First Birthday Party Ideas! [Archive] - Page 5

BooeyJ2

05-08-2006, 11:17 AM

Cr8nme Although you can print your DD's photo on the cardstock, depending on the color of the cardstock it might not show up too well (or might look blurry/pixelized). You might want to put actual photos onto the invites (Costco does wallets for super cheap - which is where we got the wallets done for our thank you cards). I would either print everything (including pictures) on white cardstock (just use the theme colors for all of the text to liven it up) OR print on whichever color you like, but either add real photos to the invite or print the photos on white cardstock and then add them to the invites :)

Our Christmas cards were printed on olivey green paper, but the photos were printed on white cardstock and then cut and added (having wallets made at Costco would have been SO much easier though - from now on we will be doing that - plus then the people can keep the photos)....
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v716/Booey143598/More%20pics/Newest%20Pics/xmascard5edit.jpg

rancherswife

05-08-2006, 11:23 AM

tgray:Both of Aidan's parties looked great! Good job mama!!!

Cr8nme

05-08-2006, 11:45 AM

Thanks Booey and club...I was planning to have everything printed on White cardstock and just doing colored wording... so any cover weight cardstock would work and where can I have this printed?

meimei710

05-08-2006, 12:00 PM

tgray - the birthday turned out fantastic! i love the pink/brown color combo, i think i'm going to go with that for DD's birthday. that dress is adorable! you ought to have your mom make more and sell it on ebay...so that i can buy one! LOL!!! thanks for sharing! :)

PaulsGirl

05-08-2006, 12:03 PM

Personalized Plates

Where did you all make these adorable cake plates? I want to make one, too! I went to Michael's and I wasn't too impressed with the one kit they had...I don't really have time to go to one of those "Color Me Mine" places...but I will if I must. Anybody have luck with online stores that sell these? Or is the point of the whole thing to make it yourself???

:)

tgray99

05-08-2006, 12:10 PM

I had 2 plates, the pink and brown one with DD's hand prints was done at a place called The Painted Potter here in my hometown.

My second plate was one that I ordered on the internet from here (http://www.1stwishes.com/Content/ProductImages/500/E7449.jpg). It came with a pen for writing on ceramics and I had all of her guests sign it. Then I'll bake it (per the instructions) and it'll be oven and dishwasher safe.

BooeyJ2

05-08-2006, 12:22 PM

tgray99 - Just saw that you posted pics! Great party and very cute pictures! :)

cra8nme - I'm not really sure. My sister always prints everything for me. Maybe Kinko's?

Cr8nme

05-08-2006, 12:37 PM

Thanks!!!

cynder

05-08-2006, 01:07 PM

cr8nme I have used Kinko's alot and they can do what you are proposing.

tgrayWhat lovely parties. Aidan looks too cute.

Wording I am so bad at wording and I need help with 2 things. Since most of the kids in DS's daycare room are younger than DS, I am not sending a cake or any kind of food treat. Since he'll be transitioning out of the room soon, I wanted to do something. So I bought little bottles and want to do a tag along with it. Any ideas on some clever wording. Also I am trying to do a First Birthday announcment since we never really did a birth announcement. It's not an invite and I really want to discourage the notion that I am sending this to troll for gifts. Any wording ideas?

BooeyJ2

05-08-2006, 02:42 PM

Wording I am so bad at wording and I need help with 2 things. Since most of the kids in DS's daycare room are younger than DS, I am not sending a cake or any kind of food treat. Since he'll be transitioning out of the room soon, I wanted to do something. So I bought little bottles and want to do a tag along with it. Any ideas on some clever wording. Also I am trying to do a First Birthday announcment since we never really did a birth announcement. It's not an invite and I really want to discourage the notion that I am sending this to troll for gifts. Any wording ideas?

For the daycare bottle tags, maybe something like this?.....

"Playing with you has been lots of fun,
but i'm a big boy now and am turning ONE!
I might see you from time to time,
but for now it's time to say "bye bye".
Thank you for being my friend.
- Jack (sorry, don't know your DS's name)

alienhost

05-08-2006, 04:30 PM

tgray your parties looked wonderful! I love all the details. Is that the party hat you were making? very cute! The dress, banner, highchair cover/throne (loved this, wish I had done something to dress up DD's highchair) everything was so well coordinated. It was very clever to take an existing banner and cover up part of it w/ scrapbook paper.

Brandian

05-08-2006, 11:14 PM

Here are some pictures of Kalena's birthday party this past weekend, I'll start with the invites that I made:

This is it all folded up
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y135/brandian/kalena%20birthday/birthdaypartyinvite.jpg

Open with the first layer
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y135/brandian/kalena%20birthday/birthdaypartyinvite2.jpg

Next layer
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y135/brandian/kalena%20birthday/birthdaypartyinvite3.jpg

Still posting....

Brandian

05-08-2006, 11:17 PM

Here is the third layer and a close up of the picture drawn, it is supposed to be Kalena as a hula dancer.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y135/brandian/kalena%20birthday/7ebe3637.jpg

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y135/brandian/kalena%20birthday/birthdaypartyinvite6.jpg

And here is one of the tables decorated
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y135/brandian/kalena%20birthday/birthday4.jpg

Brandian

05-08-2006, 11:21 PM

And here are Kalena, Corbin and thier cousin Zyon all dressed in thier luau gear:
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y135/brandian/kalena%20birthday/milliepic6.jpg

Now my favorite, the cake! I am super proud of this cake:
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y135/brandian/kalena%20birthday/birthday3.jpg

Then Kalena blowing out the candles right before everyone eats the cake :(
Why can't you have your cake and eat it too ;)
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y135/brandian/kalena%20birthday/milliepic16.jpg

cynder

05-09-2006, 07:17 AM

Booey That's perfect! You really need to go into the children's party planning.

allyray231

05-09-2006, 07:27 AM

Brandian That cake is amazing!!

Mrs.Chappy

05-09-2006, 07:46 AM

very impressive cake!

Kanga

05-09-2006, 12:40 PM

Great parties Brandian and tgray.

Brandian - did you make that cake yourself? It looks beautiful!

alienhost

05-09-2006, 12:45 PM

Brandian very cool cake, did you make it?

Brandian

05-09-2006, 07:56 PM

Thanks for the compliments on the cake! I did make it myself, its my best birthday cake yet! In my opinion anyway ;) Now I just have to figure out what to do for my DS's first birthday at the end of the month :)

cynder

05-11-2006, 10:39 AM

So I am giving little bottles of bubbles to the 7 other kids in DS's classroom to celebrate his birthday and he will be transitioning out of the room soon. Thanks to Booey J , she helped with the words. I left out the leaving the room part b/c that's still a month away.

http://static.flickr.com/50/144619799_7d8795eff9.jpg?v=0

And I made (ok, I still have to print it on the shirt) for him to wear at his picinic party. Last month all he would do is stick his finger up like this and of course he won't do it at all for me to get a decent picture so I drew it out. Still playing with the fonts:

http://static.flickr.com/52/144619800_1d7577b7a2_m.jpg

Kanga

05-11-2006, 01:28 PM

Here's an idea for invites or ty cards

http://images.scrippsweb.com/HGTV/2005/07/22/cds1813_3flipped_d.jpg

It's a photo flip card, but you could put the invite words on it instead. It's hard to tell by the picture, but there is a tab on the bottom and when you pull that down the different red/green "pages" flip.

Here is another pic

http://images.scrippsweb.com/HGTV/2005/07/22/cds1813_3m_d.jpg

nalif

05-11-2006, 09:33 PM

lil_nance

05-12-2006, 09:33 AM

How does this sound for the invitations? Suggestions? Also, how far in advance should I send these out?

Frogs, ducks, and fish
It’s time to make a birthday wish
Connor is turning ONE
Please join us for some birthday fun

dana b

05-12-2006, 09:56 AM

hi h! no rec's here, we used lou and she was great. do you have the city baby l.a. book? that's where i found lou and there was quite a few entertainers in there.

vjel

05-12-2006, 10:01 AM

lil nance, your invite wording sounds great! I like it as is. Normally I think a month notice is enough for a birthday party, however, the Summer is usually a busy time for everyone. And for us, it's hard to plan any kind of get together b/c everyone is always booked up on the weekend (which is why my mom friends sent save the date emails for their kid's party for July, Sept. and October in February! :eek: ). I would send the invites maybe 6 weeks out?

ETA: dana b, how is your pink/brown themed party planning going? :) congrats on your baby boy also!!!

Club924

05-12-2006, 10:17 AM

Can anyone suggest some really good entertainment for a one year olds b-day in the LA Area. I called Lou Stratton, but she's already booked for our date and she's also $$$. We tried someone out for DD last birthday, but were really disappointed. I thought about hiring the Bubble people, http://bubblemaniaandcompany.com/party.htm
but i'm not sure if one year olds will be interested in bubbles for an entire hour. I'm hoping to find someone more like a gymboree type of entertainer. Thanks so much.

we used Laffypants the Clown (http://www.laffypants.com/) for DD's bday at the Cerritos Public Library. i believe he lives in long beach, so i don't think it would be a problem for him to travel. we paid $250 for 1 1/2 hours and mr. laffypants brought his side kick, becky boo. they were great....they sang and did magic tricks for about 15 minutes and then went into face painting and balloon animals. all the parents loved them...they were great and very professional. here are a few pictures:

http://images.costcophotocenter.com/346%3A68645%7Ffp4%3Enu%3D3232%3E452%3E975%3E232345 2%3A669%3B7ot1lsi

http://images.costcophotocenter.com/346%3A68645%7Ffp4%3Enu%3D3232%3E452%3E975%3E232345 2%3A669%3C%3Bot1lsi

dana b

05-12-2006, 12:54 PM

vjel thanks for the congrats. we decided to not really do a party this year -- just a small get together at my parents with lots of classic pooh stuff.

hey, i just went to a party with becky-boo the clown. nalif it was here in pasadena and i doubt she charged that much to travel since the mom had made a comment to me about how she was much cheaper than lou. she was pretty good and kinda did a gymboree type show -- she sang with kids and did a little show before she painted faces.

vjel

05-12-2006, 01:38 PM

dana b, oh right, you did mention a classic pooh theme for your dd. did you at some point think about a pink/brown theme or am I just making things up in my head?!? (I am known to do that at times ;) )

Sasha

05-12-2006, 02:28 PM

bluhimmy

05-12-2006, 02:41 PM

Can anyone suggest items for a goody bag for a 7.5 year old boy? All the goody bags will get animal crackers, goldfish and bubbles, and the girls are getting barrettes, stickers and fake tatoos, but I am at a loss for what else to put in his.

What about little Matchbox cars? Also stickers or small figures of cartoon/video game characters are pretty popular among my friends' nephews.

Klo.

05-13-2006, 11:43 PM

Peeking in for some advice...

I'm trying to come up with some wording for invitations for my DS 1st birthday coming up in June.

We are doing a dog/puppy theme and I'd like to work that into the invite somehow.
I was thinking something along the lines of "thats what little boys are made of" poem, I can't think of the rest of it other than, "snails and puppy dog tails." Does anyone know what I am getting at?

Otherwise I'll go with something like:
A year has flown by and we’ve had so much fun
Please join us to celebrate Matthew turning One.
(I might have taken that from someone on this thread so I apologize for copying without credit)

Some of you are so good at these things, I just had to ask to see what you ladies could come up with! TIA

Since I'm posting (I've been loosely lurking for months)

Here are some of my ideas I have going for our Dog party - other than the first page I haven't seen any other dog theme parties.

Cake -
Either a picture of DS and our dog or dog bone shape cake. Thinking of getting a mini one for DS for his own smash cake.

Favors -
Doggie Bags - Brown paper bags something on the outside like "you are so doggone nice for coming to my 1st birthday party"
Inside will have sugar cookies in these shapes:
http://www.doggonegood.com/art/cutters/COOK-SST-Lab.jpg
http://www.doggonegood.com/art/cutters/COOK-SST-Bone.jpg
And these little candies
http://www.doggonegood.com/art/misc/Candy-bones-comp.jpg
(those are all from www.doggonegood.com if anyone is interested)

Balloons
http://www.doggonegood.com/art/misc/Balloons-ICON.jpg

I won't get this whole set but at least these napkins from Party America:
http://us.st11.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/partyamerica_1895_23857194
http://us.st11.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/partyamerica_1895_27763270
Birthday Express had some too but I like these better.

Food:
Hot dogs
Puppy chow
Salads and chips and stuff

Any other ideas you can think of that I might be missing??

alienhost

05-14-2006, 08:57 AM

Klo FUn theme!

I found the poem:

What are little boys made of?
Snips and snails, and puppy dog tails,
That's what little boys are made of.

