Baby shower invitations are what we call the opening act of baby showers because they set the stage for everything that follows. Whether you’re calling loved ones to a backyard baby-q or an elegant afternoon tea shower, your invite should pack a punch. Want your guests to RSVP with enthusiasm for your little one’s celebration? Then it’s time to toss out the generic and step into the world of stunning, DIY baby shower invitation ideas.
Know your audience
Understanding your audience when planning the perfect baby shower is like having cheat codes to a great video game. It makes things a whole lot easier (and more fun). Are your invitees trendy millennial parents or laid-back family members? An invite aimed at work colleagues may differ from one crafted for your mum friends from prenatal class. Of course, the invites should be the design you want but if you know your audience, then you can watch the YES RSVPs roll in.
When thinking about baby shower invitation designs, consider familial, cultural, or community norms and tailor each detail to show respect for the guests.
Choose the right colours
Colours speak louder than words. They set the vibe. Imagine sending out neon-green invites for a delicate “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” theme. Bold, saturated colours shout “co-ed baby shower party time,” while soft pastels whisper “elegant tea party shower.” Choose a palette that pairs well with your nursery theme.
Colours can also stir emotions, so choose wisely depending on your baby shower’s purpose. Vibrant rainbow colours can evoke excitement for a gender reveal party, while muted, neutral tones might be perfect for those keeping baby’s gender a surprise. The aesthetic should not only match the event but also reflect any nursery décor or baby theme you’d like to represent.
As digital solutions like digital invites with RSVP become more popular among busy parents, consider using DIY printable baby shower invitations with RSVP functions to optimise the process seamlessly. These options allow you to match your color palette and nursery theme effortlessly, making modern celebration preparation less like a chore and more like nesting art.
Be precise with baby shower details
Clarity is key for busy parents and family members. Nail down the essential details, date, time, location, registry info, and attire. But don’t stop there. Make it sparkle with something special, like a personalised message about your journey to parenthood or a sweet ultrasound photo. It transforms mere logistics into a heartfelt call to celebrate your growing family.
Additionally, supplying a brief rundown of the baby shower schedule can be beneficial. Include details like “nappy raffle entry” or “bring a book instead of a card” requests. Not only does it set expectations, but it also heightens anticipation for any special activities you have planned, like baby shower games or a gender reveal moment.
Don’t far the font (baby-themed typography)
Fonts can be your best friend or your worst enemy in DIY baby shower invitations. They express personality, convey mood, and communicate whether this is a whimsical woodland creature theme or an elegant garden party. Using Comic Sans for a sophisticated baby sprinkle? Lean towards playful serif fonts for storybook themes and clean sans-serif for modern, minimalist baby showers. Remember, fonts tell your baby’s story, so make sure it’s the right one.
Step up with creative baby shower themes
Think outside the box for your DIY baby shower invitation ideas. A onesie-shaped or baby bottle design? Go for it. Interactive elements like scratch-off gender reveals or detachable registry cards add an element of surprise. Embrace creativity to draw intrigue. Popular themes include “Little Star,” “Safari Adventure,” or “Books for Baby.” Each aspect of the invite should be a reflection of your parenting style, a tantalising teaser trailer for your little one’s debut.
Thoughtful baby shower embellishments make a difference
Ever received a baby shower invite with a tiny ribbon bow or textured cardstock? It’s unforgettable. Embellishments can transform an ordinary invite into something cherished, which is perfect for the baby book! Gold foiling for “Oh Baby,” miniature clothespins, or even baby powder-scented paper can leave a lasting imprint. These touches elevate the experience, making your shower feel major before it even starts.
But remember, restraint is key, especially for DIY projects. Overcrowding a baby shower invitation with embellishments can detract from its elegance. A minimalist splash of luxury, like a single pacifier charm or tiny footprint stamp, can speak volumes. Use embellishments to amplify your baby shower message rather than complicating it.
Stick the landing with RSVP details
Your closing shouldn’t fizzle out. End with a clear call to action that busy parents will appreciate. An RSVP deadline (at least 2 weeks before) helps you plan for the right amount of baby shower favours and food. Include registry information and any special requests like “books instead of cards.” A sign-off that encapsulates the joy of welcoming your little one isn’t just polite – it’s the thing everyone remembers. Wrap it up with a sweet farewell like “Can’t wait to celebrate our little miracle with you!”
There you have it! Craft DIY baby shower invitation ideas that mesmerise expecting parents, delight grandparents-to-be, and, most importantly, get your loved ones to RSVP instead of shelving your shower as a “maybe.” Turn your invitations into coveted keepsakes that’ll have your mailbox (or inbox) brimming with enthusiastic replies from everyone eager to celebrate your bundle of joy!
Pro tip for busy parents: Many online platforms now offer free, printable baby shower invitation templates that you can customise at home – perfect for those late-night nesting sessions when inspiration strikes!
*Collaborative feature post*
63 best experience gift ideas for Mom on Mother’s Day
It’s Mother’s Day and you just want some to experience non-parental stuff. And while traditional gifts like flowers and chocolates are always appreciated, why enjoy something truly unforgettable this year? Experience gifts are a perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day because they offer unique and memorable moments that you can cherish forever. These gifts go beyond the ordinary, focusing on quality time and adventure.
Whether you love the thrill of the outdoors, crave relaxation, or have a passion for learning new skills, there’s an experience gift that will make your day extra special. Here are 63 best experience gift ideas for Mom on Mother’s Day.
Adventure and outdoor experience gifts
1 – Helicopter ride
Book a scenic helicopter tour and experience the thrill of soaring above the landscape. With WonderDays, you can enjoy breathtaking views and an unforgettable adventure. These tours offer a unique perspective and a sense of freedom every parent needs. Why not even book a Tactical Helicopter Flying Lesson too!
2 – Hot air balloon ride:
Enjoy the magical experience of floating above the landscape in a hot-air balloon. This serene adventure provides a peaceful and awe-inspiring view of the world below, making it a perfect gift for Mother’s Day.
3 – Hiking adventure
Plan a guided hiking trip in a scenic location. This is an excellent way to connect with nature, get some exercise, and enjoy beautiful landscapes. It’s a great opportunity to spend quality time together with the family too in the great outdoors.
4 – Camping trip
Organise a family camping trip to unwind and enjoy the simplicity of nature (although, try to leave the parenting to your partner or another adult if you can, so you can actually enjoy it!). Whether it’s by a lake, in the mountains, or in a forest, you will appreciate the chance to relax and create memories around the campfire.
5 – Segway tour
Take a fun Segway tour of the city for an exciting way to explore urban areas, learn about local history, and see the sights from a new perspective.
6 – Biking tour
Arrange a biking tour through picturesque trails. Whether it’s a leisurely ride through a park or a challenging trail in the countryside, biking is a great way to spend time together and enjoy the beauty of nature.
7 – Kayaking adventure
For an awesome adventure, you can sign up for a kayaking excursion. Kayaking offers an intimate way to explore rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. It’s both relaxing and invigorating, making it an ideal gift for adventurous moms.
8 – Zip lining
The thrill of zip lining through the treetops is such an adrenaline-pumping activity that it’s unforgettable and provides an exhilarating view of the forest canopy – perfect for those who love adventure.
9 – Horseback riding
Book a horseback riding adventure. Riding through scenic trails on horseback is a peaceful and enjoyable way to experience nature.
10 – Scuba diving lesson
Enrol in a beginner scuba diving class and open up to a whole new world beneath the waves. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore underwater landscapes and see marine life up close.
Relaxing Experience Gifts
11 – Spa day
Treat yourself to a full day of pampering with massages, facials, and more. A spa day is the ultimate gift for relaxation and self-care, providing you with a rejuvenating escape from daily stresses.
12 – Face mask
Include a luxury face mask in a home spa gift basket. It’s a simple yet effective addition to feeling pampered and refreshed.
13 – Hotel stay collections
Book a night or two at a luxury hotel for a relaxing getaway. Many hotels offer special packages that include spa services, making it a perfect retreat.
14 – Yoga retreat
Enrol in a yoga retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation. Yoga retreats offer a serene environment to practice mindfulness, improve flexibility, and find inner peace.
15 – Meditation class
Sign up for a meditation course to find some inner peace. Meditation classes can be valuable tools to manage stress and enhance overall wellbeing.
16 – Massage therapy session:
Schedule a professional massage session. A massage can relieve tension, reduce stress, and provide a sense of deep relaxation.
17 – Hot stone massage
Treat yourself to a unique hot stone massage experience. This therapeutic treatment uses heated stones to relax muscles and promote a sense of calm.
18 – Aromatherapy session
Experience the benefits of aromatherapy during sessions that use essential oils to enhance physical and emotional wellbeing.
Creative and educational experience gifts
19 – Cooking classes
Enrol in a cooking class for your favourite cuisine. Whether you love Italian, Thai, or French cuisine, cooking classes are a fun way to learn new recipes and techniques.
20 – Art class
Sign up for a painting, pottery, or other art class. Artistic activities are not only enjoyable but also a great way to express creativity and learn new skills.
21 – Music lessons
Arrange for music lessons in an instrument you love. Whether you’re a beginner or you want to improve your skills, music lessons can be incredibly rewarding.
22 – Terrarium class
Book a spot in a terrarium-building workshop. Creating a terrarium is a relaxing and creative activity that results in a beautiful, self-sustaining miniature garden.
23 – Photography workshop
Sign up for a photography course to enhance your skills. Photography workshops offer tips and techniques to capture stunning images, whether you’re a novice or an experienced photographer.
24 – Dance lessons
Enrol in a dance class such as ballroom or salsa. Dancing is a fun way to stay active and learn new moves.
25 – Language course
Sign up for a language learning program. Learning a new language can be a fulfilling and stimulating challenge.
26 – Writing workshop
Enrol in a creative writing class. Writing workshops provide a supportive environment to develop storytelling skills and express oneself through words.
27 – Gardening class
Book a gardening workshop. Gardening classes offer tips and techniques for growing beautiful and healthy plants.
28 – Craft workshop:
Arrange a craft-making session like knitting or jewellery making. Craft workshops are enjoyable and allow you to create personalised, handmade items.
Special occasion and unique experience gifts
29 – Family game nights
Organise regular family game nights with new board games. It’s a great way to bond and have fun together.
30 – Movie night
Plan a special movie night with your favourite films. Create a cosy atmosphere with snacks and comfy seating.
31 – Theatre tickets
Buy tickets to a local theatre production. A night at the theatre is a sophisticated and entertaining activity that will make you feel good on the inside.
32 – Concert tickets
Get tickets for a concert by your favourite artist or band. Live music events are such exciting and memorable experiences.
33 – Comedy show
Book seats for a night of laughs at a comedy club. Comedy shows are a fantastic way to relax and enjoy some humour.
34 – Symphony performance
Treat yourself to a symphony concert. The beautiful music of a symphony orchestra can be both inspiring and soothing.
35 – Ballet performance
Get tickets for a ballet show. Ballet performances are elegant and captivating, offering a night of culture and art.
36 – Opera tickets
Arrange a night at the opera. Opera combines music, drama, and elaborate costumes for a truly grand experience.
37 – Dinner cruise
Book a dinner cruise for a special evening on the water. Enjoying a meal while cruising on a river or lake is a lovely romantic experience and a chance to get away with your partner.
38 – Wine tasting tour for the mum who loves a good wine
A high-quality wine decanter, such as those from Riedel, can enhance the flavour and aroma of your favourite wines.
Pair this with a set of personalised wine glasses, which add a personal touch to your wine nights.
For an extra special treat, you could also consider a wine subscription service like Winc, which deliver a curated selection of wines tailored to your taste preferences directly to your door each month.
You can also sign up for wine tastings at a local vineyard. Wine tours are both educational and fun, offering a taste of different wines and the winemaking process. Plus, you’ll feel all merry afterwards!
39 – Food tour
Arrange a guided food tour of a local area. Food tours are a delicious way to explore new cuisines and discover hidden culinary gems.
40 – Gourmet cooking experience
Book a gourmet cooking experience with a professional chef. This is perfect for those who love to cook and want to learn from the best.
Last-minute and handpicked experience gifts
41 – Gift cards
Purchase gift cards for hand-selected experience gifts. Gift cards offer flexibility and allow you to choose an experience that suits your preferences.
