a question: we're going to have a pretty low-key party for DS in a local park. We'll grill lunch for everyone, have some cake, let the kids play on the playground and bring a few beers for the adults. (We've been to several parties like this in our area; seems to be the standard first birthday party thing to do.)

None of our family live in the area, so it will just be friends. We're in a playgroup with seven other babies and I wonder whether I should invite all of them? Ben's going to be the first one to turn one in the group, so I don't have a precedent. I really like all the other women and am of the opinion that the more, the merrier, but we are also in a playgroup where Ben is the youngest, and he didn't get invited to any of their first birthday parties. Maybe they were more family affairs?

I guess my other option is to invite the two or three people that I regularly do things with outside of playgroup. I really would be happy to have all of them there, but I don't want to anyone to feel like it's an obligation to reciprocate.

alienhost

04-13-2006, 02:57 PM

We're in a playgroup with seven other babies and I wonder whether I should invite all of them? Ben's going to be the first one to turn one in the group, so I don't have a precedent. I really like all the other women and am of the opinion that the more, the merrier, but we are also in a playgroup where Ben is the youngest, and he didn't get invited to any of their first birthday parties. Maybe they were more family affairs?

I guess my other option is to invite the two or three people that I regularly do things with outside of playgroup. I really would be happy to have all of them there, but I don't want to anyone to feel like it's an obligation to reciprocate.

I wrestled w/ the same thing. I decided to have a separate little party for her on playgroup day (which happens to be her birthday - I just arranged for it to be at our house). I'll just have some light refreshments/coffee etc. for moms and a little cake for DD.

I also didn't want others to feel obligated to invite us to their parties so I figured this way it's just an extra special playgroup. :D

ETA: I do think it is perfectly OK for you to invite them all, it sound pretty casual, like people can come and go so I say go for it.

Cali_Katy

04-13-2006, 04:12 PM

That's a thought -- someone wanted to switch with us for playgroup dates, which would mean I'd host on his birthday... I suppose I could do that and then invite the people I've become friendly with outside the group to his weekend party.

kimthebride

04-13-2006, 05:56 PM

We're in a playgroup with seven other babies and I wonder whether I should invite all of them?...I guess my other option is to invite the two or three people that I regularly do things with outside of playgroup. I really would be happy to have all of them there, but I don't want to anyone to feel like it's an obligation to reciprocate.
I find I have moms I see/talk to on a regular basis and there is a big range of who they invite to the 1st bday party. I have some friends I see weekly (and have for months), and I wasn't invited to their party. I'm only inviting a few close friends to our family party, then having a big casual get together for play group buddies. Most people I'm inviting aren't inviting me to theirs - and its like an unwritten rule that:
1. There's no hard feelings if you aren't invited
2. There's no pressure to invite someone you tell about your party
3. There's no guilt if you are invited but can't come
Actually, one of my 'mom' friends is only inviting me to her DD's party - literally every other person is a relative! And none of our mutual friends mind at all.

Being that its an outdoor casual thing, if you want to go ahead and invite them all. Just let them know about it and say "we're keeping it low-key, so if you'd like to swing by we'll be here from 12-3", that sort of thing.

When I email all the moms for DS's buddy-party, I'm going to mention I'll be serving cupcakes (photo op: they will want to remember their cameras ;) ) but let them know its not a party-party so of course no gifts.

ladybug0525

04-13-2006, 07:16 PM

Here are Jack's invitations and CD covers:

http://www.starrcustomdesign.com/judieseries.jpg

The invite reads:
Please come to my party down under the sea
I am turning one Happy Birthday to Me!

To make all my dreams come true
Come to the party wearing blue

I got them through http://www.starrcustomdesign.com/

Mia's Mom Question - Where did you find those clear CD covers for your cds? I have looked at two office supply stores and no luck so far??

neenbean

04-14-2006, 05:09 AM

Question - Where did you find those clear CD covers for your cds? I have looked at two office supply stores and no luck so far??Have you tried BEST BUY? We bought ones there for our wedding CDs. Good luck!

maggieb

04-15-2006, 08:01 PM

Marisa will be one in July, but I'm starting to plan now as it's going to be an out of town party. We're going to be visiting my IL's in San Antonio and will have her party with all of my DH's family and it's a HUGE family.

His mom has asked some of the aunts to help with decorations and they're now emailing me asking about the theme and what characters she likes. Hello??? She's 9 mos old! Anyway, I think I've decided upon using hot pink and orange polka dots as her kind of theme. I'm looking for invitations right now and have only found a few. Have y'all seen any out there? please point me in the right direction!

moderngal

04-15-2006, 08:51 PM

can you gals post your menus? how many people and how much food/ drinks? also, how many plates/ cups, etc.? we're having about 30 people and trying to decide how much food and paper goods to order.
TIA.

tgray99

04-15-2006, 09:03 PM

maggieb: We threw a party for my brother and new sil last summer with this color scheme, it's gorgeous. We used a lot of rose petals on the table in these two colors as decoration and mixed and matched pink and orange cutlery and tableware.

http://www.tinyprints.com/products/images/424_front.jpg
http://www.tinyprints.com/ProductView_424.htm

http://www.chelseapaper.com/images/large/0010-02-0069.jpg
http://www.chelseapaper.com/php3/zoom.php3?aff=doi?0010-02?0069?jumppage

http://www.chelseapaper.com/images/large/0010-02-0066.jpg
http://www.chelseapaper.com/php3/zoom.php3?aff=doi?0010-02?0066?jumppage

http://www.myexpression.com/ProdImages/PPMEDIUM/CTE1423.jpg
http://www.myexpression.com/prodDetail.cfm?ProductID=6581

http://us.st11.yimg.com/store1.yimg.com/I/paperandpunch_1887_7062728
http://www.paperandpunch.com/pinkorangestripe.html

http://www.cardsupply.com/webfiles/images/productdetail/sl/cards/SL_JLB_948.jpg
http://www.cardsupply.com/cfm/productdetail/masterperstemplate.cfm/prod_id/123726

Mickey&B

04-15-2006, 09:52 PM

MichelleRenee

04-16-2006, 12:11 AM

It is the middle of the night and I am up with nausea, yet searching for monkey cakes just sounds like so much fun to me right now!! Apparantly there is some type of cake that is just called "monkey cake" but has nothing to do with monkeys and it makes this a little harder to search for!

http://thepartyworks.com/images/monkey_med.jpg

http://mylittlemochi.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/dscf0005_6.JPG

http://image.orientaltrading.com/otcimg/3_635.jpg?resize(250x250)

http://image.orientaltrading.com/otcimg/12_1389.jpg?resize(350x350)

Another fun theme!