Shutterfly has a photo border that has "snakes and snails and puppy dog tails" you could put a pic of DS and use this as your invite. Maybe paste it on a card and have the info on the inside. It's under "kids" borders.

Maybe something like this?

What are little boys made of?
Snakes and snails, and puppy dog tails,
That's what little boys are made of.
Come join the fun,
since Matthew is turning one!

BooeyJ2 probably can come up with a better poem for you...

alienhost

05-14-2006, 09:03 AM

doggie theme continuedYou could buy some new dog bowls and serve snacks in them (chips, pretzels etc)
fun colors and not too dog bowl looking $4.99 at petsmart:
http://www.petsmart.com/media/ps/images/products/detail/standard/June05/9322_48059.jpg
found here:http://www.petsmart.com/global/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=84552444180 9951&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302025790&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=2534374302023689&bmUID=1147622065737&itemNo=31&Nao=24&In=Dog&N=2025790&Ne=2

or put some snacks in these containers, $11.99 at petsmart:

http://www.petsmart.com/media/ps/images/products/detail/standard/September05/10625_4b277.jpg

Maybe include a ball or tennis ball in the goodie bags?

ETA: for the goodie bags you could make a tag that looks like a dog license tag and have DS name (or recipients name) on it and the date of the party and your little saying. Since you are using a paper sack you can fold over the tops, punch two holes, thread a ribbon and add the tag. If you want a round license you could use a large hole punch or just print something and cut it out.

fun "dog" items
from oriental trading company:

hot dog holders
http://image.orientaltrading.com/otcimg/3_599.jpg?resize(250x250)
http://www.orientaltrading.com/application?namespace=browse&origin=searchMain.jsp&event=link.itemDetails&demandPrefix=12&sku=3/599&mode=Searching&erec=1&D=hot%2Bdog&Dx=mode%252bmatchallpartial&Ntx=mode%252bmatchallpartial&Ntt=hot%2Bdog&N=0&Ntk=all&sd=PLASTIC+HOT+DOG+HOLDERS
coasters
http://image.orientaltrading.com/otcimg/65_65555.jpg?resize(250x250)
found here...http://www.orientaltrading.com/application?namespace=search&origin=searchMain.jsp&event=button.search&Ntt=dog+coaster&Ntk=all&Ntx=mode%2Bmatchallpartial&N=0

from pet smart:

dog sign for a decoration:
http://www.petsmart.com/media/ps/images/products/detail/standard/SummerCatalog04/56988_37c4d.jpg
found here http://www.petsmart.com/global/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=84552444178 1812&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302046944&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=2534374302023689&bmUID=1147621918020&itemNo=1&In=Dog&N=2046944&Ne=2

alienhost

05-14-2006, 10:00 AM

I found another site w/ cute doggie party stuff:

http://www.gooddogexpress.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=GDPEI&Category_Code=BDP

cake pans, CANDLEs, ice trays...

CAKES

from www.familyfun.com http://familyfun.go.com/recipes/special/cake/cake_puppy/cake_puppy.html

ETA: you could scale those cakes down for your DS smash cake - use a small cake pan (I found a 5 inch one for DD) and some mini cupcakes for the paws and stuff. That would be cute!

http://familyfun.go.com/Resources/Cakes/recipes/special/puppy.jpg

this is Blues Clues but you could frost it any color:

http://familyfun.go.com/parties/birthday/feature/dony0300blueclu/dony0300blueclu8.html

http://familyfun.go.com/Resources/Features/Activities/dony0300blueclu_dogcake.gif

Make sure you post the party, I might have to use some pf these ideas for next year since DD loves our dog....

PS don't forget to have your dog wear a Happy Birthday Bandana!

alienhost

05-14-2006, 10:16 AM

Sasha I agree w/ bluhimmy on the matchbox cars. Other things could be sidewalk chalk or a small card game (I've seen them at Walgreens - go fish, old maid and others - not sure what the age range is for those).

alienhost

05-14-2006, 05:46 PM

Klo I've been thinking about this party theme all day!

Another thought for your goodie bags. If you make the tag to look like a license, you could use a brown (or other color) grosgrain ribbon to look like a dog collar. You could use a small jump ring (used in jewlery making, I think) to make the loop thing you use to attach to the collar. Also if you are into scrapbooking you might have some of this stuff already and could use an eyelet for the hole on the license. Some sort of buckle might be cute too but it might be overkill :D

char473

05-15-2006, 04:43 AM

lil_nance

05-15-2006, 09:37 AM

Hi ladies,
Can you help me find some paper which I can print invites on? I'm looking for something with cute frogs or a combo of frogs, ducks, & fish. THANKS.

Klo.

05-15-2006, 10:10 PM

Alien -
Wow! Thanks. You are so helpful.

I actually have some of those hot dog trays. I saw them at Michaels and picked up a couple. I thought they'd be fun.

All the other stuff is great too. I'll definitely be back with pictures after the party. It should be fun.

Mrs.Chappy

05-16-2006, 09:08 AM

ah, for the animal theme..put animal crackers int he goody bags..that's what we are going for our Baby einstein theme.

alienhost

05-16-2006, 09:35 AM

Great Ideas:)

Now my next question is, should I have any little "games" for the little ones to play? And if so, what? I have been trying to think of some things to keep them entertained. My theme is a Luau. Thanks!

eta theme

how about a limbo contest? Not sure how little the little ones are but that might work.

Klo you are welcome, I had fun looking for those items!

lil_nance I tried doing some searching yesterday but came up with nothing. Maybe you can print it on yellow paper and use some duck,fish,frog stickers? Maybe ultimate google queen booeyj2 can find something.

moderngal

05-16-2006, 10:33 AM

can someone help me with a cute little poem or something for our favors? we're doing a cd- called "Monkey Mix." I want to do a little sign that says "please take one," "thanks for monkeying around" or something along those lines, but I am not so creative. (Our monkey themed party is this weekend)

BooeyJ2

05-16-2006, 10:50 AM

lil_nance I tried doing some searching yesterday but came up with nothing. Maybe you can print it on yellow paper and use some duck,fish,frog stickers? Maybe ultimate google queen booeyj2 can find something.

LOL. Even I had a hard time searching for a combo of those 3 (even combos of 2). Alienhost had a great suggestion with adding stickers though. I think maybe you should just do fish and frogs. How about adding little fishy stickers to one of these?........

FROGS:

http://www.paperstyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/DisplayProductInformation-Start?CatalogCategoryID=qyXAqACM7TEAAAEGw3RfXctP&ProductID=WeLAqACMy9IAAAEJbojWB8B_&LastCatalogID=qyXAqACM7TEAAAEGw3RfXctP&LastCatalogPage=#

http://www.paperstyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/DisplayProductInformation-Start?CatalogCategoryID=qyXAqACM7TEAAAEGw3RfXctP&ProductID=gycKAAEDMfYAAAECU9YSgMar&LastCatalogID=qyXAqACM7TEAAAEGw3RfXctP&LastCatalogPage=

http://www.paperstyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/DisplayProductInformation-Start?CatalogCategoryID=qyXAqACM7TEAAAEGw3RfXctP&ProductID=WmfAqACMC3EAAAEJBhhU2VRQ&LastCatalogID=qyXAqACM7TEAAAEGw3RfXctP&LastCatalogPage=

http://www.paperstyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/DisplayProductInformation-Start?CatalogCategoryID=qyXAqACM7TEAAAEGw3RfXctP&ProductID=AwMKAAEDQDQAAAECwcESgMar&LastCatalogID=qyXAqACM7TEAAAEGw3RfXctP&LastCatalogPage=

http://www.puffins.com/mara-mi_04.html

http://www.finestationery.com/product.cfm?prod_id=35847&fss_id=160520061241260522901202835450&cat_id=5&subcat_id=0&cat=0

Or adding frog stickers to one of these?.....

FISH:

http://www.finestationery.com/product.cfm?prod_id=46982&fss_id=160520061241260522901202835450&cat_id=5&subcat_id=0&cat=0

http://www.finestationery.com/product.cfm?prod_id=32883&fss_id=160520061241260522901202835450&cat_id=5&subcat_id=0&cat=0

http://www.finestationery.com/product.cfm?prod_id=32855&fss_id=160520061241260522901202835450&cat_id=5&subcat_id=0&cat=0

http://www.finestationery.com/product.cfm?prod_id=35850&fss_id=160520061241260522901202835450&cat_id=5&subcat_id=0&cat=0

http://www.finestationery.com/product.cfm?prod_id=38706&fss_id=160520061241260522901202835450&cat_id=5&subcat_id=0&cat=0

You could always have Amber at www.inababycarriage.com make some for you! She could use all/any of the animals you want and her work is amazing. Not only would it be easier for you, but you could pretty much have it look exactly how you want it, yet not have to deal with finding the right paper, stickers, printing them, etc ;)
http://www.inababycarriage.com/designs/invites/birthday/index.html

jrdhbunny

05-16-2006, 02:26 PM

moderngal- We did a Curious George theme and made a lot of references to "going bananas", like "Thank you for going bananas over James' 1st birthday!".

dana b

05-18-2006, 01:53 PM

i know there were some sites posted some pages back for cute invite wording, but i can't find them. would someone mind posting them or the page they're on? i need some 2nd birthday wording. tia!

alienhost

05-18-2006, 02:35 PM

it might be www.verseit.com but I'm not sure if they have age specific b'day wording or just generic b'day wording....

lil_nance

05-18-2006, 02:47 PM

booey As always, you're amazing. Thanks. Some great ideas there. A friend also told me about a local scrapbooking store. I'm going to try to check it out this weekend. I need to make a decision soon.

Mickey&B

05-18-2006, 09:08 PM

we're doing a cd- called "Monkey Mix."

Moderngirl I am doing a monkey theme as well and was having the hardest time finding a name for the CD you don't mind if I borrow your idea do ya? :D

BooeyJ2

05-18-2006, 10:05 PM

i know there were some sites posted some pages back for cute invite wording, but i can't find them. would someone mind posting them or the page they're on? i need some 2nd birthday wording. tia!

I made some up for vjel (for her DD's second b-day) on page 61....

"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!"

:)

BooeyJ2

05-18-2006, 10:09 PM

Some I just found online.....

#1
Our little boy/girl is turning TWO
And we can't wait to celebrate with you!

#2
Ice cream, cake and fun with you
Our little boy/girl is turning TWO!

#3
Ian's having a party, 'cause he's turning two
We're saving a spot especially for you!

#4
We can hardly believe it's true.
Our little girl is turning two!

cynder

05-19-2006, 08:15 AM

I forget who gave me the idea about the Avery tshirt transfers but it totally worked. He going to wear this for his picnic since he won't wear a hat:

http://static.flickr.com/48/149275865_32413f040b.jpg?v=0

http://static.flickr.com/55/149275866_4d19cf265a.jpg?v=0

And I got bubbles made for his classmates and as party favors. Avery makes sticker sheets, so I printed on there, cut, peeled and stuck it on the bottles. Easy cheap party favor.

http://static.flickr.com/53/149275867_8f272ca1d1.jpg?v=0

alienhost

05-19-2006, 09:11 AM

cynder I'm glad the Avery t-shirt transfers worked for you, it looks great! Don't you love it? The bubble labels look fab as well! Nice job!

moderngal

05-19-2006, 01:14 PM

Moderngirl I am doing a monkey theme as well and was having the hardest time finding a name for the CD you don't mind if I borrow your idea do ya?
Not at all!! ;) I'll post pics after the party (tomorrow)!!

dana b

05-19-2006, 01:53 PM

thanks booey! i'm using one of yours, i like those much better.

moderngal

05-19-2006, 02:02 PM

if you have pets, what did you do with them for the party?

alienhost

05-19-2006, 02:08 PM

if you have pets, what did you do with them for the party?

We have a dog that is very old. Whenever we have people over we usually put her upstairs and gate her in our bedroom. Since she can't really maneuver the stairs anymore we actually had her in the garage in her crate. She was happy to sleep undisturbed. :D

QPDoll

05-19-2006, 08:51 PM

Okay, Im still debating the theme for my boys' first birthday party in July. My latest idea is The Very Hungry Caterpillar. I could do a caterpillar cake (ala Martha Stewart kids circa 2000). I could post their pictures on caterpillar circles around the room. Or do more of a book theme and make "pages from a book" with their pictures on them. I guess Im at a toss-up to make it based all on the caterpillar story, or do books with emphasis on the caterpillar story.

Does anyone have cute ideas for centerpieces or other decorations? The only thing I could think of for centerpieces is a bowl of fruit, but how can I make that more festive than just a bowl of fruit? Or can anyone brainstorm some ideas for the party beyond the cake and the pictures of the boys on the wall?

