Monday, April 28, 2008

Fans at the Wedding! Cool the guests off!

Those hazy, lazy dog days of summer . . . "What if?" It's scorching during your outisde wedding. Here's a great favor that works as double duty ... fans. Great to use on your big day, and great to use at home after : )


Sandalwood fans have been admired in the Chinese culture for centuries for their outstanding characteristics of ornate carvings. It is still a popular trend today with their unique charm and beauty. ... more info.




These beautiful, dainty silk hand fans are perfect for outdoor and summer weddings. Delicate wood panels are covered with gauzy silk for a lovely Asian inspired accessory. Your guests will ... more info.



These vibrant fans will keep your guests cool enough to sit through the entire ceremony. Constructed in heavy colored paper and natural bamboo ribbing, they are perfect for outdoor weddings and ... more info.




This fabulous paddle-shaped woven hand fan will give you that cool breeze on a sultry day. Perfect for summer weddings.



Let your guests cool off at your summer beach or garden wedding with these personalized paper hand fans. Fans are constructed out of heavy paper with natural bamboo ribbing. Available in white, ... more info.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Starfish As the Theme For Your Beach Wedding

Having a beach themed wedding? Pick a theme. For example: Starfish. You can get everything from the invitations to the cake top to the favors in this themed. Here are some of our picks.

Starfish Cake Topper


Starfish Cake Topper. Crafted of white bisque, this topper has an understated matte finish in pure white so the look blends nicely with white icing, or really "pops" on a colored surface. A white seashell base completes the seashore theme. Measures 6" tall.

Starfish Soap Wedding Favor

Starfish Soap Favor. Palm-sized and pleasantly scented, these miniature starfish soaps make cute thank-you gifts at your seaside themed wedding. Each soap is finely textured and presented in a pretty "nest" of delicate white paper thread and tucked into a 2" gift box. The box is available in your choice of white/silver, blue or pink and comes tied with a ribbon and a
blank starfish shaped tag.


Starfish Favor Kit

Chocolate. Our starfish mold produces a cute little chocolate creature with turned up arms and a dimpled design on its back. Slip it in our cello bag with a pretty bow for a sea-inspired favor. Made with real chocolate in your choice of white or milk.

Starfish Dishes

Starfish Dishes. Use as candle holder, to plate a dinner course, to present your favor, or as the favor itself. These versatile glass dishes add a splash of color to any beach theme tabletop. Small plates measure 6 1/2" across and 1" tall and are sold as a set of six. Large plates measure 8" across and 1 1/2" tall and are sold as a set of four.


Starfish Favor Card

Starfish Favor Card. Complete your beach theme wedding with this card featuring white starfish on a blue background. Use as place card or a favor card and apply with double stick tape or add your own hole punch and ribbon to tie on. Each card measures 2" square. Sold as a package of 20. Personalization is in black ink.

Shell and Starfish Wedding Favor Coaster Set

Starfish Coasters. Evoke memories of the seashore with these subtly designed glass coasters. Each guest will be delighted to receive a set of 4 coasters packaged together with sheer organza ribbon and a beach themed thank you tag. Each coaster measures 3.5" and includes padded "feet" to product table tops.

Starfish Wine Stopper Favor

Starfish Wine Stopper. An elegant gift and favor in one. This starfish wine stopper is a fabulous as a keepsake for guests who've traveled far. Present it on reception tables with a matching Starfish Favor Card , or pair it with a bottle of local wine for a memorable welcome gift. Each stopper is silverplated and measures 4.5" long

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Trend Alert - The Messy Hair Bun That Looks Great

Rockabilly Hair

Fabulous article on BellaSugar on how to acheive perfect Rockabilly Hair. And there description is right on queue: "Rockabilly hair can best be described as a modern take on the bun—but it has more height, added texture, and just a little bit of edginess, since the look doesn't require every single hair to be in place."

The look can easily be created at home by following these five simple steps.

  1. Use a little bit of Phytovolume Actif Maximizing Volume Spray while blow-drying hair to give it shape and height.
  2. Next, Isolate a section of hair at the top and spritz it with a firm hold hairspray.
  3. Then, wrap hair around four hot rollers and let it set for fifteen minutes.
  4. Next, pull the rest of your hair into a ponytail and secure with a hair elastic (choose a color closest to your own hair color).
  5. Let the curls flop to one side and secure the ponytail to the top your head with bobby pins. Overlap the curls, pin them and then mist your entire head again with hairspray.

