Party Accessories

Real Parties: Dr. Seuss

2012-01-24T12:32:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when a wonderful customer has a brilliant idea for a birthday theme, then comes to me and collaborates for some customized party hats.

Her theme was Dr. Seuss and I ended up putting together some

Thing 1 and Thing 2 party hats for the kids.

They came out adorable.

...and it makes me want to throw a Dr. Seuss party.

Thank you for the photo Rachna!

A new twist on Valentine Cards

2012-01-19T23:40:00.000-08:00

Wear your Valentine and eat it too!

These are in the shop now and are just perfect for kids, especially a class full of kids.

They are both festive and unique -and include a Valentine message with a sweet treat on top of each hat!

Make your Valentine's Day orders before February 4th to ensure delivery.

Get em here.

...Because every kid loves a party hat and a lollipop!

Free Valentine Printable

2012-01-17T11:30:00.000-08:00

This printable comes from one of my favorite blogs, The Sweetest Occasion.

It's versatile so practically anyone can use it

and you could put a number of different things in the bag.

Enjoy!

Favor Pouches

2012-01-12T12:12:00.000-08:00

I've been making these for a little while now, but only now decided to list them up to sell in the shop. They are the perfect size for a little treat for any party guest. AND perfect for Valentine treats. I just may be making them for my little 3 year old and her preschool friends.

I'll be adding different patterns soon- for baby showers, birthday favors, etc. So stay tuned. :)

Packaging

2012-01-09T11:20:00.000-08:00

I made a few necklaces (bought then altered) for some friends for Christmas. They were simple so they needed an extra special package to be wrapped in.

This was very simple to make. All you need is kraft paper, a sewing machine, paper doily and some bakers twine (or other string/twine).

Measure up your gift and wrap the kraft paper around it (I smashed and crinkled up my paper before wrapping to give it texture and dimension). Make sure to leave enough room on both ends to be able to make a zig-zag stitch with your sewing machine.

After sewing, place your doily where you want with a piece of tape on the back of it. Then string up and wrap with your twine with a tag attached.

This packaging would be great for Valentine's Day too.

The make-up holiday, Valentines Day

2012-01-05T19:07:00.000-08:00

I look forward to Valentines Day, not for the chocolate or the romantic dinner with my significant other (even though I really do like those things), but to give or receive that one gift you were wanting for Christmas but didn't get!?!? You know the one? My husband and I tend to talk about what was on our list that didn't make the cut, or see something on sale that we might really need... Well, we now have a really good excuse to get it..... Valentine's Day! So here is to you, Valentine's Day... the make-up holiday in my book.

Here are just a few items stocked up in the shop for V-day...

Heart-felt card (set of 2)

Printable chocolate wrappers

Heart-Felt garland

Herbal Fire Starters

2011-12-15T16:00:00.000-08:00

If I only had a fireplace.

For those of you who do, Whole Living shows how to make your fire smell divine: pine cone, dried herbs such as rosemary, sage leaves, and cinnamon sticks are just a few smells that will come out of your fire with these herbal fire starters.

Across the Sea

2011-12-13T09:50:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine, Stephanie, opened up an etsy shop called Across the Sea. She sells handmade and unique items with a nautical theme. We may just have had a photo shoot to combine our two creations together. You'll just have to check it out. Oh, and you see that bag I'm holding?... She's giving one away for FREE. Go see how to win it here!!

h

And when the holidays pass and the new year begins.... I promise to make more constant posts.

Christmas party favors

2011-12-05T10:16:00.001-08:00

If you have a Christmas party or get together this season, don't forget to print out these super easy chocolate wraps. Get them at the shop.

SugarHouseInk

2011-11-30T06:19:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for a Christmas photo card that offers a fresh, modern, yet traditional look...... Look no further.

Sugarhouse Ink has the cutest designs to choose from. The designer Sarah, a good friend of mine, has made some awesome designs for the holidays. Check out all the designs here at her shop.

And, for being an awesome friend and a reader, here is a discount code just for you: PCSR20
- it's good for 20% off of any digital design order and valid through the end of the year!!!!

We just finished up this card and will be mailing them soon

as soon as I gather addresses- that's the worst part!

Here are some other cute choices:

*I love this Fa la la card

Thank Sarah!

