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This past Friday, I put out an invitation on Facebook for you to ask me any party questions. Want to know how to recreate something you’ve seen on Pinterest? Stumped for a party idea? Ask me! I’ve gotten some great questions, so as long you all keep them coming, I’ll answer your questions each Monday. Today, we’re talking about Jellyfish Under the Sea Birthday Party Ideas.
Today’s question comes from Ashley, Zane’s mom.
I’m thinking about doing a jellyfish party for my lil man’s first birthday. Silly story: when he was born he had/still has squishy checks. In Finding Nemo, Dori says to the jellyfish, “I shall call you squishy, and you shall be mine, and you shall be my squishy.” This I how/why we refer to him this way, his squishy cheeks. So I’d like to do an ocean themed party with an emphasis on jellyfish and incorporate that phrase. Any suggestions?
If you don’t recall that bit of the movie: here a link to that snipet. LOVE this idea for a party because of how connected it is to Ashley’s love for Zane’s sweet, squishy cheeks! So … onto some ideas for Ashley!
No matter what else you do, you have to have jellyfish. Here’s a tutorial from Party City to make jellyfish out of paper lanterns.
Finding Nemo is a bright and colorful movie, so that’s how I’m picturing Zane’s party, as well. Which leads me to this ocean/under the sea party printables collection from Chickabug. Heather’s sweet style is perfect for a first birthday.
For overall inspiration, beautiful table settings and a starfish cookie favor, check out this party by P&J by Design featured on Kara’s Party Ideas.
Of course you need a stunning cake. (And depending on the scale of your party, maybe you don’t need much more for a first birthday party.) I love this cake from Love & Sugsr Kisses featured in a party by Great Gatherings.
Want to go a more budget-friendly route? Or just want to dress-up a simple smash cake? Try these 3D fondant toppers by Edible Details. I use Brittany for fondant all the time and she never disappoints.
For a first birthday party, you only need activities if you will have older children attending. Even then: you’re a new mom. Take it easy on yourself. Don’t run yourself ragged for a first birthday party. But if the season is right, try this activity idea. Invite the older kids to bring their swim suits. Fill a wading pool with water and Squishy Baff. If you haven’t tried this, it’s like bathing in chunky Jello. It’s a pain to clean out of the tub, but my girls thoroughly enjoy and the Easter Bunny only brings it once a year.
Here’s another idea: let the kids “go fishing.” Cut our fish from construction paper. Tape a large metal paper clip to the back of each fish. Gather sticks from your yard, add baker’s twine (“fishing line”) and tie a magnet on the end of your twine. Go fishing! Or, spend $20 on this game and skip the DIY — just as fun, less fuss for you.
Other party must-haves:
- Felt party hat for the birthday boy (felt means this can be a keepsake)
- High chair bunting
- Decorated cookies as favors or for your dessert table
- Balloons in blue, green and white
- Fisherman’s netting for your dessert table backdrop
- Or, cut out your “squishy” quote using a Silhouette machine and adhere them to a backdrop board
- Add your party invitation in a picture frame to your dessert or welcome table
- Goldfish crackers
- If you’re serving lunch, Goldfish shaped bread by Pepperidge Farm for PBJ sandwiches
- Swedish fish in a goldfish bowl
- Blue jello with mini spoons
For more ideas check out my “under the sea” themed Pinterest boards here and here.
Ashley, I hope that kick-starts your planning! I had fun coming up with ideas for you — thanks for Asking Jennifer!
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Jennifer, this is perfect for my squishy!!!!!!!! I am so glad I saw your post Friday night. And I absolutely love the activity of the squishy baff. I have never heard of that product before but that sounds absolutely perfect. Thank you so much for taking the time to help me!
I was so happy to help — it was fun! Would love to see what cake you come up with!
I will absolutely be sure to share everything with you! Although it will be awhile, singles he’s only 3 mos old 🙂
Since no singles :-). Replying via phone
Never hurts to plan ahead!!