And, if you want a blast from the past check out the Hair Archives ... Great site with humor, old magazine shots of women's hair from the 30's on up. Very fun : )

Monday, April 21, 2008

Put a lid on it! Favor Boxes for your Wedding or Shower

Ribbon Weave Box

Ribbon Weave Box - $ 68.90
Guests will adore their ribbon-weaved favor boxes filled with treats. Pre-cut slots allow a ribbon up to 5/8" wide to be weaved under your personalized first names. These white boxes measure 3 1/2" x 3 1/2" x 3". Ribbon sold separately.



Tux & Gown Favor Boxes

Tux & Gown Favor Boxes - $ 45.90
Fun tuxedo and bridal gown favor boxes add a whimsical touch to your reception. Boxes may be printed with your first names and wedding date in the foil color of your choice. Gown boxes may be tied closed with ribbon; sold separately.


Personalized Pyramid Boxes

Personalized Pyramid Boxes - $ 49.90
The glossy white pyramid favor boxes measure 2 1/2" tall with a 2" x 2" base. They may be personalized with a two-initial monogram as shown. Ribbon sold separately. Price is per set of 50 personalized pyramid favor boxes.




Dragees or Sugarbonen


Dragees or Sugarbonen - $ 45.00
Dragees or sugarbonen are almond shaped candy: Sugar coating with dark Belgium chocolate inside. There are three coatings that you can order. The regular sugarbonen or
dragees, which has a matte finish, the gold sugarbonen or dragees, which is wrapped in foil.

 

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Dress Up The Bar with these Cute Wedding Cocktail Details


Mr. & Mrs. Swizzle Sticks (Set of 24)

You just can't top this when it comes to swizzle sticks for an engagement party, rehearsal dinner and wedding reception! "Mr. & Mrs." Swizzle Sticks celebrate the bride and groom with top hats and tiaras with veils-formal attire for everyone's favorite drink. So sweet and clever, your guests will want to take them home! The swizzle sticks measure 6 ¾" and are sold in sets of 24.





Hooked on Love Coaster

Get hooked with these charming coasters, each one bringing a charming accent of elegant sophistication to your wedding event. You can use them for place cards, as decoration, or even to hold glasses.

The Pros and Cons of The Wedding Cupcake Tree


Cupcake wedding cakes are the new trend, and it can add a conversational touch to an already enjoyable event. Your guests will appreciate the originality and if the bride chooses, the various flavors to choose from. The cupcake wedding cake is used, instead of a regular wedding cake. Sometimes a traditional cake is used for photos while the cupcakes are served to the guests. However in a true cupcake wedding cake there's usually at least one cake tier (or a separate cake) that is used for the cutting of the cake.


Here are some benefits of having a cupcake wedding cake.

  • A cupcake wedding cake is usually a cheaper option than a traditional cake.
  • Cupcake wedding cakes are easier to handle and not as messy.
  • Transporting cupcakes is a lot easier than carrying a large cake with multiple layers.
  • Cupcake wedding cakes can be assembled at the reception hall rather than at the bakery.
  • Since there are so many little cakes, you can actually have a lot of different flavors!
  • Because they're individually wrapped, the reception staff doesn't have to deal with plating up slices for each guest.
  • The cupcakes don't even have to be served. Each guest can pick a cupcake from the tower or "cupcake bar".
  • Cupcakes are also easier to carry home for the guest who would love a piece of cake, but would rather not eat it at the reception.
  • They could also be boxed up and used as favors.



And, you can use these adorable cupcakes holders I found ... beautiful aren't they?

"Butterflies" Laser-Cut Cupcake Holders (Set of 50)

If you're still deciding whether to serve cupcakes for dessert at your upcoming event, these enchanting "Butterflies" Cupcake Holders should help make up your mind! Perfect for spring, summer and ... more info.

"Seashells" Laser-Cut Cupcake Holders (Set of 50)



Cupcakes are the newest dessert craze at weddings these days, and a beach wedding is no exception. Kick your seaside gala up a notch by serving your nicely iced cupcakes in these "Seashells" Cupcake ... more info.





Hearts Awhirl! Laser-Cut Cupcake Holders (Set of 50)
Valentine's Day parties, weddings, bridal showers, rehearsal dinners-any event where love takes center stage and cupcakes are being served-are perfect for presenting the ultimate in cupcake accessories! The "Hearts Awhirl!" Cupcake Holders add so much to your decor and your dessert table. The distinctive detail of the laser-cut design is sure to dazzle your guests and express your flair for style. The "Hearts Awhirl!" Cupcake Holders come in a set of 50.





