One of the things that I’ve learned over decades of entertaining (I started young!) is that whenever you can add a personal element to a party, it makes it more memorable. Not only for the guest of honor but those in attendance.
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| My husband at age 2 |
Recently, I had the pleasure of hosting an intimate birthday party for my husband. It wasn’t a milestone birthday, but it was one I wanted him to remember.
I immediately knew I wanted to include the work of renown calligrapher, Bernard Maisner. So, I did a combination of “high/low”. Here’s how.
Bernard is one of a hand full of esteemed print designers whose work is available on Paperless Post. This allowed me a little more time than a hard copy invitation would require, as there were out of town guests invited. This was the “low” part of my party.
Next, I contacted Bernard to create some special elements.
Stunning hand calligraphy on place cards with a silver bevel.
Cards were set at each guest’s place, so that they could write a personal note. I read some out loud during the dinner and all will be gathered in a keepsake book for him. How much fun will he have reading these 10 years from now?
Next, I asked Bernard to create a 18″x8″ sign that I could hang on the back of Grant’s chair. He mounted it on foam board, so I will be able to reuse it for each of my boys’ birthdays. How great is that?
Here it is at the dinner.
And, how I’ve transitioned it to our home. Fits my chairs even better! It will be making it’s next appearance in September.
I repeated the 2 year old photo of my husband, by using it as gift tags on the party favors.
Finally, what’s a party without a mustache?
I believe that you don’t have to wait for an occasion to celebrate. Find one. Make one up. Just don’t wait. And when you do…make it personal!
What wonderful special touches Elizabeth. I especially love the "what I think of Grant' cards. I'm sure he will treasure that book. Beautiful calligraphy!
Wow Elizabeth,
You knocked the ball out of the park with all of your special touches! What a wonderful way to elevate a dining experience at a restaurant. You truly made for a memorable and personalized birthday celebration. Isn't there a way we can get you to open a "living with style and grace" on-line boutique? You would be a wonderful source for those wishing to pull together the ultimate gathering each and every time. I'm impressed! Happy Birthday to Grant!
When's the next party? I'm coming!! You sure know how to make an event memorable. How lucky is your husband? He must have felt so loved and so special. I especially like the photo… so sweet! xo
Love it all, you are such an elegant and clever, creative hostess. Are you free in June for my husbands birthday? LOL…..I owe him a big "50" and am nervous about what to do, cannot even think about it yet. Thanks for this fabulous resource, such great ideas!! Love including his picture, and the cards to be filled out by each guest….what a wonderful keepsake.
So elegant yet fun and festive! Thanks for sharing, have a great day.
You really do know how to make one boy or two or no, make that three feel very special!
pve
What a special thing to do. The calligraphy was beautiful and the personal touches amazing!
Stacy
How fab. You did a beautiful job, as always! I'm sure GRant loved every second of it.
So many fun ideas to remember here!
wow! how fun and chic, all at once!!!
love it! the birthday boy banner will live in your family for generations to come! xo S&A
How wonderfully special, Elizabeth! Every detail so thoughtfully and creatively executed. Your husband must have just loved it! And I agree, every day is cause for celebration. And the more you can personalize an occasion, the better!
Well done!! XO
What an elegant party. Helping my sister plan a surprise 45th for her husband in July, and I am going to share this post with her. Lovely!
Such beautiful details, Elizabeth! The party in itself is such a wonderful gift! And, that caligraphy…love!
lucky grant, this was a memorable party!
loved all your touches elizabeth; the calligraphy, the flowers and in particular his 2 year old photo….darling!
xo
debra
Elizabeth, this is such a nice birthday party for your husband. I know that he was truly thankful for such a beautiful and thoughtful day.
I love the work of Bernard Maisner. He is an uber talented person.
Happy Wednesday.
Teresa
xoxo
Wonderful Elizabeth! Really brings a smile.
You are amazing, Elizabeth, and I know who to call to make my parties more personalized! I'm sure Grant and all your guests had a ball…
xxoo
Oh Elizabeth all of the touches were so thoughtful! For J's 40th next month we're going to New Orleans with some friends but I'd also love to throw a party here for others who won't be joining us. You've given me some great ideas here.
I bet his party was a huge success. 🙂 xoxo
What a thoughtful party. The details are out standing. Also really like the beautiful font and the flowers.
I adore Bernard's work! Thanks for showing a great way to go high/low with calligraphy!
What a creative person you are. Just curious, if you don't mind my asking, but what did you give for party favors?
What a special idea! I will definitely have to remember to add personal touches to my parties whenever possible. You are so right- it adds so much!
XO,
Sam
http://www.ThePeakofTresChic.com
I almost put in what I did for party favors. Now that I've been asked, I'll tell you.
I did Vagabond House (a brand I really like for steak knives) antler bottle openers. I feel like party favors usually lean toward the women and in this case I wanted to do something that reflected Grant.
Here's the link if you're curious:
http://www.vagabondhouse.com/c-351-anter-rustic.aspx
What a fun party! You did an amazing job!
What a fun party….I am sure your husband loved every minute of it!
that looks like a fun and charming party! well done!
You are the best entertainer! Such great ideas! Definitely pays to plan ahead! Loved the flowers and all,
Jan
Sounds like a great evening! Love all of the special touches you put into the party. Beautiful!
Elizabeth you are a talent! Great ideas, everyone and most importantly your husband must have had a very good memorable evening, with lots of smiles! Love the mustache;)
What fun!!! You know how much I love Bernard's work – what fabulous touches. I'm sure it was a roaring success!
I absolutely LOVE the "When I think of Grant" cards!
You are amazing, Elizabeth! Love all of the thought you put into every details – what a special evening!!