It’s party time! Baton Rouge Parents is turning 35, and honestly, we’re feeling pretty fabulous about it. Like any milestone birthday, it’s a moment to look back and a chance to look ahead with excitement. I’ve been part of this journey for about 20 years, which is long enough to say: Raising a magazine isn’t all that different from raising a kid. It’s full of growing pains, unexpected messes, and those heart-bursting moments that make it all worth it.
And speaking of birthdays, July is a big one—not just for us, but for our country. Yep, America celebrates 249 this year. So light those sparklers, pass the cake, and let’s toast to freedom… and fonts that don’t crash your layout.
In my own house, birthdays have always been a big deal. I still miss my mom’s birthday call. She’d sing to me every year, off-key and all, and lucky for me, I saved a few voicemails.
The one song I don’t have recorded, that old radio birthday shoutout—you remember, right? Pretty sure it was The Beatles who sang a version of it. Well the song always started like this, “Today is your birthday, do do do do do do, we’re gonna have a good time!” Pure gold.
Now that my kids are older, the parties have…downsized. No more inviting the whole class or turning the house into a Pinterest masterpiece. I used to go all-out—themed decorations, coordinated snacks, handmade favors. Pinterest was my party-planning co-pilot (and my midnight stress-scrolling). These days? It’s more like a low-key hangout with a few friends, a couple slices of pizza, and maybe a game night. And you know what? It’s still magical, just in a different way.
I know I’ve still got a few more milestone birthdays before they fly the nest, and I’m holding onto each one. Whether we’re blowing out candles at home, on a beach, or at a laser tag arena, I’ll be there with my camera and probably a tear or two.
In this issue, we’ve rounded up everything you need for your own birthday celebrations, from DIY dreams to full-service party planners. So whether you’re a glue-gun goddess or more of a “Can I just Venmo someone?” type, we’ve got you covered.
Take it from a mom who’s done the big parties and the quiet ones: Make the most of every birthday. Take the pictures. Eat the cake. Embrace the chaos. One day, you’ll miss it.
