During the last couple of years, I have been quite busy prioritizing family – preparing for Ellie’s arrival, our first year with Ellie, continuing to finish our home, Sloane’s life changes (a new dance program and home school) and all of the beautiful in between.. Consequently, this has meant less time to pour into other areas for myself (like this blog!) However, now that Ellie has moved from being an infant into toddlerhood and we have hit our stride with Sloane’s schedule, I plan to refocus and build in more time to pursue work and activities that bring me joy and provide a creative outlet. It’s hard to believe that Ellie is now 18 months old! I decided that I would create a blog series that takes a look back at our first year with Ellie, to document it and share moments, milestones, and favorite things that are hopefully helpful and inspiring for you. Starting with my baby shower!
French Cafe and Flower Market Inspired Baby Shower
This baby shower was truly a show of love and support for me, our surrogate (Kelsey), Sloane and our baby girl on the way. My talented and sweet hostesses poured their hearts into making this such a special and beautiful day for us in every way. They truly thought about every detail. The shower was held on Mother’s Day weekend which was the perfect time to celebrate the long anticipated growth of our family – surrounded by all of my mama friends who inspire me, have prayed for and supported me on my surrogacy journey. I loved that Sloane could take part in the event and invite her friends to join her in the excitement of waiting on her little sister to arrive. It was so cute to see how my clever hostesses included ways for Sloane to be involved, such as a onesie decorating station. Flower arranging was another great activity that everyone could partake in and enjoy. Reminiscent of a French flower stand, it was a thoughtful highlight and was the perfect activity and party favor. Who wouldn’t want a pretty vase with flowers to take home on Mother’s day weekend?!
The decor was soft and sweet with such meaningful touches. There was a blessing box and a polaroid camera for taking fun selfies and a hand-sketched framed drawing of our future family (that I have displayed in my home today). My mom brought the most beautifully decorated cake I have ever seen. The food felt like we were dining in a high-end French cafe. I was in shock when I walked in and saw it all displayed. Little sandwiches, custom cookies and authentic pastries from the best French bakery in town. My girls went above and beyond and know me too well. I felt so loved, blessed and bubbling over with happiness and joy this entire day. What a perfect way to prepare for and celebrate little Ellison’s soon-to-be arrival, surrounded by those I love.
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