ETA: My boys are known as big eaters, who eat everything and anything. "They ate and they ate and they ate...then they became big One Year Olds!" or something to that effect.

Cr8nme

05-19-2006, 09:46 PM

QPDoll~ Hre are some cakes if you needed some ideas! How many tables are you going to have?

http://www.ljcfyi.com/ljcsProjects/cooking/caterpillar_side.jpg

http://www.ljcfyi.com/ljcsProjects/cooking/caterpillar_front.jpg

http://www.ischool.utexas.edu/~bookworm/baking/caterpillar1.jpg

http://www.ischool.utexas.edu/~bookworm/baking/caterpillar2.jpg

http://www.shippony.com/coolestkid/cakes/cake-recipes-04.jpg

Kanga

05-20-2006, 07:51 AM

You could make mini caterillars for decoration. Use pipe cleaners to hold styrofoam balls that you get at craft stores together and then paint it. (just don't use spray paint, IIRC, it'll eat styrofoam) You could use the extra pipecleaners for legs and antenaes.

ETA - Natrat80 had a relative that did invites with the caterpillar from baby einstein, but the pics aren't working. She used the paper quilling technique, basically just spiraled paper. Here's a pic of an example

http://images.scrippsweb.com/HGTV/2006/01/21/cds1918_3display_e.jpg
And here is the link (http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/cr_paper_crafts_other/article/0,1789,HGTV_3294_4423945,00.html) on how to do it.

kindermom

05-20-2006, 08:15 AM

ETA: My boys are known as big eaters, who eat everything and anything. "They ate and they ate and they ate...then they became big One Year Olds!" or something to that effect.

Tina - That is perfect for the boys! Too cute.

Centerpiece Idea: You put the fruit into caterpillar formation instead of in a bowl.

alienhost

05-20-2006, 08:48 AM

QPDoll I bought these Very Hungry Catepillar books from overstock for the goodie bags for DD's book party (also used them as balloon weights). THey are small versions - 4 inches by 5.25 inches and very cute. $2.47 each, you can probably find a code for free shipping.

http://www.overstock.com/cgi-bin/d2.cgi?PAGE=PROFRAME&PROD_ID=770982

They also have a plush toy that might be cute for center pieces (tie ballons to them or line up pieces of fruit along w/ it?)
http://images.overstock.com/f/102/3117/8h/www.overstock.com/images/products//muze/books/0399216596.jpg

3.87 each , found here

http://www.overstock.com/cgi-bin/d2.cgi?PAGE=PROFRAME&PROD_ID=771005

alienhost

05-20-2006, 08:51 AM

you can use these stamps, the only problem is each sheet only has two of them...however your post office might just sell you the caterpillar ones..

http://shop.usps.com/wcsstore/PostalStore/upload/images/200x200_childrens.jpg

apparently there is a game: ToyrUs/Amazon is sold out but maybe you can find it locally: ETA, Target.com has it but it's on back order 2-6 weeks (it's 14.99)

http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B000B5MV8S.01._SCMZZZZZZZ_V51414226_.jpg

here is a website w/ some caterpillar craft ideas:

http://www.dltk-teach.com/books/hungrycaterpillar/index.htm

Other decorations You could decorate with different fruit items, I was trying to find some paper apples, oranges etc.

here are some paper goods w/ fruit: from www.iparty.com

http://www.giantpartystore.com/images/I422089.jpg
http://www.iparty.com/Fruit-Toss-Dinner-Plates/Catalog.cfm/iParentId/0/iProdID/149871

www.plumparty.com has these fruit lights:
http://www.plumparty.com/Merchant2/graphics/products/large/15050.jpg

twinnyme

05-20-2006, 09:20 AM

FYI, if anyone's thinking of a Little People theme, I was just on the Fisher Price website, and there's a whole section devoted to planning a Little People-themed birthday party, including a printable invitation (on which you can also load your child's photo!). Link here. (http://www.fisher-price.com/us/littlepeople/clubhouse/default.asp?section=birthdayparty)

alienhost

05-20-2006, 09:27 AM

If you want to make a booklet invite, let me know and I can share some tips from when I made DD's invites, they are really quite easy.

I found this site: www.birthdaypartyideas.com with lots of suggestions (i haven't read the entire thing but it might be helpful. I wish I saw this site when planning DD's party! Just search on your theme:

here are a few parties w/ the same theme (Very Hungry Caterpillar):
http://209.15.117.162/html/new_reader_ideas_207.html
http://209.15.117.162/html/bug_parties_30.html
http://209.15.117.162/html/bug_parties_10.html

Natrat80

05-20-2006, 06:37 PM

Here the invite my friend made:
http://images1.snapfish.com/346%3B3%3A772%7Ffp33%3A%3Enu%3D3238%3E8%3B9%3E8%3C %3B%3EWSNRCG%3D3233765773485nu0mrj

http://images1.snapfish.com/346%3B3%3A772%7Ffp339%3Enu%3D3238%3E8%3B9%3E8%3C%3 B%3EWSNRCG%3D3233765773486nu0mrj

MurphysLaw

05-20-2006, 06:42 PM

Here the invite my friend made...

Those are SOOO cute!!

vjel

05-21-2006, 07:05 AM

We finally had DD's (2nd) birthday party yesterday and wanted to post some pics. Got so many great ideas and opinions on here!!!

Invites:
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y72/vjel/IMG_0044.jpg
I never took pics of the inside but I used wording that booey came up for me (THANKS Julie!!).

appetizer/dessert table
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y72/vjel/Emmiesbday005.jpg

pink/brown chocolate lollipops
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y72/vjel/Emmiesbday009.jpg

vjel

05-21-2006, 07:13 AM

pink tealights I bought and wrapped w/ pink/brown ribbon I already had (got the idea from Michael's)
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y72/vjel/Emmiesbday011.jpg

favor bags
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y72/vjel/Emmiesbday004.jpg

the kiddie snack table (thanks to alienhost for that idea!)
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y72/vjel/Emmiesbday016.jpg

I don't post pics of my DD on the internet but she did a good job of covering up her face here :p so you can sorta see her outfit (pink tank w/ brown/cream polka dots and brown roll-up cargos from Old Navy)
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y72/vjel/Emmiesbday078.jpg

ETA: we didn't do games at the party. We had AWESOME weather yesterday. And the kids (age 1-7, but most were around 2-3yrs) wanted to be outside. We have a play house that the kids had a blast in and this blow up Monster Ball basketball hoop thing from Target (bought last year) the the boys were going bonkers over. It was not used as it was intended (b-ball hoop) instead the kids dived in it and were rolling down the yard in it. LOL So between our playroom and the outdoor stuff, the kids were well occupied.

vjel

05-21-2006, 07:31 AM

I found some Monster Ball pics...

How the hoops is suppose to be. It comes w/ a big blow up b-ball you shoot in the hoop.
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y72/vjel/Emmiesbday032.jpg

What the kids were doing with it instead! :p
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y72/vjel/Emmiesbday028.jpg

bluhimmy

05-21-2006, 11:27 AM

What a great party. As always, you did an amazing job! :) I can't believe you made the favor bags!

Cr8nme

05-21-2006, 12:16 PM

VJel~ Everything looked AMAZING!!! You did a great job on everything!

QPDoll

05-21-2006, 12:19 PM

Thanks for the caterpillar ideas! Wow, you guys are great. I have been busy the past weekend, and now I have strep throat. Hopefully Monday or tonight I can get online and process all the great ideas! (didn't want you to think I was ungrateful and just disappeared. LOL) My mind is whirling with so many cute ideas!

alienhost

05-21-2006, 03:01 PM

vjel your party looked wonderful! Wow, I can't believe you made those favor bags, did they take a long time? They look great, very impressive. You were smart to put your kiddie snacks closer to the ground! I also love the chocolate flower lollipops, they look great w/ pink and brown (I actually have that mold - note to self to use it next year)

Great job!

lelee17

05-21-2006, 06:18 PM

vjel - looks like everything came out great! Love the pink and brown theme. :)

vjel

05-21-2006, 06:50 PM

thanks everyone! It was fun planning everything and good to finally see everything come together.

alienhost, the favor bags were inspired by the ones from Plum Party. But for $6 a bag, no way. I think I spent $3 for supplies for 10 bags. They were fairly easy to make but I can't really quantify how long it took. I did it in stages over a couple months (cutting felt, sewing the bag, cutting the edges, cutting flower, sewing flower/button to bag, sewing straps and cutting the edges, sewing straps to bag) . I actually didn't finish them up til Friday (proscrastinator that I am). :o Oh, make another note to yourself to just give the chocoloate lollipops away, don't ask if people want them! And maybe pre-wrap them in the cellophane bags so people can easily take them w/o having to put them in baggies! :rolleyes: Lesson learned. ha.

HollyMN

05-21-2006, 09:26 PM

Beautiful pictures, I like the dessert table.

Club924

05-21-2006, 09:57 PM

great party vjel! the pink and brown theme turned out beautifully...especially love the lollipops and favor bags!

cr8zyforaf

05-22-2006, 06:53 AM

vgel - I LOVE everything. Were the chocolate flowers hard to make? What an adorable idea!

vjel

05-22-2006, 07:12 AM

Originally posted by cr8zyforaf
I LOVE everything. Were the chocolate flowers hard to make? What an adorable idea!

thank you! Chocolates were pretty easy (my first time). Just microwave chocolate 30 secs. at a time til melted in ziploc. Snip a tiny hole in the corner of baggie and pipe the chocolate into the mold. We did the center color first, let that dry for 20 min. maybe and then piped in the flower. In hindsight we should've just piped all the flowers first, then gone back to put the sticks in. My gf and I piped each flower and added the stick before moving on to next flower. Made it difficult when we had to tap the tray on the counter to get the air bubbles out. We ended w/ 30 flowers (10/tray) and did it in an hour or so. Should've had 40 flowers but we had a choc. mishap. :o Directions also come w/ the mold. HTH!

Club924

05-22-2006, 11:15 AM

Thank you all!

Wow, I knew I could count on you all to help me get it together visually.

Club924 Thanks for more ideas! I'd love to see any photos of your decor at the shower (if you don't mind sharing them).

PaulsGirl - my friend's baby shower was this past weekend and i've posted some pictures over on the "Baby Shower Theme" thread. (http://www.constantchatter.com/showthread.php?p=749186&posted=1#post749186)

HollyMN

05-22-2006, 11:29 AM

PaulsGirl

05-22-2006, 11:45 AM

PaulsGirl - my friend's baby shower was this past weekend and i've posted some pictures over on the "Baby Shower Theme" thread. (http://www.constantchatter.com/showthread.php?p=749186&posted=1#post749186)

Beautiful job! Thanks for remembering!

vjel

05-22-2006, 11:51 AM

club, you and your sister plan some amazing parties! so much thought and effort put into everything, I love that!

BooeyJ2

05-22-2006, 12:12 PM

vjel - You did an amazing job! I absolutely loooove the lollipop plants. Those fresh spring rolls look SO yummy! Those favor bags are AWESOME! You should start making and selling them!!

club924 - Such AWESOME baby shower ideas! I loved everything! Sooo pretty!!

Holly MN - I think it would be cute to just put a huge bow on it and have it as a big decoration. You could also make it a "wishing well" of sorts where people can write a wish or note to your DS for his b-day. It could also be used as a ball/bean bag toss game, BUT it would be a pain in the butt to get the balls/bean bags out after each toss ;)

vjel

05-22-2006, 01:42 PM

booey, thanks! the spring rolls were yummy! ;) you can't tell but we had turons on the opposite side of the table (your DH is filipino right?) that my sis and BF brought over. Since I'm sick, I couldn't tell how good they were. :( I've thought about making the favor bags to sell too...we'll see. :)

Holly, I agree w/ booey. It looks like a big box so maybe on the floor in a corner as decoration or even on a table if it's the right set up? The wishing well is a great idea too!

NYN

05-22-2006, 06:43 PM

i saw these lollipops and i thought they'd be cute for KLo's party:
http://lolliesgalore.com/images/bone.jpg
here is the link: http://lolliesgalore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=234

Kanga

05-22-2006, 07:44 PM

vjel Your party looked fabulous and I love your bags. Also, this is a dumb question, but how do you get pink chocolate? Do they sell pink chocolate chips?

vjel

05-22-2006, 07:50 PM

Your party looked fabulous and I love your bags. Also, this is a dumb question, but how do you get pink chocolate? Do they sell pink chocolate chips?

thank you! :) not a dumb question at all and yes, they do sell the pink melting chocolate at Michael's (they had orange as well and maybe another color). If they didn't have pink choc. I prob wouldn't have gone thru the trouble of making them. ;) Someone said they taste like white chocolate.