42 – Last-minute spa voucher
Get a last-minute voucher for a local spa. Spa vouchers are easy to purchase and guarantee a day of relaxation.
43 – Handpicked experiences
Choose from curated experiences like WonderDays’ helicopter experiences. These specially selected experiences ensure you have such a memorable and exciting day.
44 – Dinner reservation
Make a reservation at your favourite restaurant. A night out for a delicious meal is always a welcome treat.
45 – Afternoon tea
Book an afternoon tea experience at a local cafe. Afternoon tea offers a delightful selection of teas, sandwiches, and pastries in a charming setting.
46 – Escape room challenge
Arrange an escape room experience for family members. Escape rooms are fun, interactive, and require teamwork to solve puzzles and complete the challenge.
47 – Local paint nights
Sign up for a paint night at a local venue. Paint nights are relaxing, creative, and often include a social element with refreshments.
48 – Book club membership
Enrol in a local or online book club. Book clubs provide a community of fellow readers and stimulating discussions about great books.
49 – Speciality cooking class
Find a class for a specific cuisine you love. Speciality cooking classes focus on particular culinary styles or dishes, offering a deep dive into your favourite foods.
50 – Pottery class
Enrol in a pottery-making class. Pottery classes are hands-on and produce beautiful, functional art pieces.
51 – Personalised handwritten note
Write a heartfelt note to yourself and pair it with a small experience gift. Be kind to yourself and list all the things that make you such a great parent.
Personalised experience gifts
52 – Personalised wine tasting
Create a custom wine-tasting experience at home. Select a variety of wines and pair them with complementary foods for a special tasting event.
53 – Custom jewellery making
Arrange a session to design and create your own jewellery. This personalised experience allows you to craft something unique and meaningful.
54 – Scrapbooking session
Plan a scrapbooking session with family photos. Scrapbooking is a wonderful way to preserve memories and create a beautiful keepsake.
55 – DIY craft night
Host a DIY craft night at home with all the necessary supplies. DIY crafts are fun, creative, and provide a sense of accomplishment.
56 – Baking class
Enrol in a baking class for your favourite desserts. Baking classes teach new recipes and techniques for creating delicious treats.
57 – Flower arrangement class
Book a flower arrangement workshop. Flower arranging is a relaxing and artistic activity that results in beautiful bouquets.
58 – Virtual reality experience
Arrange a VR experience session. Virtual reality offers immersive and exciting adventures in a digital world.
59 – Perfume making workshop
Sign up for a perfume-making class. Creating a custom scent is a unique and personal experience.
60 – Cheese making class
Book a cheese-making workshop. Cheese making is both educational and delicious, providing a new appreciation for this culinary art.
61 – Chocolate Making Class
Arrange a session to learn how to make chocolates. Chocolate making is a sweet and tasty activity.
62 – Fitness class
Enrol in a fun fitness class like Pilates or Zumba. Fitness classes are a great way to stay active and healthy.
63 – Bird watching tour
Plan a guided bird-watching tour. Bird watching is a peaceful and informative way to connect with nature and observe wildlife.
Final thoughts on the best experience gift ideas for Mom
Mother’s Day is the perfect time to treat yourself to something truly special and experience gifts are more than just a fun outing; they’re all about creating lasting memories you’ll cherish forever. Imagine the thrill of a helicopter ride with WonderDays, the peaceful beauty of a hot air balloon trip, or the ultimate relaxation of a spa day.
These gifts focus on bringing back that all-important quality time so you can exercise self-care, which is what all mothers need from time to time. Whether you’re into adrenaline-pumping outdoor experiences, creative workshops, or just want a peaceful retreat, there’s an experience gift out there that will make you feel truly special.
So this Mother’s Day, why not treat yourself to an experience you’ll never forget? Explore the wide range of options above and book the perfect gift to make this Mother’s Day your most memorable one yet. Celebrate yourself and all the amazing things you do every day by giving yourself the gift of an unforgettable experience. You deserve it, Mama!
General gift ideas for Mom
1 – What should I gift for mom?
The best gifts for mom often include unique experience gifts that create lasting memories. Consider a wine tasting, a weekend getaway, or a fun experience like a helicopter ride. These options go beyond material gifts and provide enjoyable experiences that she’ll cherish.
2 – What gifts are best for mothers?
Experience gifts are among the best gifts for mothers because they offer a perfect surprise and a chance to create special memories. Activities like spa days, cooking classes, and guided hiking trips are great options for a fantastic time.
3 – What are good gift ideas for mom?
Good gift ideas for mom include both physical gifts and experience gifts. A day at a local park, a 5-course meal at her favourite restaurant, or an art class to explore her creative side are thoughtful ways to show your appreciation.
4 – What is a gift idea for mom?
A great idea for a gift for mom is an experience that matches her interests and skill level. Consider online classes, a private lesson in a new hobby, or a hand-selected experience gift like a scenic helicopter tour.
5 – What is the best gift to give mom?
The best gift to give mom is something that offers a memorable and enjoyable experience. Mother’s Day experience gifts like a wine-tasting tour or a relaxing spa day are perfect opportunities to make her feel special.
6 – What is a special gift for mom?
A special gift for mom could be distinctive gift solutions like a personalised family recipe board from Uncommon Goods or a Mother’s Day experience gift that offers an ultimate experience gift she won’t forget.
Gift ideas for specific needs
7 – What do you buy a stressed mother?
For a stressed mother, consider gifts that offer relaxation and rejuvenation. A massage therapy session, aromatherapy session, or a stay at a hotel collection known for its spa services are perfect ways to help her unwind.
8 – What are some gift ideas for mom who just had a baby?
Gift ideas for a new mom include practical yet thoughtful items. A comfortable sweatshirt like the “In My Mom Era” or a subscription to a flower delivery service can be both useful and heartwarming.
10 – Gift ideas for moms who have everything?
For moms who have everything, consider unique experiences that they might not think to try themselves. A helicopter ride or a food tour in the North End are perfect surprises.
11 – Mother’s day gift ideas for moms who have everything?
Experience gifts like guided bird-watching tours or a custom wine-tasting session at home are great options. These gifts offer enjoyable experiences that go beyond physical items.
12 – Gift ideas for mom and dad who have everything?
Plan a special day that they can enjoy together. A dinner cruise, theatre tickets, or a wine tasting tour are fantastic ways to celebrate both parents with a memorable experience.
13 – Gift ideas for mom who doesn’t want anything?
For a mom who says she wants nothing, consider experiences that offer quality time together. Organise a game night for the whole family or book a paint night at a local venue for a fun and interactive gift.
14 – Gift ideas for mom who just gave birth?
New moms can benefit from gifts that offer relaxation and practicality. A spa voucher, a good book, or a cosy cashmere sweater are perfect for helping her feel pampered.
25 – Gift ideas for mom who wants nothing?
If your mom insists she wants nothing, surprise her with a special gift experience like a scenic bike tour or a local artist’s workshop. The best experience gifts offer a thoughtful way to spend time together without being materialistic.
26 – Gift ideas for mom who lost a baby?
Consider gifts that offer comfort and healing, such as a personalised piece of jewellery, a calming aromatherapy session, or a meaningful keepsake like a memory dish set from Uncommon Goods.
Last-minute and unique gifts
27 – What are some thoughtful gift ideas for a mom who seems to have everything she needs but nothing she wants?
Last-minute gifts that are still thoughtful include experience gifts like a guided North End food tour, a local paint night, or a relaxing hot stone massage.
28 – What are some creative mother’s gift ideas?
Creative gift ideas for moms include a flower arrangement class, a pottery-making session, or a customised jewellery-making workshop. These activities allow her to explore her creative side and make something unique.
29 – What’s your go-to gift idea for Mother’s Day?
A go-to gift idea for Mother’s Day is an experience that offers both relaxation and fun. A scenic helicopter tour or a wine-tasting tour are perfect options.
30 – What are some good gift ideas for a new mom who already has everything she needs and more?
For a new mom with everything, consider gifts that focus on relaxation and self-care. A spa day, a subscription to a flower delivery service, or a personalised family recipe board are great ideas.
31 – What are some Mother’s Day gift ideas for last-minute shopping at Amazon?
32 – What are some sweet birthday gift ideas for a cool mom in her 60s?
Consider gifts that offer enjoyment and relaxation, such as a 5-course meal at a favourite restaurant, a trendy Owala FreeSip Water Bottle*, or a weekend getaway to a serene location.
33 – What are some last-minute non-materialistic gift ideas for Mother’s Day?
Non-materialistic gift ideas include organising a family game night, booking a guided hike, or arranging a virtual reality experience session. These activities focus on spending quality time together.
34 – What are some simple and nice gifts I can get my mom for Christmas?
Simple and nice Christmas gifts for Mom include a personalised handwritten note paired with a small experience gift, a cosy cashmere sweater, or a subscription to a flower delivery service.
35 – What are some good and inexpensive birthday gifts for mom?
Inexpensive yet thoughtful birthday gifts include a guided bird-watching tour, a local coffee shop gift voucher, or a hand-selected experience like a local paint night.
36 – What are some good Mother’s Day gift ideas for mothers with different hobbies?
Tailor gifts to her hobbies, such as a cooking class for a foodie mom, a photography workshop for a keen photographer, or dance lessons for a mom who loves to move.
37 – What are some unique Mother’s Day gifts for a mom?
The perfect Mother’s Day gift that is unique could include a helicopter ride, a gourmet cooking experience with a professional chef, or a cheese-making workshop.
38 – What are some good gifts for a mother that has no hobbies or interests?
For moms without specific hobbies, consider gifts that offer relaxation and pampering, such as a spa day, a hot stone massage, or a subscription to a flower delivery service.
39 – I’m going to the mall to get my mom a birthday present later. What should I get her? She’s 31
For a 31-year-old mom, consider trendy and practical gifts like a personalised jewellery case from Mark & Graham, a stylish Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag Mini, or concert tickets for a fun experience.
40 – What are some creative Mother’s Day gifts for a mom?
Creative Mother’s Day gifts include a personalised wine-tasting experience at home, a terrarium-building workshop, or a custom jewellery-making session.
41 – What are some gift ideas for Mother’s Day at Fanatics?
Fanatics offers a variety of gift options perfect for sports-loving moms. Consider personalised sports memorabilia, a new jersey of her favourite team, or tickets to a game.
*Collaborative feature post*
*Some links marked with a ‘*’ are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click through to buy at no extra cost to you.
72 best monthly baby photo ideas for new mums
Your baby will never grow as fast as they do in their first year. Sometimes, like with our second, their face changes so much that they look like a totally different person. So, capturing every essence of your baby’s first year in digital form is essential because time flies so fast. Blink, and they’re teens (my second will be 13 next year!).
You’ll likely be snapping pictures daily, but taking a dedicated baby’s monthly photo is helpful to truly see your baby’s growth. These snapshots, taken from newborn to the first year, will show their amazing transformation over time.
However, with the thousands of images you’ll be creating, organising them will be key. In this article, we’ll share 72 of the best monthly baby photo ideas for your baby’s first year and offer tips for taking monthly baby photos on how to organise and showcase them for years to come.
Why monthly baby photos matter
Monthly baby photos help document significant milestones, from the first smile to the first steps. These regular snapshots can capture those subtle changes and major developments that occur each month that you may not necessarily see when you’re living in the moment with your baby. You’ll look back and revel at how tiny your new baby was back then, but at the time you’ll be too busy dealing with everything life throws at you as a new parent.
It’s really important to organise these photos into a collection, so you can see a visual timeline of your baby’s month of their first year, as it also creates cherished keepsakes for you and your family. These memories will truly treasured for years to come, allowing you to relive those precious moments when they’ve long flown the nest..
Essential tools and equipment
To capture the best monthly baby pictures, you’ll need the right tools and equipment. Here’s a look at what you need and some examples to get you started:
Camera vs. smartphone
Choosing between a camera and a smartphone depends on your preference and the equipment you already have.
A DSLR or mirrorless camera offers high-quality images and better control over settings like aperture and shutter speed. For instance, a Canon EOS Rebel T7i* or a Nikon D3500* are great entry-level options that provide excellent photo quality.
Modern smartphones like the iPhone 13* or Samsung Galaxy S21* have impressive cameras that can capture high-resolution images and are incredibly convenient to use. Plus, they come with built-in editing tools and easy sharing options.