Cr8nme

04-16-2006, 09:40 AM

I am going to start planning DD's birthday party soon as it will also be out of town. I live on the west coast and ALL of Dh and my family lives on the East coast so sine both of our families are in the same town we will have it there...Right now I am thinking butterflies... My daughter loves things that fly around even though shes only 7 months she really loves those types of things...she really like ceiling fans however that does make too much of a theme huh :p

Can anyone help me out with some ideas for butterflies?

vjel

04-16-2006, 11:18 AM

There are a bunch of butterfly invites at FineStationery.com (http://www.finestationery.com/indexCelebros.cfm?SearchHandle=DADBDCDDDADADDDGEBD IECDGEFDGDBDHCNDJEFEBDJCNDCEGEBECCNEEEFEEECCNDJDGD JDDECECEEDAEEDCDFEEDADADADBDADADADBDHGCHFHEHEGFHCG GGMHJCAGJGOHGGJHEGFHDDADADADEDADADADADADADADBDFDAD ADADBDCDADADADADADADADADADADADBDADADADBDHGCHFHEHEG FHCGGGMHJCAGJGOHGGJHEGFHDDADADADBDB&SortMethod=1&SortAscending=false&&cat_id=0&subcat_id=0&cat=0&fss_id=160420061302260654442719326173&SpecialCases=0&Page=0&redirectquery=butterfly%20invites&manid=0&min_promo_album_id=ALL&shopbybrand=false&carryonsale=false&shoponsale=false&carryvendoronsale=false&brandname=&answerID=&categorynav=false) (the link should take you directly to all the butterfly stuff)

If you do a search on Oriental Trading (http://www.orientaltrading.com) for "butterfly", you can find a bunch of knick knacky things for favors or decorations.

I bought this butterfly cake pan from Michael's to use for my DD's cake (I don't know what the heck I was thinking b/c it's going to be A LOT of work!)
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y72/vjel/butterflycakes.jpg

maggieb

04-16-2006, 02:14 PM

Thank you so much, tgray99!!! Those are beautiful!

tgr68

04-16-2006, 05:09 PM

Maggie~I did my sister's baby shower in pink/orange flowers. Very fun color scheme!! I ended up making her invites on my computer using a picture of her while pg. I've found some pretty cute options at Office Depot and Office Max for printing your own invites!

neenbean

04-16-2006, 06:57 PM

can you gals post your menus? how many people and how much food/ drinks? also, how many plates/ cups, etc.?
We expected 30 people by the time the day arrived, but only 20 ended up being able to come... We followed a pink & green theme: served a pound of shrimp (with cocktail sauce), pinwheel sandwiches (large package of spinach wraps from BJs filled with 2lbs each of cheese with ham or turkey), orzo pasta salad (box of orzo, 1/4lb of prosciutto, frozen peas and dressing) , fruit (4 apples, 1 box of strawberries, a few bananas bananas) with sweet dip (8 oz of cream cheese, a little sugar and almond extract), veggie platter (1lb mini carrots, full head of celery, dip), teddy grahms, goldfish crackers, cupcakes (2 dozen) and a smash cake for DD, DH and I to share. We had tons left over of EVERYTHING except the shrimp.

To drink, we had champagne, fruit punch (with sherbert), and several types of soda- DH is still drinking the punch and the champagne is waiting for my mom to arrive. ;) The soda was gone by the end of the party.

We had 30 dinner and 30 dessert plates, 40+ cups and 40 napkins- still have lots left over.

ETA: more food.

Hope that helps! :)

BooeyJ2

04-16-2006, 07:34 PM

happy1nuv

04-16-2006, 07:47 PM

Mickey&B ~ I'm doing a monkey theme too... (actually, we're doing 2 parties...friends have a monkey theme... family has a lil prince theme) ...

The current Wilton magazine had a jungle theme... but, they made monkey faces out of cocoa crispy treats. They cut out circles/ears for the faces and painted on them with peanut butter frosting... was adorable (id scan the pic, but i dont have a scanner...sorry my description sucks.. i got the mag at walmart by the cake decorating stuff in the craft section...they're on the cover)

DisneyGirl

04-16-2006, 10:01 PM

neenbean how do you make the pinwheel sandwiches?

BooeyJ2

04-16-2006, 10:11 PM

neenbean how do you make the pinwheel sandwiches?

I believe they are those rolled up sandwiches they have at Costco and stuff :) If so, you just buy the wraps (similar to tortillas) and then use cream cheese, lunch meat, cheese, lettuce, tomato, etc (whatever else you like)....roll them up and cut them in slices :)

neenbean

04-17-2006, 06:52 AM

Yup, that's exactly what I did! We wrapped turkey or ham with cheese and kept them simple. I had mustard and mayo on the side, but forgot to put them out. I think adding tomatoes and lettuce will make them harder to roll. They were cut on an angle to keep them looking pretty (thanks Oakley!) Here is a pic of our food table:
http://static.flickr.com/38/123678542_3eaab66956.jpg?v=0

DisneyGirl

04-17-2006, 09:29 AM

Thanks!

shellbell516

04-17-2006, 10:39 AM

BooeyJ and shellbell516 thanks for the suggestions. I'm going to look around Border's today. shellbell thanks for offering the book list, if you think of it when you see her that would be great.