Advent Activities for Christmas 2011

2011-11-28T23:22:00.001-08:00

image via lovenordic.

Every December 1st we have been traditionally starting an activity advent calendar. I thought it was fun with just the two of us (and it was), but now with two kids (especially one who understands Christmas), the activities get more exciting.

Here are this years activities (yes, some are repeats from previous years... they are just too fun not to do... they've become traditions already)

Set up Christmas tree
Hang stockings
Ward Christmas party
Stream an online Christmas movie with the kids, The Santa Claus
Decorate outside of the house
Find 5 kids Christmas books at the library
Send out family Christmas cards
Go see the city lights on the trolley
Enjoy eggnog
Dance with the kids to Christmas music
Visit Hawaii LDS temple
Watch a Christmas movie
Sip a cuppa hot cocoa stirred with a candy cane
Donate canned goods/Lokai fund
Make orange pomanders
Have a romantic dinner or dessert with husband under the Christmas tree
Make goodies for neighbors
Host a Christmas brunch
More library books
Finish Christmas shopping and wrapping
(Fly to Vegas--> Utah)
Make a gingerbread house
Visit St. George LDS temple
Enjoy family
Enjoy life! because of Christ.

Excitement!!!!

Christmas decor

2011-11-28T23:22:00.000-08:00

Oh Christmas,
You are so good to me. Your sparkling lights in the night make me smile. The smell of pine makes me sigh. The sight of a Christmas tree makes me stop and think of all the little happy things in life that I normally don't think of. And garlands strung around the house get me in the Christmas mood faster than anything else. It's my favorite time of the year!
So, here is some of my favorite Christmas decor ideas via pinterest.

Thanksgivng menu

2011-11-17T14:33:00.000-08:00

I can't believe Thanksgiving is in one week!!!

I'm super excited that we'll be staying at our own house and having family over this year. I thought I'd share what dishes I'll be in charge of making. Enjoy!

This first one will surely be a crowd-pleaser. It's called Cranberry Slush, and it's a great way to incorporate cranberries into the meal rather than a sauce or jelly.
It's also great because you can make it the night before and get it out of the way. I made it last year and everyone LOVED it.... so naturally (and by order), I'll be making it again.
Recipe and complete instructions from This Week for Dinner, (I made the quick recipe).
You'll need:
- 4 cans whole cranberry sauce
- 3 quarts cranberry juice
- 2 quarts ginger ale

Next up... Turtle Pumpkin Cheesecake!

I'm a little worried, being that I've never made it before. But after searching for a good pumpkin cheesecake recipe, this one looks the best. After reading pumpkin, cream cheese, chocolate, caramel, nuts... it had me hooked.

For ingredient lists and instructions go to Betty Crocker.

And also from Betty Crocker, easy-peasy, classic..... Green Bean Casserole

I LOVE the french fried onions on this one...

What are you planning on making for Thanksgiving!?

I'm interested to know your recipes.

Thanksgiving activity: Scavenger hunt

2011-11-16T16:39:00.000-08:00

When you've filled yourselves to the brim with turkey, potatoes, rolls and pie... take a walk around your neighborhood to see who can complete this fun scavenger hunt first. That's what we'll be doing.

via familyfun

Thanksgiving Chocolate Wrappers

2011-11-15T06:52:00.000-08:00

It's Thanksgiving time!!!

Or at least time to start planning out your Thanksgiving dinner...

,,,and why not add these to your table?

It's the simplest DIY you could ever do and add so much to your Thanksgiving table.

Grab them here.

Christmas Tree Cookies

2011-11-13T23:32:00.000-08:00

Soooo... I sell Avon, and came across one of their products I thought and considered to be blog worthy.

It's a 10 piece cookie cutter set that, when gradually stacked on top of each other, forms a 3-D edible Christmas tree! And if you wanted to have 10 different sizes of stars, well, it works for that just as well. And maybe I bought one for myself. Just maybe. For only $7.99 who can resist!

Get yours here!

Gourd Turkeys

2011-11-10T09:46:00.000-08:00

I spotted these cute gourd turkeys on Martha Stewart today and with my little pumpkin fetish going on, I had to share about it. They used Hubbard squash, but I'm sure you could use a pumpkin or any other type of squash to do the job. That and corn husks are just about all you need.

