Charismatic little Nate celebrated his 1st birthday with a ‘bring a bow tie’ bash! Sam, Nate’s mother, owner of Dunne with Style and one half of Ivy & Oak Events, planned and styled birthday party herself. ‘I love the vintage charm of a bow tie and wanted to tie this back to an event that was rich in traditional charm and favourites,’ she said.

When planning the event, Sam was inspired by a sage green door her husband found on a job site when Nate was born (symbolising that new doors will open throughout his life), as well as Nate’s grandparent’s small farm, whose paddocks have seen him grow over the year. ‘These little elements came together in an atmosphere that led to an afternoon of traditional fun, picnicking on the lawn with family and friends with a backdrop of laughter from the kids,’ Sam told us.

Invitations to the event were adorned with a handmade bow tie, which could be unclipped and worn to the party. Upon arrival, guests were also greeted with a ‘bow tie bar,’ where they could pick up a bow tie to clip on and wear for the afternoon. The vintage charm of the bow ties led to an eye catching, rustic grazing table for lunch, where guests feasted on an array of antipasti platters and homemade baked savouries.

This same concept flowed through to the dessert table, which included an assortment of petite sweets, cakes, pies and more! And seeing as Nate never shys away from a kiss, Sam created a ‘kissing booth’ for guests to have their photo taken with him. The photos were then printed and sent as thank you notes afterwards!

Be inspired by this charming, rustic ‘bring a bow tie’ 1st birthday below.

Photography Katie Toland Photography | Event Planning + Styling Ivy & Oak Events | Decorations Dunne with Style + Paper & Style Co | Floral Styling Ivy & Oak Events | Hire Items The Prop Emporium | Event Venue Private Residence | Catering + Drinks Studio Cake | Stationery Dunne with Style |

Nate's 'Bring a Bow Tie' 1st Birthday