Peek-a-boo Jacob is 2!

As addictive as sugar itself, the larger-than-life, wide-eyed brightly coloured Jay Jay & friends invaded our home a few years ago. Just seeing the joy it brings to my little toddler made it a no-brainer when selecting this year’s party theme.

DIY Checklist for Moms

Inspiration

My favourite go-to place for inspiration and ideas is always Pinterest. I created a board with a few ideas for the eats, treats, decor, favours, and games. Feel free to follow me on Pinterest or check out my board by clicking on this link. Lots of free downloads from the invitation to the party games

I downloaded some templates from Etsy, as the themed party pack is always a winner for me

Found some Royalty-Free videos of Cocomelon’s Happy Birthday theme and created my own personal video invite using simple apps on my phone that I could share with all the parents instantly

CANVA is also my reigning saviour when it comes to making posters, like this welcome board.

Budget

I always start with a budget planner, even though eventually it turns out to be a mere suggestion (lol yes I’m THAT OTT mom). I start with the BIG ticket items such as venue hire, cake, decor, food and photography.

As far as you can, try to make most things yourself or borrow from friends. Don’t be shy to ask friends or family to step in and help on the day or beforehand.

Also buying little things every month (that are non-perishable) or saving a bit every month helps towards the end goal so you don’t feel the pinch of having so many expenses laid out in one go. I actually staggered some of the items I needed over several month’s worth of small shopping trips. Some were even sourced from the Facebook marketplace. Don’t be afraid to buy used or secondhand goods. Remember with toddlers most things will end up broken in a matter of minutes.

Preparation

I can’t stress this enough, but prep prep prep as much as you can before the actual party. Outsource if you must, it will make your life so much easier I promise. I started planning by creating a list on takelot.com and ordered things like party favours way in advance. I also purchased the paper plates and boxes from Chinatown 2 months before the party.

Because I love baking as much as my son…ok well not quite as much, I refuse to have a store-bought cake for his birthday. Fondant is not my friend, and having a full-time job led me to complete this 2 tier cocomelon creation at 1am the night before. Luckily the Rice Krispies treats and cake pops were made days before.

Outsourcing

I knew I’d be running around like a mad hatter on the day so I called on the experts for help. Special thanks to these trusted party dreammakers who made MAGIC happen for my little man:

Kiddiesrides.co.za

This company is well known for its coin-operated cars, planes, motorbikes and buses outside your local supermarket and in the malls. But they also provide these mini vehicles for kiddie’s parties and events. The mini battery-operated train that ran on a 5 m track provided endless hours of fun for the kids. They deliver set up and collect for you! owners; Rene & Steven’s customer service is outstanding. I highly recommend working with them. Do check them out for YOUR kid’s next bday party!

Rosie’s Party Hire

The brightly coloured chairs, tables & cool soft play set complete with a ball pit and slide (which my son & his friends couldn’t get enough of) were delivered, set up & collected on the same day at a minimal cost. Super friendly and efficient! Follow them for more.

Limitless Events Hire

The awesome Peek-a-boo Jacob is 2 backdrop giant A B C cubes & giant cutouts all thanks to Limitless Events.

Silver banana Printing

Every year I entrust all my party printing needs to Silver Banana in Bree Street, Cape Town. They are affordable, efficient and A+ customer service. Thank you for my personalised party pack covers & stickers. You never disappoint!

C2 digital

I had an idea and you brought it to life when I couldn’t find it anywhere else. Thank you C2 Digital for your patience, creativity & super efficient customer service. Jacob’s Cocomelon school treat table was a hit! Thank you for the schoolbus print.

Frosting Fairy

Cake I can bake, fudge I can make but royal icing frosted cookies are not my thing. Thank you ever so much to Ilze from The Frosting Fairy for the delightful cocomelon-themed cookies. They were a Hit!!

Will ene Addendorff photography

Last but certainly not least, Willene comes highly recommended. She is responsible for our annual mommy & me Christmas Jammie piccies. She also does portraits and family sessions and captured my little man’s 2nd bday so perfectly. I’m always trying to capture every memory, but when my hands are full seeing to hungry tummies, and baking the cake I know I can confidently rely on Willene to immortalise all my favourite memories. Do check her out on social media.