1920s Great Gatsby Themed Twins’ 1st Birthday Party!
Photography: Tonya Joy
Layla Grayce co-owner Tiffany Harris and her husband Tom were counting their blessings after a joy-filled first year with twins Kirra and Cole. However, they learned quickly that caring for two newborns left little time to spend with friends. As the twins’ first birthday approached, they planned a Great Gatsby-themed party so both adults and children could take part in the celebration – some meeting Kirra and Cole for the first time. Inspired by recent fashion trends and her long-time love for 20s Art Deco architecture, fashion and music, Tiffany imagined a gorgeous outdoor garden party for the milestone moment.
Photography: Tonya Joy
Channeling the style of Gatsby characters Daisy and Nick, the whole family donned custom-made attire. Kirra looked darling in a vintage flapper dress, lace leggings, a faux fur wrap and a handmade feather headpiece, while Cole appeared dapper in a white pinstripe suit, a handmade newsboy cap and an adorable striped bowtie.
Photography: Tonya Joy
The Doctors House Museum and Gazebo in Glendale, CA, captured the vintage look that defines the Gatsby era, making it a perfect backdrop for the twins’ birthday bash. From 1920s-themed drinks and desserts to festive lawn games like croquet, every detail took guests back to the 1920s period delivering Art Deco charm, including a live barbershop quartet crooning catchy tunes near the house. Artisan-made and organic Carmela Ice Cream is a local favorite; their vintage cart was perfect for dishing out old-fashioned sweet treats for guests.
Photography: Tonya Joy
What first birthday party would be complete without cake? In two of our favorite images of the day, Kirra and Cole happily dig into their individual “smash” cakes, which featured Art Deco feather frosting and tiny pennant banners. Knowing boy and girl twin parties usually revolve around baby blue and powder pink hues, Tiffany gave tradition a creative twist with a blush salmon, strong peacock blue and brassy gold color scheme.
Photography: Tonya Joy
Guests nibbled on blue and pink macarons, popcorn in pink bags, pink lemonade in mason jars and cotton candy. Seated at long tables, partygoers enjoyed small bites – tea sandwiches (crustless for kids), pear endive salad cups, apple pie pops and cotton candy, to name a few.
Photography: Tonya Joy
Encouraged to dress in Roaring 20s attire, guests received strands of pearls and skimmer hats as they arrived. White linens and classic serving dishes received bright accents with romantic floral bouquets and handmade decorations.
Photography: Tonya Joy
Inspired to throw your own themed birthday party? Here are Tiffany’s top tips:
- A theme can be as simple as a color scheme or an item like tiaras or cars.
- Spend time researching on Pinterest or Google to find inspiration.
- Cut back on expenses by creating a few DIY decorations or favors.
- Food and beverages designed around the theme are a must.
- Let the kids construct a craft to take home as a party favor.
- Create a kids-only area with plenty of caretakers to give parents a chance to relax.
- Remember to have fun!
Special thanks to the following:
- Photography: Tonya Joy Photography
- Rentals and Event Planning: Velvet Events
- Homemade Ice Cream: Carmela
- Barbershop Quartet: David Kilpatrick, (213) 215-4257
- Invitations: Hello Print
- Tabletop Décor: Rosanna
- Tiffany’s Hair: Bravo Salon
- Cole and Kirra’s Outfits: Sue Nelson
- Kirra and Tiffany’s Headpieces: Jenny Dannels
- Name Banners, Party Hats and Games: Summer Wang
Event design, styling and photography:
Event design, styling and photography:
Event design, styling and photography:


