I wanted a birthday party idea that would capture the essence of my husband’s masculinity. A Ron Swanson party seemed like the obvious choice. In case you haven’t seen the amazing show, Parks and Rec, (which I suggest you check it out on Netflix today!) you may not be familiar with Ron’s character. Nick Offerman seriously makes this character. He is a man’s man, a libertarian who works for the government, and a honorable man. He is direct and honest. He loves fishing, woodworking, and breakfast foods.
A little fun story about my hubby. Before Grady and I were dating, we met at our singles ward for our faith. We also both attended Institute, a college class from our church. Brother Larry Johnson was our instructor. Those of you who know Brother Johnson know how amazing he is. Great teacher who loves the youth! He is devoted in his testimony and loves sharing his knowledge with others. He also loved introducing people. I learned from him how it’s easier to remember someone’s name if you get their full name and a little bit of information about them. One time at a meeting everyone had to introduce themselves and say something about them. Grady, who was helping himself to the food table, said, “ I’m Grady Kerr and I love breakfast.”
Later in a scripture class that I was attending, Brother Johnson starts talking about the young men in the room. This young man did this impressive thing on his mission. This other one helped a widow. This one, I don’t know…. rescued a puppy from a fire. Then he got to my soon to be boyfriend and said, “This is Grady Kerr. And he loves breakfast.”
And he does love breakfast.
So I decided to throw him a brunch, but it turns out the Saturday morning after his birthday I had the chance to go to a Blog Mini Conference with Say Hi Society and Grady had choir practice for his upcoming concert. (It’s not too late to get tickets!!!) So we opted for a Friday night. Now in true Ron Swanson fashion we could just have gathered around a barbeque and grilled some meat and called it a great party. But I decided to invite couples over and make it a brunch instead.
I kept the décor simple with some quotes from Ron and some wood elements. I also printed up the Swanson Pyramid of Greatness. My kids totally thought they were pictures of my husband with a mustache. I made the Cinnamon Rolls our family loves, seriously so easy. You may remember I also made them for my Galentine’s Brunch from last February. Galentine’s Day is also from Parks and Rec, but it’s celebrated by the heroine Leslie Knope.
We also had bacon, a waffles bar, and roasted potatoes. We made it a potluck and our friends brought some amazing items. Carrot muffins and this casserole that my husband LOVED! It had biscuits and gravy, sausage, and a lot more of his favorite foods. Grady loves biscuits and gravy! But I never make them. Personally I’m not a fan of gravy. In addition to liking biscuits and gravy he also loves desserts which is why he loves breakfast foods. Most of them are pretty much desserts. Whip cream is a regular topping on waffles and pancakes at our house.
I saw these cookies from Sweet Ambs and knew they would be perfect for the party! These bacon and eggs cookies were too cute to not make them. I’m still working on cookie decorating skills but I am happy with how they turned out! You can click over and find her tutorial.
All in all it was a great night with awesome friends! I love taking time to celebrate my husband. And having a couples night is great for me. I adore my kids, but it’s great to refuel and have some adult time. I hope this Ron Swanson birthday party idea inspires you to celebrate your favorite Parks and Rec character! Or just gives you an excuse to have a brunch with friends. I would love to hear which character is your favorite. Personally I love Ron and Jean-Ralphio. Because I like to sing after I start to talk! ( I hope you read that in his voice)
And if you haven’t watched Parks and Rec, get on that. And check out more Ron Swanson quotes here from Buzzfeed. They will leave you laughing!
Don’t forget to leave a comment telling us your favorite character or your favorite Ron Swanson quote! And be sure to subscribe for more fun party ideas!