I got the list of books. My cousin is 13 yrs old and reads all.the.time. This is her list of favorite books:

Chronicles of Narina - C.S. Lewis
Indian Captive - Lois Lenski
Eragon & Eldest - Christopher Paolini
The Land of Elyon Series - Patrick Carman
The Fire Within & Icefire - Chris D'Lacey
Pirates! - Celia Rees
Warriors Series - Erin Hunter
Charlie Bone Series - Jenny Nimmo

HTH!

Club924

04-17-2006, 02:22 PM

It's time to start planning my DS's birthday, we have reserved the park and have decided to do a monkey theme. I have a few ideas that I have "borrowed" from this thread. I have a few things already like I bought hanging monkey's to hang from the trees over the tables, and plan on picking up a few more monkey things but I really need some ideas for either cupcakes or a monkey cake. I love the Martha Stewart one but more ideas couldn't hurt ;)

found these on Plum Party (http://www.plumparty.com) and thought you might be interested even though they aren't monkey cakes:

monkey pinata:
http://www.plumparty.com/Merchant2/graphics/products/large/18612.jpg

cocktail monkeys (maybe you can buy plain, chocolate cupcakes and place these on top):
http://www.plumparty.com/Merchant2/graphics/products/large/19612.jpg

monkey party pickes (or use these as cupcake picks, but you'll probably have to trim the stick part):
http://www.plumparty.com/Merchant2/graphics/products/large/19796.jpg

Cr8nme

04-17-2006, 02:31 PM

found these that I like but for $5 each I can have some made!

http://www.finestationery.com/graphics/images/36822.jpg

Mickey&B

04-17-2006, 05:09 PM

Thanks for the pictures ladies!! I love the pinata! although I wanted to have a spanish style pinata where they pull the strings on it rather than hit is with a bat but maybe I could figure something out.

Cr8nme
I love butterflies! I'd bet that you could find that paper online or in a craft or paper store and make those on your computer at home. I'm at work so I can't search right now but I'll be back :p

neocorgi

04-17-2006, 05:36 PM

neocorgi had an awesome butterly themed party for her DD's 1st birthday a few months ago. Maybe she'll come share :) I'll mention it to her on LJ unless she sees this first :)

let me dig up some photos. i've been meaning to post some bday photos for a looooong time now. i guess it's about time, huh? be back with photos....

kmmommy

04-17-2006, 05:48 PM

Sorry for the size of these...

http://www.legateaux.com/images/normal_monkey_smash_cake_1_2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v242/sweesan/sub1/DSCF1278.jpg

http://www.securecakestore.com/acatalog/Monkey.jpg

http://www.ginjer.com/images/monkey.jpg

neocorgi

04-17-2006, 11:08 PM

hope these photos work here coz my shutterfly photos didn't :(

****************

i still can't believe that my little one is over 1 yr old. how could that be??!! she turned one last January. here are some photos

theme -- butterflies, chocolate and purple/lavender

invitations that i made
outside sleeve
http://static.flickr.com/54/130460984_41fc3fdb6c.jpg
http://static.flickr.com/49/130460985_84ba86c359.jpg

main invitation -- front had the party info
http://static.flickr.com/55/130460986_799e65c3f0.jpg

back had directions & map
http://static.flickr.com/56/130460988_6fb6d37639.jpg

neocorgi

04-17-2006, 11:08 PM

photos of the party
display table with cake, favors and photos
http://static.flickr.com/44/130461379_432c8b855e.jpg

sheet cake and goodie bags
http://static.flickr.com/48/130460990_781f3180ab.jpg

little cake
http://static.flickr.com/1/130460989_55a3e826d4.jpg

calm before the storm -- before guests arrive
http://static.flickr.com/39/130461380_9e29146acb.jpg

http://static.flickr.com/53/130461381_1b720152ba.jpg

DD wore these adorable wings. we're so surprised the she didn't take them off.
http://static.flickr.com/54/130461384_42c40f85bf.jpg

neocorgi

04-17-2006, 11:09 PM

our inflatable pin the tail on the donkey was a HUGE hit
http://static.flickr.com/39/130461385_3322002540.jpg

http://static.flickr.com/1/130461692_1bc2af5037.jpg

http://static.flickr.com/36/130461693_5925953a1c.jpg

TrulyBlessed

04-17-2006, 11:18 PM

our inflatable pin the tail on the donkey was a HUGE hit
http://static.flickr.com/39/130461385_3322002540.jpg

What a cute idea! May I ask where you got that donkey? TIA.

Cr8nme

04-17-2006, 11:26 PM

Neocorgi! Thank you for posting the pics!! The party looked wonderful and I love the invites you did a great job!

vjel

04-18-2006, 06:27 AM

neocorgi, your DD's party looked amazing! and your invites are BEAUTIFUL! You did a great job!

BusyBee

04-18-2006, 07:26 AM

Another fan of the inflatable donkey - I've got to remember that one for when we have more kids at our parties!

alienhost

04-18-2006, 10:01 AM

shellbell516 thanks for the book list!

neocorgi your party looked wonderful!

allyray231

04-18-2006, 10:09 AM

Neocorgi Looks great! Where did you get that banner??

Well we decided on Seasme Street theme. We have one set of plates for cake and one for dinner/appetizers. I looked at cakes at the fav local bakery and they have one I love and will do a little cake for Aiden.