Klo.

05-22-2006, 08:16 PM

Hey thanks, NYN!! I wish I could get a smaller quantity though or I would totally get them. I just cannot justify spending that much money on that many lollipops, when we would need a quarter of that. bummer.
Thanks for thinking of me though! ;)

bluhimmy

05-22-2006, 08:19 PM

vjel - Those favor bags are AWESOME! You should start making and selling them!!

vjel - You know I would totally buy them from you. :p Booey's right, you should sell them!

vjel

05-22-2006, 09:15 PM

vjel - You know I would totally buy them from you. Booey's right, you should sell them!

lol, are you looking for a marketing job by chance? :)

fifibee

05-22-2006, 10:39 PM

vjel -- count me in as another one of your favor bag fan. if you are seriously thinking about selling them anytime soon. let us know! :D

Brandian

05-23-2006, 12:11 AM

I'm having a blue/green theme for my ds party. Two things,

I found this box at a garage sale by a lady who owned a funky Christmas store - it was previously used as a display. There's a circular hole on top where a small Christmas tree was displayed. I thought it looked like a big birthday party to me and it was his colors so I bought it. Does anyone have any ideas of something I could do with it? Some way to decorate or make a game from it?

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

Also, it's probably time to start thinking of invites in a few weeks.
Anybody have any cute ideas for green/blue stuff. I'd like to make invites, but I'm not very crafty so the finished product sometimes ends up looking better in my head, so something easy - although I do play with Photoshop a bit and can do something there. Ideas?

I too am having a green/blue theme for my DS's first birthday in a couple of weeks. Here is a pic of the invite (its somewhat 3D, but you can't tell from the front view) there is yellow in the pick too, but it looks more orangey:

Please excuse the hair or whatever it is in the corner, its not really a part of the invite :)
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y135/brandian/corbin%20birthday/corbininvite.jpg

Here is a side view so you can kind of see the 3Dish stuff:
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y135/brandian/corbin%20birthday/corbininvite2.jpg

Brandian

05-23-2006, 12:12 AM

These are some hats I bought from the best store ever, the dollar store :) I just had to buy them since they fit perfectly and are stinkin' cute on my DS :)
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y135/brandian/corbin%20birthday/corbinihat.jpg

I think I am going to have an underlying bubble theme to the party as well. I haven't thought that all the way through though yet :)

vjel

05-23-2006, 06:44 AM

Originally posted by fifibee
vjel -- count me in as another one of your favor bag fan. if you are seriously thinking about selling them anytime soon. let us know!

thank you! ok, if you are seriously interested just PM me and we can "talk". :)

Brandian, really like your invites, great job!

cr8zyforaf

05-23-2006, 07:08 AM

vjel - where did you get the paper and flowers for your invites..also - does the band just slide off or does that open up?

vjel

05-23-2006, 07:36 AM

cr8zyforaf, I bought the flower and paper from Memories (http://memories.com/). They are both from Making Memories so if you don't have a store near you, you could prob find them at any scrapbooking store or even online. I had to buy the entire line of paper (called Cosmopolitan, 2 sheets of 12 different patterned papers I think) though, and would have prefered to use the same paisley paper for all the invites. Also, the band just slides off so that the card can open up. If you want more details (ie. measurements) just PM. :)

ladybug0525

05-23-2006, 08:51 AM

We had Jack's First Birthday party this weekend and wanted to post some pictures bc I stole most of the ideas from all of you guys! Thanks to everyone!!

Theme - Underwater, blue theme!

Favors:
http://texaseggls.com/IMG_0807.JPG

Food was "Sub"marine Sandwiches, "Shell" pasta salad, Goldfish, "Algae" Fruit Salad. I was a dork and made labels for everything.
http://texaseggls.com/IMG_0826.JPG

Cake:
http://texaseggls.com/IMG_0811.JPG

Made a ball pit with animals and balls so kids could play under the sea.
http://texaseggls.com/IMG_0805.JPG

The birthday boy, will take this one down shortly
REMOVED

cr8zyforaf

05-23-2006, 09:04 AM

ladybug - everything looks great...love how you stuck so closely to the theme with the food!!

lil_nance

05-23-2006, 09:54 AM

ladybug I love everything. You did a great job. The cake is so cute.

solongtogo

05-23-2006, 11:01 AM

that is so cute ladybug!!

PaulsGirl

05-23-2006, 12:13 PM

ladybug I love it! Great job! Everything looks perfect!

LILRTL

05-23-2006, 05:04 PM

Everyone's parties look fabulous!!

And now I have a question of my own! :D

Our "ball" party seems to be turning into a "beach ball" party... so I was thinking maybe it should just be a luau...

my problem is that I've already bought plates/napkins/forks in primary colors. SO. I am on the hunt for luau invitations in primary colors - to match the beach balls, too. I have googled and come up empty-handed so far, but thought you gurus might be able to find me something! :D

myshel

05-23-2006, 05:29 PM

Just chiming in to say that I've finally decided on something for DS's birthday. I've decided to do primary colors/stripes theme. I'm making the invites-- primary colored cardstock with the party info with a striped vellum overlay. I tied things together with colored yarn-- kinda kiddish looking. As soon as I take decent pictures, I'll post them.

vjel

05-23-2006, 05:42 PM

LILRTL,

I did a search for Beach ball invites (in case you want to just keep the theme to balls) and thought these were cute. Didn't look at pricing or check to see if there were minimums. :o

from partycat.com (http://www.partycat.com)
http://www.partycat.com/cards/fCMH1072CMHT57.gif

from Impress in Print (http://impressinprint.com)
http://www.impressinprint.com/DisplayImage.asp?PICTURE_FILE=%2fimages%2fUploaded _Images%2f10324_1-507-Beach-Balls-m.jpg&BOX=False&WIDTH=200&HEIGHT=0&WATERMARK=Impressions In Print

from Announcements and Invitations by Jeanette (http://announcingit.com)
http://www.announcingit.com/images/beachball-linedots.jpg

I'll keep looking and look for luau themed ones too...

vjel

05-23-2006, 07:21 PM

All from http://finestationery.com

http://www.finestationery.com/graphics/images/36780.jpg

http://www.finestationery.com/graphics/images/34932.jpg

http://www.finestationery.com/graphics/images/32861.jpg

Ok, instead of a luau themed party, why not a beach themed party instead...since beach balls are, well, beachy? Almost the same basic idea?

LILRTL

05-24-2006, 06:16 AM

Thanks for those!!! :D However, they are about $80. Slightly over budget for me. I have found these... if we were to do a "beach" party. And keep in mind - his bedroom is done in surfers...
http://www.impressinprint.com/DisplayImage.asp?PICTURE_FILE=%2fimages%2fUploaded _Images%2f6614_4255-text.jpg&BOX=False&WIDTH=0&HEIGHT=0&WATERMARK=Impressions%20In%20Print
http://www.impressinprint.com/DisplayImage.asp?PICTURE_FILE=%2fimages%2fUploaded _Images%2f7139_4251.jpg&BOX=False&WIDTH=0&HEIGHT=0&WATERMARK=Impressions%20In%20Print
more "kiddish", less luau - more beach:
http://www.impressinprint.com/DisplayImage.asp?PICTURE_FILE=%2fimages%2fUploaded _Images%2f3009_q105.gif&BOX=False&WIDTH=0&HEIGHT=0&WATERMARK=Impressions%20In%20Print
http://www.impressinprint.com/DisplayImage.asp?PICTURE_FILE=%2fimages%2fUploaded _Images%2f9432_w7043a.jpg&BOX=False&WIDTH=0&HEIGHT=0&WATERMARK=Impressions%20In%20Print
http://www.impressinprint.com/DisplayImage.asp?PICTURE_FILE=%2fimages%2fUploaded _Images%2f10070_1-717.jpg&BOX=False&WIDTH=0&HEIGHT=0&WATERMARK=Impressions%20In%20Print

agh... decisions, decisions!

alienhost

05-24-2006, 06:58 AM

Brandian cute invites, I love the bright colors. And you must post a pic of your DS in the hat!

ladybug0525 your party looked great! The theme looked fun/colorful, I love the cupcake cake you made!

LILRTL Here's an economical option for you - Shutterfly has a blue and red hawaiian flower border. You could use a pic of your DS and attach it to primary colored cardstock....

here's an example, it's under "summer" borders:

http://static.flickr.com/44/152463104_02ff9bebcd_m.jpg

You could also use these as thank you notes. Take a pic of your DS on birthday party day and send these along w/ your notes or attach to cardstock for a nice card. Shutterfly can make the cards for you too (or note card sized) but I found this to be a lot cheaper.

allyray231

05-24-2006, 07:09 AM

ladybug Looks great!!

LILRTL

05-24-2006, 07:48 AM

Alienhost - thanks! Those could definitely be cute - and just print the party info on the back?

alienhost

05-24-2006, 08:14 AM

Alienhost - thanks! Those could definitely be cute - and just print the party info on the back?

You could probably print it on some paper or cardstock and then adhere it to the photo, since it is photo paper, I'm not sure you can print directly on the back (plus I think Shutterfly prints some sort of code on the back, that you could cover w/ the paper).

OR you could adhere the photo to the front of a folding card (like from www.paper-source.com ) and then print the info on the inside of the card or on another layer of paper and adhere the paper to the folding card. You would need an a-6 sized card.
http://www.paper-source.com/cgi-bin/paper/envelopes/foldover.html

OR you could use a flat piece of cardstock and print the info on the back of the cardstock and adhere the photo to the front. You can buy A6 sized flat cards or cut your own. Since the photo is 4x6 a 5x7 piece of cardstock is great since it leaves a half inch border around the photo.

http://www.paper-source.com/cgi-bin/paper/envelopes/flatcards.html

LILRTL

05-24-2006, 08:17 AM

alienhost

05-24-2006, 08:35 AM

No, yeah, that's what I meant! :) Adhere is to the front of cardstock, then print on the back of the cardstock. I was talking to hubby and he said he would like it mounted on blue (I was thinking a lime green kind of to make it colorful). And then print the info on a piece of white paper, scallop the edges or something fun like than, and then mount it on the back of the cardstock... thoughts?

I think lime green would be fun. They also have a blue border so the lime green and blue would look awesome, IMO. Red/Blue is also fun, you could do a fun blue like aqua/turquiose rather than just royal blue if you wanted it to be more colorful

I've bought at Michaels or Joanns Fabrics stacks of 8.5x11 cardstock in floresent (sp) colors that are really fun (the pack had lime green, orange, bright yellow, hot pink and a bright blue). You could print several on a page then cut them.

I've used the scallop/rick rack type scissors to do that and it does look very cute.

Have fun! Make sure you post back w/ the invite pictures!

ladybug0525

05-24-2006, 07:38 PM

alienhost - I actually got the cake at Target for $14.99 with a free cake for ds.

Klo.

05-24-2006, 09:23 PM

Club924

05-24-2006, 11:11 PM

I'm back. Things are coming together for DS's puppy party. I went to the party store today to pick up some plates and napkins and check out balloon colors. So I'm doing mostly blue and brown colors throughout. But I can't find brown latex balloons anywhere! Can any of you good web searchers find me brown balloons to buy on-line??? I would so grateful!

If anyone else is doing a blue/brown theme, I found some great paper...although finding balloons is not that much fun. ;)

i had a pink/brown theme for dd's 1st bday and couldn't find brown latex balloons anywhere, until i found them here (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=26384&item=5670500914). great seller and fast shipping...i bought 40 brown balloons.

alienhost

05-25-2006, 08:19 AM

Klo you can get them here, but it's a pack of 100 www.mylarballoonfactory.com

http://www.mylarballoonfactory.com/12inchlatexballoons2.html

BooeyJ2

05-25-2006, 10:10 AM

ladybug - VERY cute! :)

vjel

05-25-2006, 10:49 AM

ladybug, kept forgetting to comment on your party when I came in here...anyway, you did a great job! Love how you carried your theme thru everything!!!

klo, I was able to find brown balloons in-store at Factory Card Outlet. Do you by chance need brown streamers? I have 1 unopened roll and 1 opened but pretty full roll of brown if you want them.

2002BeachBride

05-25-2006, 12:24 PM

OK so this thread is fabulous:D :D Everyone is doing such an amazing job with their party planning....

So, its time for me to join in the fun:)

I'm not sure about a theme...I'm hoping for a dreamy, tulle-y (does that make sense:rolleyes: ?) very girly impression, but don't really want a 'princess' theme...she'll have that later at her own request;)

So, I have this VERY general idea and I need some help making it reality - I'm looking for everything...invites ( could make my own) decorations, attire, cake, the works!

