Ryan & Will's 1st Birthday Party

I was inspired by all the handmade parties I've seen online and wanted to give myself a similar challenge. Planning for this party began five months in advance. I wanted it to be super special for my twin boys and husband. All three of them share the same birthday. How amazing is that!

The trick of course was finding the time to finish all the different elements I wanted. Between all of my normal mommy duties, household chores, errands and freelance gigs, I was able to sneak some time to research, learn a few DIY birthday projects, design and create my very own handmade birthday party.

The aqua and blue circus theme was inspired by a paper carousel from Meri Meri given to my boys. I loved the elephant especially, so that became the centerpiece of my design.

After creating the party invitation, everything began to fall into place. I sewed a simple elephant themed fabric pennant and a crochet banner. I repurposed my old baby food jars into these pretty little containers for Jelly Beans. I whipped up some homemade caramel popcorn as another party favor, we added a jar full of animal crackers and goldfish to our dessert table. I made birthday shirts, pj's and bibs for the boys. I also created three giant smash cakes. The party hats were handmade too!

As an added touch - my husband hired his co-worker to play 'Happy Birthday' and some other songs on his bagpipes. It was an ode to the boys half-Scottish heritage and filled the neighborhood with some pretty cool tunes.

Happy 1st Birthday to the sweetest little boys in the whole world and my loving husband. Thank you for putting up with me when I am in my crazy creative moods. I love you and am looking forward for many more years of celebration.

XOXOXO