Filigree Laser-Cut Cupcake Holders (Set of 50)

If you want to turn crowd-pleasing cupcakes into an elegant and classic dessert, simply serve them in these lovely "Filigree" Cupcake Holders to impress your guests and enhance the look of your table at your next event. Perfect for weddings, rehearsal dinners, birthday parties, bridal showers, tea and garden parties, Mother's Day parties and more, these elegant, white cupcake holders feature an exquisite laser-cut design that turns a simple cupcake into a luxurious treat. The cupcake
holders come in a set of 50. Easy assembly.

Some of us need a little help in the baking department. Thankfully, help is out there. My first suggestion... the Magnolia Recipes cookbook -- theyare the ones who put cupcakes on the fast track map. Located in New York-- they actually limit the number of cupcakes their customers can buy ... now if that isn't success... what is : ) ?More From Magnolia: Recipes from the World Famous Bakery and Allysa Torey's Home Kitchen


More From Magnolia: Recipes from the World Famous Bakery and Allysa Torey's Home KitchenLocated in Manhattan's Greenwich Village, the near-shoebox-size Magnolia Bakery has
become a destination for lovers of all-things sweet. The reason? From the beginning its owner Allysa Torey and her staff have offered cakes (and particularly cupcakes), pies, and other pastries that are utterly unpretentious but deeply satisfying in a grandmother-would-have-made-it-if-she-could-have way. More from Magnolia Torey's second book, adds to her already impressive recipe roster 75 formulas that range from Pear Streusel Breakfast Buns, and Pumpkin Walnut Cookies with Brown Butter Frosting, to Chocolate Pecan Pudding Pie, and Old-Fashioned Chocolate Chip Ice Cream. Included also are recipes for signature specialties like Magnolia's Chocolate Cupcakes and famous banana pudding, plus a section on frostings and sauces. All are easy to do, even for beginning bakers, and all have the straightforward Magnolia appeal. --Arthur Boehm More From Magnolia: Recipes from the World Famous Bakery and Allysa Torey's Home Kitchen




Crazy About Cupcakes (Paperback)

Crazy About Cupcakes (Paperback)
Crazy About Cupcakes (Paperback) Go cupcake crazy With nearly 300 awesome, mouthwatering ideas to choose from, home bakers will find the right recipe for any occasion and every palate. And whether they like chocolaty, spicy, crunchy, fruity, or creamy, these exquisitely decorated treats look as astounding as they taste8212perfect little temptations designed to make adults nostalgic and children happy. All the basics are lovingly explained so anyone can whip up a beautiful batch, and there are varieties for every day (from healthy cupcakes to ice cream indulgences) parties big and small holidays ranging from Christmas to the Fourth of July just for kids and fund-raisers and bake sales. Plus, to make things easy, an entire chart- and template-filled chapter focuses on flavor combinations and design elements

Monday, April 14, 2008

Pink Ribbon Retro Aprons for Girly Girls and Charity


With Mother's day coming up, the stores are already hawking Pink "breast cancer" support products. You have to be wary now-a-days of anything pink that bills itself as benefiting a breast cancer research charity. Just because it's pink, or the seller says they are donating money to a charity, that is not always the case. The Susan G. Komen Foundation, for example, has gotten the shaft from shady retailers who imply a connection to the organization by slapping pink ribbons on products, but never actually donate.

However, with that out of the way, there are some good products out there that actually do donate to the cause. I love girly girl, cute, fun, frilly things, of which some just happen to be pink and just happen to be in some way affiliated with a breast cancer research charity.

We are a big fan of Carolyn’s Kitchen retro chic aprons and dishwashing gloves. And, our sister site: Get Go Retro sells her line of aprons and gloves; and one of her apron and glove sets is Breast Cancer pink. Fifteen percent of the price of the apron and the gloves goes to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, which isn’t too shabby. Plus, it’s 100% on the level.

If pink isn’t your color, you can always make a donation to the breast cancer research charity of your choice and browse Carolyn West’s other cute apron and glove sets.

Daisy by Marc Jacobs -- Now all you need is a bicycle made for two : )

"Daisy, Daisy give me your answer do

I'm half crazy, all for the love of you

It won't be a stylish marriage I can't afford a carriage

But you'll look sweet on the seat Of a bicycle built for two

And, if you wear Daisy by Marc Jacobs... you'll smell sweet too : )



Marc Jacobs Daisy Gift Set ($91 Value) Daisy Gift Set
Enter the world of Daisy: fresh and feminine, with a playful innocence. At the heart of Daisy is a floral with vintage edge: violet. Sophisticated, with a touch of whimsy, violet captures the eclectic, vintage flavor of Marc Jacobs' feminine, edgy designs. Always elegant, always enchanting but not too serious, Daisy is a sparkling floral bouquet, spirited and fresh, wrapped in comfort and warmth.