Any ideas suggestions would be so appreciated:)

thanks!
Jen

cartersmommy

05-25-2006, 02:22 PM

Ok, so DS turns 1 in September, and we're moving here in a few weeks, so I am trying to start brainstorming so it doesn't get away from me!

I am thinking of doing a polka-dot themed party... with reds, yellows, turquoises, etc. what do you think? is this ok for a boy??

here are some cute treat bags:
http://www.plumparty.com/Merchant2/graphics/products/large/20092.jpg

I already have a tablecloth that is those colors with birthday hats and streamers on it that is super cute, do you think these colors are ok for a boy and are cute?

HollyMN

05-25-2006, 06:15 PM

2002BeachBride - your description of pink, tulle, but not princess reminds me of an advertisement I saw today with little girls wearing pink at ballet?

Brandian Thanks for posting your invite - that's cute!

I saw this recipe for pudding pops today, and I want to make them for the party. Actually I want to eat them myself, I loved Jello pudding pops as a kid and I can't find them anywhere anymore. It's in the Kraft magazine, but I can't see it on Kraft's site.

JATTNJ

05-25-2006, 06:31 PM

Klo -
I am also planning on doing a chocolate/baby blue theme....please share any ideas you have and I will do the same!

psusna

05-25-2006, 06:45 PM

Cartersmommy: Yes!! Totally cool and cute for a boy!! I need to post some pics from DS' party in April -- we used similar colors and his cake had dots.

psusna

05-25-2006, 06:54 PM

Pics from DS' party on April 29 (I know, I'm a slacker):

Invites:
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g124/psusna/smudgedbdayinvitation.jpg
They were card stock with a photo collage of him through the year, topped with wording on velum, joined with a ribbon

Cake:
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g124/psusna/cake.jpg
The dot was his smash cake.

Favors for adults:
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g124/psusna/cookies.jpg
Iced sugar cookies

Food set up on the kitchen island:
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g124/psusna/food.jpg

alienhost

05-25-2006, 07:19 PM

cartersmommy I think polka dots would be fun and those colors/bags are great for a boy! The confoti would work great for your party too. www.confoti.com

psunsa I wish the pic of your invite was bigger, I'm having trouble seeing it b/c it is small. As I told you on the May/June mommies thread, adorable cake and favors!

psusna

05-25-2006, 07:26 PM

Alienhost: Thanks!
RE: Invite -- yea, I got resize happy in Photobucket. I'll post a larger photo this weekend.

Cartersmommy: I made my own confoti knock off. If you have PhotoShop, I can tell you how...

alienhost

05-25-2006, 08:19 PM

I forgot to mention: Target had some of their dollar spot stuff for 25 cents.

A lot of wedding stuff but they had small frames (wallet sized) that could be cute favors w/ DC's pic in it. It was brushed silver.

polkadotsThey also had small frames that were blue w/ polkadots on them. They are meant to be placecard holders but you could hot glue a magnet on the back and put a pic of DC and make a fridge magnet. These were also in the wedding area of the dollar spot and 25 cents each.

They had lots of lobster/Clam bake themed party stuff if anyone is doing that for a summer theme. That was regular price - $1 that is.

Klo.

05-25-2006, 08:50 PM

Dangit!!

I just lost a big post! Hate that.

I'll have to summarize...

Club924 - perfect thanks. I didn't even think of ebay. Good to know.
alienhost - thanks. Thats a bit much but good for back up.
vjel - I might check out that store. I know where to find it, just don't go there very often.

ladybug - Awesome party.
psusna - Cute party. I love those invites. And I love the idea of using that cupcake from the dot.
cartersmommy - I think that dot/color scheme would be adorable for a boy party.

cartersmommy

05-25-2006, 09:01 PM

great ideas everyone! i love this thread!!

psusna: we do have photoshop! how did you do your confoti? I love it, but not sure i wanna order it.... if i can make it on my own!! :) do share!!

alienhost

05-25-2006, 09:05 PM

luau I just remembered something that I was going to do at the luau party I had years ago, you can have the guests names in Hawaiian on goody bags or name tags (Aloha my name is...)

http://www.alohafriendsluau.com/names.html

Klo.

05-25-2006, 09:08 PM

JATTNJ -
Here are some of the things I recently found.

Some cool papers:

From www.mygatsby.com
(ack. They won't let me copy the picture so hopefully the link will work)
I ordered this one:
https://www.mygatsby.com/product.jsp?ProductID=402150

https://www.mygatsby.com/product.jsp?ProductID=402146

https://www.mygatsby.com/product.jsp?ProductID=402145

That site also has some good cardstock paper. I bought some of the square papers to use for my picture wall.
I'd like to do something like this with the picture wall: http://www.constantchatter.com/showthread.php?t=5832&page=66 (scroll down towards the bottom, neocorgi's party)
I'm going to use alternating blue/brown papers.

www.paper-source.com
is also a great place for good papers. I *heart* that place. Very good quality stuff.

Some other cute stuff from www.archiversonline.com
https://www.archiversonline.com/shopping/index.asp?productid=577850
https://www.costore.com/productimages/577850E.jpg

this paper pack has some cool combos too:
https://www.archiversonline.com/shopping/index.asp?productid=652588
https://www.costore.com/productimages/652588E.jpg

Ok. So thats all I have right now because thats what I was just recently looking for. I'm doing more of a puppy dog theme though too.

Also, I think I'm going to do a cake with chocolate frosting/blue writing.

ETA: I hit the enter button too soon.

HollyMN

05-25-2006, 09:28 PM

I would love a confoti knock-off as well, I have Photoshop (and think it would be cool to DIY).

Tina/QPDoll. I saw this caterpillar with Ritz crackers and thought of you.

http://www.kraftfoods.com/images/recipe_images/RITZ_Caterpillar.jpg

I got it here (http://www.kraftfoods.com/main.aspx?s=recipe&m=recipe/knet_recipe_display&u1=bytype&u2=12*154*0*&u3=**5*41&wf=9&recipe_id=63371).

HollyMN

05-25-2006, 09:38 PM

Or this (http://www.kraftfoods.com/main.aspx?s=recipe&m=recipe/knet_recipe_display&u1=bytype&u2=12*154*0*&u3=**3*41&wf=9&recipe_id=75109)

http://www.kraftfoods.com/images/recipe_images/Bedrock_Bugs.jpg

or this Oreo one (http://www.kraftfoods.com/main.aspx?s=recipe&m=recipe/knet_recipe_display&Rpage=2&u1=bytype&u2=12*154&u3=**25*41&wf=9&recipe_id=55385)

http://www.kraftfoods.com/images/recipe_images/Mini_OREO_Inchworm.jpg

Jello Caterpillar cake (http://www.kraftfoods.com/main.aspx?s=recipe&m=recipe/knet_recipe_display&u1=bytype&u2=12*151&u3=**8*96&wf=9&recipe_id=91672)

http://www.kraftfoods.com/images/recipe_images/JELL-O_Swirled_Caterpillar_Cake.jpg

Another (http://www.kraftfoods.com/main.aspx?s=recipe&m=recipe/knet_recipe_display&Rpage=5&u1=bytype&u2=12*151&u3=**88*96&wf=9&recipe_id=53367)

http://www.kraftfoods.com/images/recipe_images/Caterpillar_Cake.jpg

LILRTL

05-26-2006, 06:01 AM

alienhost Those are great! Thanks! :D

psusna

05-26-2006, 06:35 AM

Ok. The invite picture is now bigger (pg. 111) :)

Cartersmommy: EASY! First step is to get a circle punch the size you would like the confetti. Next, set up a circle shape in PhotoShop that is just slightly larger, just tenths (if you make it exact, you need to be a really accurate puncher). Now fill the shape with the photo of your choice. I just copied the circle over and over making as many of the same photo as I wanted. I initially wnated to do just 5 different photos but wound up with many more once DH got involved :) I printed the sheets on photo paper and punched them out. You could also do the same thing on labels, stickers, etc. that you buy in the Avery packs.

I can post a picture of my finished product this weekend, if you'd like. I mixed the photo confetti with regular shiny confetti and put it on the tables, which I can also post a photo of, if you'd like.

I'd be happy to provide more detailed instructions on the photo circles as needed.

alienhost

05-26-2006, 09:12 AM

alienhost Those are great! Thanks! :D

no prob, hey were you interested in primary color stuff for the luau?

I just saw the new Oriental Trading Company catalog and they have "patriotic hibiscus" items that might be fun accent pieces...

go here:

http://www.orientaltrading.com/application?namespace=search&origin=searchMain.jsp&event=button.search&Ntt=patriotic+hibiscus&Ntk=all&Ntx=mode%2Bmatchallpartial&N=0

http://image.orientaltrading.com/otcimg/35_643,644.jpg?resize(250x250)

alienhost

05-26-2006, 09:16 AM

I'm not sure about a theme...I'm hoping for a dreamy, tulle-y (does that make sense:rolleyes: ?) very girly impression, but don't really want a 'princess' theme...she'll have that later at her own request;)

what about a "fairy/fantasy" party? I saw this at Oriental Trading:

tinkerbell stuff, very cute:

http://image.orientaltrading.com/otcimg/35_643,644.jpg?resize(250x250)

http://image.orientaltrading.com/otcimg/70_2130a.jpg?resize(250x250)

you could decorate w/ a lot of pink and white tulle etc. Is this along the lines of what you were thinking? You could do fairy w/out the actual commercial tinkerbell stuff too.

psusna

05-26-2006, 10:18 AM

That "patriotic hibiscus" is CUTE!

Is it sick that I'm already thinking about DS' 2nd birthday party?!

2002BeachBride

05-26-2006, 10:21 AM

psusna

05-26-2006, 10:25 AM

BeachBride: One of my friends in NJ did a princess party but this idea would translate well to your fantasy theme as well. The girls all dressed in their favorite princess outfit and she skirted the table in tulle so it looked like a fairy skirt. Then each girl had their own cake/cupcake (can't remember which, exactly) that was made to look like a castle. She covered the table with white craft paper and gave them crayons and they were to draw their perfect fantasy land to go with their castle. It was really really cute. The girls favor was their section of the table cloth in a frame.

ETA: This was not this little girl's 1st bday, it was her 3rd -- hence the coloring thing working so well.

Club924

05-26-2006, 10:41 AM

2002beachbride - i think this theme would be a great alternative if you wanted to stick with the fairy/fantasy theme and didn't want to use tinkerbell:

http://www.perfectpartybycody.com/images_largepopup/IMG_0556_large.jpg

i found it Perfect Party by Cody (http://www.perfectpartybycody.com/b_kit.asp?ID=1063)

i did a search on yahoo for "daydream fairy party".

that's a great idea to have the little girls come dressed in tutus....you can probably make them or order them at Oriental Trading Company. Here's an outfit that might be cute for your daughter:

http://image.orientaltrading.com/otcimg/25_4105-7.jpg?resize(350x350)

i think you can do a lot with this theme!

psusna - i'm thinking about DD's 2nd bday as well...the hard thing will be to convince DH that DD needs a 2nd bday :p

alienhost

05-26-2006, 11:34 AM

Alienhost-

Yes! Fairy/fantasy is exactly what I mean! Thanks so much:D :D You're great:)

If I don't use tinkerbell...would I just choose a few colors like pink and purple and white?...I'd love to find some fairy stuff that was a little less 'cartoony'

Maybe I could have the girls attending wear tulle skirts or something...they would probably like that! Maybe have magic wands with ribbons...hm...I'm just trying to think of things that would make for the atmoshphere I'm hoping for...

anyone else have any ideas? off to do some searching!!

I think pink, purple (or lavendar) and white are great colors for this. I suppose silver might be cool too. You could just do solid color paper goods too if that's easier. Get some pink and purple plates, napkins, forks and alternate them in the stack.

The plates club924 posted are very pretty. Are you having it outside or in? If outside and if you have a table w/ umbrella you could drape and attach the tulle to the umbrella maybe? If indoors find a way to attach tulle to the ceiling, maybe drape over the chandelier (not sure if an issue if the lights are on).

Maybe cut out some stars and hang them from strings? "wish upon a star" kind of thing? I'll do some more thinking for you....eta: I saw STAR shaped mylar balloons the other day thoe might work well too....

