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At the Party with Shawna Gohel

Shawna Gohel is no novice when it comes to the business of amazing parties. Let’s say she knows her way around extravagant events. After all, her company, Maharani Weddings, is the largest website catering to luxury Indian brides around the globe, which is why we knew her daughter’s first birthday bash would be nothing short of spectacular. Lucky for us, we got the full scoop on her daughter Vivienne’s beautiful party straight from the source. Thank you, Shawna, for sharing with us!

Shawna Gohel and Family at Daughter's First Birthday Party

We love how fun and vibrant Vivienne’s party looks! How did you come up with the theme for her 1st birthday party?
Maharani means queen in Hindi, so it’s fitting that my baby Maharani’s first birthday had a tutu and tiara theme. I love feminine, soft colors, but I still wanted it to have a twist of fun. When Saman (my go-to design guru) from 2Create Designs suggested adding mint to the color palette, I instantly knew it would be perfect.

Tutu Party Favors

Tiara Party Favors

First Birthday Cake

How did you manage planning a party for such a large group? Any great sources you want to share?
The key is definitely to delegate and stay out of the way to allow people to do their jobs well. Through my experience at Maharani Weddings, I was able to rely on our Platinum Guide vendors, and I knew that by hiring awesome vendors the party would be picture perfect!

Floral Letter for First Birthday Party

First Birthday Party Favor Boxes

Birthday Party Flower Centerpieces

First Birthday Photo Collage Number One

Sounds like everyone had so much fun at the party, including the birthday girl herself! Any tips for pulling off a great party that works for both adults and kids?
It’s essential to have food that caters to both kids and adults at the party. During appetizers, we incorporated mini burgers, veggie sandwiches and other kid-friendly food, because let’s face it, they always need to eat something. While lunch was served we had a bubble show going on for the kids, so they were entertained and the parents could relax and enjoy lunch.

Giant Bubble Kid's Party Activity

Face Painting Kid's Party Activity

Balloon Art Kid's Party Activity

The giant floral V, golden cake topper and matching mommy and me outfits are total standouts! What were your favorite elements of the party?
I absolutely loved the floral V and Vivienne’s dress! Her dress really set the tone for the party. Once I saw it, I grabbed it, and then I knew we needed a party with elements, like the floral V that stood up to that gorgeous dress. I think that it is actually meant to be a flower girl dress, which makes it extra perfect for my mini Maharani!

Shawna Gohel and Family at Daughter's First Birthday Party

I would like to add that my dear friend PN’s own Pam Ginocchio really shows how it is possible to be fabulous and a mom. In a world of yoga pants and top knots, it’s nice to get dressed up and celebrate your daughter turning one in style!

Check out more details and images of Vivienne’s party over on Maharani Weddings.

Photography by Randeryimagery