SUMMER BASH INSPIRATION

Hello lovelies, my favorite online bestie Sharon of CUPCAKES AND CUTLERY is here with a party inspiration board to die for.  I am always amazed at how cool this little california girl is.  Case and point, she emailed me these girls a few weeks back for her color inspiration...

...and this is what she comes up with for a party?  Seriously?  Can I come? Please?

When I asked Sharon about this party, this is what she said:
A while ago, I saw a contest on Facebook to win some yummy treats for a party.  But I didn't have any parties planned for summer.  So I thought about which of my friend's could use a party.  Hands down, it was Erika.  Without going in to details, she's had a rough year and I can't think of a better way to show her support then by having all her friend's come together to celebrate her summer birthday.  Well, I didn't win the contest.  BUT Erika still needs to be celebrated so I went in to full on party planning mode.  Planning a party for an adult can be tricky.  How do you incorporate decorations without it being too juvenile and cutesy? 

As I was reading Harper's Bazaar Magazine, I came across this photo which I knew instantly would be the perfect color palette.  I know we are seeing this palette pop up all over right now but it is just perfect for summer and Erika.  And so with these amazing colors I decided to focus mainly on a color theme for the party decor.  

And then when I came across the poster project by Shanna Murray on Oh Happy Day I knew that is what the party would be about.  A celebration of Erika's life and everything that she loves and reminds us of her.  

I put the board together to keep me on track and give me visible inspiration.  

To play up the colors, I have purchased ribbons and trims in these three colors to drape as easy garlands around the party. Throw in some large balloons, a sign or two and those are the main components.  Totally easy but with a big visual impact.  Aside from those easy decor ideas, there will be little vignette's around the party with all of the things that remind us or represent Erika.  Of course they will incorporate the colors too but this is the fun part where we totally get to personalize the party.  

I can't wait to see what this talented lady comes up with for the party.  I've only seen little snippets and I am so excited.  What's even better, there is a little goodie that we'll share at the unveiling that *might* involve FREE Printies...ok, it does.  I can't keep a secret worth beans. So, maybe have a popping hot July 4th party this weekend, or a neon bright shower...either way, enjoy!  Thanks , Sharon! xo

SOURCES:

So glad you were born poster:  By Shanna Murray via Oh Happy Day. 

Photo by Studio D in Harper's Bazaar 

{Inspiration Board} 

Pink Sandals:  Free People via Pinterest / Yellow Balloon:  My Party Planner  / Pink Garland:  Short Cake via Pinterest / Gold Outfit:  Seesaw Designs via Pinterest / You Make Me Feel Like Dancing:  Rachel Castle via That's Happy / Neutral Garlands:  Sweet Monday Photography via Somewhere Splendid / Necklaces:  Leif Shop via Fabulous K / Neon Balloons:  Rainblow G via Pinterest / Jesi Haack Awesome Table:  Gabriel Ryan via Jesi Haack / Neutral Pennants:  Go Against the Grain / Pink Frame:  Deep Heart via Pinterest / Yellow Pencils:  Stubby Pencil Studio / Ropes:  Leslie Williamson via Bonnie Tsang via Pinterest / Bottles and Signs:  SarahQ Happy Booths via Pinterest / Pink Ribbon:  Kelly Oshiro Events via Pinterest / Yellow Cupcakes:  Love Inc. via Pinterest / Yellow Trophy:  Alice Supply Company / Yellow Nails:  Wear Color via Pinterest / Yellow Pinwheel:  Enjoy Events Co. / Kraft and Pink Presents / Pink and Yellow stripes:  Print and Pattern 

Who's got four thumbs and needs style?

