Catch a Wave this Summer with these Surfer-Themed First Birthday Party Ideas
Summer is almost here, and I, for one, can’t WAIT. Especially after I recently worked with one of my lovely clients, Sarah, to set up this groovy Surfer-themed First Birthday Party for her son, Braden James. The beach feel is real, and is making me dream of fun Summer vacations. I’m in love with the party’s wave-inspired blue and white color scheme, with splashes of earthy green and energetic orange. I’m also happy with how we managed to pull off a vintage vibe, but with a modern look. Grab your surfboard, and read on for more details!
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Beachy Backdrop
I started with a gorgeous fringe backdrop in the party colors, hung behind my food and drink table. You can either make this yourself, or purchase one pre-made from Etsy. On top of the backdrop, I hung a wooden surfboard with “Surf Up” painted on it.
Food & Drink Table
Underneath the backdrop, I set up the food and drink table. I used natural woven baskets and wood slices at varied heights to give more dimension to my food and drink displays. Then, I set out a galvanized metal drink holder and ice bucket, painted half white to brighten them up a bit. The finishing touches were some gorgeous florals, palm leaves, coconuts and limes, for the island feel. I also set drink dispensers of lemonade and water under my cake table - summer is hot in Texas, and we need all of the refreshment we can get!
Surf-Themed Party Cakes
Cakes are always an exciting part of any party, and this one had two! One for the guests, and one for the guest of honor to enjoy (and smash) himself! Both of them were from Glace Cakes, here in Austin, TX, and both were incredible. With amazing surf- and beach-themed details like surfboards, graham cracker sand, palm trees and an adorable beach surfer van, they did an excellent job making sure the party theme came through. Also, how cool is the wave effect on the big cake?! Talk about catching waves!
I also added a “ONE” banner to the front of Braden’s high chair, with two more surfer vans that matched the one on the big cake. I love when everything coordinates - it really makes the party feel put together and cohesive!
Fruity Centerpieces
The centerpieces were really simple, but effective. I lined white trays with tropical monstera leaves, and then added pineapples painted in the party color scheme on top. A few limes, and wooden surfboard table numbers completed the look. Easy, right? But so cute!
Vintage Details & Surf-Themed Decorations
Then came my actual favorite part of the party - the details & decor! From fishing nets & more natural baskets, to plants, surf supplies, vintage accents and a reminder of the birthday boy’s age.
The finishing touch to the whole party was a giant balloon garland, arching over a surfboard backdrop with the guest of honor’s name on it.
This is what I love doing - creating the perfect setting for my clients and helping bring their visions to life! If you’re in the Austin area and need some help planning the perfect party, please reach out. We’d love to help!
With this party design finished, Braden James was ready to catch his first wave! Surf’s up!
I’d love to hear your thoughts about this party in the comments below!