ETA: this website www.birthdaypartyideas.com has lots of ideas.

here's what I got when I searched on "fairy"

http://209.15.117.162/html/fairy.html

alienhost

05-26-2006, 12:37 PM

more cute luau stuff.

http://image.orientaltrading.com/otcimg/34_1152.jpg?resize(250x250)

found here:

http://www.orientaltrading.com/application?namespace=browse&origin=searchMain.jsp&event=link.itemDetails&demandPrefix=12&sku=34/1152&mode=Searching&erec=0&D=luau%2Brubber%2Bduckies&Dx=mode%252bmatchallpartial&Ntx=mode%252bmatchallpartial&Ntt=luau%2Brubber%2Bduckies&N=0&Ntk=all&sd=RUBBER+DUCKS-LUAU+-+41&%23162%3B+PER+PIECE

nalif

05-30-2006, 10:55 AM

Cr8nme

05-30-2006, 11:16 AM

For those of you who had your parties at a facilty what did you do in terms of entertainment... I am having mine at the library in one of their rooms and I know I probably couldn't play too much music. I am having a child entertainer come but I am wondering what I should do other than that. I will also have face painting and tattoos.

alienhost

05-30-2006, 11:47 AM

Has anyone had their party catered? We're having DS 1st birthday at our house but it's going to be TOO HOT to cook anything in July. We're expecting about 80-90 people, so I was hoping to get some suggestions for summer-time food we can have catered. I thought about having Wood Ranch Cater BBQ food but it's a little too expensive. But it looks so good...
http://www.woodranch.com/catering_entry.html

I didn't use a caterer but here are some thoughts. BTW what time is your party being held? Lunch time, early or late afternoon? That might determine what kind of food you have (full lunch or just appetizer/snacks)

Good summer time foods IMO are cold items - salads (tossed, pasta, fruit etc.) and maybe sandwiches (get them made or have deli plates?) Lots of cold drinks, icecream bars/popsicles etc. Desert trays w/ cookies, brownies.

Do you have costco near you? You can get platters from them (sandwich, cocktail shrimp, etc).

A clambake or BBQ would be fun. Not sure how much a clambake runs though. That catering place you posted does look yummy!

ETA can you find a caterer that can do hot dogs and hamburgers etc? that might be more affordable.

allyray231

05-30-2006, 11:50 AM

nalif we are doing some catered and some not. Catered we are getting potato salad and sausage and peppers and chicken wings. We are grilling hamburgers and hot dogs. Also making pasta salad and mac and cheese.

I agree with alien you can totally do sandwiches and tossed salads. They are great for summer.

usafwife

05-30-2006, 12:29 PM

Still on the look out for Winnie the Pooh ideas for DD's 1st birthday party. Working on the invites. Decided to do a picture on card stock with the wording on velum and all tied with a ribbon. Got the rest of the items we needed this past weekend so hopefully by the weekend I'll have them printed and ready to put together and mail out.

psusna ~ Do you know if those instructions work with Paint Shop? Would like to use the photo confetti but would like to make our own. Can you send me more detailed instructions? Thanks.

alienhost

05-30-2006, 01:24 PM

usafwife remind me again, are you doing classic or "regular" pooh? What do you need ideas for, decorations, goody bags, food ideas etc. Let us know! I love pooh :)

dana b

05-30-2006, 02:19 PM

nalif we had noa's first b-day party catered -- the thought of cooking for even 20 people is overwhelming to me. we used julienne's in san marino, we had sandwiches, salads, grilled veggies, etc and i *think* we paid between $10-15 pp. if you want bbq, i've seen parties in pasadena being catered by santa maria bbq - http://santamariabbq.com/. they bring this huge bbq pit thing and park it in the driveway and cook. this year it's only 15 of us and i'm getting the food from california chicken cafe, they have really good chicken, salads and wraps, i think there's one in encino. ooh, also, friends of ours did persian food for their dd's 2nd birthday. i'm almost positive they used raffi's kabob in glendale, they came and set up a grill and made kabobs.

mrsface

05-30-2006, 02:47 PM

2002beachbride~
I lurk in this thread just for fun- I have no real reason to but there are such fun ideas! I found a website a few weeks ago that might give you some inspiration for a fairy party. Lilyannaforgirls (http://www.lilyannaforgirls.com/store/index.php)

They have all sorts of tutus and wands and wings that are just precious. They also have a party kit, where you get tutus and the girls get to fill them with petals and confetti, then wear them for the rest of the party and take them home. You might be able to do something similar.. Or you could buy plain wands and they could decorate them with ribbons and sparkles. The site has lots of good ideas..

Back to lurking!

psusna

05-30-2006, 06:11 PM

usafwife: I PM'd you

char473

05-30-2006, 06:49 PM

OK, this might have been discussed before, but does anyone have any ideas for snacks for the kiddie table. (some that are at least semi nutritional, and some fun ones too) I appreciate it ladies. You gals are the best!

psusna

05-30-2006, 06:54 PM

char: goldfish or Annie's bunnies, Kashi crackers, graham crackers/sticks, veggie booty, pirate booty, WW crackers to dip in hummus, Gerber dried fruits, Cheerios/Oatios or other cereal, etc. I'll see if I can think of something super fabulous and creative. I know some mom's around this thread had fabulous snack bars :)

NYKidLib

05-30-2006, 07:00 PM

WC75165

Expires June 8, 2006

vjel

05-30-2006, 07:02 PM

char, I just did animal crackers, capri sun, apple sauce and chips. You can do raisins, teddy grahams, pudding (they have some that don't require refrigeration)...psusna offered some great suggestions. Aside from the chips, I preferred to have snacks that were individually packaged so the kids weren't putting their hands in food other kids would be eating...maybe I'm weird like that? ;)

char473

05-30-2006, 07:09 PM

Thanks ladies. :) I knew I could count on you!

alienhost

05-30-2006, 07:56 PM

charI preferred to have snacks that were individually packaged so the kids weren't putting their hands in food other kids would be eating...maybe I'm weird like that? ;)

I sort of felt the same way :D I had these glass jars (from the wedding candy bar) that had Cheerios, bags of animal crackers, raisin boxes, I had one bowl of goldfish crackers. I had scoops for the cheerios and goldfish. I had mine up on the regular table so the grownups helped the kiddies get the food. If I had more toddlers at the party I would have put out Gerber puffs and wagon wheels as well. psusna and vjel had great suggestions too.

I also had some small disposable bowls by the snack bar, there was less spillage w/ the bowls than paper plates.

vjel

05-31-2006, 11:17 AM

char, thought of something else...if you have a lot of smaller kids who can't drink out of straws yet, you can always buy some of the First Years Take N Toss sippy cups to leave out too. Most parents bring their own but some may forget so it's nice to have back up. Then they can put water or milk or whatever they want in the sippy. Just a thought. :)

char473

05-31-2006, 01:39 PM

Again, many thanks:)

I think I have an obsession problem with this party;)

NYN

05-31-2006, 09:13 PM

I finished my invites today. As i said a few pages back, I am doing a ladybug theme. I got this idea from a crafts site lest you think i am a genius, HAHA:

outside/closed:
http://static.flickr.com/74/157639909_e23b43c345.jpg?v=0
inside/open:
http://static.flickr.com/59/157639908_0d5d21ded0.jpg?v=0
side by side view:
http://static.flickr.com/66/157639910_b447a2b3f3.jpg?v=0

The invite just says: Catie is turning one! Join us in a celebration for our little lady.

I really wanted to write: Little spots and polka dots, that's what ladybugs are made of.... which is another idea I got off of a crafts site but it didn't really fit well so I think I am going to do something similar to what Booey did w/ her DD's pictures but I will make the circles red and black and then have that saying going across or something. Dunno, have to think about it. It's hard to decorate b/c I am doing it outdoors and it is a large space (our backyard). I am going to make a big sign for our gate that says: LADYBUGS LIVE HERE.

Other things I have purchased already:

Plates, cups and napkins from aperfectpartyzone.com:
http://www.prestoshopping.com/prestostore_graphics/738_pd17352full.jpg
http://www.prestoshopping.com/prestostore_graphics/738_pd17354.jpg
http://www.prestoshopping.com/prestostore_graphics/738_pd40791.jpg

NYN

05-31-2006, 09:14 PM

From www.birthdayexpress.com I ordered this pinata which I'm going to use on the food table as a decoration:
http://birthdayexpress.speedera.net/images.birthdayexpress.com/bexpress/assets/product_images/e6230.jpg
and also these favor boxes (I haven't thought about what to fill them with yet):
http://birthdayexpress.speedera.net/images.birthdayexpress.com/bexpress/assets/product_images/E2487FB.jpg
and these food picks:
http://birthdayexpress.speedera.net/images.birthdayexpress.com/bexpress/assets/product_images/E2487FP.jpg
from iparty.com i got these lanterns:
http://www.giantpartystore.com/images/IGHL021.jpg
I am thinking of ordering some more plain red and black ones if I find a good price on them. I only got two of these b/c they were $7 each.

I am also considering ordering from this weird website called www.otterbaygifts.com the following:
http://accelerate.bugsandstuff.com/pics/4242.jpg
and this bath toy for the kiddie pool (which i will have out and filled):
http://accelerate.bugsandstuff.com/pics/3422.jpg
It depends on how much money I have left or when DH decides to put a stop to all the ladybug madness....either/or.

The rest should be pretty simple. I am planning on doing solid red black stuff: table cloths, plain balloons, etc.

I have Catie's dress already (from the "Little Lady" line at Gymboree). I would really like to make ladybug sugar cookies but I'm not sure I can swing it. I also have 10,000 cake ideas but don't know what I'm going to go with.

Anyway, I just wanted to put this out there in case anyone is thinking of a ladybug theme. I am still open to more ideas even though I pretty much have planned it all out.

Cr8nme

05-31-2006, 09:30 PM

NYN~ Wow your invites look great!!! Everything is going to come together nicely

vjel

06-01-2006, 05:48 AM

NYN, WOW! You did a GREAT job on your invites, LOVE them!!! Can't wait to see everything put together.

cr8zyforaf

06-01-2006, 05:58 AM

NYN - those invites are amazing!! Everything looks great!

Mickey&B

06-01-2006, 08:20 AM

NYN your invites look great, can I ask which craft site you used?

alienhost

06-01-2006, 08:28 AM

NYN your invites look fabulous! Very cute theme...can't wait to see the party in action!

LIZNKEITH

06-01-2006, 08:35 AM

NYN
Those invitations are beautiful! You did a great job!!

BooeyJ2

06-01-2006, 08:36 AM

NYN GREAT job! It's going to be a ladybug fantasy! :) Can't wait to see pics!

LeslieR

06-01-2006, 08:39 AM

alienhost

06-01-2006, 08:47 AM

Am I imagining this or did someone post directions on how to make the photo circles in Word? I found the directions for Photoshop and Publisher, but that's as far as I got. Can someone point me in the direction of the message number if such a thing was posted. TIA!

I thought maybe club924 did, maybe try searching her posts? I think you use the drawing tool and then right click to add text? I can't recall if she did the pictures that way too....

vjel

06-01-2006, 08:47 AM

Am I imagining this or did someone post directions on how to make the photo circles in Word? I found the directions for Photoshop and Publisher, but that's as far as I got. Can someone point me in the direction of the message number if such a thing was posted. TIA!

Leslie, Club924 posted directions here (http://www.constantchatter.com/showpost.php?p=685191&postcount=686) on doing the circles in Word. She did this for her invites but I'm sure you can do the whole confotti thing the same way.

alienhost

06-01-2006, 08:48 AM

vjel you beat me to it and found it as well!

vjel

06-01-2006, 08:50 AM

vjel you beat me to it and found it as well!

:D

I figured between the 2 of us, we could find it.

LeslieR

06-01-2006, 09:35 AM

Thanks ladies!

solongtogo

06-01-2006, 09:41 AM

NYN: cute invites!! We're going to be doing a ladybug theme as well...I may steal ideas!

NYN

06-01-2006, 10:20 AM

thanks everyone.

