Doodlebug Design Inc Blog: BALLOONS & BANNERS KEEPSAKE ALBUM

Wednesday, September 30, 2026

BALLOONS & BANNERS KEEPSAKE ALBUM | with Inessa

There is something extra special about creating a project that you know will become a gift years from now, and this birthday album for my son is exactly that.

I started with the 8x8 Storybook Album in Swimming Pool, and filled it with the Balloons & Banners collection. That mix of blues, greens, oranges, yellows, and teals makes it perfect for birthday boy layouts and pages.

Right now the album goes from his first day in the hospital through thirteen. And each year I want to capture not just photos, but little milestones, memories, and truths I hope he'll hold on to.

I mixed all the page sizes that came with the album—8x8s, 4x6 pockets, and 4x4 pockets. And added plenty of pockets, flips, and flaps for interactivity.

Of course, I piled on texture and dimension with all the adorable embellishments. My favorite part, though, is the plan for what it becomes.

Just like with Lia’s album, my goal is to give this to him on his 18th birthday, complete with little tucked-in gifts like gift cards or cash.

I really love how each page turned out, but even more than that, I love what it represents. A colorful little time capsule of how loved he's been through every stage.