So I need a good centerpiece idea. I don't like the ones they have with the plates. Any good ideas?

appetizer plates
http://image.orientaltrading.com/otcimg/70_166.jpg?resize(250x250)

cake plates
http://birthdayexpress.speedera.net/images.birthdayexpress.com/bexpress/assets/product_images/E2367.jpg

Invites
http://www.birthdayinabox.com/images/pers_images/SFPInv_xl.jpg

neocorgi

04-18-2006, 10:23 AM

What a cute idea! May I ask where you got that donkey? TIA.

my SIL bought that inflatable donkey at a local party store (Party City, i think)

twinnyme

04-18-2006, 10:23 AM

Invites
http://www.birthdayinabox.com/images/pers_images/SFPInv_xl.jpg

That's a really cute invite, allyray231. I like your theme! I'm no help with the centerpieces ideas, though - maybe stuffed Sesame Street animals "holding" balloons, and they can be given away to the youngest kids at the party (as a favor)?

neocorgi

04-18-2006, 10:24 AM

Neocorgi Looks great! Where did you get that banner??

thanks :)

that banner was from Party Banners (http://www.partybanners.com/banners/Birthday_1st_Birthday_banners.html)

Club924

04-18-2006, 11:11 AM

I was able to finally round up some pixs from DD's 1st bday party a couple weeks ago:

Invitations that we made and were inspired by an Envelopment invitation:
http://images.costcophotocenter.com/34685%3B3%3B3%7Ffp3%3Enu%3D3236%3E863%3E%3A64%3EWS NRCG%3D3232543%3A67524nu0mrj

the dot says “Guess who’s turning 1”:
http://images.costcophotocenter.com/34685%3B3%3B3%7Ffp3%3Enu%3D3236%3E863%3E%3A64%3EWS NRCG%3D3232543%3A55686nu0mrj

http://images.costcophotocenter.com/34685%3B3%3B3%7Ffp6%3Enu%3D3236%3E863%3E%3A64%3EWS NRCG%3D3232543%3A55678nu0mrj

http://images.costcophotocenter.com/34685%3B3%3B3%7Ffp5%3Enu%3D3236%3E863%3E%3A64%3EWS NRCG%3D3232543%3A55694nu0mrj

room before the guests arrived
http://images.costcophotocenter.com/34685%3B3%3B3%7Ffp6%3Enu%3D3236%3E863%3E%3A64%3EWS NRCG%3D323253%3A63399%3Anu0mrj
*we wrapped 2 juice boxes with wrapping paper to use as balloon weights

we weaved the circle photos on the balloon ribbon
http://images.costcophotocenter.com/34685%3B3%3B3%7Ffp3%3Enu%3D3236%3E863%3E%3A64%3EWS NRCG%3D323253%3A6339%3A5nu0mrj

Club924

04-18-2006, 11:13 AM

Food
http://images.costcophotocenter.com/34685%3B3%3B3%7Ffp4%3Enu%3D3236%3E863%3E%3A64%3EWS NRCG%3D323253%3A633998nu0mrj

http://images.costcophotocenter.com/34685%3B3%3B3%7Ffp3%3Enu%3D3236%3E863%3E%3A64%3EWS NRCG%3D32325439%3A43%3A7nu0mrj

Room filled with guests:

http://images.costcophotocenter.com/3467494%3C%3B%7Ffp4%3Enu%3D3236%3E678%3E%3A35%3EWS NRCG%3D32325355%3C9%3C2%3Anu0mrj

http://images.costcophotocenter.com/34685%3B3%3B3%7Ffp3%3Enu%3D3236%3E863%3E%3A64%3EWS NRCG%3D32325439%3A442%3Bnu0mrj

Cupcakes we ordered from Sam’s Club and made our own cupcake picks:

http://images.costcophotocenter.com/3467494%3C%3B%7Ffp3%3Enu%3D3236%3E678%3E%3A35%3EWS NRCG%3D32325355%3C%3A376nu0mrj

Bday Girl enjoying the Clown Show:
http://images.costcophotocenter.com/34685%3B3%3B3%7Ffp4%3Enu%3D3232%3E449%3E6%3C4%3E23 234497%3B53%3B2ot1lsi

Club924

04-18-2006, 11:16 AM

the entertainment for the kids
http://images.costcophotocenter.com/34685%3B3%3B3%7Ffp3%3Enu%3D3232%3E449%3E6%3C4%3E23 234497%3B53%3A6ot1lsi

Bday cake…I forgot to order a small cake for DD…oops!
http://images.costcophotocenter.com/3467494%3C%3B%7Ffp4%3Enu%3D3236%3E678%3E%3A35%3EWS NRCG%3D32325355%3C9%3C26nu0mrj

bday girl asleep during the her bday song (my mom is carrying her while I smile for the camera)
http://images.costcophotocenter.com/34685%3B3%3B3%7Ffp3%3Enu%3D3232%3E449%3E6%3C4%3E23 234497%3B5397ot1lsi

favors
http://images.costcophotocenter.com/34685%3B3%3B3%7Ffp3%3Enu%3D3232%3E452%3E975%3E2323 452%3A669%3A%3Bot1lsi
*her pink and brown tutu is sitting on top of the favor bags

http://images.costcophotocenter.com/34685%3B3%3B3%7Ffp3%3Enu%3D3236%3E863%3E%3A64%3EWS NRCG%3D323253%3A63399%3Bnu0mrj

the onesie I made her to match with her tutu
http://images.costcophotocenter.com/34685%3B3%3B3%7Ffp4%3Enu%3D3232%3E449%3E6%3C4%3E23 234497%3B538%3Aot1lsi

sorry for so many pixs...thank you for letting me share! this thread was so helpful during the planning stages and i got a lot of great ideas!

allyray231

04-18-2006, 11:34 AM

Club924 Looks great!! WOW

njnewyearsbride

04-18-2006, 11:40 AM

Club924 -- wow! everything looks amazing :)

what did you use for the small round pictures of your DD?

neocorgi

04-18-2006, 11:40 AM

Club924 -- great photos of Calyra birthday party. all those little party details are awesome. :D

Cr8nme

04-18-2006, 11:47 AM

Club924 It look amazing!!! I definately want to do the picks for the cupcakes!! Wow everything looked amazing! May i ask how you made the invitaions?

vjel

04-18-2006, 12:21 PM

Club924, your pink and brown themed party turned out beautifully! How did you make her matching onesie???

twinnyme

04-18-2006, 01:47 PM

Club924 - great party photos! I think it's great that you had her party in a library, too!

neocorgi - I forgot to say earlier that your photos are great, too! I was just coming back in to do an ETA to my earlier post....

tgray99

04-18-2006, 08:36 PM

Where did you get the tutu? TOOOOOO cute!