Today is the day... get your countdown on

2011-11-06T17:18:00.000-08:00

We are trying to teach our 3 year old girl how to say her own prayers... more specifically, expressing her feelings and gratitude. So, being that Thanksgiving is nearing soon, I came up with this gratitude garland.

Starting today, the 6th, my husband and I will discuss with her what we are thankful for that day. Then write it on a long strip of paper, once a day until the end of the month... linking each paper to each other forming a paper chain.

image -pinterest

By the time the month ends we should have 25 links of paper, so on December 1st we will review the first link we made and rip it off... everyday until Christmas! It's like two countdowns in one!!!

So, today is the day to get your countdown on! Grab some scraps of paper and start.

Halloween costumes

2011-10-26T13:35:00.000-07:00

I just finished sewing up our Halloween costumes, so I'm fully in the Halloween spirit. We are going as the Peter Pan clan... my 1 year old as Peter Pan, my 3 year old girl as Tinkerbell and I'll be sporting Princess Tiger Lily (the Indian girl). I tried to convince my husband to be Captain Hook, I even bought a sword, eye patch and fake earring, but he won't budge.

That's fine, he can stay home and pass out the candy. Ha!

Here are some other costumes I thought were pretty creative.

via pinterest

Crushing on these packages...

2011-10-19T10:47:00.000-07:00

makes me want to wrap something

creaturecomfortsblog.com

Love these washi colors!

fifteeneleven.bigcartel.com

flickr.com

youaremyfave.com

more packaging ideas here

How to: kraft and tissue paper pom gift wrap

2011-10-06T06:17:00.000-07:00

I came up with this little wrapped gift because I had so many of these pre-made tissue paper poms all over the place.

If you don't have any kraft paper, I suggest you get some. It's very versatile. I use it for every occasion in gift wrapping. Just add an accent or theme and you're done.

Need:
wrapped gift in kraft paper or use a kraft box
pre-made tissue poms (these kind)
string or twine
double stick tape or vellum tape

Wrap your gift in kraft paper

I used a kraft box

Gather several tissues and lay them across the top of your gift.

Keep them unfolded with the fringes pointing outwards.

If that makes sense..?..

Next, wrap the twine around the box and over the middle of the tissues

Then, place your double stick tape or vellum tape over the twine that is on top of the tissues.

Like below

I used vellum tape, since I had some laying around that I never use

Afterward, fold up your tissues and scrunch them up onto the tape

scrunch?? ...sorry, I'm not great at explaining things

But if your final product looks something like this, then you have success!

Thunder and Lightning party/ Thor

2011-10-04T11:50:00.000-07:00

Spotted this party on The Sweetest Occasion

I love the little details in the party favors

see more here

It's October!!!

2011-10-02T01:05:00.000-07:00

Let the Halloween decorating begin.

Inspiration

2011-09-24T00:08:00.000-07:00

Inspiration. It's a funny word if you think of it too much... especially on pinterest. It seems that all I do lately is get inspired (rather, like the image I see) and then pin. end of story.
I need to do a pinterest challenge and actually make and do things I pin.

Ok, here is my pledge.
THIS WEEK: I will make one pin for every pin I make. Make sense? bahahhaaa.

Anyways, back to inspiration. I'm glad my cousin came to visit a few months ago and inspired me to paint our bedroom wall with breadfruit tree leaves.

I love it.
And thus, had to share it.
the end.

Gearing up for Halloween

2011-09-20T21:43:00.000-07:00

Yes, Halloween. You can never plan too far ahead, right?

Print off these fun candy wrappers at home, wrap your candy up for the big night or a spooky party, and you'll have the cutest candy on the block!

How to: Plastic Pom Garland

2011-09-15T11:07:00.000-07:00

I wanted to make a pom garland for my son's birthday, but being in a rainy climate I couldn't rely on the normal tissue poms (especially since we did the decorating the night before).
So I created a plastic pom using strands of cut plastic table coverings. It worked out great because it matched the tables perfectly.

