My choo choo loving baby boy Eli Wesley turned two! When it came time to plan his birthday party, there was no question that it would be train related. But it goes without saying that train themes have pretty much been done a million times over for two year olds, so I wanted to challenge myself to come up with something other than the traditonal Thomas the Train or even vintage train party. My son loves to read books together (especially train ones!) so I decided to base the party on his favorite story book, The Little Red Caboose. We read this every night before bed and he can now recite almost every word, so I knew this would be perfect for his party.
Once the theme was decided, I turned to Pinterest and my favorite party blogs to start gathering ideas. When planning a party, I always put together an inspiration board so I have something to refer back to in order to keep everything cohesive. It also helps communicate my vision for the party to all of my vendors so we are on the same page. Since my son’s birthday is in December, I wanted the party to have a warm, rustic and cozy feel. I also wanted authentic vintage details and lots of handmade decor elements.
Then the fun really began! First, I turned to Three Little Monkeys Studio for the most AMAZING graphic design and printables which really set the tone for the party, and then enlisted Peckled and Triple M Good Parties for party rentals that worked perfectly with the authentic vintage theme. Of course the sweets were a main component to the party and let me tell you, my sweets vendors blew this one out of the water! From train ticket cookies to character cake pops, a knit sweater fondant cake and much more, I am still dreaming about all of the adorable (and delicious!) sweets included in my son’s dessert table. There will be much more detail on my vendors to come, but I want to take a moment to thank Frog Prince Cake & Cookie Design, Divine Cakes, Painted and Sprinkled, Bella’s Bakery and Bowtique, Sweet City Candy and Stephanie J’s Creations for their sweet, sugary creations that really brought my son’s party theme to life.
While I can’t share the party photos just yet, I do have some very exciting news to share! My son’s Little Red Caboose party will featured in the January issue of Carousel Magazine! I am so excited to see this party in print and I am honored to be part of such a great publication that I myself look to for inspiration. Until then, here’s a little sneak peek from the party set-up (photo taken by ME Photo & Design) I can’t wait to share the rest of the photos and party details with you!
[…] more party details (and vendor links) can be found on Tara’s site here, AND this party has also been featured in Carousel Magazine. To see the full spread, click […]