I really do enjoy the whole glue-gunning/sign-painting/ribbon-dangling part of planning my girls’ parties, but the best part–the part that grips me for a tears-welling second–is when friends start arriving and music is playing and my girl is all shy-smiling with happiness.
The horses were a huge hit. There were a whole lotta little cowgirls with shy, satisfied grins, and then some who couldn’t hide more obvious radiant smiles…and Nella was one of them.
We panned for gold.
And ate good grub.
Our “Aunt Rebecca” came down from Indiana and performed a nice reading of a cowgirl story for the kids…with the perfect southern accent.
And the kids took care of the rest. Yee haw.
Bandanas stuffed with goodies and tied to sticks made some nice hobo stick party favors.
…and some trail mix for the mamas.
Oh, did we ever have a good time.
And in the end, a four-year-old girl who felt loved and celebrated.
So ‘thar you have it.
A happy birthday indeed.
Congratulations to the winner of the Piccadilly Circus $50 gift certificate: Comment #592, AFD Jewelry: Happy birthday to your sweet girl – she is just a doll! And my oldest (who turned 4 in January) requested mac n cheese for her birthday meal as well 🙂
Please send your contact info to kellehamptonblog@comcast.net.
Addendum: To answer many of your questions, the following are some more specific details regarding Lainey’s birthday party.
I created all the signs, labels, invitations from scratch so there aren’t any templates but I did find some great free Western fonts like this one on dafont.com.
The Invitation: I designed the invitation with my trusty old Microsoft Digital Image Suite, but you can create something simiilar in Photoshop/Photoshop Elements or whatever layout software you use. It’s a 5×5 trifold card printed by WHCC Labs. I burned a CD full of kids western songs, printed our own label, and attached it to the card using a foam CD hub like this one on Amazon.
Play Money: Poppa made it.
The Barn: Lainey actually received two fold-up cardboard playhouses for her birthday last year, so we saved one and pulled it out this year for her party. My dad slapped some red and white paint on it to transform it into a barn.
Wood Signs: You can get thin sheets of plywood from Home Depot for a couple dollars. A little bit of craft paint and some wood embellishments, and Voila.
Horses: If you’re in the Naples area, we got a great deal on two horses from Ponies for Parties. They stayed about two hours, and the owners were fabulous with the kids. Phone Number: 239.200.6010.
Party Favors: Most everything came from Oriental Trading. They have a fantastic variety of inexpensive treats, and a slew of western stuff to choose from.
Cake Banner: Blu Embellish on Etsy.
Lipstick: Ha ha. Funny question, but several asked, and it happens to be a to-die for shade that flatters anyone and everyone. Lorac 3D gloss, Color: 3D (beachy and rosy/bronzy).
Christie Clair says
So, so cute! What a great day. Happy Birthday, Lainey and Mama!
teal915 says
I’m staying up late to work on a blog post. Looks like I’m the first to comment. Don’t know why that is an accomplishment. It’s the little things, rigt?
Kelly@TheAdornedAbode.com says
What a fun party (and I love the cake topper)!! Happy birthday to Lainey!
anna@trueself.com.au says
Wow, such an amazing party, so much attention to detail, love it! Looks like everyone had a wonderful time. Happy birthday Lainey 🙂
Geoff says
Thanks so much for sharing Lainey’s Birthday party with us….feel like I was there
alisha says
What an awesome idea for a birthday party!! Lainey is going to have some pretty special memories when she’s older. Nice work, mama! 🙂
Jennifer says
What an amazing party!!! Lainey and Nella have such an extraordinary mum. Thank you so much for sharing such a great day with all of us 🙂
Victoria says
wow!!! you did another fantastic job and went all out! what an adorable party to celebrate your oldest girl.
looks like so much fun was had!!
Megs says
oh.my.goodness. you are party planner extraordinaire! Can you adopt me and throw me parties?
Too cute and looks like an AMAZING time!!
Thing says
WOW, what an amazing party Kelle!
You really are a party planner
– and a damn good one!!!!
-lost for words-
LOVE
Jess says
Oh amazing!!!! What an adorable party!!! All the kids (and mamas) look precious! Um.. The last pic of you and LL is a framer for sure! Perfect! What lucky girls to have such a great family to put things like this together for them!
Springroll says
Oh wow, wow, wow!! Love it…and so happy that you had a great time!! Yeehaw!!
Andrea says
You pretty much throw the best parties ever. The end 🙂
Launa says
What an awesome party!!! Great ideas!! And, of course, the Zach Brown band rounds it all out!!!
Happy Birthday Miss Lainey!!
Adriana says
What a wonderful, magical birthday for Lainey!! I loved all of the pictures, so thank you.
I also love your lip color in the last picture. What is it?!?!
medina family says
I think I might have to make those ranch signs and that red barn just because!! Soooo creative. Definitely one lucky girl, that Lainey. Happy Birthday to her!!
Jenny says
You sure do throw the best parties! Looks like it was a huge success!!!
Kimberly says
So, do you want to come to Kentucky to throw ME a birthday party? Because this looks amazing. I’m so jealous– of a four-year-old! And of your incredible craftiness and planning abilities.
Congratulations on a beautiful and unforgettable party for Lainey! You really did an unbelievable job… You make me want to have a themed party for our kids’ next birthdays.
Erin says
What a great birthday party for such a lucky girl!! Looks like a ton of fun!
DaisyBee says
This is so amazing! My birthday parties were great as a kid but my parents never put this much effort in! Y’know, an appropriately shaped cake and some cute decorations were as artistic as it got from them and they both went to art college! You are making so many magical memories for you daughters, it’s wonderful.
My Secret Rooms says
I’m speechless and in awe. Wow, what a party!!!!!!!
I’ll bet it was a hit 🙂 My boy would love a party like that. I’d love a party like that ;-D
Well done Kelle!