Here's how to make them

You'll need:

Scissors
Plastic table covering- the colored ones at a party store (or any type of thin plastic. you could even use strips of plastic bags)
Twist ties or thin floral wire
Staples and stapler
Twine or string

Cut strips of the plastic about 1 inch thick and between 4-6 feet long... depending on how thick you want your pom to be. The longer it is the thicker it will be. Thicker meaning the pom will have more poof in it. Make sense? I cut mine the length of the whole table cloth- 6 feet.
Take each strip and wrap the whole thing back and forth around the width of your hand. This really depends on how big you want your pom to be. The wider the wrap, the bigger the pom. Sorry, don't have step by step photos of this.
You should have rounds of plastic now around your fingers. Next, grab the middle of the plastic and tie it up with a twist tie or floral wire.
It should look like a big bow (with numerous bows). Now, cut every loop on each end.

You can fluff and move it around to form more of a ball shaped puff.

Should look somewhat like this:

5. To attach them to a string to hang, simply staple a few strands of plastic, closest to the core of the pom, to the string. Like image.

That's it. Just hang it up and admire.

Tip: to take them down I pulled out the strings from the poms and stored them separately. If you leave it in it will become easily tangled. Theses poms are great because I just threw them in a plastic bag and they can be stored forever and reused in so many ways. It's not a high maintenance kind of decor.

Wrapping inspiration

2011-09-07T12:20:00.000-07:00

If you like simple packaging and wrapping and don't already read this blog... then click on for her latest [WRAP] Package tutorial. I felt like I had to share because I get most of my gift wrapping inspiration from Sally J Shim.

She makes kraft paper look so good.

Ombre paint swatch chandelier

2011-09-06T12:12:00.000-07:00

Two trends: Paint swatch/chip DIY projects and Ombre. I think that's why I love this.

DIY from The Sweetest Occasion.

;

Cotton Candy Lemonade

2011-09-02T15:28:00.000-07:00

I saw this on the Today Show (with Kathy Lee and Hoda) this morning and loved it!

Basically, you put a handful of cotton candy in a glass and add unsweetened lemonade to it. YUM!

I tried looking it up but didn't have much success... errrr ran out of time....

But here is Sweet Paul Magazine's edition.

M&Ms

2011-09-01T12:29:00.000-07:00

M&Ms are my new best friend.
Not only are they good to eat (especially the coconut ones), but the little drops of chocolate get my daughter to do ANYTHING.
It's how we toilet trained, got her to pick up toys, set the table for dinner, put her clothes on, etc. etc.

I came across this fun game from tokketok.

Organize the colors accordingly, review them with mom, and then eat!

Fancy food

2011-08-26T12:05:00.000-07:00

I've just been collecting some eye catching food on pinterest.

It's pretty amazing what amount of inspiration one great image holds. I now feel like baking today.

Makes me want to throw a party, just because.

I love this idea of slicing apples and then dipping and dunking them in toppings. I can never finish the whole apple. A caramel apple toppings bar! Perfect for fall activities coming up.

Brownie Bowls!!!

Satisfy that sweet and salty craving: mini marshmallows dipped in chocolate with a pretzel

Infused water recipes. The mint and strawberry/raspberry looks good.

Cotton candy cupcake toppers!

Whatever you are doing this weekend, baking or not, have a wonderful one!

Welcome home

2011-08-25T10:59:00.000-07:00

I thought this sign was pure genius. Just stick together some light sticks to spell out a message.

My husband has been gone off the island for about two weeks now and comes home today! Too bad he doesn't get in at night or else I'd be doing this. We'll make a different sign instead. We're all very excited to see him again.

Coral, aqua and gray

2011-08-20T19:48:00.000-07:00

These three colors are in my head lately.

I love the combo they make.

So fresh and happy.

via pins.

Back to School Party for Adults

2011-08-16T12:18:00.000-07:00

I literally laughed out loud when I saw this party.

Especially after reading the phrases on the straws.

"hurry kids, you'll miss the bus."

You can print everything off for free here.

I guarantee though, I would throw something like this if all the kids were in school.

I'll have to save this idea.

;

images via thesweetestoccasion

Chevron striped party hats

2011-08-11T15:00:00.000-07:00

Available now and

in horizontal print too.

At any color.

The SHOP is back open...

2011-08-10T15:02:00.000-07:00

... So get your party on

and head over now!