This gal. Like yesterday.  So, my cohort had the fabulous idea to enter a contest to get us some saucy makeovers at BlogHer.  Sharon and I have the same love for our boys (both have two, 5 and under), party blogging, taste and snarky humor. I can't wait to meet her there (finally, in real life) and of course, since I was wondering what in the heck I was going to conjure up to wear to this little event of fabulousness in 2 1/2 months (eek!!) I immediately said...I'm all in...and then she mentioned we had to post pictures of ourselves. Really? Crap.  Did you know there is a reason there are only TWO pictures of me out on the WWW?  Did you know WHY I have a logo on all my Twitter/Pinterest/Blogger accounts? So, then my virtual BFF posted her entry last night {HERE} and I cringed.  She's so darn cute and she set the bar at NO MAKEUP??? What??? It's not fair that she can look that fab with no makeup... I read on and got to the bottom of the post and cried.  There was me...with hair. (and makeup)

::SIGH:: I miss hair.  I miss ponytails.  I chopped all my hair off 'cause I wanted a fun and super easy 'do. Six months later it still is easy, and quick...if I want mom hair.  It takes me just as long to style it as it did this long. So here's the run down...me, sans makeup. {Thanks! Sharon} How on earth do you grow out hair without looking like A) the Beatles in the 60's, B) a walking candy apple (so what,  I've got a big head) or C) someone from the Golden Girls? *disclaimer: I got carried away with the no makeup thing and didn't do my hair either...aka this is how I look when I drop off the oldest at preschool. eek!

It just goes to show I really, really, really want to win the makeover by Mom's Fashion File...What happened? I  have been asking myself this very question since Henry turned 5.  He's five.  My baby. Wow, where'd the time go? Well we are finally moving back to Seattle this month, from outside Reno.  I say Reno cause it’s the only thing people recognize, when in reality I live 60 miles beyond the biggest little city’s reaches.  We moved here right after my oldest was born 5 years ago, which was a great place to raise babies…but as far as style development, not so much.  Over the last 5 years I have become increasingly complacent and frumpy.  I can go to the grocery store in ANYTHING and be the best dressed one there. So, I do. Often.  Without makeup.  Which, as I climb to mid-thirties status, is not an option anymore.   

But let’s look at what I do…I love parties.  I love designing things for them.  I love setting them up. I can make ANYTHING and I DO.  My favorite thing in the world is to show you how to do it, too, here, there, all over and at The SweetestOccasion.  I have 18 cake stands but only a few pairs of shoes. I have over two hundred fonts.  I will switch out six different styles of napkins to get the right colors for a DIY shot. My last pair of shoes was a pair of Tom’s, which my hubby calls “glorified slippers.”  Somehow I have reached the point and chosen comfort over style. How do I look cute and effortless at the same time.  No, really.  How do I look like I tried (effort-less) and still be stylin'? 

My craft room is stocked with the latest and greatest and my pastime is cruising the aisles of Michaels…it used to be Anthro (which Reno doesn’t even have.)  I adored shopping…now I avoid it like the plague.  What happened? Really, can anyone tell me?  I am just sitting here shocked with my mouth hung open. 

When I think about this transformation, I can see it in slow motion. First, just a new mommy, finally fitting back into her cute clothes…still able to pick up bits and pieces here and there of newness and keeping relatively current.  On to the second baby…then back into her cute clothes after, but not as hip.  Having issues finding her way in the new range of  new styles, slowly buying less and less to update the look.  Fast forward to now…I don’t buy anything when I go shopping.  I don’t know where to start. I guess I just figure my babies are happy, so I'll just try to find something next time. I am so out of date, I can no longer buy just one thing and make it all better.  I am beyond the point that even a swanky purse will fix me.  This is getting worse at an accelerated rate. 

Fast forward to two and a half months from now…BlogHer, in San Diego.  I have been “hiding out” in a cave in the desert.  I will have opportunities to meet incredibly stylish people and I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR. So, at least I have a few months until BlogHer, and soon I can go shopping in a CITY that actually has a Macy’s that isn’t in two separate buildings (no joke) and has Anthros and Nordys aplenty…so maybe that will help a little. I just need a plan.  Someone, anyone? Please help me.  I have a sense of what I’d like, but no idea where to start. How do you start from scratch?  What key pieces do I need? Arg! It just tires me out to think of it. For the love of pete...pretty please, with sugar on top!

