Cupcake Day: Little did I know that what was supposed to be a way to make birthdays easier, was going to turn into an ever-growing annual tradition.
Her first birthday was this big party. We invited family from across the state, cooked a ton of food, made a cake and cupcakes, and decorated the hall at the firehouse. My mom made her the most amazing 1st Birthday dress (yes, I still have it) and it was a wonderful day.
But it was kind of expensive. I can’t even be sure how much. I also remember feeling like every time I turned around, I was spending more money. Money my barely-working butt had.
What the heck is a ‘Cupcake Day’?
Before Sof’s 2nd birthday, I talked to the woman who watched her every day while I went back to work. She’s got 5 kids and is incredible with money. Like… I have a girl crush on her just for her financial savvy. Anyway, she told me that instead of doing a party for each kid (even a family and a few friends only kind), she actually just bakes cupcakes for that day and says that anyone who wants to, can come share a cupcake with the kid.
Genius, right?
Of course, my ridiculous ass couldn’t really stop there. I had to still go big-ish.
How Cupcake Day Works
- I invite everyone from her class, and also all local friends and family to come over anytime between noon and 7pm on whichever day. It’s ‘open house’ – which means exactly: Come when you can, stay as long as you like.
- I bake around 160-ish cupcakes with at least 4 different flavors/styles. This year I kinda overdid it, but I’m learning how much I love baking and decorating cupcakes – which has actually resulted in some side income here and there.
- We set up some areas where the kids can play and also areas where the grownups can chat.
- People show up in waves, which is nice because then it’s not as overwhelming for her, but also gives time to socialize with each guest without feeling pressured to get things done in a certain amount of time. “Oh no, we have to be out of the party room at Chuck-E-Cheese’s in 10 minutes and she’s not even blown out her candles yet!” – This never happens to us.
- Sof opens her gifts right when a guest arrives, hugs them so tight, thanks them, and then plays with new toys with her friends right on the spot.
Why Cupcake Day Works
First of all, the main reason I love this is because I get to socialize with everyone while watching my daughter enjoy her special day with family and friends. It also just makes managing the day much simpler, because of the fact that there’s no set schedule to Cupcake Day.
I have to say that I think for ‘milestone’ birthdays like 5, 10, 16… I’m going to try to save up and have the parties hosted somewhere. But this kind of day just really feels so special to her, and us, that it’s not likely I’ll be letting up on it anytime soon. 🙂
What kind of traditions or party styles do you have for your kids?
PS: Yes, those are square cupcakes. You can get the special tin here, just make sure to use the extra large liners.
