April Showers Bring May Flowers Party
• 06 June 2011
Sometimes kids just need a party, no birthday required. This is, anyway, my reasoning behind planning a get-together for my oldest daughter and her friends. You see, this has been a tough move for her and I thought a fun party would be just what she needed. And in Seattle, well, we couldn't imagine a better theme for this time of year! She had a great time planning everything out and gathering up a handful of friends from the neighborhood, school and church to just hang out. Basically it was a play date x 6 + a great big cake. We held the party on the second to last day in May and surprisingly didn't need our wellies or umbrellas after all!
Party fare was simple...a big, yummy cake and juice squeeze drinks. I made my updated version of Coconut Layered Cake with Lemon Curd + Fluffy Cream Cheese Frosting...it was a nice change from cupcakes, which I typically make instead. The pretty paper umbrellas were a gift from my MIL, who purchased them at HEMA in Holland. That's one amazing store...
The tulip lollipops (also a purchase from Holland--Keukenhof's gift store to be exact) and ribbons made easy party favors.
After making tissue paper flowers (using this tutorial, sans the marker edge), we headed outside to snap a photo of the girls donning their rain gear. Initially the kids were confused as to why they needed to bring a pair of wellies and an umbrella to the party, but were pretty tickled once I explained why. I think they enjoyed participating in something fun and unexpected--being a little silly also served as a great ice breaker. From a parenting perspective, I'm just grateful I am that my daughter still thinks it's cool for me to help her plan parties. Someday I imagine she'll think all my ideas are dorky so I'm enjoying the ride while I can!
How lovely-great idea!
ReplyDeleteThat is too fun, you're genius. That cake looks to die for. Happy Monday!
ReplyDeleteSuper darling! I am so glad I am having a girl, so that I can have one of these super duper cute parties.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea. I like the boots and how colorful they are.
ReplyDeleteGorgeous cake (that I still can't wait to make). You are an amazing Mom, doing all these fun things for and with your kids. Looks like a lot of fun.
ReplyDeleteAdorable and so fun!
ReplyDeletexo,
Kate
www.cinnamonink.blogspot.com
What a great excuse to have a party.
ReplyDeletelove the idea of throwing a party "just because"! xo
ReplyDeleteI'm in love with this idea, Steph + I bet there was a little girl that felt extra loved that day too. You're a great mama.
ReplyDeleteOh Sassy Stephmodo. What a darling idea. This looks like so much fun. Love the cake, the umbrellas & photos. Your kids are so lucky they have a mom who thinks so much and works so diligently to ensure they have a pretty, loving life.
ReplyDeletethe patterned umbrellas on your cake are so cute! what a fun party idea!
ReplyDeleteThis is so adorable. I love the bright colors and accessories.
ReplyDeleteI love the coconut/lemon cake recipe. If you are ever in NYC again I can take you to a little diner around the corner from me called Nectar. They make this same cake.
How lovely! Super darling! Great idea!
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Glad you like! I'm not sure about the "great mama" part, but I try (like we all do!). Hopefully my party-planning skills make up for some of my other faults? That's how it works, right? :)
ReplyDeleteHope you like the cake!
This is darling. You never cease to amaze. And I am a fan of
ReplyDelete"just because" my self;)
Do you think I can make this the day before I serve? And, I agree, HEMA is a fun place to shop makes me want to hop on a plane and head to the Netherlands.
ReplyDeletefinally catching up on your blog and loving your inspiration as usual. love this party and can't wait to try mighty o's!
ReplyDeleteAngela, yes you can make it the day before I think. I made mine the morning of, but it tasted good the next day too! :) It made for a mighty fine breakfast...
ReplyDeleteThe tulip lollipops very beautiful.
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