My little baby just celebrated her 3rd Birthday and I've come to realize my new obsession...birthday party planning. Anyone that knows me, knows how crazy I go with my kids' birthday bashes. I think about it non-stop for weeks prior and always come up with something that entails many late nights leading up to the big event. It's not only for the girls but so much for me. What joy it brings me!
So little Isa is princess crazed. I actually don't know many that are not at this age. As much as I thought to fight it, especially pre-parenthood...I now get it. And besides, it too brings them such joy, why deny them that? So princess it is. We went with a whole dress up theme and I insanely made the costumes for all. Princess skirts/accessories for the girls and knight costumes for the boys. It seemed harmless enough when I made that first mock up and thought, "ok, that was pretty easy..." 37 later is not so easy anymore. The funny thing about the head count was that the party fell on Columbus Day Weekend and many that I first mentioned it to were not even in town. My own personal fear of party failure started kicking in and I widened the net, assuming many would still not make it. Bad idea...thus the 37 kids.
It was a blast though and complete with cardboard castle, we had a wonderful little royal kingdom!
It's unfortunate that hosting a party often leaves me unable to take as many shots as I would like but there is only so much one can do!
Here are as many details as i could capture!
Some worthwhile finds...
Girls skirts were made from Gossomer which is often used for inexpensive backdrops or curtains. It comes in rolls and is very cost effective!
I always buy my ribbon from Artistic Ribbon in NYC. Lots and lots of great colors, well priced and the best part is i can pick it up at my convenience. Though when only the best will do, I go to Mokuba.
Most of the fun princess accessories are from non other than the infamous Oriental Trading. Could not live without this resource when planning kids parties.
Though in my travels, I have found some other great resources that are worthy of a mention...
S&S Worldwide is an unbelievable craft and educational supply resource with EVERYTHING! What I've found here that I have not found elsewhere is an awesome selection of group craft supplies or kits, perfect for diy items in goodie bags and party activities.
Through a wonderful stationer friend of mine, Niki of Papery and Cakery, I was introduced to her lovely, talented sister/pastry chef, Ali, who created the beautiful cupcakes for Isanna. We wanted something different for her actual birthday celebration with just family and also had Ali create a little mini 6" fondant cake with a big fat bow. Very very sweet...to look at and to eat!
Now if I had found this next artist at the Lollipop Workshop on Etsy,I would have been hard pressed to buy one of these absolutely ADORABLE cake toppers! It is just ooozing mini sweetness. Love it!
