Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum Birthday | Airplane Themed Party

Fun First Birthday Party Idea

Over the years I’ve noticed that my clients seem to fall into one of two camps – the planners and the spontaneous. I’ve even had people tell me they were flying out the next morning and ask if I could fit them in for a family photo session that afternoon. That’s a bit stressful, but at the same time, I kind of love it. Usually, these families didn’t plan to have photos taken, but their trip has been so amazing that they want to take home a beautiful souvenir from their time together in Hawaii

On the other end of the spectrum, I’ve had planners scheduling their sessions over a year in advance. In some cases, that’s driven by necessity. Some of the best birthday party locations on Oahu book early. So much that if you are planning a first birthday luau, you may need to make arrangements when you’re still pregnant.

Laura contacted me about her son’s first birthday party. We tossed around different location options – inside vs. outside, a restaurant, the zoo. None seemed to fit until she stumbled across a post about the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. Yes, an airplane-themed birthday party would be perfect!

Watch Ethan’s first birthday film by clicking play above.

Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum – All to Yourself

Evening sunlight dappled the tarmac when I arrived at the museum in Pearl Harbor. An evening party was a bit of a risk for a one-year-old but a solid nap would hopefully give him enough energy to make it through.

We took a few quick photos of the birthday boy donning a stylish bomber jacket and aviators before heading inside. Indoors, the museum was bustling with activity. A crew was stationed at the entrance handing out flight badges and activity bags.

Meanwhile, Baby Ethan sat quietly in his tiny airplane. Normally shy and reserved around crowds his parents weren’t sure how he would react to the festivities, but he was ready for his grand entrance. His face glowed with excitement and he flashed smiles at everyone in his vicinity.

Finally, it was time. A hush fell over the group as “Flight attendants” welcomed the crowd and announced his arrival. Chubby feet propelled him along the twisting hallway past historic photos of Hawaii and into the big room where he was met with raucous applause. He wasn’t afraid. Instead, he stood tall and waved to the crowd before him which erupted into laughter.

Airplane-themed Fun

Bright balloons and ribbon brought life to the stoic airplanes lining the museum floor. Tables were thoughtfully set with everything from personalized passports and geography games to tiny luggage. Decadent desserts wait tantalizingly on tables nearby.

But, first there were games. The bold (or strong-stomached) jumped into flight simulators to test their skills. Others decorated paper airplanes or made faces in the photo booth. Everyone trained for the big event – a paper airplane contest.

Through all the commotion, baby Ethan smiled and pumped his fist excitedly. He joined the games and partied with rest of them as if he knew it was his big day.

See a sample of their photos from the Pacific Aviation Museum below –

Do You Have an Important Birthday Coming Up?

Contact me today to tell me all about your big party. I will capture all the details and fun with photos and video so you can finally relax and enjoy the day.