Hellobee Boards

@sorrycharlie: do you think your friend would lend or give you some of her decorations??

We did an at-home budget-friendly birthday party. We only had 15 or so people, though and still spent a lot on food. We had burgers, dogs, sausages, slaw, potato salad and chips and dip. I made the cake myself (see pic below).

We spent less than $300. I made the decorations myself with the Cricut. I bought some flatware (just forks and knives), plates and some cheapy, throw-away tablecloths. I decorated with things we had and bought some balloons for fun. I didn't go crazy with decorations - we only bought 6 helium balloons, the rest we blew up ourselves, bought them at the dollar store.

Oh and I made cookies shaped like ladybugs and we gave those as favors! Who doesn't like food to go?

I don't know if you saw my post for my lo's first birthday but it was the pink kind of vintage theme and I spent maybe $100 on everything and I don't think it was too bad. I don't think birthdays have to be so expensive as long as you shop around a bit!

@artbee: Love this! Might have to steal this idea if we go ahead and name our daughter Rose

@sorrycharlie: Thanks I cheated and used store bought dough, and then just put a stamp in it. Just didn't have time to make them myself.

I haven't seen the Mickey Mouse Club in years, but weren't they all handing out at a diner? What about a pink and mint green 50s dinner theme with elements of Minnie? Serve shakes, sliders. Dress up in poodle skirts.

Eeek thinking about 1st birthday stuff freaks me out!

I'm still not sure if we're having a party, but if we do I think I want to do a balloon theme. Either regular or hot air maybe.

We're not doing a theme, just a color scheme (mint and mauve) with lots of girly elements like flowers and lace!

@hilsy85: that inspiration party place is devine

DD's first birthday party theme was butterflies (because I found plates and napkins at the dollar store).

@sorrycharlie: I don't think it's a big deal to repeat themes. There are different ways to do the same theme, and unless all the guests will be the same, it shouldn't be an issue imo.

Sniff sniff our babies are in the last quarter of the first year and I can barely believe it. A few months ago they couldn't sit up right, and now they crawl and stand (pull up). Just, wow!