We just celebrated two big birthdays in the Smith house. Eliza celebrated her fifth birthday on December 28th and Shipley celebrated his fifth birthday on March 15th. I knew that this might be the last year I could combine their birthdays and just throw one big bash. I actually let the kids decide what kind of party they wanted and they came up with the circus theme. Once the decision was made, I had so much fun pulling it all together!
Here is the invitation:

About a month ago I ordered their shirts for the big day. Several people asked me if I made them… LOL… Here is the link to the gal who does make them. She seems like one really talented chick!
I found the birthday sign here. I hung a couple of them in different locations outdoors. The goody bags you see were each filled with a small journal covered in circus themed paper and accompanied by a funky looking pencil which I found in packs at the dollar store. I always like to have a goody bag that is stuffed with something that might actually be used and treasured. Since all their friends are just really getting into reading and writing, I am hoping this was a fun gift for each of them.

I hired Astro Events to provide the circus themed jumpy house, the popcorn machine and the spin art. The circus sign is a whole ‘nother story. I originally saw the idea on this blog and thought it was adorable. I asked Jeff if he was up for creating it with me and he happily signed on. Okay, I should give him a bit more credit then that. However, I think it was just a bit more work then he initially thought. The sign is really a blog post in and of itself. I love the way it turned out but the lights on it were hard to see in the daylight. It looked really great just about the time everyone had left. Oh well… such is life.

I also hired a clown to come be with us for an hour of the party. She really was the BEST clown ever! She was so sweet and she had this amazing way of interacting with the children. I have had so many parents tell me how much they enjoyed watching her play with their children. Shipley actually hid when she arrived. He told me prior to the party that he wanted nothing to do with the clown. However, she totally won him over and he even let her paint his face! If you are looking for a clown then call CopyCats and request Jayme.

Now, I know you are all going to want to know about these adorable cupcake toppers. Historically, I have used one certain cake place and have always loved the cakes they make. This year I wanted something a bit different for the party though. So, I bought the fondant toppers on-line and then my sweet momma made the cupcakes and we iced them with white icing. The toppers were purchased here and I think she did a great job on them and she got them to me in a timely manner.

Overall it was a great day and the kids loved celebrating with all their friends from school!

Happy birthday to Shipley and Eliza.

I honestly think I am the luckiest wife and momma in the world. I love our family so much and it was absolutely wonderful to celebrate together!