CJ’s Birthday Safari
We had the absolute best time celebrating CJ’s 1st Birthday on his actual birthday – June 26, 2021. I’m certainly a huge fan of themed birthdays, I think it makes it fun, and you’re able to incorporate more elements. The Safari Theme just made sense because CJ loves Lions, constantly roars like one and we wanted to pay homage to the Lion King.
I enlisted the help of Dominique James, the Owner of M’Pressed Events, to help my vision come to life. I learned my lesson after Suri’s first birthday party, DIY is just too much work and stress.
Venue
At first, I had my heart set on an outdoor party, but the brutal Florida heat would not have been enjoyable for any of our guests. Also, in wanting to keep costs low, I decided on the Clubhouse in our community, which due to the décor, already resembled a Safari Lodge. Plus, it had great lighting and lots of greenery outside the large picture windows which was the focal point of the event.
Décor
In keeping with the Safari Themed, I wanted more muted colors along with Gold. Gold always feels so regal to me and says, “Royalty,” and CJ is our Prince. Obviously, we ensured there were lots of Jungle Animals incorporated. We did cutouts of a Lion, Elephant, and Giraffe. I wanted Life-Like animals, but those rental companies were nowhere to be found in Central Florida. We also had greenery and balloon décor, which took the event to the next level.
One of my favorite elements was the picnic table which was low enough that the children could sit there. The design and setup surpassed what I could ever imagine. We had customized treat boxes from IIana’s Magic Creations, that had snacks for the children to take home.
Food
In any event that I have, food is one of the most important things. I utilized my two Favorite Caterers in Orlando. Seeing that it was a Saturday mid-day event, I felt Brunch was very fitting.
Southern Brunch
For the Traditional Brunch, we went with no other than KC Cuisines. The food was absolutely incredible, the shrimp and grits were to die for. The guests also equally enjoyed the food. Chef Kendrell always provides hearty servings; guests got seconds and thirds and there as still leftovers.
Menu:
Chicken and Waffles
Scrambled Eggs
Hashbrowns
Shrimp and Grits
Mini Pancakes
Turkey Bacon
Fruit Platter
Jamaican Vegan Brunch
I also had a Vegan option. It’s important for me to always incorporate a part of our Jamaican culture in every event. My favorite Vegan restaurant in Orlando is none other than Dajen Eats out of Eatonville. The food at the restaurant is beyond delicious, but her catering menu is unmatched. Her Chick’n Biscuits are better than Chick-Fil-A, I said what I said. Of course, some of my carnivore guests couldn’t get over the fact that it wasn’t real meat in the Chick’n Biscuits.
Menu:
Original and Buffalo Chick’n Biscuits
Ackee with Toasted Noori
Sausage and Egg Potato Skillet
Sauteed Callaloo
Desserts
Due to the many allergies, we have in this family. Basically, eggs are a no-go for all of us. Our desserts have to be vegan and also avoid any tree nuts and soy as well. Olivia of Fig & Flour Bakery never disappoints.
I sent her pictures from Pinterest for my Treat Inspo, and she did an even better job than the photos.
The Cake was incredible, the top layer was chocolate, and the bottom layer was vanilla.
I had her use the leftover cake batter to make a large cupcake essentially for CJ smash; the Jamaican mother in me won’t allow for waste.
We also feasted on Donuts and Cookies.
Party Favors
I thought I was extra, but Dominique definitely took it to the next level for this party. Things I wouldn’t even think about.
We had personalized Water Bottles that said “CJ’s Safari.” The children got to take home “Build-A-Bear” type Safari Animals, in which they could stuff with the filling and give them a name. Then there were also customized Coloring Books with Crayon Boxes as well.
Soft Play Zone
For Suri’s birthday, we rented a soft-play zone from a local company. But I wanted to keep everything on theme with the muted color schemes they just didn’t have. So I was able to source everything myself on Amazon.
I really enjoyed planning this first birthday for CJ; let’s be honest, most first birthdays are for the parents and the village. It was absolutely perfect. Seeing that it was still the heights of the Pandemic, we ensured to keep the guest list small and had our closet family and friends there. So grateful for everyone that came out to celebrate CJ’s First Birthday Safari!
Vendors :
Event Planner and Decorator – M’ Pressed Events
Picnic Table – Orlando Picnic Pop Up
Custom Treat Boxes - IIana’s Magic Creations
Catering – KC Cuisines
Vegan Catering – Dajen Eats
Cake - Fig and Flour
Outfit Details:
In keeping with the Safari theme, we were all matching in various Beige ensembles.
Suri’s Romper was from Amazon.
