If you know me, you know Paris, France holds a special place in my heart since it was where I planned a beautiful photoshoot to reveal I was having a baby in 2022! I have always been fascinated by all of the flower markets and floral displays throughout the city of lights. Fast forward to 2023, I decided to draw inspiration from that trip for my daughter’s 1st Birthday party.
Although most French things fascinates me, I wanted to make sure this birthday party avoided common French landmarks like the Eiffel Tower. I designed some floral arrangements surrounding the desserts and arch displays, where photos would be taken with family and friends. I draped some eucalyptus, roses and seasonal blooms out of one of the front drawers of the table to give a touch of elegance and softness.
French floral markets and decadent desserts were brought to life on this white console table. The cakes and cake pops were made by a local baker. Vanilla buttercream frosting on the outside and dulce de leche layered vanilla cake on the inside. I tied a champagne colored chiffon ribbon on the larger cake to give it a delicate feel. The baby’s smash cake had a cake topper purchased from Etsy. A layered soft pink and pearl table runner ran under it all and provided some color contrast from the white table and arches.
As far as the arch backdrops, you can purchase some online from Etsy, Amazon, a party prop company, or you can DIY. In my case, it was a DIY situation, which my father created. The Penelope sign was purchased from Etsy.
For my flower arrangements, I typically visit my local Trader Joe’s or place a bulk order from Costco. I love building floral arrangements and it also tends to keep the cost low compared to hiring a florist. I usually create the arrangements the night before the event so it’s one less thing to do the day of. The vases were all purchased from Hobby Lobby (wicker wrapped vase, rattan wrapped vase).
I wanted this special event to embrace floral elegance. I also wanted to fill the natural lit space with femininity and fun where little girls could play dress up. I purchased this adorable market cart and used it as decor and a space to put the party favors for the girls attending. I purchased these beautiful purses and heart shaped sunglasses to create Penelope’s Chic Boutique. I purchased the decal for the cart from Etsy. I randomly found this adorable letter P jacket at Zara and hung it on the cart using a classic pearl hanger. I added this gorgeous wicker hamper with baby’s breath florals to present a delicate touch.
To keep the children entertained, I purchased some arts and crafts and placed them on a kid’s table I had. I would recommend covering your table, as most of the paints do stain.
For the cake smash backdrop, I set up the baby’s highchair right in front of the balloon decorated arches for the perfect photo opportunity! The balloon garland was a DIY, by my aunt. I purchased a balloon kit from Etsy and an additional kit from Amazon and combined the two and they actually blended really well. Baby Penelope, wore a soft pink tulle dress with a matching pink bow and shoes! Even our pup dressed for the occasion with her Foggy Dog lady bow!
All in all, everything came out perfectly! You don’t have to go to France to live out your dream of a Parisian French Bloom 1st Birthday.”
SHOP THE POST
If you enjoyed this 1ST Birthday French themed idea, feel free to share on social media and comment below!
I hope this post gave you tons of ideas and inspiration for throwing your own event.
Cheers and Merci!