BooeyJ2

04-18-2006, 10:29 PM

club924 - As said on SDNW, everything turned out AWESOME! :D

MurphysLaw

04-18-2006, 11:07 PM

Rej & club924 - The parties both looked like huge successes!! Thanks for sharing those pics! :D

Kanga

04-19-2006, 07:39 AM

I was going to wait awhile before joining in as I still have 6mo until DD's birthday but I can't resist with all these adorable pics. I've now started a folder on my computer chock FULL of ideas. Everytime I show dh something he says "And how much does that cost?" I usually tell him to just not worry about it;)

Kanga

04-19-2006, 09:26 AM

Lady bug or bumble bee cake pan

http://thepartyworks.com/images/product_images/medium/ladybug28_med.jpg

Sesame Street

Candle
http://www.party411.makesparties.com/images/ProductImages/3309-GM.jpg

Favors
http://www.party411.makesparties.com/images/ProductImages/1219-TURN.jpg

Dot stickers
http://www.party411.makesparties.com/images/ProductImages/PD11.jpg

Club924

04-19-2006, 10:07 AM

thank you everyone for your kind words! i'm sort of relieved that the party planning is over, but miss looking for ideas.

njnewyearsbride - do you mean the small round pictures i used on the balloon ribbon? i drew a circle in WORD and then filled it with her picture (double click on the circle and under "Fill", click on the drop down box, and click on "Fill Effects" and you should be able to insert your DC's pix).

cr8nme - i made the invitations in WORD. I just drew circles on the page and filled it with the different colors and pictures. I bought all the materials from my fave store, Paper Source (http://www.paper-source.com).

vjel - i made the "dots" in WORD and then printed it onto an iron-on transfer...it was very easy!

tgray99 - i bought the tutu from Fabby Gabby (http://www.fabbygabby.com). the owner is teriffic and i can't say enough about her. she didn't have the colors that i wanted so she custom made the colors for me.

njnewyearsbride

04-19-2006, 10:11 AM

njnewyearsbride - do you mean the small round pictures i used on the balloon ribbon? i drew a circle in WORD and then filled it with her picture (double click on the circle and under "Fill", click on the drop down box, and click on "Fill Effects" and you should be able to insert your DC's pix).

thanks! what about the cupcakes and goody bags? :D

Jessiesmama

04-19-2006, 11:12 AM

Club
You're party was amazing. One question -
How do you add text to the circles in your invites?

Club924

04-19-2006, 01:26 PM

njnewyearsbride - for the favor bags, i ordered stickers from Confoti (http://www.confoti.com). for the cupcakes, my sister used MS Publisher (but i'm sure you can use WORD) to make them. if you do it in WORD, you would just draw the circles and insert the photos you'd like to use. you may need to use some sort of photo editing software to crop your photos before you insert them into the circles.

jessiesmama - after you draw the circle in word, you'll see the circle surrounded by little, smaller circles. at that time, right click, and you'll see a menu drop down. select "Add text" and you can add text at that point (you'll be able to center, change the font size, font color, etc...)

i hope i've made sense in the directions....

njnewyearsbride

04-19-2006, 01:29 PM

thanks!!

alienhost

04-19-2006, 01:29 PM

Club924 Your party looked lovely! Everything came out great!

newyearsbrideI bet for the cupcake picks you could use two of the confoti stickers instead of making your own, saves time in cutting/punching the circles.

nicks

04-20-2006, 10:47 AM

Club924 - WOW, beautiful party! What did you fill your party favor bags with?

lelee17

04-20-2006, 12:04 PM

Club924 - Beautiful job! I love those cupcake picks!

Rej- You already know, but I'll say it again....Taylor's party looked awesome! :D

Club924

04-20-2006, 12:05 PM

Club924 - WOW, beautiful party! What did you fill your party favor bags with?

let's see if i can remember:

infants (kids under 2)
sippy cup, gerber fruit gummy snacks, bath puzzle, rubber ducky, animal beach ball, animal cookies

girls
pen, notepad, tattoo pen, book, candy (fun dip, gummy necklace, lollipops), blow up wand

boys
tattoo pen, sports tattoos, sports pencil, candy (fun dip, gummy sharks, lollipops), blow up sword

Club924

04-20-2006, 12:35 PM

Well we decided on Seasme Street theme. We have one set of plates for cake and one for dinner/appetizers. I looked at cakes at the fav local bakery and they have one I love and will do a little cake for Aiden.

So I need a good centerpiece idea. I don't like the ones they have with the plates. Any good ideas?

i found some great sesame street party supplies at Lori's Parties (http://www.lorisparties.com/store.php?dpid=686f3327c1ef83fa59e092d847ac122c)

here's a centerpiece:

http://www.lorisparties.com/sites/www.kidspartiesbylori.com/photos/OnlineStore/ss_standup-centerpiece.jpg

For anyone out there who is still looking for a theme, they've got a great selection.

Take a look at the other theme parties here (http://www.lorisparties.com/store.php?dpid=2841eb4f6bdd3fe4b09c06f2487321c7)

Pretty Polka Dot Party
http://www.lorisparties.com/sites/www.kidspartiesbylori.com/photos/Pink_Polka_Dots/pinkpolkadotplate.jpg

Mickey&B - they have a lot of monkey themed party items here (http://www.lorisparties.com/store.php?dpid=01cff745f54621e6e32ed04e9fc73643) (monkey balloons, monkey tattoos, monkey pinata, monkey favor bags, monkey inflatables, monkey lollipops, etc...)

lil_nance

04-20-2006, 08:52 PM

Club924 Thanks for the Word instructions! I just spent the past half hour pasting DS's pic into various shapes. Too fun :)

BooeyJ2

04-21-2006, 12:25 PM

Just wanted to stop in and post the Thank You cards from DD's 1st b-day party (which matched the pink/green theme)...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v716/Booey143598/More%20pics/Newest%20Pics/Newest2/Newest3/ThankYous1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v716/Booey143598/More%20pics/Newest%20Pics/Newest2/Newest3/ThankYous2.jpg

Printed (thank you) vellum over cardstock (that had pink and green dots) with her picture and handwritten thank yous :)

kelseyledare

04-21-2006, 12:29 PM

OMG, I LOVE those thank you notes!! Are the photos from her party or just of her recently? I may have to steal your creation :cool: -- too cute!

