It’s not just this fabulous ikat printed cake that made us smile throughout this post. Or the gorg tablescape or bright space at Archetype Napa (just wait!). It’s all that, sure, but more importantly, it’s the fact that Jacqueline of Finding Lovely dreamt the whole thing up to surprise her mama for her birthday. Dear friends traveled from far and wide, Tulips & Toadstools styled it to perfection, and Ruth Eileen documented the day to remember for years to come. Srsly, just so sweet.
Surprise party invites! Wouldn’t they be so fun to receive?
All the details were navy and coral, AKA mom’s fave colors.
Jacqueline tells it, Handmade Ikat linen runners graced each table top and set the foundation for wicker chargers and the beautiful airy floral arrangements by Morgan and her team at Tulips & Toadstools. Vintage brass candlestick holders and navy blue tapers added height and elegance to the tablescape. The simple charger and navy linen napkin were topped with a favor box filled with my mother’s favorite chocolate, wrapped in silk and velvet ribbons and topped with a handmade paper flower.
Christine Paper Design was behind the darling paper flowers.
The cake was a work of art by the talented team at Perfect Ending Cakes. With its hand painted ikat pattern and sugar flowers, it was stunning and the feature of the dessert table, set on a simple white cake stand and vintage crate. Surrounding it were apothecary jars of candy, peach tea lollipops, cupcakes, cookies and homemade apple hand pies.
Eeee, this just fills our hearts with joy. Time to get planning your own surprise soiree, right? Find more from this birthday party in our gallery below:
For years my mother has been battling breast cancer, bravely and quietly. She has never had a surprise party so it was high time that such a sweet soul be celebrated by those who love her and with so much lovely all around. Guest traveled for upwards of 10 hours to be there for the day, thrown the weekend before her actual birthday to keep it a surprise. A true testament to my mom’s gentle heart and kind spirit, that so many would sacrifice their time and travel to celebrate her. Life is filled with hard days which makes the celebrations even more beautiful. Although far from a typical “milestone” birthday, when you are battling illness, every sweet year is a milestone. We could not be more thankful for the hearts and hands that made this day lovely in every way.
Thanks to Finding Lovely for sharing this party with us! See everyone involved in the credits:
Photography: Ruth Eileen Photo / Venue: Archetype Napa / Concept & Planning: Finding Lovely / Florist & Day of Styling: Tulips & Toadstools / Invitations: Zazzle / Cake & Cupcakes: Perfect Ending Cakes / Cookies: Kessa Cakes / Paper Flowers & Garlands: Christine Paper Design / Rentals: Classic Party Rentals / Floral Bowties: Me and Matilda Ties / Card & Sign Holders: BHLDN / Favor Boxes: My Wedding Reception Ideas / Ribbons: Shy Myrtle