The set includes a 3.4 oz Eau de Toilette Spray, a 5.1 oz Luminous Body Lotion and Mini Deluxe Eau de Toilette.


Notes:
Strawberry, Violet Leaves, Ruby Red Grapefruit, Gardenia,
Violet Petals, Jasmine Petals, Musk, Vanilla, White Woods.
Style:
Bright. Alluring. Eternal.

Sunday, April 13, 2008

When You Wish Upon a Star ~ Disney Fairytale Gowns


When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who you are
Anything your heart desires will come to you

Looking for a magical dress? Then you want the Disney Fairtyale Collection of gowns by Kirstie Kelly. Affordable, sweet and modeled after your favorite princess. Their line runs the full gamut from Ariel (Little Mermaid); Snow White, Cinderella, to Jasmine and others. They are affordable and available (at discount) at House of Brides. House of Brides is reputable and has a great return guarantee. They opened their doors in 1929 and have since pioneered the bridal market to become the standard for all bridal retailers. Today, House of Brides has 6 Chicagoland stores and 79 years experience in dressing brides and their wedding parties! They also offer:
  • Bridal and Bridesmaid Dresses
  • Mother of the Bride Dresses
  • Maternity and Plus Size Dresses
  • Flowergirl and Quinceanera Dresses
  • Prom and Special Occasion Dresses
  • Jewelry
  • Accessories
  • Shoes and Lingerie

All products are priced at incredible savings of up to 40% off retail prices! Their website is supported by a full customer service team of experts trained and eady to assist 7 days a week.

Without further adieu, here is a sampling of some of the Disney Fairy Tale collection:


Disneys Fairy Tale Couture Wedding Dress Style SB2817

Disneys Fairy Tale Couture Wedding Dress Style Sleeping Beauty


Awake with Love… Kirstie Kelly for Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings presents bridal gowns inspired by Sleeping Beauty. The Sleeping Beauty gowns embody the romance of Sleeping Beauty’s single kiss with her prince. Every bridal gown is masterly designed in rich Satins and Chantilly Laces delicately kissed with Crystals and Pearls. Realize your fondest dreams with a single bridal gown from the Sleeping Beauty gowns by Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings! Style SB2817 is in Satin. This Sleeping Beauty gown features an unique V-neckline with beaded straps and illusion detail. The Basque waist meets the A-line skirt flowing to a chapel train. The hem carries on the beaded detail. Available in sizes 2 – 24. Available in Ivory or White.. Neckline: V-neck. Sleeve Style: Tank. Waist Silhouette: A-Line. Pieces Separates: One-piece. Train Length: Chapel. Fabric: Satin. Sleeve length: Sleeveless. Hem line: Floor Length


Disneys Fairy Tale Couture Wedding Dress Style SW2709

Disneys Fairy Tale Couture Wedding Dress Style SW2709
Be the Fairest Of All... Kirstie Kelly for Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings presents bridal gowns inspired by Snow White. The Snow White gowns are the purest in grace and beauty just as their namesake. The bridal gowns are eloquent in Silk Chiffon and Satin adorned in Pearls and Beading. Live your fairytale with the Snow White gowns by Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings! This Snow White gown features cap sleeves and V-neckline. The bodice is ruched to dropped waist. The A-line skirt is graceful with layers of Chiffon to the chapel train. Available in sizes 0 – 24. Available in Ivory or White.. Neckline: V-neck. Sleeve Style: Cap. Waist Silhouette: A-Line. Pieces Separates: One-piece. Train Length: Chapel. Fabric: Chiffon. Hem line: Floor Length




Disneys Fairy Tale Couture Wedding Dress Style A2730

Disneys Fairy Tale Couture Wedding Dress Style A2730

Dare to Love… Kirstie Kelly for Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings presents bridal gowns inspired by Ariel. The Ariel gowns envision romance with stunning gowns you’ll fall for. The bridal gowns marry sleek design with decadent touches of Chiffon and Satin. Find your true love with the Ariel gowns of the Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings collection! Style A2730 is in Silky Soft Satin. This Ariel gown features a halter neckline with pleated bodice and broach detail. The sheath skirt flows to a court train. Available in sizes 0 – 24. Available in Ivory.. Neckline: Halter. Waist Silhouette: Sheath. Pieces Separates: One-piece. Train Length: Court. Fabric: Satin. Hem line: Floor Length