fifibee

04-21-2006, 12:31 PM

BooeyJ2 -- That is sooo cute! I love how the pink/green polka dot theme has tied everything together. Great job, I love your ideas.:D

BooeyJ2

04-21-2006, 12:34 PM

kelseydare - Thank you! The pics were just recent pics. Unfortunately we didn't get any great pics of her at her party (doesn't help that she slept for the last 2 hours of it and woke up kinda cranky LOL).

fifibee - Thanks! I can't take full credit though. One of my awesome CC/LJ friends gendan gave us the cardstock (which came with vellum, but we ended up printing our own) :)

QPDoll

04-21-2006, 12:49 PM

BooeyJ2

04-21-2006, 01:03 PM

Anyone have ideas for a circus themed party? Im leaning towards that theme because I really like the penants with their pictures on them (I think they were from back in this thread somewhere). Also, my friends laugh their butts off when I say circus theme, because my and DHs family are very different and having them together for the party might turn into a circus. LOL

traciray posted pics of her son's circus themed party on pg 5
and I posted pictures from my nephew's 1st b-day party (from last year) that was circus themed on pg 13. Hope that helps :)

LIZNKEITH

04-21-2006, 01:50 PM

Booey,
LOVE the Thank You's! They're perfect!

kimthebride

04-21-2006, 02:35 PM

AAAAAAK!
I AM SO. DARN. INDECISIVE!!!
Why am I fretting over which theme to go with, when DH is going to veto me anyway? :rolleyes:

Sorry, had to vent. :)

L-O-V-E

04-21-2006, 02:37 PM

I'm thining of doing a Blue & Chocolate colored theme for my son's party. I've seen so many great ideas for the Pink & Chocolate, but not much for blue. Anyone have any ideas???

Thanks!!

HollyMN

04-21-2006, 04:58 PM

Hey everyone. So many nice pictures lately, I'm getting excited about planning our party, even though it's 3.5 months away yet. I have some practical questions though for an at-home party.

We have an eat-in kitchen with a sliding door that leads to a big deck. The kitchen has a huge countertop and we also have a big kitchen table, either of which could hold all the food, but not as much mingling space. I was thinking that we could have a partially indoor, partially backyard party (the upstairs living area itself is not big), but have all or most the food inside. I like looking at all your photos of food tables and cake tables and figured that over the food table is the best space to put hanging decorations like balloons, lanterns, like all your pictures Here's the deal though. Over the kitchen table is a low hanging ceiling fan! How do you deal with ceiling fans when you want to decorate? I can't be the only one with this kitchen set-up. Anybody have ideas? I could have the counter become a food or cake table and hang decorations over that, but the counter is physically close to the fridge, cupboards, etc. So that's not a good photo op place either. I suppose I could move the kitchen table to the living area, which my DH will balk at because the living area is carpetted, and he'd want the food area to stay in the kitchen for cleanup, and then where would the couches and other seating go?

Finally, since the kitchen has sliding doors to the outside (that will probably get open/shut/open/shut with all the little kids running around, then if it's even a little windy, won't the balloons and paper stuff get blown around?

Also, since we are (weather permitting) using outdoor space, because it's August and we'd be cramped inside - should I bother putting any decorations outdoors or not? Anyone do outdoor decor?

BooeyJ2

04-21-2006, 05:16 PM

HollyMN - Could you post a pic of the space? I'm trying to visualize it, but it's really hard without actually seeing it. From there I could help give ideas.

BooeyJ2

04-21-2006, 05:23 PM

L-O-V-E - You can basically just switch the colors for anything you see pink/brown ;) What exactly are you looking for ideas for? Cake? Decorations? Favors? Invites?

tgray99

04-21-2006, 06:57 PM

I'm thining of doing a Blue & Chocolate colored theme for my son's party. I've seen so many great ideas for the Pink & Chocolate, but not much for blue. Anyone have any ideas???

Thanks!!
There are a lot of scrapbooking papers that are chocolate and blue. Hmm...lemme do some research for ya and I'll be back. I know I've seen some cute turquoise and brown plates and napkins at Target. Might wanna check those out. You can also get brown paper goods and blue ones and mix and match (which is what I'm doing for my pink and brown party). I'll getcha a link to a place on Ebay that sells brown paper goods.

BBL.

tgray99

04-21-2006, 07:59 PM

Okey doke, I'm back

http://i21.ebayimg.com/01/i/06/36/35/5f_1.JPG
Found here (http://cgi.ebay.com/Baby-Blue-and-Chocolate-Brown-COWBOY-Invitations-Custom_W0QQitemZ6036037073QQcategoryZ47113QQssPage NameZWD1VQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)

http://i20.ebayimg.com/03/i/05/d9/fb/8d_1_b.JPG
Found here (http://cgi.ebay.com/5-Baby-Shower-Invitations-PERSONALIZED-blue-brown_W0QQitemZ5652618286QQcategoryZ104195QQssPage NameZWD1VQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)

Here's a store that sells brown party supplies (tablecloths, etc.) as well as other colors. Sheri's Attic (http://stores.ebay.com/Sheris-Attic_W0QQssPageNameZstrkQ3amefsQ3amesstQQtZkm)

http://www.sophiesfavors.com/custfavdiy_sattiebow_bal_sub_11.jpg
Found here (http://www.sophiesfavors.com/custfavdiy_sattiebowfav_ball.htm)

http://www.favorsyoukeep.com/images/bags/bag_05.jpg
Found here (http://www.favorsyoukeep.com/welcome.html)

L-O-V-E

04-22-2006, 03:42 AM

Thanks tgray99! I've seen those plates at Target and I think they are a little too turqoise for me. I'm looking for more baby blue.

But to answer Booey, I'm on the prowl for plates/napkins, cake and decorations. Basically everything!! I haven't had too much success finding blue/chocolate scrapbooking paper around here for invites, so I was thinking of just doing them on blue paper with a chocolate brown border. Something like this...

http://images.snapfish.com/346893482%7Ffp342%3Enu%3D3235%3E632%3E%3A4%3B%3EWS NRCG%3D323367574%3A83%3Cnu0mrj

I was just checking to see if anyone had seen something cute to go along.

