
For Ronan's first birthday we threw a bubbles and brunch party that was super fun and easy to put together. My goal was a nice, low key first birthday bash that everyone could enjoy. It worked out really well. Bubbles are super fun for babies and kids of all ages. Brunch is easy to serve and happens at a great time for little ones who still need naps. I, of course, was too busy hosting and enjoying the celebration to get tons of detail shots, but I wanted to share here anyway in case you're looking for kids birthday party ideas. Or maybe you just want to see the birthday boy, in which case I've totally got those pictures covered.

I'm not one to go crazy on the decor. I hung the adorable garlands that Amy made me for Ronan's shower.

I also displayed the photos I had taken of Ronan each month of his life (more on this series later).


We had a bubble machine pumping out bubbles through out the event. I filled a baby pool with silver beach balls of various sizes which was a big hit with the little ones.

Photo by Meg Messina Photography
Jude was in charge of the bubble rocket which was totally cool. I also had large bubble wands and bubble solution out for everyone to play with. (I got the beach balls, wands, and rocket from Oriental Trading Company).


I completely spaced taking pictures of the brunch buffet, but it was delicious. I made several quiches including one with a hash brown crust for the gluten free folks. I also did a big platter of fresh fruit. The rest was super easy because it was store bought! I served bagels with cream cheese and lox, plus yummy bakery muffins. There were also plenty of bubbles for the grown-ups in the form of mimosas.

Photo by Meg Messina Photography
It's not a birthday party without cake! I made a carrot cake with maple cream cheese frosting and edible flowers from my garden.

I also made a batch of the same in cupcake form so that the guests wouldn't have to eat a smashed dessert.

Photo by Meg Messina Photography
But then Ronan was quite dainty about the whole cake eating thing, in fact he didn't even try it until his brother showed him how it was done.

Present opening was sweet and fun. Ronan's great grandma got him a radio flyer wagon which was a huge hit with all the kids.

Party favors were, you guessed it bubbles! Plus a few beach balls for good measure!

Photo by Meg Messina Photography
Overall it was a wonderful way to celebrate our bouncing, bubbly baby boy!