Are you, my lovely readers,  in the same boat as us?  Gosh, I hope so...well, no. I wouldn't wish this level of stylish handicap on anyone, but if you needed it, too, is would make me feel better. ;) xo

Garland DIYs

Hello Lovelies! I made the crazy decision at the last minute to NOT bring my laptop on our little adventure to visit the inlaws.  So, if you've been wondering where I am... But, I had to pop on and share this little lovely with you. Sharon, of Cupcakes and Cutlery, sent me a preview after she made a tester of this lovely little garland. It was amazing!  It's totally weather proof, which is hard to find in the party world...rain, wind...bring it ON! Of course, since it's from Sharon it's mega freaking awesome! Oh, did I mention you can make oodles for like a BUCK? Go see her lovely DIY HERE!

But wait...there's more.  If you haven't seen it already...over on The Sweetest Occasion is my DIY for the original Hank + Hunt RUFFLED GARLAND. I promised I would share the secret recipe and I delivered.  It's super easy but it takes patience and a bit of time.  But, I promise you it's worth it! Enjoy!  

**if you love them and would like me to make them for you...just shoot me an email or convo me in the shop!**

Fringe Benefits

 I have yet to meet (in real life) my sweet friend, the amazing Sharon of Cupcakes and Cutlery. I am amazed by her talents and adore her modern fetes. Simple, clean, and unabashed use of color…she always creates gorgeous parties. I think she’s been holding out on me. I have heard claims that she’s not very crafty, blah, blah, blah…I think she’s been telling stories. When I opened my Christmas present, I screamed. For real. And the boys came a’running. Then they screamed…er…squeaked. Trust me there is a very long, very hilarious story as to the arrival in Feb, aka this box has traveled more in two months than I have in a year. She is like the hip, totally awesome sister I never had. Seriously, as I am drooling over the fringe that is showing up all over the place (I have a roundup this week), she sends me a box that looks like this…

…and I love her.

 

…but she better do a DIY.

…because I am SO doing this. Who knew you could make a plain USPS box SO cool?

Oh, and Sharon, BTW you have to do more DIYs…xo

DIY Braided Garland by Cupcakes and Cutlery

I begged Sharon, of Cupcakes and Cutlery, to give me the tutorial for the adorable little garlands she made me for my birthday.  As a girl that loves parties and plans every single one she can get her hands on, the best present EVER was getting one in the mail. Everything, right down to the snacks

AND balloons - the BIG ones.  **pictures of my party don't do these lovelies justice, taken by me in bad light**

How amazing is that?  I got a super cute birthday party and didn't have to do any of the work. Sharon is tops on my list. So, today I can't wait to share Sharon's super easy DIY garland with you. You are in for a treat, for certain the funniest girl I know. Take it away Sharon...

DIY BRAIDED GARLAND

You will need:

scissors and fabric



I created the fabric braided garland because I wanted Jenny to have cute walls for her birthday without having to sew her own. But, as I lack a working sewing machine, oh, and the skill to create the gorgeous, finished garlands a la Hank and Hunt, I did what I know. My style of crafts is a mix of cute, rough and a little undone. These garlands are stupid easy to make, I mean, it's really just braiding fabric. But in case you can't figure it out on your own, here is how to do it.

Cut your fabric in to 3 approximately equal lengths (try to keep the widths consistent as well, but only get out a ruler if you are planning on rapping someone on the knuckles with it).

Lay the strips on top of each other and tie them into a simple knot leaving a few inches of fabric at the end.

Find something heavy enough to tie it to (a chair rail or small child will work) and braid. I found that a lose braid showed the fabric better and also I was conscious of keeping the printed side showing out (this will make the garlands more colorful - using a solid color fabric? Braid it as haphazardly as you want!).