Thanks in advance.
:)
Lori

tgray99

04-22-2006, 06:19 PM

Making Memories sells a package of blue and brown paper called Cosmopolitan (it also comes in pink and brown). I found mine at Michaels.

Chatterbox sells some cute papers:

http://www.chatterboxinc.com/images/24808.jpg
http://www.chatterboxinc.com/images/24801.jpg
http://www.chatterboxinc.com/images/26405.jpg
http://www.chatterboxinc.com/images/26410.jpg
http://www.chatterboxinc.com/images/26700.jpg
http://www.chatterboxinc.com/images/26704.jpg

tgray99

04-22-2006, 06:27 PM

Scenic Route has papers from their Narragansett line that are blue and brown. They don't have any pics I can post, though.

This is Kelly Panacci:
http://scrapbook.sandylion.com/ENLARGE/enlargedisplay.aspx?img=RMKSCB46.jpg
http://scrapbook.sandylion.com/ENLARGE/enlargedisplay.aspx?img=PKSCBP2.jpg
Available here (http://scrapbook.sandylion.com/catalog/ViewAsset.aspx?ID=1791&themeid=5&mode=theme&IsNew=)

L-O-V-E

04-22-2006, 06:52 PM

Love them all!! Thank you!!!!!!

kelseyledare

04-22-2006, 08:31 PM

tgray, you always find such wonderful papers! I have finally decided on a lavender and white gingham theme for my DD's 1st birthday with either birthday cupcakes or princess tiaras as my accent object for favors, etc. Where should I search for papers?

tgray99

04-22-2006, 08:56 PM

Thanks!

http://www.paperwishes.com/scripts/img.php?partnumber=20091&height=288&sharpen=1&dropshadow
Found here (http://www.paperwishes.com/products/20091)

http://www.paperwishes.com/scripts/img.php?partnumber=20092&height=288&sharpen=1&dropshadow
Found here (http://www.paperwishes.com/products/20092)

http://www.paperwishes.com/scripts/img.php?partnumber=20073&height=288&sharpen=1&dropshadow
Found here (http://www.paperwishes.com/products/20073)

http://www.paperwishes.com/scripts/img.php?productid=51069&width=175&sharpen=1&dropshadow
Found here (http://www.paperwishes.com/products/20259)

http://www.paperwishes.com/scripts/img.php?partnumber=20217&height=288&sharpen=1&dropshadow
Found here (http://www.paperwishes.com/products/20217)

http://www.paperwishes.com/scripts/img.php?partnumber=20118&height=288&sharpen=1&dropshadow
Found here (http://www.paperwishes.com/products/20118)

tgray99

04-22-2006, 09:03 PM

More paper

http://www.paperwishes.com/scripts/img.php?partnumber=4603&height=288&sharpen=1&dropshadow
Found here (http://www.paperwishes.com/products/4603)

http://www.paperwishes.com/scripts/img.php?partnumber=6364&height=288&sharpen=1&
Found here (http://www.paperwishes.com/products/6364)

All I did was Google "lavender gingham scrapbook paper" and found all of this stuff.

kelseyledare

04-22-2006, 09:41 PM

Thanks!!! I guess the lesson of that story is: Never underestimate the power of a quick google search!

tgray99

04-22-2006, 11:01 PM

Thanks!!! I guess the lesson of that story is: Never underestimate the power of a quick google search!
True, true, but there is an art to going through and finding the good stuff in a Google search. It's definitely not for the uninitiated. I used to do internet searches for a living so I'm very well acquainted. A lot of people get overwhelmed by all the info.

kimthebride

04-23-2006, 07:57 AM

Advice, please! :)

Since we are having this at a hotel function room (man oh man I can't wait to have a house...anyhoo...), I need an accurate headcount for table seating, getting enough high chairs, etc.

How do I word this without being too "wordy"?

R.S.V.P. With Number Attending by May 20th?

Please R.S.V.P. With Headcount by May 20th?

Elmo needs to know how many friends will be there! Please RSVP by May 2oth....?

See what I am going for? Agh, why is this so difficult?

TIA!

HollyMN

04-23-2006, 09:58 AM

HollyMN - Could you post a pic of the space? I'm trying to visualize it, but it's really hard without actually seeing it. From there I could help give ideas.

I had a little trouble with the lighting, but here's a picture.

http://www.calesota.com/images/misc6/kitchen.jpg

The table is huge (DH inherited his grandmother's table, if we put all the leaves in, it wouldn't fit in the kitchen at all). We'd move the high chair and push it against the wall for more walking space.

You can see the edge of the counter on the far left, also large enough to hold all the food.

That ceiling fan seems to get in the way of decorations, though....

The door leading out the back (we should have patio furniture by ds birthday) would lead to the outside birthday area. We have a playset in the back yard because the previous owners had a home daycare here.

I'd love a theme like yours (except blue and green for a boy).

We could set up tables elsewhere (we have lots of tables), but we already have the permanent tables/counters there.

BooeyJ2

04-23-2006, 10:54 AM

Thanks for the picture Holly. Here is what I would suggest.

Leave the table where it is (otherwise people will be running into the ceiling fan all day. Remove ALL of the chairs (put them in the living room, family room or even the garage), leaving just the table with food on it so that people can walk around the table and get food or walk past it and grab some stuff before they head to the patio.

For decorations, put a blue or green table cover on the table, hang some of those thinner swirly streamers from the ceiling fan at different lengths in blue and green of course. If you plan on having the fan on at the party, just make the streamers a little lower so that they aren't hitting people when they spin around ;) Balloons can just go all around the house. If you want, you can even let them float to the ceiling, leaving them free...the ribbon from the balloons will act as extra hanging streamers ;) You can also hang lanterns throughout the house.

