Let me preface this by saying, I am not a fan of children’s birthday parties. I feel like that sounds very Debbie downer of me (especially as a parent) but besides boredom, I tend to lean on the anxious side when it comes to events like this. While I’m not totally against having a party for Mason again (I’m sure we will), I think we’ll eventually begin to lean on the experience side of things rather than a huge party. Of course, our daughter has opinions so if a party is her wish, it is our command.

She recently started to mention birthdays and constantly asking us if it was her birthday or not so we thought we’d host a party for her but not just any party – a dance party. Mason loves to listen to music and dance (she’s obsessed with Bad Bunny). At any rate, if you’re a parent out there who’s like me and on the fence about toddler parties, I hope this post inspires you to plan an epic third birthday party if you must.

Mason’s dance-party-themed birthday

I must also note that Mason loves Gracie’s Corner. Is anyone out there familiar with this fun cartoon? The family behind the cartoon is so sweet and if you aren’t familiar, check them out. I promise, even if you have older kids or no kids, the music on Gracie’s Corner is the best (no, really)! That was the vibe we were going for with Mason’s third birthday party and I think it turned out well.

A few tips:

• Like planning any party, I (naturally) had a spreadsheet of tasks and a timeline. No matter how big or small an event is, I always make a timeline.
• Keep it simple (or as simple as you can). Not only is this friendly for your budget, but it’s also easier.
• You don’t have to invite everyone. See the above rule.

Anyway, here’s a list of the vendors we used to pull off a dance party-themed birthday party.

Vendors:
Digital invites: Parties Unlimited (Etsy)
Gracie Corner stickers (for the cups): Hella Crafty Store (Etsy)
Activity placemats: Hella Crafty Store (Etsy)
Music: DJ MCPRO (also known as my husband)
Cupcakes: Publix (duh)
Cupcake toppers: Hello Craft by Karina (Etsy)
Cake for Mason: Flora Vegan Bakery
Food: Taco bar from Taqueria Jalisco

To-go bags:
Gracie’s Corner-themed booklet + crayons: Parties4Fun (Etsy)
Llama Cookies: The Baker Tree

We also wanted to make the party fun for the adults in the room so we had a taco bar (sounds similar to our wedding, right?) plus beer and champagne for those who wanted to indulge. The icing on the cake was having our friends get a piñata made for Mason’s special day. I’m so thankful for everyone who spent their day with us and our threenager.