U-M
Tailgate
Surprise Birthday Party
Venue
Private residence, Troy
Background
When Laura decided to throw her husband, Mike, a surprise party for his
birthday, there was
only one theme to consider - a Michigan Wolverine tailgate party. Since he was
an alumnus and lifetime U of M fan, we planned the party around the Michigan
football team's game at the University of Iowa. The invitations were designed
to look like an official notice from the Michigan Athletic Department,
complete with tickets to the game. Since television networks would not
determine the game time until 1-2 weeks before the party, a website was
created to keep guests informed (click
here to see website).
Friends generously donated their home and large backyard, and we went to work transforming the space. In one half of the yard, we recreated Michigan Stadium using a custom-built arch and entryway, bleachers and an 8x6 foot screen to show the football game. In the other half, we designated a tailgate area, including a grilling station, food tent and guest seating. A special dessert table featured all of Mike's favorite sweets - napoleons, petit fours, éclairs, cannolis, cream puffs and fruit tartlets. For the centerpiece of the dessert table, we worked with the baker to design a unique birthday cake - a replica of a Michigan football helmet.