Braid the length of the fabric and tie off the other end, again leaving a little bit left at the end. Duh.

After I made them for Jenny's little bday in a box, I decided I was going to use them at my son's birthday party as well. I really enjoy the finished look and will probably make them for everything and people will start to tell me they are tired of seeing them and that I need to retire them. I also googled braided garland and found out that one of my fave looks by Ashley Meaders was actually made from braided garlands. Since I think she is an event design genius I geeked out that for a moment, I was on the same wavelength as her. But only for a minute and then I came crashing back to reality. Also check out these braided garlands on  Celebrate at Home by Kristi of Luna and Chloe. Hers are made with yarn and I love how those look too!

And Sharon is taunting me with this...she won't let me see ANY pictures of Mile's party. All we get is this cute little snapshot of the birthday boy.  How cute are those garlands up top?  I NEED more, Sharon!!! 

Thank you sweetie for sending us this little DIY.

xo,

j

Visions of Loveliness - Holiday Carnival

Hello sweeties, I hope you had a lovely weekend! I have been waiting anxiously for this little pretty post by Sharon of Cupcakes and Cutlery.  Ever since she told me it was carnival themed I have been dying to see it.  and...it is fabulous...could it ever not be?  Take it away my lovely...

Sharon says, "I have yet to pick one look for my Christmas decorating. This year, though, I am totally feeling a Christmas carnival vibe. If I had the energy and time to start all my holiday decorating for this theme, this board is what I would aim for it to look like. I think it would be a super fun holiday party theme too. It could be really casual, sort of naughty feeling with the homemade peppermint liquor and bright, gaudy colors, fun for kids and adults and totally unexpected! I hope you all have a fantastic holiday!!!!"

SOURCES:

MILK AND STRAW
RED SHOES AND STRIPED TIGHTS
WHITE XMAS TREE
HOMEMADE PEPPERMINT LIQUOR
XMAS BINGO
CANDY APPLES
BALLOON SHADOWS
VINTAGE INSPIRED ORNAMENTS BY INDIGO BUNTING DESIGN
XMAS LIGHTS
XMAS COTTON CANDY
CARNIVAL TICKET FLOWER
WHITE AND BLACK CREPE PAPER
RECYCLED RECORD ORNAMENTS
"CHRISTMAS" CARD
GINGERBREAD FAVORS
BALLOON WREATH
FUNNEL CAKE
FAVOR BAGS

A BIG MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO SHARON! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SHARING YOUR BEAUTIFUL COLORFUL WORLD WITH US!

XO

Inspiration Board Contest - Win a LOCKHEART bag!!

My blogging BFF, aka Sharon, over on Cupcakes and Cutlery, is having the coolest contest and giveaway.  Enter here and get this...a LOCKHEART bag!

You could WIN it! Every girl needs a new purse right now...I know I'm not the only one who doesn't get one, in lieu of saving for the upcoming holiday season.  But you could win one.  FOR FREE! All you have to

do is send over an inspiration board based on this fabulous purse (retail $465) and you've got a brand new purse for an hour or two worth of work (let's face it, inspiration boards are fun, not much work goin on).

 

How do I make a board? I will give you an easy hint... I would use Picasa.  It's free and you put all of your gathered pics in the same folder (be sure to include the bag!) and click Mosaic.  It makes the board for you.  Then you just click them around and voila! Create, save, email, done.  Sharon has some other helpful options for you to use, too.  We want you to enter.   I say we...because I am one of the lucky ones that gets to help narrow down the choices for the judges.  I am super excited! But I'll tell you a secret...I just about kicked myself when I told Sharon I'd love to help with it (meaning: I don't get to enter or win)

But wait...there's more!!! You could win another awesome prize package (with minimal effort on your part)...trust me...AWESOME!!!...but you have to go check out the rules to find out how.