Vivian's "You Are My Sunshine" first birthday party

A few weekends ago we celebrated Vivi's first birthday with family and friends. It was the best day ever! The weather was gorgeous and Vivi had a blast. I'm not big on themes but I knew I wanted a "You Are My Sunshine" feel to the party because that has been her very favorite song since she was born. I sing it to her all the time! I didn't want to go over the top with decorations but knew I wanted at least a few festive decorations. Balloons are such a cheap and easy way to make a party feel festive. I am so glad I purchased this 12 month photo banner and people loved to see how she grew each month.

We had lunch for everyone which consisted of subs that I had catered, Chic-fil-a nuggets (can't go wrong with Chic-fil-a), homemade broccoli salad and homemade pasta salad. We kept the drinks simple with water, sweet tea, pink lemonade, and juice boxes for the kids.

I decided to do cupcakes rather than a large cake for dessert because I didn't want to have to deal with cutting it, putting it on plates, passing it out, etc. Cupcakes made it 100x easier... people could walk up to the dessert table and grab a cupcake whenever they wanted. We chose half vanilla and half strawberry and they were equally delicious. Vivi destroyed her smash cake which was hilarious. I thought she was going to be timid at first but she dove right in. By the end she must have been tired of using her hands because she started taking bites straight from the cake, so funny. She was definitely in a sugar coma after that.

I splurged on a photographer for her party and it was the best decision ever. I never once picked up my phone or felt the pressure of having to capture all the special moments. I was able to be fully present and now I have pictures that I will cherish for the rest of my life! 

It was the very best day. A day that I will remember and cherish forever. I am still in denial that my baby is one! It is such an honor to watch her grow and I pray for so many more birthdays with her.

Photographer: Carley Page Photography

High chair banner

You Are My Sunshine burlap banner

Birthday hat

Sunshine balloon

12 month photo banner

Smash cake and cupcakes

My top (sold out but from here)

My white jeans (only $21!)

My booties

Vivi's outfit

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