TAMPA PALMS, Fla., Feb. 25 (UPI) -- A Florida woman says the elaborate first birthday bash she threw for her son -- with pony rides, a magician and nearly 60 guests -- was about creating memories.

Sheila Chapman of Tampa said the scale of the party, which she conceded may seem excessive to some, was aimed at making the event memorable to her firstborn child, "Prince" Clayburn Reed, the St. Petersburg (Fla.) Times reported Monday.

"These are the memories I want him to have," she said. "I want him to know how important and special I think he is."

The party, which was held at the Palms Room at the Tampa Palms Golf and Country Club in Tampa Palms, Fla., also included a pinata for the slightly older children and a Mexican buffet complete with mimosas for the adults.

Jackie Deutsch, a longtime friend of Chapman who served as the party's publicist, said the event was aimed as much at the parents in attendance as it was at their children.

"I understand now that having children for most people is a chance to relive their childhood," Deutsch said. "It's great to see the parents having a good time."