operation: surprise birthday party

A few months ago, I shared my mom’s 70th surprise birthday invite I designed with you and last weekend was finally the BIG DAY.  She had blast and was totally surprised!

My brother was in charge of the food & drinks and I took care of all the pretty details… starting with creating a photo album filled with pictures of her growing up. (the little book is filled with all the memory cards the guests sent in)

I had so much fun designing the page layouts digitally.  You too can do this very simply by using Adobe Elements (under $100) and throwing in a few cute downloadable frames. 

I love these scrolled ledger frames too. (Doesn’t flying look so glamorous in that photo? … and yes, that is my mom on a camel – crazy!)

In addition to the album, I filled up 40  black and white frames with photos of my mom’s friends and family. (These frames were only $2.50 each for all sizes at Kmart!)

I used the frames as center peices on the tables and had each guest take home a framed photo they liked or were in.  They also served as a great ice breaker while the guests awaited my mom’s arrival. ( I think this could be a great idea for a wedding too.)

Sticking with the photo theme, we had our photographer friend, Matt throw up a back drop and shoot pictures of the guests throughout the party.  This really added to the atmosphere and captured many new memories.  Here’s some of Matt’s work if you’re looking to add a little zest to your next event.  (feel free to email me for his contact info)

My mom loved the album and will be talking about this happy day for many months to come.

Happy Birthday Mom!