After months and months and months of planning, we finally pulled off the PERFECT surprise party for my mom’s 60th birthday.
Back in April/May I was talking to Luke about my mom’s 60th. I thought it would be a great idea to have a surprise party. After talking with Kiera (who lives a few miles from my parents) and asking for her home for hosting, we were on our way.
Since her husband’s boss lives down the road from them, it would be perfect if they said that they were going to a work party and needed a babysitter. This would do several things, including explaining the large amount of cars AND getting my mom over to the house to babysit.
After a few months of getting some more ideas, we brought my dad into the surprise. He can’t tell a lie, especially to my mom, so I was nervous that telling him wouldn’t be the best idea. Sorry for my lack of faith in you dad!
We also got her friends involved and they were a great help. They had an extremely difficult time “lying” to my mom, but after avoiding her, they were also able to pull it off.
I was scoping Pinterest for some ideas on gifts and ran across one that I thought would be perfect for my mom. I sent out lots(and LOTS) of letters asking for memories from some of my mom’s friends. These memories were funny and heartwarming and so sincere all wrapped up in each letter. They were perfect.
In July/August Tori and her fiance, Jared, got on board and ordered airline tickets. She was talking to our cousin, Lindsey, and along with my mom’s younger sister, Eva, they made THEIR reservations to fly out. I knew with these added guests, the party would be that much more special for her.
The invites were adorable and perfect for our theme. (Click to make bigger)
We ordered a ‘scene setter’ to set up the dining room,
gathered some 50’s music, lots of good authentic food, some costumes (Soda Jerks and Poodle Skirts), and pictures of Elvis:
We drove in to Chicago on Thursday night. On Frinday afternoon, we went over to my parent’s home and gathered some much needed supplies (table clothes, serving utensils, plates, etc) Mom never even noticed she was missing the items!
Tori and Jared flew in on Friday night.
The day of the party, Saturday, we had some last minute errands to run, mostly in my parent’s town. We were in contact with my dad and he would text us with their plans. We were able to get to their house and pick up some much needed serving dishes and then headed over to Aldi to pick up some food. The next text I got from my dad was priceless, “GET out of there! Mom’s on her way!” We checked out and booked it out of town (literally). (Later my mom said that she kept wondering why dad was on the phone all day..haha!)
We got all the food set up and people started to trickle in. Jennifer made the CUTEST cupcakes I have ever seen!! “Malts/Shakes” with whipped cream, cherries and straws!
My Soda Jerk hottie of a husband and kiddos:
Kiera and Cason. LOVE THE hair Case!
The boys getting in to the food early:
To say that my mom was surprised would be one of the biggest understatements of the year. Honestly wish everyone could’ve seen her reaction in person. Priceless.
It really was adorable seeing everyone dressed up. It was fantastic.
Benson and Mac staying “out” of trouble by washing the dishes:
Rootbeer floats:
Stacey and Cathy:
Seeing her sister. These 2 could be twins:
Tori, Mom, Kathy:
Living Room had tables for eating…
We decorated the Living Room walls with pictures from her life.
SO thankful for everyone that made this night memorable. It was perfect, perfect, perfect. My mom was not only completely surprised, but she was deeply touched by everyone who came and the letters written.
Happy 60th Mom!! Love you!
