Well friends, Christmas is over, and the New Year is right around the corner, which means we’re taking a moment to step back and look at all the amazing inspiration we’ve had the opportunity to share with our dear readers this year. If you haven’t already seen, best-of week is in full swing over on 100 Layer Cake, but we’ve got a few faves around here too. Let’s talk kids birthdays for a second, okay? Yes, there were the balloon installs, and yes there were the sweet smash cakes, but what we really loved was seeing how many mamas and creatives came together to come up with the perfect theme to make their little one smile. Here’s just a few that had us particularly impressed…

Ultra colorful, modern Bat Mitzvah by Party Crush Events and Perpixel Photo

1st birthday modern Mexican fiesta by Something Vintage Rentals and Madison Short Photography

Rainbow pastel unicorn birthday party by But First, Party! and Billye Donya Photography

Party Like an Animal first birthday party by Deets & Things, Black Twine, and  Tiffany Amber Photography

Grateful Dead themed 2nd birthday party by our Jillian and Scott Clark Photo

Boho Little Prince 1st birthday party by The Creative’s Loft and Brandi Toole

Flower market 1st birthday party by Blushing Joy Events and Nathalie Cheng Photography

Fun, festive “end of summer” soiree and pool party by Fawn Events and Nola Fontanez

Parisian tea party 3rd birthday by Wrap It Up Parties and Nicole Jansma

Airplane themed boy’s birthday party by Design Works Events and XOWYO Paper + Press with photos by Paige Eden

Floral Swan Lake ballet themed second birthday party by Emily of Born on Fifth with photos by Heidi Geldhauser & MC Brownfield

Modern Moana 5th birthday party by Perfectly Petite Parties and Five Whimsy Lane

Amanda’s boy Brooks’ “milk” themed 1st birthday party by Deets and Things and Gillian of L&B Photography

And lastly… there were just so many thoughtful details in this pink ombre first birthday party by Beijos Events and Jack and Lola Photography. Not to mention this sweet, sweet girl.

Stop by tomorrow for our favorite baby showers of the year!