How wonderful for all of the guests.
Makes our “cake-in-the-garden”- parties feel… very Scandinavian…..!!
Inspirational. Thanks for letting us take part, on the other side of the world 😀
Love it!
Kaje says
Awesome details! Love love love!
Mum on the Run says
Woman, amongst the millions of compliments I could hurl your way, you throw yourself THE most magnificent parties.
Wow!
I love it all – the details, the taking the theme to town, the F.U.N.
Happy big day Lainey.
🙂
Claire @ Scissors Paper Rock says
WOW!!!!!!! {is the best word I can come up with right now to describe everything you did for this party!}
Honestly, where do you find the time girl? You are amazing!
I love every little detail! What a day I’m sure!
Ella wants a ‘farm’ party for her 4th birthday in January….and she’s already got me planning ideas & collecting bits n pieces for it 🙂 I love kids parties!!!
Good job Kelle! WOW!!!
xo
Hazel says
Wow, what a perfect day, gosh all the details must have taken you ages, but they all look perfect! No wonder you had such a fun time getting it ready! Happy Birthday Lainey, hope you all had a fantastic day, cause it sure looks like it!
Cris e Ester says
what a wonderful day!!!
a lot of smiles!!!!
kosenrufu mama says
wonderful moments, sweet sights!!!!
{ T G L } says
Oh my, this is a storybook birthday part of a bygone age. Glorious! How much time did you spend preparing it? I am sure you made memories for a lifetime there and I am impressed with how committed you were to carrying the cowboy theme forward 🙂
Happy birthday for your little cowgirl!
~This Good Life
Mon says
Gorgeous gorgeous gorgeous. I WISH I had that much energy for a theme…I’ve got a 4yr old to plan for next month and I’m outta ideas and energy. I so loved your photos though…I always do!
Emma Cook says
What a great looking party! Looks like everyone had a ball!!!
Question, where do you get the CD covers made up like that?
gabrielle says
you throw one amazing party
Team Lando says
How wonderful! I love the “panning for gold!” Who am I kidding, I love the whole thing and want to throw a huge theme party! Maybe for my own birthday, since I’m next!!
Liane says
I’m so jealous of your creativity! Do you want to throw me a birthday party in August? Lol 🙂
Looks like Lainey had a great party! Well done Mama! x
Southern Gal says
Magnificent as always, Kelle. Love your creativity. My granddaughter will be one in June. You’ve got me thinking on a few things…
And when Zac Brown started singing I thought I had left my player on!
Angie says
Soooo cute!!! And I’m definitely stealing that idea! Great job mama. Looks like Lainey & Friends had a grand time 🙂
XOXO,
Angie from Ohio
Angela says
We also celebrated a 4th birthday over here in Australia.
http://meinspatz.blogspot.com/2011/05/birthday-boy.html
Happy Birthday to both our wonderful children.
Elizabeth says
Wow, what an amazing party! It’s funny, as I was looking through your pictures, I started thinking about my oldest daughter and how much she loves horses. Then, I was remembering how much she’s benefited from therapeutic horseback riding over the years. She has multiple developmental issues, and I think the riding helped her strength and balance more than anything else we’ve done for her (not to mention she LOVES it!). Then as I was reading, I saw that Nella was a big fan of the horses, so….just something to keep in mind! 🙂 …and happy, happy 4th to sweet Lainey!
Fabrizia says
wonderful!!!YOU ARE THE BEST!!!
Shaye says
Now, I want to do a cow girl party for my Lilly who is having her 5th birthday party next Sunday!!! what a perfect day for your sweet girl!
jajb79 says
Gorgeous party for a gorgeous girl! Looks like it was amazing. Great job mama!!
Tracy says
You have to be one of THE most talented women on the planet Kelle! Your photographs alone amaze me but then you add super party planner to that and…WOW! Your girls are so lucky to have such a fun and creative mama! They are going to have THE BEST memories when they are older! You rock!
Heather says
Wow! Your parties are amazing. You need to start a party planning link on this page. I need to know how to do all that!
Sandy says
You. Are. Awesome.
Jorie says
Happy Birthday Lainey!!! The party looked AMAZING and I am sure everyone had a wonderful time! You are an awesome Mom, Kelle!
Jennifer from NJ says
you are making the most amazing birthday memories for your children. love everything you did for the party!!! well done mama!
A Cappelli says
Aww, I am so jealous that Lainey had horses at her party. I would have loved horses for my 4th birthday. Maybe for my 37th? What an amazing party! You are such a wonderful mama.
Pamela says
What a party!!! You have given me some great ideas for when my little one turns 4 this summer. Did you make the invites and if so how did you get the cds to stay? Also your belt is FAB!!!
Valerie says
Fun! I love all the clever little touches…after all it’s the little things, right?!!!
andrea says
WOW ! WOW! WHAT A GREAT PARTY! YOU SHOULD BECOME A PARTY PLANNER..IN ALL YOUR SPARE TIME:):)
BEAUTIFUL PICS!
Love Being A Nonny says
Love the attention to detail! What a party…nothing like celebrating our children!!
libby says
kelle…looked awesome. all of it. you did not miss a thing. looks like it was a great day.
Carrie says
Wow, wow, wow…what an AMAZING birthday party!! You absolutely thought of every little detail!! Your girls are going to have wonderful memories of awesome birthday parties!! And I love how everyone who came to the party dressed the cowgirl/cowboy part! I am in awe, Kelle!
Becca says
What a fun party!!! Sammi’s is next Monday…can’t wait! Trying the DIY stuff (Olivia theme), minus the glue gun. Wish me luck…
Trini says
cute! I love the invites!
JessR. says
What amazing memories she will have :). My oldest is turning 3 in less than a month, I’m right in the middle of the party planning and these pictures were inspiring!
Trini says
I only wish I could have had such a birthday when I was little…
j says
no other words other than Totally Amazing!!!