Natural light vs. artificial light
Good lighting is key to taking beautiful photos.
Using natural light is ideal as it’s soft and flattering. Position your baby near a window where indirect sunlight can illuminate their face. Morning or late afternoon light works best to avoid harsh shadows. Try different angles too, to get the perfect shot.
If natural light isn’t available, you could use softbox lights or ring lights if you have them to hand. These lights can mimic natural light and are adjustable to get the right amount of light. We use a ring light which is really good at brightening up the face. The Neewer Ring Light Kit* is also a popular choice among photographers because of its versatility and ease of use.
Props and backgrounds
For some fun ideas to boost your first-month pictures, use props and backgrounds to make your first baby photos look more engaging and thematic.
Items like stuffed animals, blankets, and toys can add personality to your photos. Seasonal props such as pumpkins during Halloween or holiday decorations during the Christmas season can make each month’s photo unique and fun.
For your baby’s monthly milestone photos, try a simple, clean background which helps keep the focus on your baby, although you can use plain sheets, patterned fabrics, or even themed backdrops that match your monthly milestone markers. For example, a white sheet can provide a classic look, while a colourful quilt can add warmth and texture.
We’ll share many more prop and photo monthly baby picture ideas below, so stay tuned!
Monthly milestone markers
Milestone markers help document your baby’s growth and make it clear which month the photo represents. Plus, they make for super cute baby milestone photos!
You could use milestone blankets with numbers and designs to highlight your baby’s age. The “Lulujo Baby’s First Year” blanket* is a popular choice.
A wooden or plastic set of blocks that spell out the month is cute and reusable. You can find sets specifically designed for baby’s milestones, like the Pearhead Wooden Milestone Blocks*.
Monthly milestone stickers you can place on your baby’s onesie are easy to use and come in various cute designs. The “Baby Month Stickers” by Little Moments* are a cute option.
72 best monthly baby photo ideas you can try now!
Now you’re ready to capture those sweet photos! Here are 72 baby month-by-month picture ideas – from themed setups to simple, sweet concepts – which will inspire you to create memorable snapshots of your little one:
Themed photo cute ideas
1 – Autumn leaves
Capture your baby among the colourful autumn leaves to create a cosy, seasonal photo.
2 – Holidays of the first year
Celebrate each holiday with thematic props like pumpkins for Halloween or Santa hats for Christmas.
3. – Popular characters and toys
Use props of popular characters or your baby’s favourite toys to create familiar and engaging photos.
4 – Beach gear
Create a summer vibe with beach props like sunglasses, hats, and sand buckets.
5 – Pumpkin patch
Use pumpkins and hay bales to create an adorable autumn photo setting.
6 – Winter Wonderland
Create a snowy scene with white blankets, snowflakes, and winter attire.
7 – Magical unicorn
Use unicorn-themed props for a whimsical and magical photo session.
8 – Jungle adventure
Include jungle animals and plants for a wild, adventurous theme.
9 – Ocean explorer
Use sea creatures and beach elements for an under-the-sea adventure.
10 – Carnival fun
Incorporate bright colours, balloons, and carnival toys for a lively and fun theme.
11 – Butterfly kisses
Use butterfly props and pastel colours for a sweet and gentle theme.
12 – Nature walk
Take photos in a natural setting with trees, flowers, and greenery.
13 – Fairy tale
Use props from classic fairy tales to create magical and enchanting photos.
14 – Zoo day
Include stuffed zoo animals and set up a mini zoo scene.
15 – Space adventure
Use star and planet props for a space-themed adventure.
16 – Island breeze
Create a tropical setting with palm leaves and beach toys.
17 – Wild west
Dress your baby as a cowboy or cowgirl and use Western props.
18 – Urban baby
Use a cityscape backdrop to create an urban, modern theme.
19 – Vintage vibes
Use vintage props and clothing for a classic and timeless photo.
20 – Art studio
Set up an art studio with paints, brushes, and a mini easel. Come up with a new idea for each month, like the best things they did that month or something which involves their first time.
Simple and sweet concepts
21 – In your arms
Capture the warmth of holding your baby and showcase the bond between parent and child.
22 – Tiny props on white
Use simple, tiny props on a white background to keep the focus on your baby. For example, you can do a pizza baby-style photo by placing your baby carefully in a pizza box. It’s so cute!
23 – Sweet little kit
Include a favourite stuffed animal or blanket for a cosy photo.
24 – Simply seated
Position your baby in a cosy chair for a natural, relaxed photo.
25 – Quilted comfort
Place your baby on a homemade quilt for a warm and comforting background.
26 – Quiet time
Capture peaceful moments with your baby in a serene setting.
27- Lullaby land
Use musical-themed props to create a calming, dreamy photo.
28 – Oldtimer
Use sepia tones and vintage props for a nostalgic feel.
29 – Books and bears
Create a reading time scene with books and teddy bears.
30 – Picnic day
Set up a picnic blanket and basket for an outdoor, sunny day theme.
31 – Chalkboard moments
Use a small chalkboard to write the month or a special message.
32 – Minimalist beauty
Focus on clean lines and simple backgrounds to highlight your baby’s natural charm.
Fun and unique ideas for monthly milestone pictures
33 – Doughnut grow up
A unique idea could be to use a fun doughnut theme with colourful doughnut props.
34 – Flower power
Surround your baby with flowers for a bright and cheerful photo.
35 – Bounty of the season
Use seasonal fruits and vegetables as props to highlight the time of year.
36 – Character of the month
Feature a different character each month for variety.
37 – Create a scene
Build a small set to create a themed scene, like a mini bedroom or a park.
38 – Go digital
Use digital backdrops to create imaginative and varied scenes.
39 – Little illustrations
Add hand-drawn illustrations to your photos for a personalised touch.
40 – Mod markers
Use modern milestone markers to highlight your baby’s age each month.
41 – Plush pics
Incorporate plush toys to add softness and whimsy.
42 – Use blocks
Spell out your baby’s age with different colour blocks.
43 – Hat collection
Feature your baby in different hats each month for a fun series.
44 – Ice cream delight
Create an ice cream-themed photo with colourful cones and sprinkles.
45 – Kite flying
Use a kite as a prop for a playful, outdoor theme.
46 – Lemonade stand
Set up a mini lemonade stand for a summer photo.
47 – Rainbow Colours
Use a rainbow backdrop or props to create a vibrant, colourful photo.
48 – Tea party
Create a tea party scene with mini teacups and treats.
49 – Under the stars
Use a night sky backdrop with stars and a moon for a dreamy photo.
50 – Xylophone fun
Incorporate a xylophone and musical notes for a musical theme.
51 – Yellow sunshine
Use bright yellow props and a sunny backdrop to create a cheerful photo.
52 – Gingham style
Use gingham-patterned props and outfits for a classic look.
53 – Hobby time
Include props related to family hobbies, like sports or cooking.
54 – Jewel tones
Use rich, vibrant colours to create striking and beautiful photos.
55 – Keepsake box
Include keepsakes and mementoes in the photo to highlight special memories.
56 – Merry-Go-Round
Create a carousel-themed photo with colourful horses and carnival elements.
57 – Nature baby
Capture your baby in natural surroundings, like a garden or park.
58 – Retro fun
Use retro props and outfits to create a nostalgic theme.
59 – Sibling love
Include siblings in the photos to capture their bond and interactions.
60 – Toyland
Surround your baby with their favourite toys for a playful photo.
61 – Vintage toys
Use old-fashioned toys to create a vintage-themed photo.
62 – Xoxo
Create a hugs and kisses theme with XOXO props.
63 – Year in review
Create a collage or compilation of the year’s best photos.
64 – Zany hats
Feature your baby in a different, fun hat each month.
Dress your baby in different costumes each month for a fun series.
69 – Dreamy clouds
Use a soft cloud backdrop for a dreamy, ethereal photo.
70 – Farm friends
Include farm animal props and set up a mini farm scene.
71 – Gardening Baby
Capture your baby in a garden setting with flowers and plants.
72 – Island breeze
Create a tropical scene with palm leaves and beach props.
Organising your baby photos
As you capture your baby’s growth month by month, it’s a good idea to organise the photos from the offset, so you can easily access the photos when you need to. Here are some of baby’s monthly picture tips to help you manage your growing collection of baby photos:
Digital photo management
Create specific folders on your computer for each month or milestone. For example, have folders labelled “Month 1,” “Month 2,” etc.
Within each folder, use tags to identify special moments or themes, like “first smile,” “Halloween,” or “family time.” This will make it easier to locate specific photos later on.
Use cloud storage services like Dropbox, Google Photos or iCloud to back up your photos. These platforms offer the convenience of accessing your photos from any device.
Google Photos, for example, allows you to create albums, share photos with family, and even search for specific images using AI-powered search features.
Regularly upload and organise your photos to keep your collection up-to-date and secure.
Creating a digital photo album
Use software like Adobe Lightroom or apps like Shutterfly to create digital photo albums. These tools offer templates and customisation options to make your album unique. Include captions and dates to document important details and milestones.
Arrange your photos chronologically or by significant events, such as their first step or first birthday. This will create a coherent narrative of your baby’s first year. You can also use thematic sections within the album to highlight special occasions and monthly milestones.
Printing and displaying photos
Choose high-quality printing services so your photos look their best. Online services like Printique or local photo labs can offer excellent results. Consider printing a few standout photos in larger sizes for framing and display.
Creative display ideas for month-to-month baby pictures at home
You can create a photo wall with a timeline of your baby’s first year. Use a mix of framed photos and canvas prints to add variety.
Use a photo baby book to compile your monthly photos into a beautiful keepsake. These books can be customised with text and embellishments to tell your baby story of their first year.
Consider making a photo calendar with a picture for each month, which can serve as both a keepsake and a functional item.
Be consistent
Select a specific day each month to take your baby’s photos. This could be the same date each month or the same day of the week. Consistency helps create a coherent series of photos that clearly show your baby’s growth and development over time.
Use the same or similar backgrounds and props each month to create a unified look. This could be a favourite monthly milestone blanket, a specific chair like a rocking chair (if it’s safe), or a particular setting in your home. Consistency in props and backgrounds highlights the changes in your baby rather than the surroundings.
Engage your baby and make it fun
Keep the photo sessions light and enjoyable for your baby. Use toys, songs, or funny faces to grab their attention and make them smile. A happy baby will result in more natural and joyful photos.
Don’t stress about getting the perfect pose every time. Some of the best photos come from candid moments when your baby is simply being themselves. Keep your camera ready to capture spontaneous smiles, giggles, and curious expressions.
Editing and enhancing photos
After taking your photos, use basic editing tools to enhance the images. Adjust the brightness, contrast, and colour balance to make your photos pop. Cropping can help eliminate any distracting elements in the background.
There are several apps available that can make photo editing easy and fun. Apps like Adobe Lightroom, Snapseed, and VSCO offer a range of editing tools that can help you enhance your baby’s photos with just a few taps. These apps often include filters and presets that can give your photos a professional look.
FAQ Section
1. Can you please provide some 1-month baby picture ideas?
For one-month-old baby picture ideas, consider using cosy setups like a soft blanket or a plush cushion. Include simple props like a milestone marker, a tiny stuffed animal, or a themed outfit. Capture your sleeping baby or them gazing up at the camera for natural, heartwarming photos.
2. Any 1-month-old baby girl picture ideas?
Baby girl monthly photo ideas can include dressing your baby girl in a cute outfit, like a floral dress or a pastel onesie. Use props like a headband, soft toys, or a pretty blanket. Consider themes like princesses, butterflies, or seasonal flowers to add a feminine touch for the perfect one-month baby picture!
3. I need 1-month-old baby photography ideas please
Use natural lighting near a window for soft, flattering photos. Place your baby on a simple, textured blanket to keep the focus on them. Capture close-ups of their tiny hands and feet or candid moments of them yawning or stretching.
4. Are you a new parent? What are some photoshoot ideas at home for a one-month-old Baby?
Set up a cosy spot with a soft blanket and pillows and use natural light from a window. Include props like milestone cards, toys, or a favourite food or outfit. Capture different angles and expressions, and don’t forget to include family members in some shots.
