Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Rylee's Sweet Shoppe - Guest Post

When I think of throwing birthday parties for my children each year, I usually think of those VISA commercials on TV that go something like this…

Party decor-$50
Theme cake-$30
PiƱata and Goodie Bags-$50

Mommy’s hard work and frantic running around… PRICELESS!

Although, I am not sure that last part is really what I want to “remember”.


But, this year, my daughter, Rylee, mentioned she wanted a “Candy” themed party after she saw (and went in on the purchase) of the cake Katie made for our church’s children’s dept.

So, when I approached Katie, she had a WONDERFUL idea…

This year, cut back on the cost and plan the party WITH Rylee and TOGETHER throw a nice "Sweet Shoppe" party on a budget. Well, she had me sold on the idea but would Rylee be sold?


Oh yes she was! She absolutely LOVED every minute of it…

From shopping at the Dollar Store for decorations...

To picking out candy for her candy buffet (which doubled as both decoration and party favors)...

To creating her very own "Candy Bingo" game...

To helping hand make each and every Lollipop themed invitation...


All the way down to helping make her own cake...She LOVED it!!!!!!!!!!!

And honestly, upon beginning this adventure, I thought saving money would be the best part; however having these moments with my daughter became the “PRICELESS”!

Oh, yes, the party store will have to do without the Oldfield girls, because we both agree this will now be a YEARLY tradition.



Now for those who are just anxious to know if we truly saved… I figure we saved about $62.00.

WOW!


Guest Post: Misty Oldfield




Katie here:
I have to say this was one of the neatest things for me to help with. A friend who...would have never believed she was capable of doing this...has totally made a transformation into "Susie Homemaker".

I really could not believe just how much Rylee enjoyed this activity. She is a little cake decorator and party planner and cook all wrapped up in one little soccer loving little girl!!

She is now on a mission to plan others parties and decorate their cakes...a girl after my own heart...and I love it!!!


You can always get more bang for your buck when you are creative, look for deals, and do the work yourself. Although, you won't just save money, you will have a lot of fun in the process.


Photo Credit: Jenny Walters Photography



This post is linked to Frugal Friday at www.lifeasmom.com

7 comments:

Lauren @ Crave. Indulge. Satisfy. said...

Love the cake and great party ideas! Glad Rylee enjoyed helping in the planning of her party! Anything candy themed is sure to be a crowd pleaser!

Michelle S. said...

Misty told me about Rylee's party! Such a cute idea! I'm glad she had a great party and you saved money. Great job!!

Eldonna A. said...

Love this story! Happy Birthday Rylee! You did a wonderful job.

This is exactly how I got into cake decorating. I even did my son's wedding cake. That cost me about $100 versus $250/$300.

I have also been able to help out couples who had a limited budget for a wedding.

Keep those moments and stories coming! We will look for an update for Rylee's birthday next year. And if anyone is wondering if they can do this: Yes, you can! Enjoy! Thanks so much for the story.

Tiffanee said...

What a brilliant idea. I try to talk my kids out of parties because it STRESSES me and the budget out way to much. What a bad mom huh!! I think this is one I could handle.

Deb Johnson said...

that's "sweet"! Hope you had a Happy Birthday Rylee. Boy if I had a birthday like that I think it would be very happy indeed! You ladies are an inspiration, Misty,Katie and Jenny!

Misty said...

Well, I must say, this was my FAVORITE birthday party (and I've had my share) :) It was SO much fun planning with Rylee.

I know I am not the only mom who gets worn out from all the "work" involved in birthdays and this was a PERFECT way we could celebrate her birth TOGETHER. Any mom can do this... :) So, Tiffanee, give it a try and let us know how much you like it :)

All your comments brought tears to my eyes... they are precious and truly have blessed me on this journey the Lord has called me on. Thank you all so much...

Katie, your blog blesses me so much and I am not the only one. :) Your sweet spirit and humble heart for sharing come across so beautifully that it is truly God working through you in your precious ministry. :) May the Lord continue to bless you as you walk closer to Him and guide us in "cutting back". I have grown so much through your wisdom, and I know God is pleased with your willingness and obedience.

Katie said...

Misty,

What a beautiful comment, thank you so much.

I am so glad that you are finding something of "value" here. I appreciate your faithful readership and your comments always brighten my day!

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