Babs says
Omigosh! What an adorable group, and Kelle, you’ve outdone yourself! My granddaughter Violet just turned 3, and she is SUCH a horse lover, she will be delighted when I show her these pictures!
SarcasmInAction says
WOW girl.
You need to be a full time party planner.
Looks awesome!
Happy birthday Lainey!
Jessica says
You are so freakin creative with the kids parties! How awesome. Happy Birthday Lainey!
Beautiful Chaos says
Love, Love, Love it!!!
Kathryn says
I didn’t think the fairy party could be outdone – but look at this, Lainey is so very lucky, awesome – AWESOME birthday fun! Happy Birthday to Lainey!
Jordan says
Incredible birthday party! I wish I had your talent!
Kat says
Wow! What a fantastic party!!! Lainey is one beautiful and lucky four year old!!!
Maria says
BUCKET LIST ~ #9 (favourite #)
ATTEND ONE OF KELLE’S KIDS PARTIES
There were so many WOW’s in these comments, I couldn’t possibly add another one but I can’t come up with another word to describe what I saw in these pictures. AMAZING!!
Just fantastic…I have memories of my childhood parties where we had little pink plastic baskets filled with pastel candies & princesses on cakes & the usual party games. Imagine the memories Lainey & Nella will have. Job well done. YOU R.O.C.K.
Stacy says
WHAT A GREAT PARTY!! You had everything covered and it looked GREAT!
lindsey kelly says
Wow what a great mama! looks like you worked hard and it paid off! looove it!
Sara says
Truly an amazing gift you give your children! You really make their special day something they will always remember!
Nikki says
Happy Birthday Lainey! What an amazing party…. so many good ideas. Thanks for sharing xx
Katie says
I LOVE it! You are so creative & thougtful 🙂 What a wonderful day for Lainey!
Tara says
You are one amazing mama… What a precious party!!
Souza Sisters says
This is the first time I have left a comment. You are an AMAMZING mother!! Lainey’s party looked unbelievable! Could I hire you to do my girls party? I LOVE your blog! Your family is beautiful!
Mary-Cate says
WoW – you inspire me! What a cool mama you are, planning all these fab birthday parties for your little girls! I want to hire you for my little dude’s birthday 😉 I think it’s also special how many great friends you have and Lainey too! Where do you get these great party ideas?! xxoo
Molly says
This is the best damn kids party I’ve seen in a long time.
Happy birthday to Lainey!
LoveLife{s.a.h.m.} says
this birthday party is amazing! you did such a great job and it looked like a success! i love seeing mommy’s out there who love and adore their children. being a mom is the best calling in the world. as u already know it 😉
thx for sharing!!! you inspire so many of us! thx again!!!
Aimee says
Seriously the cutest party ever…I am inspired!
just jen says
lovely.
fricka says
~~Cheer!~~ Happy Birthday to Lainey:) I love your party ideas, but especially the details. You don’t miss a thing. Good job momma.
Charla says
Yowza woman! Ammong the many hats you wear and the many things you’re good at, you’ve missed your true calling . . . children’s birthday party planning! What an awesome way to celebrate Miss Lainey!
Kimber and Casey says
what an ADORABLE party!!
skeay says
What a party!! I am so impressed with all of it! I even made my husband come over and look at all the pictures with me. What a special day for the whole family…you’re creating incredible memories for your girls!
MG Atwood says
what a great party planner you are! Such fun, and Lainey looked adorable! Happy Birthday
michelle Jaffe says
I want this to be MY birthday party!! Awesome job!
Esther says
Happy Birthday Lainey! Looks like y’all had an awesome day!
Esther Dush
CW says
Ahhhh!!! FANTASTIC! I LOVE a great themed party with perfect details!!! but it is the candid smiles on everyone’s faces that takes the cake! Happy Birthday to the beautiful lil’ cowpoke Lainey!
Summit of Glory says
What a great party!! I think the cowgirl general store is my favorite detail. Brilliant!! Girl – now ya gotta keep this up for the rest of their birthdays…… xo
Carissalayla says
my oh my, you throw the GREATEST parties, thanks for the inpiration! I have 2 months to get ready for my sons Spiderman
4th birthday, wish me luck!
Shari says
Man I wish I lived closer to you so I could pay you to plan my kid’s parties. You come up with the best ideas!!!!! That looked like such a fun party and good time was had by all. I’m so happy to see that Lainey had such a fun day.
Katy says
That party looked like it was a blast. You did such a good job with all the decorations! 🙂
Tara says
You throw one hell of a party! Every detail was perfection. Where ever did you find the place to print here ivnvitation/ cd holder? will you email me that info???? foreverblissphotography@gmail.com
Thanks so much!
Rachael says
That is a totally awesome party!!
Very cool! I would love those horses myself!
Looks like it was a blast! Loved all the little details!! That really makes it special.
The question is..how are you going to top that?!
kristinsfourkids says
What a fun, fun party! My kids all have Dec/Jan birthdays so we don’t get the fun outside things. This just looks like so much fun!
Ben & Jess Buehner says
This is sooo fabulous!! You should go into buisness planning themed birthday parties! I would definitely hire you =)
Sonja says
Unbelievably cute party!! And Happy Birthday to the cutest 4 year old girl 🙂
Jaclyn Hicks says
Such a cute birthday party! You out-did yourself!
Shannon says
Beautiful party, Beautiful birthday girl!! Seriously you should be a party planner!!
Margie says
Thank you for sharing your amazing life with us! You both are such inspirational parents and partners to each other. Reminds me of the pirate party we had for our son. I kept the leftover gold (spray-painted) pennies and am going to bundle up 30 of them and give it to him with a sweet note when he turns 30 in September!
Keep up the great work, you two! God bless all of you!
joeltrista says
You must throw the best birthday parties! Your girls have a great Mom!