5. How do I celebrate our 6-month-old baby’s birthday?
Create a small, free intimate celebration at home with family and decorate with balloons, a banner, and a small cake. Take photos of your baby with birthday props like a “6 Months of Life” milestone marker, and capture moments of them interacting with their surroundings.
6. How do I do a baby photoshoot at home?
For monthly photoshoot ideas for baby boy choose a well-lit area, preferably with natural light. Set up a simple background with a blanket or sheet and use props that are meaningful or fun. Take multiple shots from different angles, using a smartphone or camera with good resolution. You can edit the photos lightly for brightness and contrast afterwards for the perfect monthly milestone photoshoots
7. How do I make my baby monthly pictures?
Select a consistent spot and background for each monthly photo. Use milestone markers like blankets, blocks, or stickers and dress your baby in different outfits each month to highlight their growth. Capture your baby’s personality by photographing them in natural, candid moments.
8. How do I photograph a newborn baby? Any ideas on how to photograph them?
Keep the room warm and comfortable and use natural light to avoid harsh shadows. Capture your baby in simple poses, like sleeping or being held. Focus on details like tiny fingers and toes and use soft blankets and minimal props to keep the focus on your baby.
9. How should I celebrate baby’s 1st birthday as we don’t have any friends to throw a party for?
Create a special day at home with family. Decorate with balloons and a birthday banner and bake a small cake or cupcake for your baby. Take lots of photos to commemorate the day. Plan activities that your baby enjoys, like a favourite game or toy. A cake smash is a fun and simple way to celebrate your baby’s first photo and make for great photos!
10. What are some clever newborn photography ideas?
Use creative props like baskets, wooden crates, or themed blankets and capture close-ups of your baby’s tiny features. Include elements like fairy lights or flowers for a unique touch. Try different angles and perspectives to add variety to the shots as well.
11. What are some creative maternity photography ideas?
Incorporate nature by taking photos in a park or garden. Use props like baby shoes or ultrasound photos and wear flowing dresses that highlight the baby bump. Include your partner or an older sibling for family-themed shots and experiment with silhouettes and backlighting for dramatic effects.
12. What are some cute poses for a newborn photography session?
Place your baby on their tummy with their hands under their chin. Capture them sleeping on their back with legs curled up and take close-up shots of their face while they are sleeping. Include props like a soft toy or a cosy blanket.
13. What are some good baby boy photoshoot ideas?
Use boy-themed props like toy cars, blocks, or sports items and dress your baby boy in cute outfits like overalls or a bow tie. Create a themed setup, such as a mini camping scene or a little superhero backdrop.
14. What are some ideas for a baby girl’s first birthday party and her mom’s second wedding anniversary baby shower combined in one celebration?
Combine themes like “Princess and Love” to celebrate both events and use decorations in matching colours, such as pink and gold. Have a joint cake with sections dedicated to each celebration and include activities that are fun for both adults and kids, like a photo booth or a craft station, which you can get from any craft store.
15. What are some of the best ideas for a 1-month-old’s birthday?
Even though it’s early, you can mark the one-month milestone with a small celebration. Use a cute “1 Month” sign or milestone card and dress your baby in a special outfit. Take lots of photos and include simple decorations like balloons or a banner.
16. What are the best memory-keeping ideas to do for a baby?
Create a digital photo album with monthly milestones and keep a baby journal to document important moments and milestones. Creative ways could include making a memory box with keepsakes like your baby’s hospital bracelet, first shoes, and favourite toys. Regularly print and frame special photos to display at home.
17. What settings should I use for newborn photography?
Use a low ISO (around 100-400) to avoid graininess. Set a wide aperture (f/2.8 to f/4) to create a soft background blur and use a fast shutter speed (1/200 or faster) to capture sharp images, especially if your baby moves. Adjust the white balance to match the lighting conditions.
18. When to take monthly baby photos?
Take your baby’s monthly photos on the same date each month, such as their birth date. Choose a time of day when your baby is usually in a good mood and well-rested, such as after a nap or feeding. Consistency in timing will help you capture their growth accurately.
19. Why do many people on the internet use baby photos as their icons or profile pictures?
People often use baby photos as their icons or profile pictures to showcase their pride and joy. It’s a great way to share the happiness and innocence associated with babies. These photos also attract positive attention and engagement from friends and family.
20. Why do new parents get professional photoshoots basically naked with their newborns?
Newborn photoshoots with a professional photographer often feature minimal clothing to highlight the baby’s pure and natural state. This style of photography focuses on the bond between the parent and baby, emphasising skin-to-skin contact which is comforting for the baby and creates intimate, timeless images.
21. Why do people cover their baby’s face in pictures?
Some parents cover their baby’s face in pictures to protect their privacy. It’s a way to share moments without exposing the baby’s identity for security reasons. This can be especially important on public social media platforms.
22. Why shouldn’t we take a photo of a newborn baby?
Certain cultures and beliefs hold that taking photos of a newborn can bring bad luck or unwanted attention. It’s always important to respect cultural practices and beliefs. If there are no such concerns, taking photos is generally safe and a wonderful way to capture memories.
23. What is the best age to get professional newborn photography?
The ideal age for professional newborn photography is 5 to 14 days old. At this age, babies are more sleepy and easier to pose in those adorable, curly positions. It’s also a great time to capture the baby’s name and details in the photos. You can also start those monthly baby photo ideas from this age to create a beautiful monthly photo series.
24. What app do you use for newborn monthly pictures?
There are several great apps for capturing and organising monthly baby photos. Baby Pics is a popular choice, offering creative monthly baby photo ideas to add artwork and text to your baby’s pictures. Another excellent app is Tinybeans, which allows you to create a digital photo album, track milestones, and share updates with family and friends. These apps are great at helping you manage milestone baby photos and generate unique monthly baby photo ideas effortlessly.
25. Is it wrong to tell my family not to post my newborn baby’s pictures on social media?
It is not wrong to ask your family not to post your baby’s pictures on social media. As a new mum, you have the right to control your baby’s digital footprint and ensure their privacy. You should discuss your concerns with your family and emphasise that you’re looking for a better way to protect your child’s privacy. Sharing baby’s photos should be your choice, and setting boundaries is perfectly acceptable.
26. Is it okay for an adult to post pictures of their babies on social media?
Yes, it is okay for adults to post pictures of their babies on social media, as long as they take necessary precautions. Using privacy settings to control who can see the photos and avoiding sharing too much personal information can help protect your baby. Posting cute creative ideas for monthly baby pictures and milestone baby photos can be a fun way to share your baby’s growth, but always prioritise safety and privacy. Make sure your baby is in a safe environment, such as a cosy chair or with safe props like a Moses basket or a milestone blanket, before sharing online.
Final thoughts
Capturing monthly baby photos is a wonderful way to document your baby’s growth and milestones throughout their first year. Use the right tools and equipment, create themed and simple photo ideas, and organise your photos efficiently, so you can create a beautiful collection of memories. Remember, consistency in taking photos and engaging your baby can make each session enjoyable and successful.
So, don’t wait any longer and start capturing your baby’s precious moments now. Whether you use a camera or a smartphone, natural light or softbox lights, the key is to start and stay consistent. These photos will become cherished keepsakes, allowing you to look back and remember those fleeting early days.
*Collaborative feature post*
*Links marked with a ‘*’ are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click through to buy, at no extra cost to you.*
Homemade anniversary card ideas for that special person
Are you searching for homemade anniversary card ideas to make for your special someone? If yes, look no more! Getting them a special anniversary card with a special greeting message, plus a touch of love not only boosts their self-esteem but adds just the perfect icing to a very special day. If you’re willing to go the extra mile and you have the time to go handmade, then stay tuned because here are some tips on how to make homemade anniversary cards with Boomf for your partner without the stress (get the kids involved too) and with plenty of fun to shake up your anniversary!I
What is the importance of homemade anniversary card ideas?
As you progress through the years, you tend to take your partner for granted. The honeymoon novelty wears off, and so does your quota for the silly romantic gestures you used to make for each other pre-kids. Either you’re too busy with your career or parenthood, but there comes a time when you sit back and realise, oh wow, it’s been a while since we had a date, or even just spent some adult time together with no talk of kids.
We may not be able to make up for lost time, but we can start by putting in an extra bit of effort, however large or small, to make them feel special on this very special day you two were united.
Step by step what to say in an anniversary card
When it comes to what to write in a homemade anniversary card, the options are endless. However, it is important to keep in mind that you want your message to be heartfelt and genuine. Let them know how much you love and care for them. Maybe you’ve always admired their strength or how much you appreciate their advice. Send thanks for all the sacrifices they have made for you. Let them know what’s important to you, and what you hope will pass on to their kids.
So let’s go through the different ways to send happy anniversary wishes and anniversary sayings in a heartfelt homemade card.
Depending on what ideas you have in mind for your homemade anniversary cards, you can use a variety of romantic paper craft items to bring them to life. Here you have a few suggestions to get you started:
Letters: If you’ve always wanted to write a letter but you have never found the right time to do so, a DIY anniversary card is a perfect opportunity to let your partner know how much you appreciate everything they have done for you.
Drawings or paintings: If you are more artistic, you can create a beautiful painting or a drawing on your anniversary card. You can also create a collage of photos or scraps of paper that represent your relationship.
How to make the card personal
Whether you are sending anniversary wishes to husband number three or anniversary wishes to wife number one, make it unique to the colours and style they like. Which colours do they normally flock to? What patterns do they normally wear? Reproduce this in their card. If you don’t know or it’s too difficult to choose, opt for white and use the decorations to reflect their personality.
You want your card to stand out from, say, anniversary wishes for friends which are more platonic. So add lots of hearts and kisses, maybe an inappropriate doodle to fire up that love engine again. Let the card stand out from what you would include in your general anniversary wishes for anyone other than your partner.
Here are some ideas:
So if your partner likes humour, you could try pun anniversary cards with funny anniversary quotes where the picture says one thing but the message means another and they both relate. For example, you could say ‘I’m your biggest fan,’ and then draw a picture of a fan on the front of the card.
If your partner is romantic, then you could create simple ‘I love you’ cards with a heart on the front. Keep it simple as less is more. Go one further and make an ‘I Love U’ pop up card. There’s always time for pop up cards! You can find pop up heart cards with free templates on Google, so get researching!
If your partner likes puzzles, then a good one is to write something similar to, ‘we fit together like puzzle pieces,’ and then draw two puzzle pieces to make it a puzzle anniversary card.
If you’re artistic, you can make a happy anniversary collage card and add little photos to make a mini collage, with a unique note related to those photos.
If your partner likes writing, then you could create a mini messages anniversary card that includes mini messages that are unique to you as a couple.
Perfect anniversary quotes for your anniversary note
Once you’ve picked out your card, then you can decide on your anniversary note and where it’s going to go. Perhaps add a placeholder so you work around the area in which to add your note.
But, what do you write in an anniversary card? If you need related resources to what to write in an anniversary card, Google is your friend here. You can type in terms like ‘Wedding anniversary milestones for anniversary card messages,’ so you can find specific notes for anniversary milestones like 10th, 25th, and 50th etc anniversaries.
Anniversary card ideas – what to write
Here are some simple messages you can write on your perfect anniversary card:
“I am so blessed that you’re still in my life and that we can celebrate another year together.”
“I wanted to show you how special you are by sending you an anniversary card made with love.”
“Love knows no bounds and neither does my artwork! Hope you like the card!”
“I love you more and more every day – how did I get so lucky?”
“There is no one else in this world with whom I’d rather ride the life rollercoaster. Stay on with me and let’s see where this ride takes us!”
“Sometimes I may not show you how much you mean to me – I hope this card gives you an idea of how big my love is for you.”
Conclusion
For the perfect anniversary DIY card to work, you need to put in time and effort, with some research as to what your partner would like. In the Boomf shop, you can create cute greeting card designs for anniversary and add a personal message with a relevant meaning. Whether you opt for a handmade anniversary card or a store-bought card, let your partner know how much they mean to you with greeting card ideas for anniversary they can cherish for years to come.
FAQ
I don’t know what to write in my wedding anniversary card. Can you help me please?
Other questions asked were:
What is a good anniversary message?
What is the most romantic message you can put in an anniversary card to your partner?
What can you write in an anniversary card?
See above for some greeting cards for anniversary ideas.
What should I write in an anniversary card when one person in the couple has dementia?