Mickey: this is the site where i adapted the idea from: http://www.dltk-kids.com/crafts/insects/mladybuginvite.htm

i made the actual invites in InDesign and then my husband printed them out for me on cardstock at work and we spent half the night hand cutting them and putting them together. we ended up putting the brads on the wings b/c they wouldn't open all the way when we placed only one brad in the middle. also, i wanted to add "beady" eyes to them but my DH really didn't want to and since he is the graphic designer i figured i should listen to his advice, HAHA.

solong: i am open to hearing more ideas, specifically what you have planned for food if you'd like to share.

solongtogo

06-01-2006, 11:42 AM

I'm just beginning to plan so haven't come up with ideas for food yet. We're going to be doing ladybug cupcakes, and probably just normal food unless I find some cute theme food. When is your party?

kindermom

06-01-2006, 12:43 PM

We are making ladybug ice cream for our garden themed party. I am making strawberry ice cream bodies, using chocolate wafers for wings, and adding something like brown mini m&ms for eyes. It is still a thought in progress. I love your invites!

alienhost

06-01-2006, 01:10 PM

Dirt Cake

This is a fun cake (doesn't have to be the main cake, but could be part of your desert table) for those w/ garden or bug themes:

Dirt Cake Recipe
Ingredients
1-1/2 to 2 pounds chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos®)
1/4 pound (1 stick) margarine
4 packages instant chocolate pudding (made according to directions)
12 ounces non-dairy whipped topping (like Cool Whip®)
Candy gummy worms

Instructions
Clean a new plastic flower pot (a rectangular window box is perfect) and a gardening shovel or trowel. Crush the cookies in a food processor or place them in a ziplock bag and use a rolling pin. The crumbs will resemble potting soil. Mix crumbs with melted margarine and make a 2-inch crust on the bottom of the flower pot. Combine the pudding and whipped topping, then spread on the crust. Put gummy worms on the pudding and spread the remaining crumbs on top. You can arrange some of the gummy worms so that their heads poke out of the "soil". Refrigerate overnight. Wrap the stems of some artificial flowers with foil and arrange in the pot, then serve the cake using the trowel.

Note:
This recipe can be made non-fat by using skim milk and non-fat cookies. You can omit the margarine, which will make the crust crumbly, like the "top soil".

for those w/ kids that like trucks you could also serve it out of a plastic dump truck.

char473

06-01-2006, 01:56 PM

NYN: Adorable Invites!! I love them:) Catie is going to have such a good time.

I ordered mine from inababycarriage. They turned out so cute:) Amber does a great job. I ordered the photo cards so that grandparents and family who can't come can have a memento.

lelee17

06-01-2006, 02:51 PM

NYN- SOOO ADORABLE and VERY CREATIVE! I love it!

usafwife

06-01-2006, 05:48 PM

alienhost ~ I was leaning towards a Classic Pooh theme but I couldn't find any places that I could go to and buy the plates/coordinating plates, decorations, etc. at. I ordered return address labels in a classic pooh theme before I found this out. So the address labels are going to be classic and the plates/etc will be regular Pooh. I'll take some pictures of the plates, napkins, and stuff we bought. We were able to find a stuffed Pooh that says something like Happy 1st Birthday on his shirt. And we also bought some balloons.

I'm not sure if we are going to do goody bags since the only kids that will be at the party would be her cousins (provided SILs decide it isn't too much trouble and not come). As far as decorations we just have the stuffed pooh and some balloons (mylar one, some that say 1st birthday on them, and lavender, and a package of Pooh ones). My mom and are going to make the cakes. The big cake will be in a shape of a number 1. We already bought the figurines to go on the top (Pooh and Tigger) and the candle which has one on the cake with presents and Pooh. We more than likely won't burn that one and get another one to burn. Her cake will be a round circle one. Hopefully the other party store will have the packages of Pooh sprinkles.

NYN ~ Those invites are too cute!

char ~ Goldfish, animal crackers, Puffs and biscuits (from Gerber), graham crackers/sticks, Cheerios, crackers, and other finger foods. The idea of having some cheapy sippy cups is also great.

psusna

06-01-2006, 07:04 PM

NYN--llloooovvveee the lady bug theme!! My DS loves ladybugs but DH says they are girly :rolleyes:

kindermom

06-01-2006, 07:24 PM

PSUSNA - Can you do a bug theme to get the lady bugs in there?

psusna

06-01-2006, 07:25 PM

Kindermom: I like your thinking!! Perfect idea for the 2nd birthday :)

alienhost

06-01-2006, 07:46 PM

usafwife it sounds like you have everything you need! If you want an activity for the cousins this website has some crafts, I'm not sure how old they are:

http://www.dltk-kids.com/crafts/cartoons/winniethepooh.html

I think stuffed animals (maybe use them as balloon holders) make nice "reusable as toys later" decorations.

sears actually has a lot of pooh and friends stuff:
http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/dpp.do?BV_SessionID=@@@@0889629191.1149212517@@@@&BV_EngineID=cchcaddhmdijdlmcegecegjdghldfoo.0&cat=Winnie+the+Pooh&vertical=Splash&splash=true&eid=1390&sid=ISx20060328x0000001

The First Years (I saw them at Toys R Us) has pooh take n toss sippy cups (regular and straw)

http://www.thefirstyears.com/products/images/large/9146.jpg

just a few ideas for you....

solongtogo

06-02-2006, 12:00 PM

NYN:

Do you remember the craft site that you got the idea for your invites off of?

vjel

06-02-2006, 12:17 PM

solongtogo, she posted the sight a couple pages back here (http://www.constantchatter.com/showpost.php?p=769043&postcount=1160) :)

njnewyearsbride

06-05-2006, 08:30 AM

we had DD's first birthday party this weekend -- thanks to everyone i got some great ideas here..

the invites
http://www.contentedits.com/img.asp?tn=showandtell_formsRecordsPhotos&fn=photo&idn=ID&id=51052

the room
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a183/njnyb/IMG_4933.jpg
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a183/njnyb/IMG_4929.jpg

the favor bags
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a183/njnyb/IMG_4934.jpg

njnewyearsbride

06-05-2006, 08:32 AM

month by month pictures
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a183/njnyb/IMG_4930.jpg
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a183/njnyb/IMG_4931.jpg

the cake & birthday girl!
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a183/njnyb/IMG_4944.jpg
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a183/njnyb/IMG_4947.jpg

L-O-V-E

06-05-2006, 10:55 AM

To those of you doing monkey parties, I saw these adorable shirts at Gap yesterday, and loved them! I even bought one in 24 months for my son's 2nd birthday party! (yeah, I'm already planning his 2nd...)

http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=9179&pid=366168

http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=9179&pid=366240&scid=366240012

:)
Lori

BooeyJ2

06-05-2006, 10:57 AM

njnewyearsbride - very cute :)

usafwife

06-07-2006, 04:12 PM

njnewyearsbride ~ It looks wonderful!

To those who made their own invites ~ where did you get the envelopes to mail the invitations in? I need to get them (prefer to get them at a store since I'd like to have them in the mail by the end of the weekend) soon. I would have had them earlier but I've had a few other things on my mind. The shock is just now wearing off.

To those who made their own confetti/confoti ~ what size hole punch did you get and where did you get it at?

Natrat80

06-07-2006, 05:29 PM

meri I got my envelopes at Walmart. Our invitations were 4.25x5.5 and the envelopes I got were 4 & 3/8 x 5 & 3/4

HTH

-nat

vjel

06-07-2006, 05:30 PM

njnewyearsbride, your party turned out wonderfully!

usawife, what size are your invites? if they are "standard" sized (approx. 4.25"x5.5") then you can find those anywhere really. I got mine at Staples. I'm sure any office supply store will have them. I've seen them at Walmart as well.

didn't make my own confotti, but I'm guessing a 1" circle punch would be sufficient, not too much bigger. You can get them at any craft store like Michael's.

usafwife

06-07-2006, 05:35 PM

Nat ~ Thanks. Right now we are working with an invite the size of 4x6 or 5x7. Right now the background picture is 5x7 but I think I'm going to trim off some of it and make it a tad bit smaller.

vjel ~ As I stated above the background picture is 5x7 but I don't think I'm going to leave it that size. I'm trying to make it smaller but I think the smallest I can make it 4x6. The words are going to be printed on velum and then all put together with a Happy Birthday ribbon.

Thanks. I'll look at Michael's this weekend for the hole punch.

alienhost

06-07-2006, 06:16 PM

njnewyearsbride your party looked wonderful, I love the colors!

usafwife you can get A6 size envelopes that are 4-3/4" x 6-1/2" at Staples for a 4x6 card or A9 envelopes that are 5-3/4" x 8-3/4" for a 5x7. It looks like they might be in boxes of 100 though.

An A7 envelope is actually the best fitting one for 5x7 (5 1/4" x 7 1/4") but Staples doesn't seem to have that size. You could try a card/hallmark store and see if they would sell you the amount you need. Many card stores have packs of envelopes too. Actually you might find some at Michaels in the scrapbooking area.

also I agree w/ vjel that the one inch hole punch should be perfect. You can also try Joann Fabrics if Michaels doesn't have it.

AndreaMMS

06-07-2006, 07:06 PM

NYN- Oh, CUTE!!!!!!!!!! I'm considering a ladybug theme too (or butterflies)- thanks for the fab ideas!!!!

NJBride-beautiful party!

kindermom

06-07-2006, 07:22 PM

Just a quick shout out to all of the ladies who have posted thir parties so far. You all rock. Seriously. You are all so generous in sharing your knowledge and look like you have spent so much loving time planning for the parties. Thank you for sharing your expeirneces so we can plan really wonderful parties of our own.

ladyjusticemoni

06-08-2006, 01:38 AM

Thank you for sharing all of your ideas. The parties you have planned and beautifully executed are amazing!!! I have ideas for my daughter's future birthday parties covered for the next few years!!! :)

Brandian

06-08-2006, 08:48 AM

usafwife-I had 5x7 invitations too and I got the size A7. I actually just did a search (not really thinking it would work) I typed in Envelopes in ________ and just put the city you live in. I called the first one that came up and the guy just ended up giving them to me! I was pretty stoked :) You could try a search for a paper store, like we have something here called JC Paper and they have all sorts of paper and envelopes.

Katie

06-08-2006, 12:46 PM

usawife I don't know if you are near a Target, but I just went there and they had a number of 4x6 and 5x7 envelopes in a variety of colors. They come in packs of 10 - I used them for our invites (5x7).

I am addicted to this thread and have gotten great ideas from everyone. I am so impressed by the talent here! This weekend we are having my DS 1st birthday party - 3 months after his birthday! We were moving and selling our house in March, so we put it off until now - better late than never!

I am doing an initial theme "E" with brown and turquoise colors. I originally planned to use a baby blue color, but the invites we made had a more vibrant blue and I found that it looks really good with the brown. I'll post pictures next week after the party.

allyray231

06-08-2006, 12:51 PM

Our party is Sat!! Will be back with lots of pics! Thanks for all the help.

Mickey&B

06-08-2006, 01:04 PM

Okay so I just finished a mock up of our invites, and being the perfectionist that I am it is bugging the heck out of me that they are not perfect. So I thought I turn to you guys to help me out. What do you think? Am I being over critical or are they okay? or do they look cheesy? Is there anything you would do different?

here is the front (ignore the pencil mark on the ear, that won't be there in the others)
http://images1.snapfish.com/346%3C9%3C8%3C9%7Ffp33%3A%3Enu%3D3249%3E979%3E%3A5 %3A%3EWSNRCG%3D32337%3B%3A96235%3Cnu0mrj
and the open invitation
http://images1.snapfish.com/346%3C9%3C8%3C9%7Ffp342%3Enu%3D3249%3E979%3E%3A5%3 A%3EWSNRCG%3D32337%3B%3A94%3B7%3A4nu0mrj

Natrat80

06-08-2006, 01:13 PM

mickey & b They look adorable to me! Are you doing the monkey cake from Martha Stewart?

LILRTL

06-08-2006, 01:18 PM

Mickey, I think they look really good!!!!! Honestly! I certainly couldn't have pulled that off. Very creative! :D

Mrs.Chappy

06-08-2006, 01:29 PM

our party is sunday...(Ben's birthday is today :) Just ordered choc. bars from babybar.com. We did a really cute wrapper. They ship next day and second day air so i am expecting them tomorrow..just a little something for our guests to remember the special day by..is it cheezy?

vjel

06-08-2006, 02:57 PM

Mickey, very cute monkey invite! I would not change a thing. great job!

Mrs.Chappy, not cheesy and chocolate is always good. ;) I've had friends who have done the same w/ choc. bars and most recently orbitz chewing gum.

NYKidLib

06-08-2006, 03:36 PM

A long-time lurker making her first post. I've gotta many great ideas from this thread. You are all so creative.

Kevin's 1st b-day is July 1st and we are doing a 4th of July theme since the dates are so close. I'm really just throwing this together last minute so I hope the party turns out ok. We're actually having 2 parties - one for my dh's side and then one for mine. The combined number of guests would be way too many for our small house and since we are having the party outside (and hoping for good weather) we had to split the party into two events. If it rains I don't know what we are going to do! Fitting 30+ people (first party) and 50+ (2nd party) into a 900 sq/ft house is NOT going to work!

The invites I made - inspired by ones on another site - (sorry so blurry)
http://images1.snapfish.com/346%3C%3A38%3A9%7Ffp344%3Enu%3D323%3B%3E843%3E94%3 A%3EWSNRCG%3D3233823998459nu0mrj

alienhost

06-08-2006, 03:47 PM

Mickey adorable monkey invite!

