Planning a party...

for a one year old should be as easy as 1-2-3 and it is!  There is an old rule (ha - since when do I follow the rules) that says for each birthday a child has, she should have the equivalent number of guests to the age she will be.  A one year old should have one guest and so on and so forth.  Well, I agree to this rule to an extent.  I don't necessarily believe we should only have ONE guest, but having been to a few birthday parties for one year olds, the parties tend to be more for the adults than for the kid who has just about no idea of what's going on.  Frankly, the birthday girl or boy seems a little overwhelmed with the number of guests & activities, so that's why we have decided to keep it simple.  No guest list, no invitations, no messy clean-up.  Just fun in the sun for whoever wants to stop by and say hello! 

We're planning for a picnic in the park complete with finger foods, lemonades, and other yummies made from fresh and local ingredients.  If there's one thing I remember from a party it's definitely the food, and I want this to be special - even if small.  It's also important to me to support Savannah and shop locally (as much as possible) for our goods, so I am going that route for everything that needs buying.  We'll hand-pick our strawberries for the cake & flowers for the table, and I have been scouring local thrift stores for old linens to use as tablecloths.  I want a vintage feel under the Spanish Moss in Forsyth Park.  What a gorgeous setting, and it's one of our many favorite outdoor spots here in Savannah.  Swing sets, sunny days, live music, and fellowship with close friends and family.  Sounds like the perfect way to celebrate Naomi's birthday and my birthing day!! Excitement ensues. :)

I have found a few inspirational pics online.  I want it to be picture-worthy and memorable...well, at least for Mama & Deddy! ;)

the banner around the Oak tree is a must!

I love the colors on this old vintage tablecloth

Daisies & mason jars. Perfect combination! :)

LOVE this!! Used for a wedding, but I adore all the elements that go in to a thoughtful outdoor party!

Gorgeous.

Now there's an idea - chalkboard for birthday messages. Note the over-sized lacy tablecloth too!

Doesn't this look just like a picnic in the lowcountry?

To be such a simple party, I sure am putting a lot of thought into this! Heehee. What can I say? May 11 is a special, special day!!