I am not a planner by trade, but I’m definitely a bit of a perfectionist and overachiever by nature. It’s been both a blessing and a curse if I’m being honest. But today…it’s a blessing! If you know me, you know that I have a love so fierce for the two boys in my life that it’s hard to contain. And given the opportunity, I’ll spend every waking (and sleeping!) hour coming up with ideas and ways in which I can use my talents to show them. Celebrating them…especially the tiniest one…is my specialty.

I am thrilled to finally be sharing this with everyone, and honored beyond belief to announce that Eli’s 4th Birthday Bash is being featured on Martha Stewart today. I’m having a hard time refraining from inserting all the celebratory and crazy happy emoticons here. But I’ll hold back. For now. A year has passed by in the blink of an eye. So the wait? It’s been worth it!

During the most appropriate week of the year, and without further adieu: Feast yer eyes, Mateys!

And Happiest Birthday my sweet, Little Pirate!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ELI!!

All the Praise Hands to Martha Stewart for featuring this party today!

And endless love, hugs, kisses, and thanks to my amazing & patient Husband, my ridiculously talented & doting Father, my sweet Sister & super strong Brothers and Brother-in-Law, and my beautiful Mother for helping me in enormous amounts to pull this off! I love you all so much that words escape my gratitude. Eli and I are so lucky, and truly, truly blessed to have you in our lives. ♥

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Photographer/Event Design/Stylist: Shannon Von Eschen | Culinary Design & Desserts: Kendall Von Eschen

ALL Wooden Props & Wooden Decor: Frank Crabbs, CreekSide Tree Nursery

Baked Goods: Cheryl Wu | Calligraphy: Taryn Eklund Ink

Eli’s Chocolate Blackberry Cake: Kendall Von Eschen | Antiques & Silver: Karen Vaught & Amy Von Eschen

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Special thanks to my beautiful friend, Laura Murray, who shot the images of me with Eli & my husband Jason.