Mrs.Chappy Definitely not cheesey, everyone loves chocolate!

NYKidLib cute invite (I had to copy and paste the properites in a new window to see it though, I think shutterfly doesn't show up here). Good luck with the weather.

I hope everyone w/ parties this weekend has a wonderful time - take lots of pictures and come back and share!

ladyjusticemoni

06-08-2006, 03:57 PM

Mickey&B and NYKidLib adorable invitations!! They are so cute!! Good job ladies!

JATTNJ

06-08-2006, 07:30 PM

A few pages back I think someone was talking about a Hungry Caterpillar theme. If so, I stumbled across these Eric Carle stickers....

http://www.mrsgrossmans.com/products/productView.cfm?keywords=Product_only%20AND%20eric %20OR%20carle

DisneyGirl

06-08-2006, 07:50 PM

VJEL Question about you DD brown/pink invites.

I saw that you said you bought the flowers from the memories website. I am having the hardest time finding them on there..can you help me find the spot where they are.

Thanks

vjel

06-08-2006, 07:59 PM

disneygirl, I actually didn't buy them on the Memories website, I bought them in the actual store. Do you have any scrapbooking stores near you? You should be able to find them there or something similar. If not, you can find them here (https://www.archiversonline.com/shopping/index.asp?productid=578012). Or do a search for "Making Memories Hydrangea Blossoms". HTH!

DisneyGirl

06-08-2006, 08:38 PM

Vjel Thanks for the help!!

Mickey&B

06-08-2006, 09:05 PM

Thanks girls, they are kinda of time consuming. At least I am starting early:p I bought some sharper scissors so maybe I can get a better cut too.

solongtogo

06-09-2006, 04:53 AM

Mickey, great job!! What font is that?

LILRTL

06-09-2006, 06:11 AM

Alright, ladies. You have already helped once. Now, I need ya again. ;)

We are going with the Hawaiin/luau/beachy theme. However, all the decorations I have seen are so cheesy. This is a little boy's birthday party - not a LUAU luau, ya know? I bought the bright blue/green/orange plates, cups, and napkins. For the invites, I am using this idea:
http://images1.snapfish.com/346%3C%3A8%3A96%7Ffp33%3A%3Enu%3D3275%3E%3A64%3E%3 B6%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D3233823455646nu0mrj

I bought a HUGE packet of 5x7 cards to mount it on. They are all sorts of colors - reds, yellows, blues, greens, etc.

I do NOT want green grass skirts for the tables, but I thought maybe the tan/brown would work. I just want this to be simple and fun - no blow-up palm trees, no fake pineapple's... any help?

lil_nance

06-09-2006, 07:44 AM

NYN Birthdaydirect.com has a mylar ladybug balloon. It won't let me post the pic.

Mickey&B

06-09-2006, 07:46 AM

solongtogo Thanks. I used word with the Space Toaster font.

Lora I like the tan grass idea, that's what I am using for AJ's party, with brown/tan table cloths. I actually got the ones with flowers on them but you can go the plain route.

alienhost

06-09-2006, 09:57 AM

I do NOT want green grass skirts for the tables, but I thought maybe the tan/brown would work. I just want this to be simple and fun - no blow-up palm trees, no fake pineapple's... any help?

the picture for the invite is adorable! If you want to skip the grass skirt all together, I think that is fine too. You could use any plain table cloth, especially since you have the fun colors for the paper goods.

I also think the tan skirts are a nice option. You don't have to do fake palmtrees/pineapples at all. In fact a few real pineapples might make nice balloon weights or centerpieces if you wanted.

ETA if you also like "beach" theme you could serve chips and stuff in small plastic beach buckets. I did it for one "summer" themed BBQ I had for some co-workers and that was fun.

Astara

06-09-2006, 01:04 PM

I Love getting lots of ideas by lurking in here! everyone is so creative!!

NYKidLib You made those invites? Were they hard to do? They are awesome & I'd really like to do something similar for DD...

NYKidLib

06-09-2006, 01:44 PM

I Love getting lots of ideas by lurking in here! everyone is so creative!!

NYKidLib You made those invites? Were they hard to do? They are awesome & I'd really like to do something similar for DD...

They really weren't too hard once I got the background picture positioned the way I wanted.

I made the invites in MS Publisher
Page size is 4" x 6" (size of photo paper)
Margins are set at .01 (my printer has the option of borderless printing)
Snap to Guide & Snap to Ruler settings are off.

The text are all contained in individual text boxes that can be moved around to wherever you want to position them. Publisher also gives you the option of moving text boxes around vertically or horizontally.

If you need a hand, let me know and I'd be happy to help anyway I can.
:)

usafwife

06-10-2006, 11:28 AM

alienhost ~ Thank you. We will stop by some office supply stores while we are out this weekend. If we can't get anything less than a box of a 100, I'll guess we will just save them for the next event.

Brandian ~ Thank you. Unfortunately we are limited with what type of stores we have here.

Katie ~ Thank you. We will be near a Target this weekend. We will check to see what envelopes they have.

Mickey ~ Those monkey invites are just too cute for words!

DianeCourt

06-10-2006, 06:33 PM

I've done plenty of lurking in this thread.....you ladies are incredibly talented! I'm starting to think about DD's party, which will probably be on 10/21. (She was born on 10/25). The obvious thing to do is a Halloween theme. More specifically, I'm thinking a pumpkin theme. I searched this thread and didn't see any autumn related ideas. I'm not one to do handmade invites, so what do you think about sending these through my inkjet printer?

http://va.storkavenue.com/images_lg/4588CA.jpg

Is the Anne Geddes thing on the bottom tacky? I figured I could make up some wording like "Our Lil' Pumpkin is Turning One!"

What are other fall mommies doing? Any other finds for fall themed parties?

Thanks! :)

Astara

06-10-2006, 07:44 PM

Thank You, NYKidLib~ I'm going to have DH do a mock-up for me (im not good at computer stuff)... hopefully it comes out good! Thanks a lot for the idea!

DianeCourt I think those are a good idea! How cute~
I'm still unsure of what to do decoration wise... fall theme, princess theme... too many fun things to choose from!

nalif

06-11-2006, 12:00 PM

does anyone have a free shipping code for Oriental Trading company? I just order a bunch of things last week, but I didn't order enough favors and I just hate having to pay for shipping twice. Thanks!

DianeCourt

06-11-2006, 12:59 PM

OK, I just found this & I think I'm in love! Had to share. And I'm pretty sure I could make it myself - it's just two Bundt cakes. I'm thinking carrot cake with orange colored cream cheese frosting. I have a miniature Bundt pan, too, so I could probably pull off a mini version for DD's cake. Although it won't be that great for smashing......

http://www.thrifttown.com/assets/images/webpumpkincake.jpg

I found an alternate version with using a Hostess HoHo for the stem instead of the REAL stem!

Cr8nme

06-11-2006, 01:08 PM

Diane~ I think that cake is sooo cute!!!!

Mickey&B

06-11-2006, 09:34 PM

DianeCourt Okay now I am hungry, that cake looks delish. . . and I think it would be perfect in orange, I'd do the real stem vs. the hoho it looks more classic that way IMO.

cr8zyforaf

06-12-2006, 06:46 AM

dianecourt - that cake is amazing!!!

Mrs.Chappy

06-12-2006, 07:58 AM

pics from our baby einstein party

http://images.kodakgallery.com/photos1945/1/39/67/50/98/6/698506739106_0_ALB.jpg

http://images.kodakgallery.com/photos1945/1/39/57/63/16/6/616635739106_0_ALB.jpg

Decorated that cake for him..ordered a people cake from Stop and shop and they totally disappointed. My cake was better in looks at least.

Swedish fishes were in margarita glasses on appetizer table, made rice krispy treats and cut them out w/ Ducky cookie cutters.

it was a success...i'm pooped

allyray231

06-12-2006, 07:59 AM

Well the party was a great. I have to give you ladies credit that go all out because I hardly decorated at all because I had no time!! The bakery mispelled Aiden's name even though I checked with them TWICE to make sure they would spell it right. Oh well still tasted good.

http://images1.snapfish.com/347335665%7Ffp33%3A%3Enu%3D3237%3E958%3E632%3EWSNR CG%3D323382%3A9%3A7%3B3%3Cnu0mrj
http://images1.snapfish.com/347335665%7Ffp342%3Enu%3D3237%3E958%3E632%3EWSNRCG %3D323382%3A9%3A396%3Cnu0mrj
http://images1.snapfish.com/347335665%7Ffp346%3Enu%3D3237%3E958%3E632%3EWSNRCG %3D323382%3A9%3A3978nu0mrj

LILRTL

06-12-2006, 08:01 AM

Question How far in advance did you mail out invites? 3 weeks? All (okay, most) of ours are local, and pretty much know when the party is anyway... what do you think?

allyray231

06-12-2006, 08:01 AM

http://images1.snapfish.com/347335665%7Ffp344%3Enu%3D3237%3E958%3E632%3EWSNRCG %3D323382%3A9%3A7%3B47nu0mrj
http://images1.snapfish.com/347335665%7Ffp344%3Enu%3D3237%3E958%3E632%3EWSNRCG %3D323382%3A9%3A3986nu0mrj

His outfit
http://images1.snapfish.com/347335665%7Ffp346%3Enu%3D3237%3E958%3E632%3EWSNRCG %3D323382%3A9%3A%3B7%3B8nu0mrj

he wasn't too into the smashing :)
http://images1.snapfish.com/347335665%7Ffp344%3Enu%3D3237%3E958%3E632%3EWSNRCG %3D323382%3A9%3A%3B846nu0mrj

of course I took no pictures of the great food and the decorations in the kitchen but it was good :)

DianeCourt

06-12-2006, 08:35 AM

allyray: I LOVE Aiden's cakes! They are the cutest! (Too bad they spelled his name wrong on the big one, but this is probably the first of many times in his life that's going to happen.)

Nice work!

Mrs. Chappy: It's probably my dumb computer, but I can't see your pics! :(

Lora: I think 3 - 4 weeks is good. Even though people "know" about the party, it will be good to get the invites in their hands ASAP so they don't forget & schedule something else. Summer is a busy, busy time!

allyray231

06-12-2006, 08:50 AM

Diane you are so right and since my name is spelled differnt-Allyson not Alison or Allison I know how he feels.

Mrs. Chappy AMAZING!

dana b

06-12-2006, 12:16 PM

we just did a small get-together for dd's 2nd birthday this year. as you can see, i was feeling lazy this year and i got most of my ideas from this thread (thanks booey!).
the invite (don't know why it loaded sideways)
http://static.flickr.com/64/165845832_2c8f6c941a.jpg?v=0
the cake
http://static.flickr.com/53/165841580_ee2e802d4c.jpg?v=0
the table
http://static.flickr.com/59/165841563_ca9ad9629c.jpg?v=0
the banner i had made at www.purpledaisykids.com
http://static.flickr.com/34/165841562_da3bdfc2b2.jpg?v=0
the hat i had made by an ebay seller
http://static.flickr.com/59/165841559_38da4871e3.jpg?v=0

dana b

06-12-2006, 12:16 PM

and dd having a very serious tea party :p
http://static.flickr.com/67/165841566_2781f3d0ac.jpg?v=0

vjel

06-12-2006, 12:21 PM

Mrs. Chappy, great job on your cake! btw, when you post pics to ofoto or shutterfly, they don't show up here. Try photobucket or flickr.

allyray, I love how your sesame street theme came out! Saving for next year in case DD still loves them next year! ;)

danab, the cake is beautiful, love it! love how the classic poo theme turned out!!!

ETA: where in the world did you get Noa's dress?!?! It's so PRETTY!!!

Cr8nme

06-12-2006, 12:43 PM

Danab~ Everything looked great! I ordered that same Icky baby dress for my DD 1st birthday!

Natrat80

06-12-2006, 01:09 PM

We had DD's party this weekend. It was small and simple but I think it turned out well.

We just had fruit salad and cake and then cupcakes, goldfish, and gerber puffs for the kids. Oh and drinks too! ;) The party was at 3pm at our house. We had about 30 adults and 7 babies/kids. The theme was flowers

Here is the food table:
http://www.dropshots.com/photos/103526/20060611/160237.jpg
The cupcakes and snacks for the kids (with DD's one year old pics)
http://www.dropshots.com/photos/103526/20060611/160252.jpg
another view with the party favors
http://www.dropshots.com/photos/103526/20060611/160307.jpg
above the cupcake area I had a clothesline with month by month pictures
http://www.dropshots.com/photos/103526/20060612/151540.jpg