Decorating on a Budget: My 30th Birthday Brunch

Hey Everyone, 


Last weekend I had a 30th birthday brunch at a local inn. The party went amazingly well, and I had such a good time. The party was pretty low key (just a few family and friends), but of course, being me, I had to make sure the room we were holding the party in, was decorated just right. I was going for a very shabby chic look (my favourite decor style), but wanted to make sure everything stayed within budget. Luckily with multiple trips to Value Village (a second hand store), Homesense, and The Dollar Store I was able to pull off the look I was going for at a low price. Everyone raved about the decor, and I have to say I was pretty proud of myself. From the name cards to the flower arrangements, I did almost everything myself with the help of a friend and my family. Here is the look I put together. 

The Main Table 

The Grandparents and Parents Table

 The Place Cards were made by my sister Gillian (she is a graphic design student) and inserted into plastic damask print frames (from the dollar store) that I sprayed bright pink. Personally, I think the frames scream shabby chic. 

These pom pom flower napkins rings were purchased from a seller on etsy. I did research how to make the napkin rings myself, but the instructions were just too complicated. 

The bird cages were purchased from Homesense (I believe they were $12.99 each). Wanting to add a bit of sparkle to them, I bought some inexpensive crystal-like beads and hand strung them at different lengths inside the cages. 

The dress forms were purchased on sale at Michaels Craft Store and strung with the same crystal-like beads I used in the bird cages. I love these little dress forms, and plan to use them as decor in my bedroom. 

All of the green vases used to hold the flower arrangements were purchased at Value Village (I believe the most expensive was $3.99). I wanted them to be similar in terms of colour, but thought it would be more shabby chic if they were all different sizes and styles. The flowers were purchased at Costco and the grocery store, and were arranged by my mom, my friend Jenny and myself. 

The damask print "table runner" was purchased at Homesense, and is actually meant to be used in drawers to prevent items from slipping. The birds were all from my house (my parents like birds), and therefore didn't cost me anything.  

The Dessert/Candy Table

 The white lace table cloth is actually a curtain I purchased from Value Village and draped over the candy table. 

All of the candy jars purchased from Value Village (all below $2.99), and filled with colourful treats from the Bulk Barn. I made the candy labels myself using glitter paper and ribbon from The Dollar Store. 

It wouldn't be a beauty addict's Birthday party if she didn't give aways some nail polish....

I have wanted a makeup birthday cake FOREVER, and I am happy to say that my Mom and Dad fulfilled my wishes! The lady who made the cake read my 'Birthday Wishlist' post, and included a number of items from the list including a Zuca Bag, House of Harlow sunglasses, and an Illamasqua blush. 

My sister Gillian designed all of the chocolate bar labels. We printed the design out on white card stock and wrapped them around re-purposed Caramilk Bars.  

 

Sylvia, one of my subscribers has her own business called Spicy Wedding, and was nice enough to gift me with personalized cinnamon shakers for all of my guests to take home. Sylvia used one of my 'Audrey Hepburn' pictures, and customized the jar with my favourite colours, presents and cupcakes. She does customized spice jars for birthdays, weddings, etc., so be sure to check her out here. 

 My very helpful birthday 'maid of honour (and childhood best friend) Jenny and I 

The Killer Kurves ladies finally get together. Melissa, Karyn and I. 

The whole day was amazing! I owe a huge thanks to everyone who attended the brunch, and made my feel super special. I also owe a huge thank you to my family who helped make the decorations and who allowed me to have a big 30th birthday party (my parents like to say that this was actually my wedding, and I better not come to them for help when I get married). They're joking...I hope! 

Did you like the decorations? The makeup cake? The candy table? Be sure to let me know in the comment section below. 

xx

Alicia