Lisa says
Wow!, that looks like it was a great party! What a good time the kids must have had! And it looks like it was perfectly planned…all those wonderful decorations!
The Full Nelson says
Wow you don’t mess around with parties! Looks like so much fun, you’re so creative!
Jessica says
Looked like a great party!
Happy Birthday, Lainey!
Tina says
Ohhhh I just LOVE it!!!! Every single thing about this party is awesome. I’d love to pick your brain for party ideas sometime because clearly you were made for this sort of thing. You are a jack of all trades… loving mama & wife, photographer, writer, party planner extraordinaire! You are so crafty and creative. I’m sure Lainey & Nella will so much appreciate all the efforts you made to make them feel loved and celebrated as they blossomed.
Great job, Kelle!
ilovemymonkey says
Happy birthday sweet Lainey! It looks like you guys had an absolutely wonderful time. I really love your blog!
Jes says
Wow! What an amazing party! Happy Birthday, Lainey!!!
mjscreative says
This is the most amazing looking birthday party for a 4 year old girl ever! Love it!
Emily says
WOW. You should really be a party planner on the side…you know, with all your extra time and all. As a fellow party-planning lover, I’m in awe. Awesome job!
Oh, and Happy Birthday Lainey!!
Jennifer says
What a special party! Happy Birthday to Lainey! We had a cowgirl party for my daughter’s 3rd birthday with pony rides and I have to say it ranks up there as one of the top 5 happiest days I’ve ever had.
K-Nap says
Looks like an amazing party – perfect for an adorable 4-year-old. Happy Birthday Lainey!! PS – You should be a party planner…you have the greatest ideas and attention to detail…Love it!!
Stef says
you’re such a creative Mama! You inspire me 🙂
Also, the pic of you and your hubby is super cute. Especially the one with you two smiling at each other.
Heart melted….
Tiffany says
GREATEST.PARTY.EVER.
Yep that’s all I’m gonna say! 😉
Jessica says
1. You throw the most amazing parties!
2. That picture of you, Brett, and Nella is amazing. The way you’re looking at him…I can just feel the love through my computer screen.
Meagan Kenney says
YOu’re freakin’ AMAZING! I am in awe, not that I doubted for a second that you wouldn’t have the coolest party, but wow! Have you ever been to designdazzle.com? It’s a great decorating/party planning blog and website for kid stuff! Totally up your alley! I think you should submit these pictures to the website and have them post them (she does that)! Other moms that don’t read this blog MUST see this great party!
Mrs Stepford says
Wow! What a fantastic birthday party – you really outdid yourself with this one, and might I say you all looked fabulous!
Happy 4th birthday Lainey! xx
Lia says
Unbelievable. You really know how to throw a party. So many amazing details. Great job mama.
Kelli Kegley says
What a fabulous party! Not only was it cute, but fun to boot! (pun intended 😉 ) Now for possibly the most random question ever. What kind of lipstick do you have on? I LOVE it!!!!
es says
Dang, woman! I am so jealous of your go-get-em birthday party skizznills. Truly impressed!
Averyl Minori says
Wow…..amazing!! Now to convince my boy to want a cowboy party!! LOL-he’s really into Buzz & pirates right now…..Maybe I’ll just have a cowgirl party for myself!
Adriana says
dang girl! you sure know how to throw a party! How on earth are you gonna top this one? lol Happy Birthday to Lainey and Happy BIRTHday to you!
Deb and Mike says
Okay. Long time reader. First time commenter. Have so enjoyed your journey. And have shamelessly borrowed some party ideas along the way. You have a gift. Please answer a simple question for me: How did you make the great food tags in front of the potato salad, etc.? Thank you in advance!
Wenona says
You are an amazing party planner! You should totally do that for a job!! What a fun party!!!
Jennifer says
I feel like a bad mom with my last minute Chuck E Cheese parties, lol. Happy 4th to Lainey!
The Halbert Home says
You truly should be a professional party planner. Your attention to detail is incredible!
Rosa says
Wow speechless. I have two upcoming parties to plan. Yikes, will be nowhere near this! You should do this profess! Awesome.
amanda says
Amazing! I wish I could pull off something so creative – see the things you come up with reminds me of my own mother – she could always add those special detailed touches that no one else would’ve thought of to any occasion. I only wish I had inherited that same “gene” for our daughter (who will soon be 3). Btw- I’m totally in love with Nella’s little straw hat!
Erica says
Looks like a great party, you did an awesome job pulling it all together. I’m so excited for Piper’s first birthday party in August and the many more to come…Happy Birthday Lainey!
Sarah McK says
Oh my god, what an adorable party! I wish I’d had a mama who threw me parties like this! And I puffy heart Aunt Rebecca’s boots!
Carrie says
Ahhhhh!!! Fabulous – so, so, SO fabulous! Loved every bit of it! Your creativity never ceases to amaze me. The kids are so cute I could scream. I’m jealous of your ability to plan great parties and wear booty shorts after 2 kids.
Rojas Family says
Holy cow, that has got to be one of the cutest, most creative birthday parties ever. Seriously, I think I need to “borrow” some of these ideas for my boys’ birthday party, if not next month, next year. Love it!!
I laughed out loud to that pic of the little boy head diving into the panning for gold swimming pool. So funny!
KWQR says
I freakin’ love how you take an idea and make it a magic reality. Am in awe of all the details & time you put into making your girl’s special day such an incredible experience.
Katy says
Wow! What a great party! Besides being a stellar mom, you’re a wonderful party planner! Happy Birthday, Lainey!
Sherri says
OH Kelle. This post made me tearup…such beautiful memories you create for your girls!! Looks like it was a beautiful day!! Happy birthday Lainey Love!!xo
Randi says
OMG will you do my birthday next year? 😉
Kelly says
What a great party! You definitley have a nack for party planning!