I'll be adding new items daily so stay tuned.

like these fun superhero hats... for that little batman or spiderman of yours

DIY Party Animal Candles

2011-08-10T11:47:00.000-07:00

Bring the party animal out of someone with these adorable DIY party animal candles.

Tutorial and images from The Sweetest Occasion

Mini funnel cakes

2011-08-05T18:57:00.000-07:00

Ever since we lived in Texas a couple years ago (for a few months) and had a funnel cake at the state fair, I've been dreaming of making them myself. It was one of the tastiest things I've ever eaten (my husband will beg to differ, he gnawed on the ginormous turkey leg pictured below- that thing was the size of my arm!)

I came across this recipe and decided to give it a whirl this coming week.

Who wants to come over and try it?

Have a Happy Weekend!

Cake Garland Winner

2011-08-05T18:41:00.000-07:00

The randomly chosen winner for the cake garland is....

...Stacy!

Who said,

"I would LOVE it. My daughters 5th b-day party is in August and my colors are yellow and white:)"

I'm glad you'll be able to use it for your party soon!!!

Email me your address and I'll send it your way.

sr.partyaccessories(at)gmail.com

Stay tuned for the reopening date of partyacessories

Would you like a cake garland...

2011-07-28T18:06:00.000-07:00

... this one in particular?

It fits a 9 inch round cake wonderfully!

I'm doing a little summer cleaning for my etsy shop and revamping a lot of things.

I am feeling a little happy about everything so I want to give this to someone.

For free. With love.

All you have to do is leave a comment with your name and

an email (if it isn't linked to your name).

And then do a little dance. Because I like revamping things.

Stay tuned for a new look in the shop. I'll let you know when it opens up again.

Hurry and leave your name!

I'll announce the winner on Friday, the 5th.

-be sure to leave your comment in this post to qualify-

Miss Kai Kai's Balloon Birthday

2011-07-28T06:23:00.000-07:00

My daughter turned the big 3 last week and we had a little celebration for her.

The night before I spent about an hour filling up balloons.

tip- there are cheap hand pumps at Wal-mart for about $2-3 in the party supply section.

It will save your diaphragm from bursting.

I pumped about 100 and then decorated the house with them.

These signs and garland led her to our downstairs after she woke up,
to where all the balloons were.

When she got downstairs and saw everything she whispered, "wow!".

It was a priceless moment and, to me, worth going to bed at midnight the night before.

Then, she just sat in the middle of them all for a little while.

We celebrate every meal with some candles and the song "Happy Birthday".

This was dinner. She had strawberry cookies instead of a cake
since we were having cake the day after for her party.

Invitations I made for her party

-it was really simple:

I had some scrap paper with clouds on them

(you can even draw clouds on paper too)

I then cut out small circles of washi tape and

placed them on the paper like balloons.

Next, draw strings with a pen and

then write the party info along the cloud lining.

Back it up with card stock and ...

Viola!

::The Party::

The birthday girl

My daughter loves lollipops, and since they are pretty much in the shape of balloons, I had to make some. I made li hing mui lollipops

(recipe here, I altered it a bit and added jello powder for color and flavor instead of t

he recipe flavor and coloring. I also omitted the powdered sugar.

After pouring it into molds, I dropped a li hing mui seed in the center).

The kids liked hitting the water balloon pinata's!

We eventually had to tape a plastic fork to the bat so they would break.

They were tough balloons!

Since our house was filled with balloons I used a few and strung them on a string for a garland outside.

The favors were personalized water guns and sponge poms

They are easy to make too:

Cut a sponge length wise into three strips.

Cut as many as you like for each pom, just as long as you can tie them.

I used 2 sponges, 6 strips, per pom.

Then, stack them together and tightly tie a string in the middle around them all.

Happy Birthday Miss Kai Kai!!

Another Tissue Garland

2011-07-27T13:58:00.000-07:00

This tissue garland, by Visual Vocabulary, is a perfect DIY to get that same "Confetti System" look.

Puppy Party

2011-07-21T00:40:00.000-07:00

Here it is, as promised: Makana's 1st birthday party.

It was fitting that we based the theme on dogs. It was one of his first words and he is absolutely intrigued with the animal.

