When Luna shared that she wished for an “Under the Sea” themed birthday party this year, in typical Natalie fashion, I created my Pinterest board and the creative juices started flowing. Little did I know, how crazy the last couple of weeks would be and how tapped out I would actually feel. Let’s rewind on the insanity the end of May was… I dealt with a rat getting stuck in my car’s radiator (where are my city people?!), a couple of mechanic runs, two enrichment residencies ending simultaneously, hosting 7 infant and toddler Travel con Lola classes, and, last but not least, a rodent getting stuck and later meeting its demise within the walls of our home. To say it’s been insane, is an understatement!

Last minute prepping for the party went into overdrive last weekend. Our girl squad distracted our rodent phobia and we poured our energy into backdrop making, goodie bags, and a whole lot of online ordering. It helps that I had kicked off the juices early on with loads of inspiration because as I hopped between discount stores last month, I picked up the everyday household items that I thought would help bring a coral reef to life… body sponges, foam hair rollers, cabinet liners and even a math bat. When prepping for a party there is nothing better than a hot glue gun and your squad to help get things done.

Even though I had great plans for my cake table, unfortunately, our dessert dreams could not come true since our baker was not able to make Luna’s cake. This is when I decided to go with our fool-proof cake solution… BJ’s! I know, who would have thought. If there’s one tip I could share with all my familias, do not knock the bakery and deli at BJ’s. 

I’ve purchased BJ’s cakes for a number of my children’s events but this is the first time I pre-order the plain white, two tiered buttercream cake that has quite the economical price of $29. Like other times, I delved into full-on scrolling at Amazon.com to find the best mermaid themed decor and edible glitter in order to assume responsibility for cake decorating on the day of. I also found affordable, pre-packaged macaroons at Marshalls which made for the perfect hues of pink clams. With a touch of creativity, a little time and some cheap discount finds, I was able to pull it off… a one-of-a-kind, “Under the Sea” birthday experience. Even though I did kick off the birthday festivities by having to call a locksmith because I got locked out of my car, nothing stopped us from truly enjoying and indulging in family, friends and memory making.  Here are some fun pics from Luna’s bday this past weekend which I hope you will enjoy.