Is a one year relationship anniversary worth celebrating when you’re just dating?
Of course it is! Cool anniversary card ideas could include travelling around the world full circle with each other – you’ve made it 365 days together!
What can be the perfect gift for a 25th marriage anniversary?
In your happy anniversary card you could add a gift related to silver, which is the symbol for 25 years married.
What to write in 14 year anniversary card?
Ivory is the symbol of 14 years married so, perhaps a cute anniversary card message could include elephants, i.e. something related to stability, dignity and patience.
What are the best anniversary gift ideas for 50th anniversary?
Other questions asked were:
What can be the best gift for a 50 year marriage anniversary?
You’ve received the golden milestone, so pave the way with gold gifts!
What can you write in a 6 month anniversary card?
Other questions asked were:
What are some ideas for a 6 month anniversary?
You’re halfway to the full one-year, so perhaps write about time.
“We’ve almost travelled the globe together (365-days). Let’s continue that journey and see where it takes us full circle.”
What can I write to my husband on our anniversary?
Other questions asked were:
Do you have any anniversary card ideas for him?
See above for some romantic messages you can write in your card.
What’s another way to say happy anniversary?
How about, ‘Congratulations all over again!’ Or ‘Happy birthday to us!’
What are some ideas for a one month anniversary?
Aww, a brand new relationship! Focus on new love, a new chapter. Perhaps get them something that reminds them of your first date.
Do you have any first anniversary card ideas?
This is your first anniversary, so make it special. Maybe write about the first day you met or got married, or perhaps write about what’s changed. Whatever you decide, make it one to remember!
What should you do if you forget your anniversary? We’ve had a rough year and I really stepped in it good now and I have a limited budget of $100
Body Shop skincare routine – what to buy for Mother’s Day
I was 13 when I first bought makeup at the shop. It was the 90s, so makeup meant Heather Shimmer lipstick, matte brown lip liner and ghostly pale face powder. I looked like an extra from the Addams Family, but I felt like a woman, especially when I discovered skincare for the first time at The Body Shop. I didn’t have a Body Shop skincare routine or any idea what my skin type was – I had teenage skin and a paper round allowance.
A trip to the Body Shop was an aromatic trip to heaven, and it soon became my favoured visit with friends every weekend. I tried on the fragranced hand creams, different array of eyeshadow and lip liners and treated myself to body butter and bath bombs.
Then the noise of the naughties drowned out the brick and mortar brands with online shopping paving the way to a whole new selection of affordable skincare. Social media heeled the barrage of gimmicky skincare fads and with influencers plugging their own merch too, I quickly became overwhelmed. My thirties were my ‘baby years’ (I had four babies in my thirties) so my skincare routine took a nosedive and since then I have stuck to serums which help me look like I’ve slept for more than a few minutes in the last five years.
After a long hiatus, I found The Body Shop again and I truly forgot how amazing it is. The Body Shop online took me straight back to that 13-year-old bright-eyed brunette, searching for her own identity and immersing herself in makeup and skincare for the first time.
Now I’m in my 40s, I try hard to have a basic skincare at the best of times and even though I rarely get it right, I have tried to look after my skin over the years.
I would love for someone to do the research for me and gift me with a suitable skincare kit for Mother’s Day this year because it would be one heck of a present for a tired mum with minimal time to think for or look after herself. You can’t go wrong with a well thought out skincare set!
So, let me do the research for you – here is a step-by-step rundown of the different body shop skincare routines that could work for that special mum in your life, so you can make her feel like she’s glowing on Mother’s Day.
My everyday skin care routine at home
I have to admit; I am not the best at keeping up with my skincare routine, but over the years, there are a few things I do (almost every day/night) to ensure my skin doesn’t age prematurely (the fine lines have already got to me, though.)
I take my makeup off before I go to bed
I only started religiously taking my makeup off in my thirties, but doing so has helped to ensure I have softer, cleaner skin when I wake up in the morning. I don’t wear foundation and I only use concealer on certain parts of my skin (especially around my eye area), so it’s important I wash the concealer off to prevent pore clogging.
I use a cleansing wipe to wash my makeup off and a hot wet 100% cotton towel to wipe it off
I use a cleansing wipe which I can lather on my skin in a gentle circular motion to wash my eye makeup off, so I’m not dragging on the skin. The cleanse ends with a hot damp towel, which feels like a mini spa facial. I place the towel over my face and press gently for a few seconds (which feels amazing). Then I gently wipe and repeat until all the makeup is off.
I always use a serum on my skin
Using a serum before you put on your moisturiser just helps to keep things properly moisturised. Now that I always use a serum, I find it is not enough to put moisturiser on. I have combination skin, so some moisturisers are too drying and some are too oily. But the serum feels just right on my skin.
I do a mini facial workout before bed
I always make sure I use lip balm regularly
I try to keep my lips as moisturised as possible, and they’ve helped to stay plump in my forties. I’ve been doing this since my twenties and I feel like the work has paid off, although during this winter weather, they’ve taken quite a beating! (I always have parched skin in the winter).
Here is a video of my basic skincare routine before bed:
What I should include in my step-by-step skin care routine
I’m slack with SPF and often forget to add it to my skincare routine before I go out. The only way to get around this for me is to buy a moisturiser which has SPF* in it. I’ve found some great ones from The Body Shop, which I’ll list below.
What you should include in your steps for skin care routine excellence
So, being a mum of four with tired, aging skin, I’d love nothing better than to receive skincare that makes me feel glorious on Mother’s Day. So here are the top Body Shop skin care products for each skin care routine so you know what to get for your special someone on Mother’s Day.
What is The Body Shop?
The Body Shop International Limited started in 1976 as a little green shop in Brighton. Its founder, Anita Roddick, wanted to revolutionise beauty in business as a force for good and with over 40 years of campaigning The Body Shop has strived to smash beauty industry standards with ethically sourced and naturally based ingredients from around the world, as well as no-nonsense packaging you could easily refill. The products are made for everyone with all skin types – no discriminating.
“Business shapes the world. It is capable of changing society in almost any way you can imagine.”
Dame Anita Roddick, FOUNDER OF THE BODY SHOP
Best skin care routine for combination skin
Shopping for combination skin can be tricky because sometimes your skin will be oily and other times it’ll decide to be dry. Or parts of your skin will be a bit of both! So, trying to work out a skin care routine step-by-step leaves you feeling like you’re going around in circles. Click here* for more information on combination skin.
The ultimate Body Shop skin care routine for combination skin should comprise:
Morning Face Routine Steps
Cleanser
A cleanser removes any buildup that occurs overnight. A great cleanser for combination skin is the Seaweed Cleansing Gel Wash*, which is also suitable for oily skin, and rebalances and controls shine. It’s also vegan!
Seaweed Cleansing Gel Wash FOR COMBINATION AND OILY SKIN. REBALANCES AND CONTROLS SHINE VEGAN. Buy here*
“Good wash for oily skin. Leaves skin fresh and clean.”
A hydrating toner removes any oil that your cleanser doesn’t and balances your skin’s pH levels. A great toner from the Body Shop for combination skin includes the vegan Seaweed Oil Balancing Toner* which rebalances and revives your skin and gently cleanses impurities.
Seaweed Oil-Balancing Toner FOR COMBINATION AND OILY SKIN. REBALANCES AND CONTROLS SHINE. VEGAN. Buy here*
“A great toner that leaves my skin feeling refreshed. Perfect for my combination skin.”
I’m a huge fan of serum, especially those which contain hyaluronic acid because they hydrate and protect the skin. A great serum from The Body Shop for combination skin is the Vitamin E Overnight Serum-In-Oil* which is suitable for all skin types and provides 24-hour moisture.
Vitamin E Overnight Serum-In-Oil FOR ALL SKIN TYPES. 24HR MOISTURE. Buy now here*
“Vitamin E Overnight serum in oil is amazing. My skin feels so soft and glowing after. I love it.”
If you can find a moisturiser with at least SPF30, then you can combine the sunscreen and moisturiser in one. A great, highly protective sunscreen is the Skin Defence Multi- Protection Light Essence SPF 50 PA +++* which has a weightless finish and helps protect skin against pollution.
Then add your makeup, but make sure it’s lightweight. Foundation and concealer should be oil-free. Check out the Matte Clay Skin Clarifying Foundation* which is lightweight and perfect for all skin types, especially oily skin.
Matte Clay Skin Clarifying Foundation FOR OILY SKIN. FULL-COVERAGE. MATTE FINISH. VEGAN. Buy here*
“Beautiful creamy foundation giving great coverage.”
You should always remove your makeup to keep your pores unclogged and help your skin to breathe. Micellar water is one of the gentlest products and is great to use on sensitive skin. Use gentle make-up remover pads, like these Clean Conscience Reusable Make-Up Remover Pads* which are reusable and machine washable too.
Clean Conscience Reusable Make-Up Remover Pads REUSABLE. SUPER GENTLE. MACHINE WASHABLE. Buy now here*
“Amazing, use them every day. Great that you can wash them.”
A nighttime cleanser helps to remove makeup remnants and natural buildup. A good cleanser for sensitive skin is the Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter* which gently removes make up and impurities.
Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter FOR SENSITIVE SKIN. GENTLY REMOVES MAKE-UP AND IMPURITIES. VEGAN. Buy here*
“Best on the market, I wouldn’t use anything else now.”
Use a strong serum and emollient-rich moisturiser for dry areas to get to work during the night while you’re asleep. You could also use a treatment to help with certain areas that need it the most. A good nighttime moisturiser is the Hemp Overnight Nourishing Rescue Mask* which is suitable for dry skin and keeps skin quenched for up to 72 hours.
“WOW, WOW, WOW! This is the best Body Shop product I have ever tried. It is superbly moisturising! Smells divine and makes by skin baby soft. A must have essential in everyone’s bathroom cupboard.”
Using an exfoliant once a week is great for removing dead skin cells and keeping pores clear. It also relieves dry areas. The Seaweed Pore-Cleansing Exfoliator* is suitable for combination and oily skin and gently exfoliates away dead skin cells.
Seaweed Pore-Cleansing Exfoliator FOR COMBINATION AND OILY SKIN. REFRESHING AND CLARIFYING. VEGETARIAN. Buy here*
“Absolutely love this product! Would recommend it to anyone and everyone who struggles with oily skin or blemishes!”
Once a week, you could apply a different mask to different areas of the face. The Seaweed Balance Sheet Mask* works in just 15 minutes to lock hydration in for 24 hours. And it’s only £4.00!
Seaweed Balance Sheet Mask FOR COMBINATION/OILY SKIN. VEGAN. Buy here*
“A lovely treat for the skin. Help to clear up my spots and hydrate my skin. Will buy again.”
Oily skin is one of the most common skin concerns, with shiny complexion and acne breakouts being typical symptoms for acne sufferers.
Cleanse morning and night
A Body Shop skin care routine for acne should include a cleanser that contains salicylic acid. The best evening skin care routine for oily skin should include a double cleanse at night if you wear makeup.
A toner could help fight blackheads and blemishes. Try to find an exfoliating toner that contains either salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or lactic acid. A mattifying toner like the Tea Tree Skin Clearing Mattifying Toner* can help to purify, refresh and prep the skin so you’re ready to take on the world!
Tea Tree Skin Clearing Mattifying Toner FOR OILY, BLEMISHED SKIN. PURIFYING. VEGAN. Buy here*
“This is my go to product, day and night! Absolutely fantastic! Keeps my spots at bay!”
Treat your skin according to your specific skin concern. So if you’re prone to acne, use benzoyl peroxide or sulfur in the daytime to help curb oil production and prevent breakouts. In the evening, a retinol product can help to keep pores clear and skin glowing.
Tea tree oil for oily, blemished skin can be used throughout the day to target blemishes. Try Tea Tree Oil* which is suitable for oily, blemished skin.
Tea Tree Oil FOR OILY, BLEMISHED SKIN. PURIFYING VEGAN. Buy here*
“This product is amazing! It really helps to reduce my blemishes and oily skin. Can’t recommend enough.”
Even if you have oily skin, your Body Shop skincare routine steps for the morning should include moisturiser, but be more careful with the type you use. Look for a moisturiser that’s lightweight, free of oils and water-based.
When you have dry skin, the right skincare can transform your skin from tight and flaky to soft and glowing. But you need to start the day the right way.
