Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Birthday Party: Zoo Party

Looking at these pictures, I still can't believe my little girl is three.  
She really is growing up fast.
Guests were greeted by a party animal sign and fun balloons (which doubled as part of the favor for kids to take home).  We had the balloons displayed throughout including the gift table.
 
We also purchased inexpensive animal print paper strips (Oriental Trading) to be used with the banner as well as  on the drinks for a fun, small touch. We used a kiddie pool for the watering hole and placed peanuts on the tables as a simple, edible centerpiece.
We had a few main party activities including a safari hunt and face painting.
We made a teardrop shaped pinata using the same green crepe paper used throughout the party decor.
I loved what we decided to do for the cake and cupcakes.  Elle had her own personal mini cake and the rest of the guests enjoyed cupcakes topped with zoo animals of all kinds.  Another small thing was the candles - tiger print and perfect!
 This was the perfect gift!
 We sent the guests home with gift bags filled with zoo animal goodies and a balloon!
 There were lots of small things that made this party click - animal prints everywhere!  We served basic burgers with fruit salad and chips.  Super simple and inexpensive for feeding large groups and easy to prep everything before hand so the grill master can party, too!

When you plan your next party, remember it doesn't have to be an expensive blow out!  A great party is in the good company and small touches throughout.  Be creative!

Monday, January 7, 2013

Birthday Party: Zoo Party Invitation

My daughter loves animals - so that was our inspiration for her 3rd birthday party last fall.  I designed a few different invites for the party, but ended up going with the second here.  I love the giraffe print with the green.  So fun!