Real Good Party: Ashley’s 29th Birthday Party

29 forever! Ashley’s 29th birthday party was easily one of our favourite projects of the summer and honestly, maybe ever. But not because of all the pretty details, it’s really because of the meaning behind it – amazing clients who continue to include us in their milestones and celebrations!

This effortless summer soiree was an absolute pleasure to be a part of and we are so excited to share some details from Ashley’s surprise backyard bash.

Ashley + James were married in August 2017 at their beautiful home in Central Saanich. Transforming their garden for their wedding day was an absolute treat and a project we won’t ever forget. These two were a blast to work with and their vision of a relaxed backyard meets black tie affair was timeless, fun filled, and full of meaningful moments for the two of them and their guests.

Fast forward to 2020 and Ashley + James welcomed a beautiful baby girl, Anna, in the spring. Being new parents on top of dealing with a pandemic would be challenging to say the least, and to thank Ashley for being a total rockstar mom James wanted to surprise her with an epic 29th birthday party. We absolutely loved this, not only because the 29th birthday had a special meaning for Ashley, but also because everyone always thinks of 30 as a milestone birthday but what better way to surprise someone than by getting a one year head-start on the milestone celebration!

wedding images from Justine Boulin Photography

Their wedding day was stunning and filled with some of our favourite vendors so we knew we wanted to include the same vendors, whenever possible, in the birthday celebrations as well! We had gorgeous florals from Sarah at Fresh View, a delicious meal from Toque Catering, rentals from their wedding designer, Danielle at Trend Decor, and even an Earl Grey flavoured wedding cake from Ruth & Dean.

Check out the photos below from the prettiest backyard birthday party you’ve ever seen, captured beautifully by Koyahni Photography.

James completely trusted us to capture Ashley’s aesthetic and after working with Ashley for 9 months on their wedding, we felt pretty confident we could pull it all off. We couldn’t wait to put together a floral filled garden party that would make Jillian Harris or Joanna Gaines jealous. On our first call about the party, James told us that Ashley’s mom has always said she’s “29 forever” no matter what birthday she celebrates, so we ran with that inspiration (plus Ashley’s love of florals, especially peonies!) throughout!

We started with the prettiest lounge – the perfect soft seating area to escape the heat and enjoy some Rosè.

Of course, there were balloons!

Soft blushes, whites, taupes, and a pop of colourful florals blended so well together in their lush front yard. From being Ashley’s wedding florist Sarah, from Fresh View, knew exactly what Ashley would like and created stunning arrangements that totally stood out.

James wanted the food and drinks to be fun and casual, so Toque Catering provided a delicious BBQ menu with passed canapes, and a signature cocktail (a Peach mojito!)

All of Ashley and James’ friends were so surprised when they pulled up to the house and saw our set-up! We loved seeing this close group of friends celebrate Ashley in such a meaningful way!

Ashley perfectly matched the decor in a floral sundress, and even baby Anna matched perfectly! This little family is the sweetest! They definitely enjoyed taking a night to themselves to relax, visit with their friends (many of whom hadn’t had the chance to meet Anna yet because of Covid), and celebrate Ashley’s milestone birthday!!

One of the most show stopping things of the day was the delicious Ruth and Dean cake that was decorated to perfection. Ashley loves peonies, so a peony was literally the icing on the cake!