LOU’S LUAU
Despite the emotional roller coaster of the day (I mom-cried myself to sleep) and how it felt like the fastest year in history, we were so thrilled to spend the day spoiling, celebrating, and loving on our little Lou. I wanted to share with you all my party tips and tricks, pulling off an off-season theme, and the personal touches that really make the day all about the birthday girl!
We went with a luau theme because... how could we not? “Lou’s Luau” was too cute to pass up! But since Lou’s birthday is at the end of September, it took a little finessing. I used more muted colours and decor made out of warmer textures to balance the party theme with the season. I ended up DIY-ing a lot of the decor during Lou’s naps, and the rest I scooped up at Michaels Craft Store. Pro tip: if you’re going to throw an off-season themed party shop early! I got all my tropical, summery florals at 90% off, plus scored all the grass skirts on sale. I handmade the tassel garlands because I needed really long ones to span across the yard (they can get pricey on Etsy), and wanted to go with a particular colour scheme.
I was able to get a balloon garland kit in the soft peachy tones from Balloon Passion based out of Toronto. They were great to work with and let me customize a kit in all one colour. (I highly recommend a hand pump, or two and an extra set of hands). I purchased the giant balloon off Etsy from Pomvillage. They had lots of great options, it delivered quick, the colour was perfect, and one week later it’s still inflated in our living room! Our gorgeous Valencia round towel from The OVer Company added the perfect pop of colour, and was great for Lou to sit and open presents on. Plus, it’s currently on sale! And finally, the show-stopping peacock chair was lent to us from Lou’s honorary auntie.
I’ve always been a sucker for a quality local brand, and ever since Lou was born I’ve had a stronger sense of responsibility to support family owned businesses and the community around us. After the year we’ve all had, our small shops need us now more than ever. So Lou’s party was a great opportunity to spend a little money supporting great businesses/brands that we love! Since our guest list was small that meant only a few loot bags for little guests, so we had some fun with it! Each kid got two containers of Hello Dough, a safe, non-toxic sensory dough that’s scented with essential oils. They also got a custom crayon from Cray-onz, which was so fun! We were able to pick a crayon design for each kid, (my nephew is a Lego nut and he got Lego crayons), and they even added little “Lou Is One!” stickers on the packages. Finally, each kid got a sensory toy from Given in St. Thomas. If you are ever in the area, this store is a must-shop. They have the most amazing selection of modern sensory and classic nostalgic toys, an incredible variety of natural products for the whole family, and countless other treasures.
We were so excited to get Lou custom cookies from Seed Confections, a sweet little bakery not too far from home. My family has ordered from Genevieve several times now and she’s always so sweet and accommodating, not to mention her desserts are stunning! Lou’s smash cake and cupcakes were made custom by Grandma’s Oven Bakery. The designs were gorgeous and they were so great with accommodating a few of our guests who are dairy-free. Seriously, those cupcakes are dairy-free! One of my favourite pieces of the day was the custom “Lou is one!” cake topper by Thistle and Lace Design. Their work is beyond charming and it’s such a sweet keepsake to tuck into Lou’s baby box.
And finally, the birthday girl herself! Lou wore a ruffly dress from Zara, paired with a beautiful handmade felt floral headband from Heartfelt by Natalia. This small business has the most beautiful headbands that match any occasion and season. It was the perfect tropical touch, and stayed on her head the entire day!
The day was a dream, just like Lou. The bees gave us some trouble, but that was to be expected when you throw a full flora and fauna party in the fall. Our family and close friends filled the day with love, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the people that surround us. It was the perfect way to celebrate the best year of our lives! Happy birthday Lou… aloha to one!