Andrea says
So, so cool!! You are quite possible one of the most creative people! I’d love to be a fly on the wall to see how you put all this together! I hope everyone had a blast!
Andrea says
What an awesome party! My fave is the “Hamptons” Ranch sign! 🙂
Happy Birthday to your sweet, sweet girl! 4 WOW!!!
Johanna says
holy moly! this is AMAZING!!!! what attention to detail! Happy birthday Lainey!
Kelly says
Wow what a fabulous party and so many fun memories for all! A++ job Mom!! The ponies were so cool! My favorite is her invitation – adorable photos of Miss Lainey! What company do you use for invites? (and your family xmas card, nella’s announcement, etc.!) Loved everything!!
Jolene says
~I adore your earrings!~ Great job on everything it looks amazing and what a great way to celebrate!
Sarah says
What a fun party! I love that everyone dresses up for the theme! Also, I love the lipstick you are wearing, would you mind sharing what it is?
Jeanie says
Adorable. You are so clever!
Stephanie says
Party looks so awesome! I am inspired to start planning for my little girl’s bday in July. Actually…I turn 32 tomorrow, do you think I’m too old to throw myself a party with pony rides?
trinity says
PLEASE write a book about kid party planning! Or any party planning for that matter! Cause I would go ahead and pre order it TODAY. I want to know where you get all the ideas and little things that make these so wonderful! Amazing 🙂
Julie says
Good grief – you know how to throw a party! I shall shamelessly steal ideas from here when I have a girl. Keep ’em coming – you are creating amazing memories for your sweet girl.
Laura Anne says
This is awesomeness to the nth degree! So stinkin’ cool!
Jenn says
Has anyone ever told you that you should be a party planner? That looks like it was one amazing party!!
Yuliya says
You are my party planning idol! Happy birthday lil’ cowgirl!
dig this chick says
Happy birthday sweet Lainey girl! Four is a really big deal because, when you are older, you will remember little vivid snippets from this time. What a wonderful memory you’ll have of all of your pals, bright colors and a thoughtful, creative mama who loves you so.
xo
Nici from Montana
♡ Ambrosia says
Amazing. You certainly made some seriously sweet memories for your sweet little Lainey! Great details lady!
Kiwi Sarah says
Absolutely amazing…where do you find the time?
Stephanie of CreatureBug says
SO FABULOUS! We are throwing a pony party in a week for my soon to turn 7 y/o. I’ve got the same hats that you have!
Julie says
Amazing looking party. Would you mind coming to Indiana in November and planning my 53rd birthday party? Thanks!
Rosellini says
The CUTEST birthday party EVER! Nice work and you can tell Lainey just loved it! I need to get my creative butt into gear – my guy turns 2 in September and need to think of a theme! 🙂 Happy Bday Lainey!
Angela Bowden says
Gosh Kelle! Your girls’ birthday parties blow me away every time!! What are you doing in October? I have an adorable little redheaded boy who needs his 1st birthday party planned :))
krayzid0rk says
oh my goodness I LOVE it!
Where did you order everything? The signs, cards, dollar bills?
LisaSlater says
Amazing party, the details are crazy
! I hope you take this the right way-but honestly, if I didn’t like you so much I would so not like you. 🙂
Rebekah says
When do you have time to do all this? Nothing was left undone! Great job mama!
Alison says
Holy smokes! Looks like a great time—your girls are so lucky to have such a creative, talented mama!!!
Happy Birthday, Lainey!
Melissa says
You throw the kind of parties I dream about throwing. So glad you are able to do this for your daughter. Special memories, for sure! I love all the print outs–where did you do those?
Jenel says
love it!!! HAPPY 4TH BIRTHDAY LAINEY! =) xoxo
Tiffany says
That is an amazing party!! Your girls are so lucky to have a mama like you, I could only wish to throw parties like that.
katie says
AWESOME!! Your parties are so spectavular – I love them and want to re-created them for my own babes…Happy Birthday Lainey Love!!!
Kelly Cach says
Your BELT!!!!! Where from? Loooove.
Cutest western-wearin’ family EVER, EVER, EVER!
And the Soundtrack! Great idea for a party favor! My boys are forever burning their own “playlists” (as they call them). Did you order them or make them yourself?
I could say soooo much more, but I’m still feeling pretty much speachless over all the details.
Brilliant.
Happiest of birthdays Lainey….you are so blessed by your Mama 🙂
Kelly
Lianna says
WOW! Just absolutely brilliant!
Kelle, the pics are spectacular & I bet the party was amazing!
julia says
It looks like you have the perfect party! I love every bit of it! Gosh.
theenglishgirl says
OMG too many amazing details to comment on! Fan-friggin-tastic! (do you need to bleep that out?)
we are moms says
Incredible! Love it!
pakosta says
I am so impressed with how you pulled this all together!!! will you be sharing “how to’s” on all that you did?! I LOVED IT! what a GREAT party! yOU should become a party planner! have a show or book maybe?!
tara
Amy Parris says
I think you’ve missed your calling as a professional party planner. You did an amazing job!
Sarah says
What an amazing birthday celebration! You are So Creative!
Sarah says
love your party, the pics and zac brown. please share the vendors you used or how you did it all in a post one of these days:) AMAZING!!!!
Dawn @ Musings from the Pigg Pen says
Wow…this is awesome. So impressive. Lainey is one lucky girl!!
Jenny Dawn says
OMG— am in LOVE! Love, love, love– what a beautiful celebration!!! Happy 4th birthday, Lainey!!!! Such a gorgeous party– want to go throw one!!
heather says
Man oh man can you throw a party… This looks like an awesome party.. I might have to have a cowboy party in the future now, thanks for the great ideas, your awesome… Looks like lainey had a blast 🙂
Kim says
Amazing! You can see how much love (and hard work!) went into all of this. So glad ya’ll had fun 🙂
Daniele says
WOW!!! Who,what, when, where?!…where did you order all of those fab signs, labels, etc?! What a beautiful party!!! Happy birthday Lainey 🙂
Tracy says
How FUN!!! We had ponies at my daughter’s 3rd birthday and I swear we didn’t need anything else. They were such a hit. Your girls have the coolest parties. Happy Birthday Cowgirl Princess!!!
