Joanna Gaines recently shared a heartfelt look into her husband Chip’s milestone 50th birthday celebration. On December 29, 2024, she posted an Instagram Reel featuring moments from the surprise party held in November. The video, shot in vintage film style by Texas videographer Lexi Chase, was set to a special song written by Abner Ramirez of JohnnySwim.
Joanna expressed her love and gratitude in the post, celebrating Chip’s life. She wrote, “We finally got the Super 8 vintage film back from Chip’s surprise party in November—F I F T Y Y E A R S! What a life you’ve lived, what a night we had celebrating you.” She also praised Ramirez for creating a beautiful song for Chip, which he managed to compose in just one day. As a special touch, the song was pressed onto vinyl, so they could listen to it every morning.
In her post, Joanna reflected on her relationship with Chip and expressed her deep affection for him. She described herself as “the luckiest girl in the world” and shared her excitement for the future. Her caption concluded with the words, “Here’s to 50 more!” as she celebrated their shared journey through life.
The video opens with a tender moment as Joanna removes a blindfold from Chip, revealing the surprise party. Guests were treated to a lovely seated dinner and live entertainment, with a dance floor set up for dancing. The party’s decorations had a charming rustic feel, featuring a large outdoor tent with white string lights and trees, while the indoor space had glass walls illuminated by matching lights. A blue sign reading “Hats off to fifty” set the celebratory tone.
True to their Texan roots, the party’s theme included wooden-handled cutlery, gingham napkins, and cowboy hats. The custom song played at the event was full of personal touches. The lyrics included a nod to Chip’s thoughtful gesture of planting a garden for Joanna’s mother, as well as the lively chorus, “I know you know his name! Chip Gaines!”
Chip had previously shared his thoughts on turning 50 during an October appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show. He expressed a feeling of conflict, saying that he had always viewed himself through a youthful lens, which made it challenging to reconcile with the reality of turning 50.
On his special day, Chip made a meaningful gesture by donating $50,000 to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. He encouraged his followers to join him in giving back. He shared his reflections on life, stating, “As I get older, more and more my heart leans toward what’s really important in life and asking myself the question, ‘What good can I do today?’”
In addition to the birthday celebrations, Joanna has opened up about their family’s cherished Christmas traditions. She shared how, as a child, Chip’s parents would cover the door frame near the Christmas tree with butcher paper, creating a festive surprise. Chip fondly remembered this tradition, so he and Joanna continued it with their children at their Waco, Texas farmhouse.