I also think a bouquet of blue/green flowers in the middle of the table would be cute, like a centerpiece. Since that table is low enough for children to get to, you might want to only have child friend snacks on that table (Goldfish crackers, animal cookies, veggies/dip, chips, etc). I would keep all of the real/hot food up on the kitchen counter out of reach so that only adults can reach it.

I hope this helps a bit :)

Kanga

04-23-2006, 11:24 AM

HollyMN You could hang these from the fan or ceiling as well. From orientaltrading.com
http://image.orientaltrading.com/otcimg/70_1363.jpg?resize(250x250)

Personally if it were me I would put the chairs outside for extra seating and push the table against the wall so long as the fan isn't so low that people will have to duck or risk bonking their heads on it. Then put all the food on the counter and decorations on the kitchen table (balloons, flowers, favor bags and cakes.) Maybe hang those lanterns above the counter for more visual interest, too.

kelseyledare

04-23-2006, 11:53 AM

Holly ~ I really like those lanterns that Chad and Liz posted. I had a similar setup in a prior home and would also recommend leaving the table under the fan. We had people walking into the blades of the fan (cutting too close to the fan) even though it wasn't running.

usafwife

04-23-2006, 12:17 PM

usafwife

04-23-2006, 12:31 PM

Still on the fence about deciding what theme to use for the party. We already have the cake decorations (Winnie the Pooh and Tigger figurines) and are going to make the cake in a number one shape (already have the pan since my mom used to make/decorate cakes). My mom still thinks that we should use a Winnie the Pooh theme instead of a patriotic theme. DH isn't much help (he says do whatever you want).

I'm thinking that we won't really do favors, per say. The only kids that I know that will probably be there will be our 2 nieces and one nephew. Not sure if DH's other brother and his family will be coming (seems that they can only make it around Christmas and even then it's like pulling teeth. This past Christmas he informed everyone that we all (7 adults and 4 kids) could just make a 3 hour drive to their house along with presents and food (he makes requests for certain foods - i.e. cookies, cake, pie, and homemade chicken and noodles). DH's grandma was none too pleased and refused to drive with all of the food there. We couldn't go because DD was getting dedicated at church that weekend. And DH's other brother and his family wasn't planning on going either as they wanted to be there for DD's dedication (they are her godparents). Plus we all would have had to have paid for motel rooms because there wouldn't have been enough room for all of us to stay at DH's brother's house.

Back to the subject at hand. There might be a few others but not sure just yet. So we would I'd thought about using bubbles as a balloon weight and then the kids could take them home if they wanted (someone suggested that here and I liked it). I've also thought about making magnets with DD's picture and b-date on them as a favor for everyone. We made our own favor magnets for our wedding and everyone liked them so much. Any ideas on what information to include on them besides a picture and her b-date?

I liked the candy bar wrappers that were posted earlier. Anyone know how to create your own wrappers? Of course candy bars (especially chocolate ones) in the midwest in late June/early July aren't really a good idea as they would melt pretty fast.

Booey ~ I sent amberwaves a message after you suggested contacting her but haven't gotten a reply. Do you know another way of getting in contact with her?

kimthebride

04-23-2006, 01:21 PM

Kim, are you doing a Elmo (or related) theme for the party? If so, that line is too cute for the RSVP.
Here is the Sesame Street Smiles theme we are doing:
http://birthdayexpress.speedera.net/images.birthdayexpress.com/bexpress/assets/product_images/e25641.jpg

I'm making the invitations, which will have a pic of Thomas in a cube that has a 1 on it. So maybe saying "Thomas wants to know who's coming" or the like is good?

Do you think it's obvious what I'm going for? Not to sound whiney :o , but I really don't feel like making a million phone calls to get an accurate head count the week before the party....

Kanga

04-23-2006, 01:47 PM

How about

"Please RSVP by May 20th so Elmo can reserve a seat for you"

"Elmo would like you to RSVP by May 20th so a seat may be reserved for you"

tgr68

04-23-2006, 09:36 PM

Wow! I am impressed with some of the parties posted here! They all look so fun!

Kim~I personally like this line the best: Elmo needs to know how many friends will be there! Please RSVP by May 2oth

Here's what we are thinking for DD's June birthday! I'm wanting to do a swimming party, as my niece and two of our best friends (who both have kids).
Colors: Pink, Orange, Yellow (taken from her swimsuit)

Invites: I designed these off a bar napkin I saw on a party website. I saved them as a JPEG, so I can just print them at Walmart's photo lab for less than 30 cents each!
http://www.dropshots.com/photos/32398/20060423/185328.jpg

Cake: I found one I really liked and then photoshopped our color scheme on it!
Original (http://www.cindascreativecakes.com/Photos/jpgs/cakes/fullsize/IMG_3501.jpg)
http://www.dropshots.com/photos/32398/20060423/183025.jpg
The smaller "gift" would be DD's cake.

Favors: We're not planning on doing any favors, since most of the guest list is adults.

Food: The guest list is about 25-30, and we are wanting to do this for as inexpensive as possible (save the big parties for when she is older ;)). It will be over the lunch hour (to best coincide with DD's nap schedule). Any suggestions?

ETA: June is the rainy season here, so does anyone have ideas for a backup plan (as far as activities go)? Our public library (which I usually use for parties) is already booked for that day, but since we have a pretty big house, we can hold it here.

tgray99

04-23-2006, 10:01 PM

Food: The guest list is about 25-30, and we are wanting to do this for as inexpensive as possible (save the big parties for when she is older ;)). It will be over the lunch hour (to best coincide with DD's nap schedule). Any suggestions?

Having been to a lot of childrens parties lately, the best ones seem to do food that caters to the kids. We're doing pb&j sandwiches and ham and cheese sandwiches cut out with a cookie cutter, chips, goldfish, drink boxes for the kiddos and sodas for adults. Maybe a veggie platter as well. This is for her kids party. For the adult party on the next day, we're grilling out fajitas, all the trimmings, chips and salsa and drinks (still deciding if we'll serve alcohol...so much fun to have Lutherans on one side and Baptists/Church of Christ on the other :rolleyes: )

I love the invitations and cake, too cute!