Emily P says
Looks like another successful birthday celebration. And it looks like kids and adults had a blast!! :0) Have a great week!
Heather :: AFD Jewelry :: says
What an amazing party!! I love every single detail…and hey – I won! Emailing you now 🙂
Adri Hunt says
Could this have turned out any cute! Looks like a fun party for the adults too!!
Just Glory says
You spared no details, Kelle! I think you may throw the best birthday parties I’ve seen- totally adorable and fun without being over-the-top insane, and I’ve only seen them through my laptop. I’d hire you as a party planner in a minute!
aslavik says
Ahhh, beyond adorable! Are you for hire? My girls got a birthday coming up 😉
Holly says
Oh my goodness…this is the most adorable party ever!!! Love it..looks like everyone had a blast!
C & O Mummy says
Looks like so much fun! Where do you get your party ideas from? I have been following the blog for a while now, and I just love them! Do you have any tips?
Ashley295 says
I must say, your girls are so blessed to have a mama who puts so much energy into making them feel special. It’s very inspiring!
Great job on the party, love all the little touches.
Scarehaircare says
Ohmiheavens, you are QUEEN of the birthday parties! I might have to unabashedly copycat your ideas for my little girl. 🙂
mamacarlson09 says
What an amazing party! Your girls are lucky to have such a creative mama.
Allison says
super cute party!! It would be cool if you added a DIY post for your parties. I know many would love to know how you set everything up! I am particularly interested in the invitation! How did you make that? And what songs were on the CD? I hope when I have kids one day I can provide them with the fun you provide your kids!
SuperMilf says
Ah-Mazing!! I wish you lived close by so I could tap in to your creativeness to help me with my boys parties! 🙂
Good job momma!
Lindsay says
I turn 30 in october. hook a girlfriend up? can you throw me a party like that?!?
Stephers says
Wow, what a great party!! Happy 4th Birthday to your adorable Lainey!
Jannice says
how fun!!! I think that is the cutest party I have ever seen!! Great job!!
ChezJeanette says
Hi!
I am one of your many fans in Norway. I just love your site and recommend it to many of my friends.
I just loved this party post, I was wondering if I could borrow some of your pictures and write a post of it on my blog (I just want your beautiful pictures on my blog, haha).
And of course link to your blog!
Let me know, I’ll keep reading your blog either way.
Have a great day
Jeanette 🙂
Crystal says
You have the best birthday parties! I just love everything about this one – so cute and original! I love the invitation … please no moonshine or guns. I totally want to have a cowgirl birthday party for my daughter now, just so I can use that line!!
bobbiebrownphotography.com says
Wow! You guys went all out and it is all SO adorable!!! I LOVE the invites, and many other things!
The Birds says
Looks like it was an absolutely perfect day, Happy Monday! I hope you have time to recoop after that fantastic, but busy weekend.
Andrea says
Fan.tas.tic!!!!! I showed my daughter and could see her mind working on ideas for her b-day (6 mos. away). Being from the South I’m loving the song you picked to go with!
Ani says
Super fun! Quite the birthday bash, indeed. The little ones all look so darn cute, and it seems like the mommies and daddies had a great time!
Chantelle says
Holy Toledo
kelle!!! WOW!!!!!
laineys pictures on her invite are way too cute! words are failing me right now lol…I love how you friend Rebecca comes down for all the important shin digs! your attention to detail is unreal! What a lucky little girl!!Happy birthday Lainey!!xo
Mom of Steele says
Uh-mazing party! Everything looked awesome. Lainy is lucky to have a mama as crafty and creative as you! Happy belated Birthday to her!
marie says
New to your blog. Inspiring, Touching, Sweet. Your pictures capture everything. Your family is just precious. I love your words and the love you have for life and the true love you have for the endlessly tiring lovely job of motherhood.
IRWSMom says
What a fun fantabulous birthday party you planned!! Love the theme! Lainey, you have an awesome Momma! LOVE the Chicken Fried entrance song 😉 Thanks for sharing your memories!
CMB says
You are THE MOST creative Mama!!! Love your ideas and thanks for sharing them!!
Joedee Robinson says
You’re the best party planner/thrower EVER. And I know some serious party Moms.
Amber says
How adorable! You are so creative!
Are we there yet? says
Love it! What a great party and so darn creative!!
Talia says
Wow! What an incredible party! No detail untended to!
Happy Birthday to your baby girl!
Kirby Johansen says
What an amazing party!!! Happy Birthday sweet girl!!!
Christa Forsythe says
I don’t know HOW you do it! Your girls birthday parties are INCREDIBLE… what an event… I was imagining your girls looking back on their birthdays and realizing how special each and every one was. You are a special Momma!
Monique says
YEE HAW! You lassoed this one!!! Just when I think you can’t possibly amaze me anymore (although you do in each post…)…you blasted this one off into another galaxy!!! And it all started with the FUNtastic invitation!! LOVE IT!!! Lainey’s Lazy Acres barn, the General Store (since 2007-so cute), Happy Trails loot bags, Mama’s Trail Mix, Lady Lainey’s Rodeo Rootbeer and of course the happy smiles on all the cowgirls as they galloped on the horses…were all of my favourite parts to your amazing party-fun times!!!
I too love filling in all the details to a child’s birthday party…right down to the goodies they are sent home with. Alot of time and effort goes into planning and prepping for these adventurous parties-you did great Kelle and from the smiles on the faces of all your guests, good times were had by all. And yes, a little/big 4 year old who felt loved and celebrated AND a Mama filled with overflowing JOY!!
