Lincoln celebrated his first birthday like a Duke! When I first met with his mom, she talked about wanting a backyard barbeque on the family’s gorgeous Metchosin property. I couldn’t wait to get started! Dad took it one step further, and suggested a Dukes of Hazzard theme. And so, Lincoln was officially named the “Duke of Hearts.” I went from being excited, to being over the moon with ideas!!!
The menu was inspired by key themes in the show, as well as items you might find at a Southern United States family barbecue. Decorations were also based on the show. Various styles of start bunting were constructed, picking up on the colours of the General Lee, as well as the infamous confederate flag painted on the roof. The tablescape was also a down-home Southern style, using ginghams, and props that evoke the feelings of a farm.
Linc’s dad gathered some of his Dukes collectibles for me to use on the table, and both he and Linc were wearing Dukes t-shirts! I commissioned a custom art doll for Lincoln for a special birthday gift, and to complement the tables. I contacted a local designer, and told her about the party, she came up with a few ideas, and then presented me with the adorable elephant that the family later named Elephant Lee.
This party was an absolute treat to plan and style. Lincoln, and his parents Jay and Charlotte were amazing to work with, and the guests had a fantastic time!
Loot Bags
A variety of Dukes and “Southern” themed toys packed into a custom designed Duke of Hearts gift bag. The little guests left with things like matchbox cars, bubbles, farm animal figurines, an “at-home” s’moores kit, and old fashioned lollipops. Big guests took home some Duke of Hearts BBQ sauce.
Menu
Fried chicken
Hamburgers
Cole slaw
Potato salad
Veggie dip cups
Corn cobs
Cookies
Cupcakes
Cake
Fruit tray
Cake pops
Rice krispy treats
Apple crisp push-up pops
Oreo pops
Macarons
Lemonade
Icead tea
Sangria
Beer
Water
Apple juice
DIY Crafts
Star bunting
Custom bag assembly
Vendors
Cake, cupcakes, cake pops: Schur to Please Wedding and Specialty Cakes
Cookies: Marcia Sedola (contact information available upon request)
Macarons: Bon Macaron
Chicken: Lee’s Famous Chicken
Paper Straws: HomeSense
Press printing: Metropol Print Shop
Invite, topper, label and party design: Jessica Bender Photography and Design
Photography: Jessica Bender Photography and Design
Image of Daisy Duke: Wikipedia
Image of Dukes of Hazzard Cast: Daily American
Image of Uncle Jesse: Flickr Thomas Hawk
Art Doll: A Thymble Full (contact information available upon request)
by Jessica