Christmas is so soon, and here I am sharing some summertime pictures! But, I think you will want to see these.
Everyone talks about the immeasurable love you have for your children, but I did not understand until God sent this beautiful ray of sunshine into my life. And to know He loves me as His child… I do not deserve it! Thank you, Jesus for making a way.
Our sweet girl Arden Rose turned one in July, and we had such a happy party! I’m honored to say her big day was featured on Kara’s Party Ideas‘ Blog, Facebook and Instagram accounts very recently, and I can’t wait to share it with you now.
It didn’t take long after AR was born for everyone to start asking what her first birthday party theme would be and how we would decorate! Most importantly, Doug and I wanted the party to be a place for our family and friends to gather together, spend time with those we don’t get to see often, and especially to celebrate Arden Rose’s big day! My parents, “DeDe and PopPop”, enjoy cultivating their yard and flower gardens, so I decided their beautiful backyard would be the perfect place to party. Arden Rose’s personality is dainty, soft spoken and reserved, so we thought the design should be girly and organic, with a touch of glam. The first detail we chose was the fabric for AR’s party dress, which DeDe lovingly made by hand. With the coral, peach, tangerine and pink color palette selected, we were ready to plan!
To welcome everyone to the party, we set up a display of AR’s month-by-month photos and a time capsule box for guests to write notes, advice or scripture for her to open when she turns 16. We used a market cart and other props to create the feel of a fresh flower market.
Curved under a grove of trees, we set out mismatched chairs and barnwood benches around a long row of tables with organic loose weave cotton and gold sequin runners which showcased amazing fresh florals.
Since July in Texas is hot and humid, we opted for a morning brunch party and served scones, donuts, fresh fruit, quiche and gluten free muffins made by my sweet friend, Kimberly. Organic milk and orange juice were offered in the cutest little milk bottles, displayed in a vintage baby bathtub. I hand-lettered in gold all of the eats and treats signs.
The sweets buffet, cake stands and gold sequin backdrop showcased AR’s smash cake, which was also made with love by her DeDe.
Arden Rose is blessed with the best Aunts, Uncles, Grandparents and friends, who all came to celebrate with us. I made a backdrop of flowers for AR to open gifts in front of and I think this was my favorite spot at the whole party! Seeing her precious face light up with each present brought so much joy to us and to our guests. Arden Rose is one loved little girl. Her favorite gifts were her books, vintage piano from her great-grandmother “Temah”, and her dolls, especially Polly, handmade by DeDe in a matching party dress.
To thank all of the littles for coming, we made coloring books full of AR’s favorite things, and DeDe made felt crayon caddies, staying in the party’s color palette. Playtime in the yard consisted of bubbles, foam noodle games and other toddler toys, and it was a big hit too, with quilts ready in the shade for cooling off when needed.
We decided to hire professional photographers to capture the memories for us, and I am so glad we did! I am very thankful we can look back on these photos in years to come and remember all the wonderful details: smiles shared, hugs given, prayers lifted up, and memories made.
Back to December (but still hot down here in Texas at the moment!); I wish your family a very merry Christmas, and pray for Jesus’ unconditional love to be made real in a special way in your life during this season.
Photography: Jill and Kay Photography
Rentals: Pursuing Eden Rentals
Florals: La Bella Blooms
Stylist: Me