The Body Shop skincare routine order for the morning should include products that keep moisture in.
Prepare your skin with a gentle non-foaming cleanser
A gentle cleanser removes oil and dirt without drying the skin. The Vitamin E Cream Cleanser* is suitable for dehydrated skin and removes impurities while leaving skin hydrated.
Vitamin E Cream Cleanser FOR DEHYDRATED SKIN. REMOVES IMPURITIES. Buy here*
“Love this cleanser, removes makeup so easily and the product itself lasts for a really long time.”
After cleansing, a good way to soak up moisture is to add a serum, especially one with hyaluronic acid. A good Body Shop serum for dry skin is the CBD Restoring Facial Oil*, which is good for dehydrated skin and leaves skin feeling soothed and smoothed.
CBD Restoring Facial Oil FOR DEHYDRATED SKIN. GREEN SCENT. Buy here*
“Love this oil, really soothes my skin, become a regular part of my skincare routine.”
Look for lightweight moisturisers that help to hydrate skin and form a protective seal over the skin’s surface. The Vitamin E Intense Moisture Cream* offers up to 72 hours of hydration and is infused with hyaluronic acid to help lock in that moisture. Don’t forget to add an SPF to protect your skin further from the sun.
Vitamin E Intense Moisture Cream FOR DRY SKIN. 72H HYDRATION. VEGETARIAN. Buy here*
“All my skin is consistently dry. This face cream has worked brilliantly for me since the first day I used it”
Cleansing is important to remove impurities and relieve parched skin, but moisturising is the key here to keep skin supple and hydrated overnight. The Vitamin E Sink In Moisture Sleeping Mask* is suitable for dehydrated skin and gets to work overnight to infuse optimum moisture levels for intense hydration.
Vitamin E Sink In Moisture Sleeping Mask FOR DEHYDRATED SKIN. Buy here*
“I leave it overnight and feel my skin softer! Great services of Body shop and very fast delivery! Great value for money!”
When creating a skin care routine for more mature-looking skin, you’ll want to plump fine lines, banish dark spots, and lift sagging skin.
Your Body Shop skin care routine for dry skin should include cleansing, treating and using sunscreen on your neck as well as your face. Choose a gentler exfoliant as your skin may be more sensitive.
Why not take just two minutes a day and give yourself a little facial yoga massage? I use Danielle Collins’ Face Yoga Interactive Journal which includes 53 exercises, motivational quotes and weekly wellness hacks to help you set your own goals, allowing you to get healthy, glowing, younger-looking skin just by dedicating a minimum of 2 minutes a day to face yoga.
It’s important to build a skincare routine that works for you and your unique skin. But the best face routine involves doing things in a certain order, so follow the above steps or find out what the recipient’s skin is like so you can buy the right Body Shop skin care set for Mother’s Day.
Check out The Body Shop skin care reviews on line too and see what others think of the products you’ve picked. There’s nothing better than a personalised Mother’s Day gift mum will actually use and it’s a great way to discover new products that are even better for your skin than you realise!
FAQ
What is your skin care routine that has changed your skin?
I found cleansing every night with an exfoliating wipe and moisturising with serum prevented me from getting spots. I used to have slightly bumpy and uneven skin, but that has changed since I have a good working skincare routine that works for me.
Does the order of skincare steps matter?
Yes, it’s important to cleanse and prep your skin before you moisturise so you lock in moisture.
What is Community Fair Trade?
Community Fair Trade was launched in 1987 and is the Body Shop’s bespoke fair trade programme, which helps their suppliers gain market access and invest in social and environmental projects that benefit their communities. You can find more information on the Body Shops’ Community Fair Trade programme here.
What can help with very dry skin?
Use the right cleanser, i.e. non-foaming cleanser, to clean your skin because some can be drying. Rehydrate the skin with the right moisturiser for dry skin. This article has additional helpful tips for how to relieve dry skin.
Do skincare products delay aging or worsen it?
Using the right skincare products can delay aging to a certain extent, but your genes and lifestyle will eventually catch up with you. The wrong products can speed up aging so make sure you’re using the right products for your skin.
What does it mean when someone says your skin is glowing?
“Glowing skin means different things to people. Many people use the term to refer to skin that looks healthy and “awake” rather than dry, dull, or unevenly textured. For some, healthy skin results in a natural sheen, or “glow.” Healthy skin is something that most people can work towards.”
Should I use cleanser and toner if I don’t use makeup? Is it optional?
“If you don’t wear makeup on your skin, you might be able to get away with just using a targeted toner on a cotton ball as a cleanser. However, the process of using warm water to cleanse the pores can help soften the pores and add radiance to the skin.
“If you have light skin and spend a lot of time in the sun, you’re more likely to develop age spots — areas of increased pigmentation. Age spots are small, flat dark areas on the skin. They vary in size and usually appear on areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, shoulders and arms.”
“We recommend adding a face mask to your skin care routine once or twice a week. Masking should follow cleansing, toning, and applying a facial essence. These steps clear impurities and excess oil, provide a base layer of hydration and prep your skin to better absorb the benefits of your face mask.”
Is there any way to cure a hormonal acne without taking pills? Are there any natural ways to deal with it?
Following a nutrient-dense diet, cutting out dairy, and limiting added sugars are evidence-based practices that may improve acne symptoms. Taking certain supplements like vitamin D and green tea extract, getting enough sleep, quitting smoking, and reducing stress are other healthy ways to fight this disease.
*This post is sponsored by The Body Shop (some pictures have been taken from their website)
*Links marked with a ‘*’ are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission when you click through to buy. Prices are correct as at 11 March 2022
5 Ideas for what to do in sleepovers
If your little ones have decided they’d like a sleepover slumber party, don’t panic! Yes, welcoming over-excited children into your home may sound scary, but you don’t have to think of 100 things to do at a sleepover. If you’re organised, there’s no reason it can’t be an awesome slumber party your child won’t forget. Here are ideas for what to do at sleepovers (that can double up as birthday party ideas, too!)
1. Ideas for what to do in sleepovers – don’t take things too seriously
Laughter and even a tiny bit of chaos are what children at sleepovers usually experience. So when thinking about sleepover ideas, have fun in mind.
Invest in fun toys the children can enjoy, like kids riding on Lamborghinis. If you have the space and the money, then riding in kids’ electric cars is one of the most fun things to do at sleepovers and a great way to burn energy, too.
2. Entertainment
If the children are restless, a good sleepover game can include setting up some board games for entertainment. Monopoly is a really fun game and you can assign someone to look after the money (the banker) while everyone competes to build houses/hotels and monopolise the board.
Other fun things to do at a sleepover regarding entertainment could be to rent the kids’ favourite movies and huddle up with a blanket. A movie before bedtime winds children down and sets them in a bedtime mood, whereas an active board game lifts their energies and enthuses them. Ensure the movie finishes at least an hour before bed so the kids’ eyes settle away from the screen. Too much screen time before bed can make kids go the other way.
If the weather is good, let them play in the garden before the movie and dinner so they can burn that excess energy. You can rent a marquee for a party, but, be sure not to overtire them – overtired kids find it very difficult to put their heads down at bedtime – just ask my two Duracell boys!
3. Dinner time
Getting your little ones to sit around the table is an arduous task at the best of times – this task is only made more demanding when they have several friends staying over. However, keeping energy levels high is important, especially when the kids plan to embark on several adventures throughout the evening.
Thankfully, there are a number of easy-to-prepare meals available, many of which guarantee to provide your children and their friends with the energy and nutrition they need. Grilled veggie kebabs and homemade sweet potato chips are easy to make and help keep kids full and occupied while you take 5 minutes’ rest. Or you can make a cheese sauce and lather over some cauliflower and broccoli, which is a winner in our house.
4. Sleeping arrangements
Not all of us are lucky enough to have several spare guest rooms at hand, so for housing extra guests, it’s important to ensure you have enough bedding. Airbeds and sleeping bags are a great idea, and both are easy to assemble and can be positioned around your child’s room to make the best use of space. These cute little Snuggle Pods from LittleLife are brilliant and take up minimal space, so the kids get to sleep together in one room (when one falls asleep, the rest follow like Dominoes).
5. Put a few rules in place
Unless you want to be kept up all night, it’s important to establish a bedtime curfew. If you provide the little ones with an hour’s warning, you’ll find it a much easier task to send them off to bed when the time comes. If not, you may find hours go by while encouraging them to go upstairs.
FAQ
What are things to do at a girls’ sleepover?
Some fun things to do at a girls’ sleepover could involve painting nails or using nail polish to create art projects. You could make it a themed sleepover for girls, i.e. have a spa evening or another agreed project in which everyone could get involved.
Do you have any ideas for what to do in virtual sleepovers?
It doesn’t have to be boring if it’s a virtual sleepover. Some fun things to do in a sleepover that’s online could be:
Show and tell
Play online video games
Group crafts
Online quiz
Play Pictionary or charades
Online dance party
Karaoke competition
What to do at sleepovers in the morning
If it’s a girl sleepover, your children can get ready together by doing their hair and (depending on age) makeup. If the sleepover is for a younger child, getting dressed together, having a morning ritual and eating breakfast together is fun.
What to do in sleepovers at night
Some things to do on a sleepover at night could include:
Pillow fight
Chat/gossip
Card games
Having a midnight snack
Listen to music
Sleeping!
What do you do during a sleepover with your best friend?
Whatever you want within reason! This is the perfect time for your child to get to know their best friend, so perhaps encourage them to ask questions that will help them better understand their friend.
What are some crazy things to do at sleepovers?
Not all sleepover games have to be crazy, but if you want some crazy sleepover ideas, here are a few:
One person doing a taste test of what the other guests have put out in front of them – a great example could be different flavours of ice cream
Truth or dare games are always crazy
Obstacle course in the bedroom
What are some games to play at a sleepover?
The fun things to do during sleepovers will change slightly depending on age. A simple gathering around with duvets can be enough for younger kids, but older children may need a few target games to work around. Some great sleepover party games can include:
What are some things to talk about at a sleepover?
Fun things to do in sleepovers always include a good ol’ chinwag amongst friends. The great thing, though, is you can chat about anything, but keep an ear out for any topics which may cause some concern, like adult conversations and bullying. You may learn something about your child you didn’t know before, so let them talk! Some good prompts could be:
Lessons in school
Feelings and emotions
Favourite books/TV shows
Talk about other people
Whatever your sleepover party includes, whether it’s for teens or for tweens, make sure it’s a fun one – and relax the rules a little – a fun sleepover is an experience your child will not forget!
*Collaborative guest post*
How to create the best Pokémon themed birthday party for your child
The birthday events industry has exploded in recent years, largely due to our children living, breathing and sleeping their favourite characters, especially on the most special day of the year. Since the release of the Pokémon Go app, the Pokémon craze is burning ever strong, with a whole new generation of young Pokémon lovers and a massive 1,000 Pokémon characters to revel in now – a far cry from the original 150 back in my day!
My boys are obsessed with Pokémon, so it seemed right to organise a Pokémon themed birthday party for my youngest, who recently turned six. Melanie, the Sandy Art entertainer, transformed the party with sand equipment that she had brought with her and she tidied everything up afterwards. She successfully engaged twenty children in Pokémon Sandy Art for 1½ hours and they worked together to create some pretty spectacular sandy art. The added bonus was that they also got to take their creations home too as going home gifts.
More on the entertainment package below, but let’s go through the basics of how to create the best Pokémon themed birthday party for your child, i.e. the venue, the invites, the party supplies, the party food, the birthday cake and, of course, the entertainment!
P.S – this article is aimed at children between 5 and 9 years old, however, there is no reason why children who fall outside this age group can’t enjoy sandy art too!
The venue
When considering Pokémon themed entertainment, your best bet is to find a venue that is big enough for the fun and games, as well as the table settings for the party food. Don’t forget to factor in space for parents to sit and spectate as well. Added bonuses would be having a toilet that is within walking distance and a kitchen in which to prepare the party food and cake. If your home is big enough then great, you save money on the venue costs. However, if not, then places like local halls, churches and some schools (especially those with sports halls) may permit you to hire the room for a couple of hours.