Cheers to you Kelle for celebrating life to its fullest!!
Monique
Abs says
What a fun birthday! Thanks for sharing all the fabulous ideas. Panning for gold is my favorite!!!
Annie says
Wow, the details you think of and create are amazing. Love your belt.
Thank you for continuing to share. You continue to be a source of inspiration for me.
Elizabeth says
Wowser! This is the cutest party I have ever seen! I DREAM of the day I can throw birthday parties like this for my little ones! Happy birthday Lainey!!!
Blogging Blondie
mishaae says
Girl you sure do know how to do up a party!!!
We love that Chicken Fried song.. although we change “cold beer” to “juice box”! HAHA
Happy Birthday sweet Lainey!!!
fashion wanna-be says
That is simply the most amazing thing I have ever seen…
Jilly says
You throw the best birthday parties 🙂 What blessed little girls to have a mom who puts so much into making wonderful memories for them 🙂
Jamie says
Im so curious… what was on the CD’s included with the invitations????
Amazed at your party planning skills, Kelle. You must share how you go about planning and organizing all of this.
Suz.martins says
You have really outdone yourself this time! What a wonderful idea for a b-day party, loved everything but the party flavours were awesome!! I would love to have you plan my daughters birthday anyday! =)
villemezbrown says
WOW! This party looks too perfect. It ought to be in a magazine or something. The picture of Lainey on the front of the invitation with the bandana over her face looking mean may be the best one yet. I love this post. So much fun!
Adele
Lorena M says
Love the party! So fun and creative.
What color lipstick/lipgloss are you wearing, it’s so pretty?
Zeller Family says
Absolutely spectacular. I adore all the little details.
Melissa says
This party looks like such fun! What an amazing mama you are, there is so much thought put into every detail. A-MAZ-ING!
gioia says
What a fun celebration!! Happy B-day Lainey!!!
Anna says
Your photos are amazing! The birthday party is like a fairytale!
Lola says
Happy Birthday to Lainey!
What an awesome party. You are so talented Kelle!
Just Beautiful……
Kerry says
awesome!
Amy says
I am tucking this in the back of my mind for my triplet daughters’ fourth birthday–what an incredible day! Your post made me want to jump right in and celebrate with Lainey with you!
The Martys says
What a stinkin’ cute party. No detail unturned. Looks fun was had by all. Thanks for sharing.
Amy
Andrea W. says
Wow! You sure do know how to throw a kids party! Love it all!!
Melinda says
Wow! It looks like you ALL had an amazing time. Happy Birthday, Lainey! 🙂 Great theme! And as always you and your girls look beautiful! 😉
Chris says
As an Oklahoma girl, I love love love this idea! Too cute! Where did you order all the customs from (with her picture on it etc)? Your parties are always so inspiring!
Stephanie says
That is just adorable, happy birthday to your big girl! You are so creative!
Andrea says
Wow I am in awe of everything you put together!! Simply amazing and what great memories for your girl.
Any chance you will share the mac and cheese recipe? It looked so delicious!
julia christine says
That is an unreal party!! I am so impressed with how you guys decked out the place, I don’t know how on earth you found the time to make such creative decorations! But I am taking notes. 🙂
Brenna says
Oh, to go to one of your parties! What fun! You’ve outdone yourself, once again. : )
Cartz says
I am so, so impressed — what an awesome party! Looks like everyone had a blast, esp the birthday girl!
Rebekah says
fantabulous!!!
Bakography says
To say that I could never even come close to throwing a party as cool and fun as that is an understatement! I hope that I get an automatic dose of creativity once I have some kids or I’m in trouble if they ever see your birthday shindigs! 🙂
Catherine G. says
You plan the most beautiful birthday parties! Happy 4th Lainey!
tracyallegre says
awesome. is it too much to ask you to plan my daughter’s 4th bday party? 🙂
Mamarazzioftwoboys says
I must say…you go above and beyond on your girls birthdays and it’s so magical…I feel like I was there…brilliant theme for a party…loves all the special touches…I see another hobby/business for you… coordinating children’s party’s…just sayin……
mama marchand says
What a FABULOUS party! You did a great job with every little detail. 🙂
MyRayOLite says
WOW! What an awesome party!
:o)
genderist says
This is fantastic. The only thing missing was bluegrass music on your page.
sotheywillalwaysremember says
Cutest party ever! The funny thing is my daughter is going to have her sweet 16 this year and we just moved to South Carolina a couple weeks ago, (we are new to the south) and the idea of a cowgirl/barn party is totally wha she wants so I will be borrowing some of the ideas! Love the labels on the root beer, the invites and the favor idea of the bandana on a stick! Thanks for helping me figure it out.
Twinkletoes says
Wayyyyyy tooo perfect! Love this!
Marie Rose says
All I can say is…you.are.awesome! I aspire to have birthday parties like yours…we are tackling a superhero party in September for my little girl…we’ll see how it goes
Erin says
Girl! You do parties like Michaelangelo painted the Sistine Chapel! All out!! Love it all!
Lauren {sippinglemonade.com} says
As a Texan, I can say — simply perfect! 🙂 Don’t know who loves the parties more… the mamas or the babies!
Megan@TrueDaughter says
Wow – I have always been sort of anti-birthday party because they are sooo expensive, and we have nine kids, but this makes me want to throw special parties now and then. Beautiful job!
You girls are gorgeous, and little Nella is just breathtaking. I say that everytime, but her little face KILLS ME! Longing for a new baby girl, I think she just gets to me!
Lovely Lindsay says
wowzers! THIS is what a birthday party should look like! way to go Mom!!! will you be my mom?? lol. amazing job, as always! you have the luckiest little girls ever! my only request: get a family picture! i would love to see it! but yes, perfection in a day, that party!
Ashley says
Happy 4th Birthday Lainey!! What a fun party!
