February 9, 2014

Half Birthday at the Ranch!

A summer birthday in the wild west & a blazin' hot sun,
calls for a winter round-up of friends for some 1/2 birthday fun!

As far as I know, 1/2 birthday parties aren't the trendy "new thing" in the party world, but being a Phoenician with a summer birthday can be a challenge if you want to party outside, (even pool parties can be hard when the temps are over 110)! The party planner in me couldn't resist the idea of throwing an outdoor half birthday bash for my little guy. We wanted to celebrate with many of the kiddos he's known since we started "play dates" at 5 months of age and sadly this will be Jake's the last year in school with many of these children. These sweet kids, along with their younger siblings & parents, have become more like family to us over the past five years. 
 MacDonald's Ranch was the perfect place as the accommodations are ideal for a party where children can run, ride & rope like a cowboy/cowgirl. I lassoed my poor mom & hubby to help me with the food prep and set-up as they dealt with my "Type A" attention to detail. I couldn't have pulled it off without them! Also, a big thanks to my talented friend, Beth, of Lizzie Bee Photography who captured so many wonderful moments as well as gave me images of the party decor to add to my portfolio :). I wish I could show you every image of the 5 year old silliness... she's incredible!

My friend Amy of Page & Mason Invitations created these fantastic invites. She's uber creative & loves to use different materials... aka the fun burlap! I gave her the wording & she ran with it. I really liked the stars & boot that she added, so I incorporated those into the party decor.


These plates & mugs have become popular & I just knew they'd be the perfect addition to the table decor.  Each guest took a set home...

Jake's old cowboy boots were incorporated in the table centerpieces.
Guests drew pictures while they waited for the chuck wagon grub to be served!

The popcorn bar was a hit with the li'l buckaroos!
All of the cowpokes were able to take a short ride on a pony...
and a hayride around the ranch! YEE-HAW!












S'mores favors...

Party Styling: Savvy Styled Sessions & Events
Cowboy Cake: The Cake Baketress
1/2 Birthday Cake & Mini Cupcakes: Martina Damko
Sheriff Badge Cookies: Bashas' Bakery
Gingham Paper for bottles: Lane + May Studio
Horseshoe forks & spoons: Little Chicklets
Mini Cupcake Wrappers: Dress my Cupcake
Popcorn & Candy Bar (chocolate gold nuggets, sour cherry bombs, root beer sticks), loot bags & Happy Trails favors: Savvy Styled Sessions & Events
Tablecloth & Lantern Rentals: Party People Rentals

Happy Trails,
Angela