Invitations
You’ve picked a date and time, so now you need to tell the guests. Melanie offers Sandy Art invitations, as part of her package (see above), but if your entertainment doesn’t include this option, then I use Kenzie’s Cards from eBay, which are a brilliant company, who personalise birthday invites for cheap and with a very short lead time.
Telling parents in advance about what they are likely to expect at the party will allow them to prepare their children too. Perhaps the entertainment is first and will likely take 1½ hours, but knowing this in advance means that parents can feed their kids a snack before arriving at the party, so they are not too hungry when the activity starts. I made sure people knew it was a Sandy Art party, so they would expect a hands-on sand experience, but Melanie’s invitations were enough to give it away.
Party Supplies
You can include as many or as little Pokemon themed party supplies as you want. You can buy affordable Pokémon Party Supply sets on eBay, which has TONS of options. For my son’s birthday party, I ordered a party supply package x 3, which contained paper plates, napkins, tablecloth (1) and paper cups x 8. Some sellers like the one I used, throw in balloons as well because I ordered multiple sets. eBay is a great source for party planning, even down to the tools I used for the cake, so it’s worth checking it out during the preparation stage.
I would say, at the very least, your party supply package should include the following:
Tablecloths
Paper Plates
Napkins
Paper Cups
Platters to serve the food
Cutlery
Balloons
Then, if you want to go further than that, then I’d get the following:
Table decorations
Ornaments
Birthday banners
Helium balloons
Party favours
Party Food
It has taken me a long time to get the food right, even though I still haven’t got the volume correct, i.e. there is always tons left over. So, I now stick to the following party food criteria:
Sandwiches with the crusts cut off (I don’t throw away the crusts, I place them in plastic cups or bowls and offer them with a variety of dips if there isn’t any filling on them. (Or I munch them while I’m preparing the party food at home, hence why I put on about 5lbs during the preparation stage… just FYI…)).
Fillings I find work really well are:
Chocolate
Cheese and tomato with butter
Tuna, cream cheese and sweetcorn
Egg mayonnaise
Crisps – all flavours
All sorts of fruit – clementine, bananas and apples, as well as berries and grapes
Biscuits – as many various kinds as you can get
Veggie trains – bell peppers (for the train), cucumbers (for the wheels), sliced celery, carrots and bell peppers (the passengers) – along with yoghurt and hummus dips – The lettuce makes up the grass on the ground (the platter).
Popcorn – sweet, salty, and/or sweet and salty. You can get toffee flavoured popcorn too if you’re feeling risky.
Drinks – water or juice for the kids and fizzy drinks for the adults. Although you’ll find some of the kids tiptoeing over to the adults’ table to help themselves to the soft drinks…
For the purposes of my son’s Pokémon themed party, I Pokémonised (not sure that’s a word, but we’ll go with it) the apples and strawberries. I was so rubbish at doing them, so I’m sure you can do a much better job than me! The good thing is, the kids didn’t notice, and they loved eating the candy off the apples and strawberries. I found the instructions via Koalipops’ YouTube videos for the Pokémon apples here and the Pokémon strawberries here. (I love that guy!)
Birthday Cake
I have somehow got myself into a bit of a pickle because I agreed to make the kids’ birthday cakes every year. It started last year when my eldest was in Year 1. I asked him what he would like the most for his birthday and he said a Ninja Turtles birthday cake made by me. I thought, yeah, why not! Easy, right?
I lost those 5lbs I gained during the food prep stage, due to stress… I have a newfound respect for cake makers and decorators – I don’t know how you do it! It took me six hours to make his cake and the fondant was so tricky to work with. But, it definitely looked homemade and no one can argue that it was a labour of love. Nevertheless, the kids loved the cake and it was totally worth seeing Aron’s eyes light up when he saw the cake for the first time.
I complain about the stress accrued making the cakes, but it was totally worth it to make my kids something completely unique and personalised. I’m happy to kill myself twice a year to get that priceless look on their faces – it makes me proud that I can offer something so personal to them.
Entertainment
With the entertainment, you can afford to be as simple or as extravagant as you want. You can opt for simple party games like Pass the Parcel and include little Pokémon toys as treats, with the main prize being Pokémon related. Or you can play Pin the Tail on Pikachu and other basic games like that. However, we went for the entertainment package where the entertainment was provided by a professional entertainer who engaged the children for up to two hours, while we parents sat back and watched – and possibly opened some Prosecco…
Pokemon Sandy Art Party Package
As mentioned above, we went for a Pokémon Sandy Art party, which was hosted by Melanie, who arrived half an hour earlier to set up four stands that contained four bowls of different coloured sand in each.
A bit of information on sand play
Sandy art or sand play is considered a sensory activity¹, meaning that it involves the child’s five senses² (i.e. taste, touch, smell, hearing, and sight), well eight senses³ in total, actually. Just, FYI, the latter are the senses that tell us where our body is in space, how it is moving and what is happening inside our body (i.e. tummy ache and when you need the loo.) So, sensory activities like sand art and play is a fantastic way for kids to engage in an activity that is mentally and physically stimulating. It is a very developmental process too, as it fine tunes motor skills and encourages kids to tap into that creative part of their brain.
So, how does Sandy Art work?
After Melanie arrived and set everything up, the kids were guided to the end of the hall as soon as they arrived, where Melanie had set up a corner stand of Pokémon design cards. The kids could choose any two designs that they wanted to start the sandy art process. There were also other designs to choose from (for e.g. Disney princesses or Minions) as some of the guests were not very interested in Pokémon.
Melanie peeled away at certain parts of the design cards and let the children have free rein with the sand, so they could decorate their cards as they so wished:
The children tottered around the stands and filled in their first colour before they went back to Melanie who then peeled off a bit more of the card. This way, the rest of the design was unaffected by the sand and it kept the overall look very neat. It’s quite simple, yet so clever!
And the process was repeated until the children had every part of their card filled in with coloured sand.
The finished result was pretty remarkable!
At the end of the activity, the kids had so much fun that they enjoyed having their photos taken with their creations.
If you’d like to learn more about Sandy Art or you’d like to book the above package, you can find Melanie’s contact details on her website. Melanie is very versatile and can offer children’s entertainment for multiple occasions in alternative types of events, for example, weddings (during speeches), workshops, festivals, Holy communions, Family & Fun days and School Fairs.
Going home gifts
Going home gifts are a necessity at parties. Every young guest expects to go home with a treat after the party, whether it is a chocolate bar or a whole myriad of party favours. If your budget allows, you really do have free rein here. We ordered personalised Pokémon Kit Kat bars and a Pokémon pencil from eBay. We also ordered mini Pokémon notepads, but, sadly, they never arrived. We also wrapped up a piece of the birthday cake to include in the Pokémon party bags as well. The great thing about Melanie’s Sandy Art⁴ party is the kids got to keep their two sand designs to take home with them, so these doubled up as great going home gifts for the kids.
If you want to be fancy:
Little Pokémon mini figures or soft toys are a lovely going home gift for the guests and a great keepsake
Pokémon cards – or, even fancier, a Pokémon card set. Children who collect and trade Pokémon cards will love you for this, but it is a bit pricey, especially if you’re buying for up to thirty children.
Pokémon fiction and/or activity books. Young Pokémon fans will receive a book they’d really want to read, and they develop their brain while doing so – win-win!
If the budget doesn’t allow:
Making it yourself is really the best way to save money.
You could make mini cupcakes and buy a set of Pokémon cake toppers to Pokémonise (there’s that word again) them.
Little Pokémon mini keepsakes are a bit of fun for a short period. There is a whole variety to choose from, from yo-yos to bubbles – younger kids still love these kinds of things.
If your child’s birthday party is coming up and they love Pokémon, then I would thoroughly suggest that you check out Melanie’s Sandy Art Entertainment Package. The kids were engaged from beginning to the end of the party and the parents got the chance to sit back and relax for a couple of hours.
Sources
[1] Source from https://pathways.org/blog/sand-play-natures-etch-a-sketch/
How to create an awesome birthday party for your 7-year-old
Your child’s 7th birthday party is an important event because not only is this special occasion wholly about them, but 7 is around the age where your child starts to create long-term memories and hold onto them for years to come. So, let’s make this party a one to remember! Below are some tips on how to create an awesome birthday party for your 7-year-old.
The venue
The first question to ask is whether you want to have the party at home or in another location. If the thought of children running around your home raises your blood pressure, then investigate into places that allow you to hire their facilities for the party. Venues like local halls, churches and some schools may permit you to rent the room out for a few hours at the weekend or entertainment venues, like soft play centres normally offer a party package, so check out their websites or give them a call to find out what is on offer.
If you’re looking to save money on the venue then you can either have the party at home or, if the weather permits, take the party outside and enjoy a picnic or a tea party in the park. But, as the weather can be quite unpredictable, ensure you have a backup plan ready to hand, like a marquee that you can put up at the drop of a hat or take the party back to your place to enjoy the rest of the occasion.
Also, having a joint party can also mean that you’re sharing the cost of the party too, so this may be a wonderful way to save money.
Invitations
I always buy and personalise my sons’ birthday cards from eBay (Kenzie’s Cards are my favourite, I have been using them for years), but you can grab a template from Word and just print out your own. Also, as we live in an age where technology is everywhere, you can save the trees and email your invites to the guests, but make sure that the parents will receive the invite and RSVP early enough to the party.
Entertainment
There are tons of party games and packages that will keep your 7-year-old buzzing with delight and young birthday girls and boys are generally quite forgiving at this age, if everyone is having fun. But, to make the party a truly memorable occasion, create a theme (perhaps based on your child’s favourite character or TV show) and hire an entertainer that will supply the specific entertainment based around that theme. For example, my eldest is obsessed with Pokémon and so, for his 7th birthday party back in December, we hired Michelle from MA Events, who provides Pokémon Lego themed parties (as well as other themes for professional events, including Bar/Bat Mitzvah’s, weddings, corporate parties and other services. Check out Michelle’s website here for more details on her services). Michelle provided the following Pokémon Lego themed entertainment:
Michelle arrived early to set up the activities and got the party started with some music before the guests arrived
The activities included a blank canvas bag, which the guests designed and personalised in their own unique Pokémon style, using the colouring pens and pencils provided by Michelle
There was a little competition after the canvas bag activity where the birthday child got to judge whose bag was the best
During the second activity, the birthday child picked two groups and each group worked together to create a Pokémon-style creation out of the Lego provided. This is a great activity that encourages the children to work together and pool their ideas to invent something from scratch out of Lego.
The canvas bags and an additional bag with a small box of Lego became the party bag gifts for each guest to take home.
The activity section lasted about an hour and then the children went off to eat their food, while Michelle packed everything away.
The Pokémon Lego party theme was a huge hit with both the kids and parents and my son is still talking about the great party he had months later.
For more information on the Pokémon Lego party entertainment and Michelle’s other services, call 07957 581 341 or email michelle@maevents.co.uk.
Food
I always make my birthday cakes from scratch, partly because I’m crazy, but also because the boys beg me every year to make it. But, you don’t have to make your own cakes. Head over to the supermarket stores and you can find a themed birthday cake for as little as £10. Or, google ‘birthday cakes’ and your location and you’ll find local cake makers who can take your child’s birthday cake to another level!
The party food can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. I always make veggie trains, but they rarely get eaten at parties. I found fruit kebabs were the most popular and, of course, sandwiches and crisps. To be honest, food should be simple because the kids at this age won’t care if you’ve made fresh homemade sweet potato muffins or bought fairy cakes from the local store. As long as they can eat the food quickly and then go play afterwards, that is all that matters. Some ideas for party food can be:
Various kinds of sandwiches – I generally use the following fillings: Nutella, cheese and tomato, and tuna and sweetcorn. You can go one further and cut the sandwiches out into desired shapes if you have the cutters to hand
Fruit kebabs as mentioned above, using fruits like grapes, strawberries, apples, and bananas
Veggie trains are literally just bell peppers with the tops cut off, with little veggie sticks, like carrots, cucumbers, and celery placed inside the ‘train’. Include some lettuce at the bottom to mimic grass and make the wheels out of cucumbers (stuck to the sides of the bell peppers with cocktail sticks) and supply some dips like yoghurt sauce and hummus.
Crisps and biscuits are great to have around to grab and go, or you could add them to a large bowl and let the fingers dip in.
