How to celebrate a milestone birthday in lockdown

2 September 2021

Host of Newcastle Live Radio‘s Lipstick Lunch, Louise Wilkinson had big plans for her daughter’s 18th birthday. Plans, thanks to the current lockdown, that were unfortunately unable to be fulfilled.

Louise faced the challenge, like many of us who are trying to celebrate big milestones in the lives of our loved ones, of making the day memorable while also being covid safe.

“I was determined to surprise her and make sure she would have a day to remember,” Louise said.

“So I put together a to-do list and started Googling local businesses that could help me pull it all together.”

The plan she set out to achieve, and eventually pull off, would not only surprise her daughter Bella, but it would also end up being one of the best birthdays the two had ever shared together.

So we asked her to give us the hot tips to pass onto you.

STEP ONE: Orignise a big sign

Louise wanted the whole world to know her daughter had made it to 18. And what better way to achieve that than a massive sign!

Louise contacted The Sign Fairy Newcastle and they hatched a plan to erect a bespoke sign in her front yard in the middle of the night to keep it a surprise.

STEP 2: Plan a virtual breakfast

After waking to the surprise of a massive sign wishing her a happy birthday, Louise’s daughter Bella was treated to a breakfast plank delivered by Table 1 Espresso.

To top it off, Louise organised a special zoom meeting with all of Bella’s loved ones to share the magic of her birthday morning.

STEP 3: Make it Instagramable

If it’s not on Instagram, did it even happen?

When you turn 18 it’s important to capture the moment, so Louise worked with local business Luxe Diamond Dolls to create a backdrop perfect for grabbing that birthday selfie complete with a Champagne cart, balloons and peacock chair.