TRB Holt says
YEEEEE HAW! Dang, Those young whippersnappers…raised the roof on that barn!!!! Are you sure you don’t have a little Montana in you!?
xoxo,
Bug & Ruby’s Gram
Brianna says
what an amazing birthday party, you did a great job with everything!!! everyone looks like they are having a blast
Lexie Loo & Dylan Too says
What a fantastic party theme and pictures!
Tanya says
Wow, I need you to plan my childrens Birthday parties! So many wonderful details, and they will alway have such awesome memories! Happy Birthday Lainey!
katie says
You are so, so, so creative. I loved this idea as much as the fairy party you did too!
Kathy G says
Love it! Looks like a great time was had by all!
Katie says
Awesome party!! I love all the homemade details 🙂
Sarah RDH says
what a great party!!! happy birthday lainey!! you did such a great job. i love doing my kids parties- it gives them such great memories when they’re older!
LoveLife says
What an amazing party! And it makes me happy that you look like you were able to enjoy yourself and play along. Sometimes the hostess just has too much to do. Brava, lady! What brilliant planning, beautiful photos (as always), and a wonderful celebration. You are an inspiration!
Chantelle
LoveLife says
p.s. I totally noticed the lipstick too. hee hee
Kristine says
FABULOUS. What else can be said? You put your heart into it and it shows. Lucky babies you have.
xo
Kris
Heidi says
I love your parties!!! You’re such a great momma and your girls are fortunate to have you!
Susan Carson says
What a great party- Yee Haw! Happy Birthday, Lainey!
medtopicwriter.com says
I love this website! It IS the small things that matter in life — totally! My kids and husband taught me that truth, which is essential to authentic happiness.
Samantha
Happiness is... says
You know, my mother set the stage for celebrating the piss out of birthdays; your mom and Dad must have too. And I like you think that people deserve to have their lives celebrated…in neon lights! Lainey, Brett, Nella, and all of your family and friends are blessed to have you celebrate their births. Lainey must have felt very, very loved.
Oh the details. You once again served it up. Love your endless creativity. You’re an inspiration. I now have less than 2 weeks to get Alex’s celebration in order. I’m a bit behind seeing that she was in the hospital, but I can do without sleep for the next two weeks if it makes her coo and gasp when she sees the celebration. I cannot wait. I hope that she soaks it up.
Ok, back to Neverland details. Hope that you catch up on sleep this week. Bravo mommy. Happy Birth Day to you for the girl that made you a mommy.
-Jennifer from Annapolis
Sherlyn says
Looks amazing! LOVE your blog =)
Tiffany says
Wow. Just… wow. Do people hire you to plan parties? If I were rich, I would so hire you!
In other news, know what I’m doing right now? Googling “superhero party ideas.” For my son’s fourth birthday party. On Sunday. Oh gosh.
Sarah says
Wow!!! Can you do my next birthday??? That looks like so much fun!!!
K&LMama says
what a fabulous party!! in fact, i’m throwing a western theme party for my girl too! what i am trying to figure out is what you used for the “gold” in the pool? I can’t seem to figure it out…Thanks!
The Tablescaper says
Looks like an amazing party. Lucky little girl to have such a creative mom.
– The Tablescaper
Angie Akins says
Hi just saw the great cowgirl party you had for your daughter. It looked like it was so much fun. You have some great ideas. I teach preschool and would love to use some of your ideas. What did you use for the gold? I thought maybe glitter but thinking it might sink to the bottom.
The McIntyre Family says
Hi, I have been following your blog for awhile now and I am planning a cowgirl B-day for my girl and some how i missed your post before, but found a link to your party on pintrest and love it. I was wondering if you could tell me what font you used for the “Now kick up your boots and Giddy Up” on your favors?
Thanks!
Sara
clinks08 says
was wondering how you set up your panning for gold station and what material did you use? Thanks!
Danielle Lanthier says
I see that this party was in 2011, and thanks to Pinterest it is all new again! What did you put in the pool for the gold panning?! Such a fun idea for my classroom!
Ernesto Ibañez says
Oh!!! so Texan all of the pictures, Horse therapy is a good one!!!!!
Go on good job!!!!!
see also my blog
Cuttysark says
Wow, i love fun party. I love it when everyone’s having a great time. I also loved your invites. Good job mommy!
Cathy
birthday invitations
Angie Akins says
The cowboy party looked like fun. I teach preschool and love the ideas. What did you use for gold in the panning for gold? Great ideas and thank you for sharing.
Kelle says
Hi Angie! I spray painted rocks metallic gold.
50 Shades of grey pdf says
Can I just say what a comfort to find somebody who actually understands what they are
discussing online. You definitely realize how to bring an issue to light and make it important.
More people really need to check this out and understand this side of your
story. I was surprised you aren’t more popular because you most certainly possess the gift.
Heather says
Can you share more details on the panning for gold? I’m thinking of offering this activity at a booth I have coming up for a Chilli cook off! Looking for something fun for the littles to do!
phoebe says
HI KELLE,
I AM HAVING A SPECIAL EVENT PARTY FOR A COWBOY LOVER BOTH AS IN FOOTBALL AND WEARING THE ATTIRE. SO IN LOOKING FOR DECOR I FOUND YOUR WAGON. HOW COOL IS THAT! I ALSO SCROLLED YOUR PAGE AND ADMIRED THE SIMPLICITY BUT FAMILY AND FRIENDS WARMNESS. FAMILY IS TRULY A BLESSING FROM JEHOVAH AND THAT SHOWED THROUGHOUT YOUR PICTURES. THANK YOU FOR SHARING WITH OUTSIDERS.MAY JEHOVAH CONTINUE TO BE WITH YOUR FAMILY.
Sports Boards 2018 says
Wonderful Website. I truly enjoy studying on this site, it holds great blog posts.