For drinks, I always provide jars of squash and little bottles of water to the guests. The grown-ups get fizzy drinks at the side and large bottles of water
Going home time
Adding a time when the party will finish will help people know when to leave. Generally, around this age, 1 ½ to 2 hours is a good length of time. It is normally expected that every child goes home with a party bag, so try to keep the gifts simple. Some entertainers like Michelle from MA Events offer the canvas bags that the kids created during the party, as well as little boxes of Lego as going home gifts. You can also add additional treats like a piece of the birthday cake wrapped in a napkin and a small gift, like stickers, bubbles or crayons – maybe even a small book if your budget can stretch that far.
Whatever you decide to do on your child’s birthday party, remember that the occasion is meant to be a fun party, first and foremost. Don’t get too hung up on the organising and just ensure that you’ve covered all the basics first, like securing the venue and entertainment. Then make sure everyone gets an invite, so they know where to go and what time the party starts and ends. During the party, ensure that all the guests are adequately fed, the kids are well entertained and they all go home with a lovely gift at the end. That’s it. At this age, I can ensure you that if the guests are having fun, that’s all that counts.
*This post may contain affiliate or referral links*
How to create a memorable birthday party for your child
Since my kids started primary school, they have each been inundated with birthday party invites almost every week. Just to give you an idea of numbers, there are 30 children in each class, which means that we generally receive just under 60 birthday party invites per year.
So, it is almost obligatory to host a birthday party for your child these days. The problem is that these birthday parties can become quite expensive when you need to think about hiring the hall and an entertainer/party package, along with, food, party supplies, party bags and, of course, the birthday cake. Some parents set the bar high and spend hundreds if not, thousands of pounds on creating a memorable birthday party for their child. And, some parents make everything themselves, including a 3-tier birthday cake (*cough*).
(I spent six hours making this Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle cake for my eldest’s 6th birthday – it was exhausting!)
So, either way, you should start by having a good think about how you can make your children’s birthday party go from ‘meh’ to ‘wow’! After planning and preparing for quite a few birthday parties myself and attending what feels like hundreds of birthday parties, I now have somewhat of an idea of what I think is fundamentally important to include at a birthday party. Here are Motherhood Diaries’ tips on how to create a memorable birthday party for your child.
Think about your child’s interests and pick a suitable theme
Is your child active? Do they love sports? Do they like creating and decorating things? It’s important that the running theme of the party suits your child’s personality so that they will really enjoy every aspect. Picking a theme also allows you to be more specific in other areas (like the party supplies) and that can help reduce costs in the long run, especially if you buy as part of a package. Aron loves superheroes and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT), so we decided that the running theme was going to be superheroes with a TMNT birthday cake.
Before you go ahead and buy all the party supplies and party bags, take a step back and think about what you need to do after you have picked a theme. How many kids do you want to invite to the party?
Having an accurate guest count is important for several reasons when planning a child’s birthday party. It helps to determine the appropriate venue, as well as the necessary number of chairs, tables, and other furniture. It also ensures that there is enough food and drinks to go around. Most importantly, it allows the host to plan age-appropriate activities and choose appropriate games and prizes. For instance, if you are planning to have an inflatable bouncy house, having a guest count can help determine the size of it. You can try to personalize every detail that you bring in for the special day. You may have the bouncy house printed with the child’s favorite character or choose among so many options of creative customized inflatable characters, that can be personalized to easily fit the occasion or event, and will bring a lot of joy to the special person’s day.
Having an idea of numbers will help you sort out the best location that can accommodate your group size. Then, you can send over ‘save the dates’ ASAP to your intended guests, while you get the invitations and other bits of the party sorted in the interim.
Sort out the guest list
Do you want to invite the whole class at school or a select few of their friends? Are siblings invited? Once you have a rough idea in mind, say, 30 guests, look around venues to see who and what can house those guests. Sports and leisure parties are generally more suited for larger numbers, whereas a private party at home or even at the cinema can suit up to around 8 or 9 guests. Once you have got a rough idea of numbers and you have an idea of the theme, it’s time to start looking for ideal party venues.
Get the venue sorted
So, now you have an idea of the theme and a rough guide of guest numbers, you can find a venue that should accommodate. Remember, you need to think about what your child would prefer. Aron loves anything with high energy, so I decided to go for a sports-related theme for 30 guests (his entire class). Luckily a sports centre in our local area offers sports party packages, so we managed to hire a ‘Trampolining and General Games’ party, which included 2 coaches (the entertainment) and a room to lay out all the party food and decorations. We had to think about the party food ourselves, as it was not included in the package. However, some packages do include food, so it’s worth checking out any venues that offer a party food element. Ideas for parties can include:
Soft play parties (some venues also include party food in their package)
Hiring just the hall and sourcing the entertainer and food yourself
Sports packages, mostly found in local school sports halls or leisure centres
Bouncy castle parties
Home and Garden parties (you save the cost of the venue and host in your own home)
Princess parties (generally includes princess-style entertainers)
Lego Party, which involves hiring a hall and Lego professionals to bring a huge amount of interest/theme-related Lego pieces for the guests to build. A few weeks ago Aron attended a Star Wars-related Lego theme party and the kids had so much fun building Lego according to the entertainer’s instructions. I will be considering going down this route in the future.
Getting the venue sorted means you can plan around the space and the party services you will get and, subsequently, send confirmed ‘save the dates’ for your guests to RSVP to the birthday party as soon as possible. Sometimes you can send save the dates without a location in mind, but you would need to make sure that you can secure a suitable venue on that date to avoid any last-minute changes that may, ultimately, result in guest cancellations on the day.
Send the ‘Save the Date’ now and invitations at least 2 weeks before the event
So, you have your date sorted, you have a rough idea of how many guests you would like to invite, and you have the location secured, so now you need to alert the guests. A simple email or text will suffice, just to make sure the guests pencil in the date of your child’s birthday early and arrange their own plans to attend. This will also buy you some time to sort out the real invitations to formally invite your guests to your child’s party. I like to make an effort on the formal invites because my boys feel a certain sense of pride when they are handing them out to their guests and I get to keep an extra one as a keepsake. I use a small business called Kenzie’s Cards who offer printed personalised birthday invitations (alongside other special events), sometimes with the option of adding personalised photos. I have used them for a few years now and they always deliver good quality on time, every time. Worth taking a look!
Here is an image of Aron’s party invite (created by Kenzie’s Cards) last year. I’ve blocked out the personal details and included the type of information that was displayed on the invite.
Entertainment
As we opted for the sports package, entertainment was in the form of sports coaches and equipment, as well as music during the food portion of the party. However, if you are hiring just the hall, you can make the party more interesting by hiring a theme-specific entertainer or pretty much any entertainment you want, including pirates, clowns, magicians, and Lego experts. Hiring entertainment can become expensive, sometimes costing as much as £250 for an entertainer alone. However, ParentVille is a quick and easy planning tool that can take the stress out of trying to source these entertainers yourself and assist in finding entertainment suppliers within your budget at no extra cost. You can consider other options like purchasing arts and crafts equipment from Poundland or Costco and have an arts and crafts party. Let the kids make something awesome during the party that can also double up as their party bag too. Add some music in the back and some age-old games like pass-the-parcel or musical chairs and the 2-hour party will fly by due to all the fun-filled activities!
N.B – A friend of mine recently told me about her genius idea of buying everyone a set of paint and a plain white T-shirt, so that they could decorate their own T-shirt at the party. Once they had finished, they got to take their personalised T-shirt home as a party bag, so she didn’t have to hire an entertainer or fork out extra for the going home gifts.
Food
(image taken from mommymoment.ca)
I have experimented a lot with party food throughout the years and I have realised that less is definitely more, especially at children’s parties. I now stick to the below staple party food, which seems to be the most successful (based on feeding 30 guests, plus their parents too!):
Cheese & Tomato Pizzas (you can buy them from the store, but I generally order from Dominos at a 2 for 1 discount)
Wholemeal caterpillar sandwiches, which include the following fillings:
Nutella
Tuna, cucumber and Philadelphia cream cheese
Cheese & Tomato
Fruit kebabs or cupcakes (apples, red grapes, strawberries, banana)
(Bad timing to get a nice huge shiner from school, a couple of days before your party, Aron!)
Now, normally I would recommend buying the birthday cake if you can afford it. However, my son’s one birthday wish was for me to make him a TMNT birthday cake, so I had to suck it up and attempt to make my first ever proper cake, which didn’t turn out too bad, but it did take me over 6 hours to make. If you want to make the cake and you have a knack for it, that’s great! There’s no stopping you from giving this a real go. If you think your time is better spent elsewhere, then ParentVille list some great birthday cake specialists who can create a bespoke birthday cake according to your requirements.
Think about your party supplies and extra embellishments – and don’t overspend!
So, all the major party components have been sorted out and now you have to think about the little embellishments that will make the party stand out. Items like tableware, party banners, and balloons etc can all be theme related and you may save money if you buy a tableware set, rather than the individual items. But, theme-related tableware does come at a premium, so if you’re pinching pennies, just head to the major supermarkets and buy bold coloured tableware that matches the base of the theme. For example, my son’s 5th birthday party will have a PJ Masks theme, but as I have not managed to find any PJ Masks-specific tableware, I have just opted to go for royal blue as the main colour of the party supplies and I have saved a huge chunk of money doing this.
ParentVille is a one-stop party shop that connects you to recommended party suppliers in the London area. As we opted for a superheroes theme for my son’s birthday last year, we received the following Superhero party supply package from Crate a Party:
– Superhero themed paper plates
– Superhero themed napkins
– Blue and white striped straws
– Dark blue plastic cutlery (knives, forks and spoons)
– Superhero ‘Happy Birthday’ banner designed and made by Crate a Party
– 5 red, 5 yellow, 5 dark blue and 5 black latex balloons
– Silver balloon ribbon roll
– Multicoloured spotty tablecloth
– Superhero packet of table confetti
The Superhero Party Supplies package costs £7.50 per child – So, for 30 children that would be £225
You can find cheaper supplies at your nearest Pound Store or Supermarket. However, it is important to note that the quality may not be the same as Crate a Party’s party supply package, which all comes bundled together in one box and fits the theme of the party exactly. So, instead of sourcing all the items yourself, you may find it easier to go for the practical version that Crate a Party offers.
Party bags
Most people now do one useful gift, rather than a bag full of useless gifts and I am inclined to agree with this mindset. In the past, I thought that the more a child gets in their party bag, the more excited they are at receiving it. And, this may still be the case for the child, but for the parents, it’s a nightmare! So, I would seriously consider getting one decent gift instead, something that the child may get multiple uses out of, like a jigsaw set, a water bottle or a book. The parents will be grateful! I would suggest browsing through Parentville’s Party Bags & Sweets collection to see if you can find something suitable for your child’s party. Oh, and I always add a cupcake in the party bag, just as an extra sweet treat for the guests to take home. If you’re looking for theme-related cupcakes, Caketoppers specialise in cakes, cupcakes and printed icing edible toppers for delivery across the UK. They can personalise your cupcakes with a photo, logo or message. At my son’s party, I personalised the guest’s cupcakes with the TMNT crew, which went down very well with the guests.
Expect to not be in control of everything
You may have planned your party to a ‘T’, but on the day anything can happen. Not all the guests may turn up, or the venue may create some delays in the schedule. Maybe the food doesn’t turn out as planned or the entertainment bombs. Look in your child’s eyes. Do they care? Are they having the time of their lives? Then, throw all that negativity to the wind. You will get some parents who will complain that something wasn’t up to scratch, that’s normal. You can’t please everyone. As my mum always says:
“Give it your all, planning and preparing before the event because you can’t change what happens when it happens.”
I use this mantra in everything that I do and it has saved me a lot of stress going forward.
Video of Aron’s 6th birthday party
Taking into account everything that I have just said above, here is a video of how my son’s 6th birthday party turned out after careful planning and preparation.
https://youtu.be/DndbZXb1GtM
Good luck!
P.S – It’s nice to send out some Thank You cards to the guests after the party to acknowledge their attendance and thank them for their generous birthday gift. Crate a Party’s Superheros Party Package included some great Thank You cards, which we swiftly sent out a few days later.
Have you got any tips on how to create a memorable birthday party for your child? Please share wish us in the comments below.
*Disclaimer – Motherhood Diaries was gifted a party supplies package from Craft a Party, in collaboration with Parentville