It was a lot of work but well worth it -I'd do it all over again if I had to- because we all had a great time, especially the birthday boy. Even though he slept for the first half of it... he woke up refreshed and ready for cake!

-prepare yourself for a picture overload!!!-
if you want the full effect of a photo, just click on it.

Inside the favor bags: Scooby snacks, personalized bubbles, bouncy ball, puppy chow and a paper throw paper wand (or whatever you call it)

that's a guava glaze on top of whipped cream and cake- oh so yummy

The food. OH, the food!

I wish I had a plate right now.

It was sooooo so so so good.

My husband, Keoni, caught about 100 fish within the last few weeks just for the party.

you gatta click on this image

The birthday boy and I

These are my awesome friends who helped run the party- Liko, Stephanie, and Chante

(Steph, I just noticed how stylish your nails were)

(and where did you learn how to hold a shaved ice?... pinky out and everything!!!)

LOL

We played a few games. One of which we clothes pinned a fabric tail on the back of everyone's shirt. Then you had to run around and step on other tails. The last one standing with a tail still attached was the winner. We split everyone into 3 games- ages 2-5, 5-12 and 12+. The 12+ were hilarious (aka, the adults who participated).

Our happy little puppy family.

My husband went for highlights in his fur

.....................................

Oh, what a happy day!

.....................................

Kinfolk Magazine

2011-07-12T23:35:00.000-07:00

This lovely little magazine, Kinfolk, comes out this Friday.

I'm excited about it. It's just my cuppa tea (if I drank tea, that is).

image and journal link

Balloon birthday party inspiration

2011-07-11T06:07:00.000-07:00

My daughter turns 3 in exactly 2 weeks! (tear, sniff)

I've mentioned this before, but we're celebrating with balloons. And lots of them.

Inspiration

Another peek into the doggy party

2011-07-09T20:44:00.000-07:00

I promise I'll get the rest of the photos up soon,

especially some of the birthday boy.

There are just too many good ones to sort through,

but here are a few more until then.

A friend of mine, Drianne, took the photos. Isn't she amazing!!!?

Stamping cookies

2011-07-08T06:41:00.000-07:00

Stamping cookies!
Genius.

This idea, from Country Living, is awesome.
Now I have a reason to increase my stamping collection (which I rarely use).

via Design Edition

Cake Decorating Party

2011-07-07T06:44:00.000-07:00

This would be a great party for a young teen... or even a grown adult

(like me. I'd love this)

Make mini cakes for everyone and have plenty of piping and decorating ideas on hand.

The Sweetest Occasion via Strawberry Chic

Washi tape bunting invitation

2011-07-06T11:51:00.000-07:00

Spotted these adorable invites on Mer Mag.

I love the black and yellow color combo and the fact that they are very easy to make.

I think I may borrow the idea for my daughters balloon party coming up in a few weeks.

A Very Hungry Caterpillar Birthday

2011-07-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

I threw my daughter a "Very Hungry Caterpillar" themed birthday party a few years ago and posted the photos on my personal blog. Since then I've had my personal blog changed to private so you can't just hop on over and look at it. Sorry. But don't fret, I'm posting it all over again right now.

link

We based the party theme off of the classic children's book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by Eric Carle. It was one of my daughters favorites. Probably because it is one of our favorites, and we read it to her the most out of any other book.

We ate everything that the caterpillar ate: apples, oranges, plums, pears, strawberries, chocolate cake {that big one from costco- mmmmm} ice cream cones, pickles, swiss cheese, salami {I even found Pepperidge butterfly crackers}, lollipops, cherry pie {tarts}, sausage {hot dogs}, cupcakes, and watermelon. Along with rice and teriyaki chicken. Oh and one nice green leaf {salad}, just like he ate on Sunday...

... Activities we did: Read the book, played catch the butterflies (that elephant game), pin the caterpillar on the apple, and broke a butterfly pinata.

4th of July

2011-07-01T06:22:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July weekend to you!

-In case you need some last minute decorations for your picnic, head over to The Sweetest Occasion for free ones!
-Aren't these the neatest fruit pops you've ever seen?!
-And because it is now illegal to light fireworks here in Hawaii, we'll have to make some of these paper sparklers (especially for the toddler).

{please light off some fireworks for me}

A Very Magical 'Wish' Party

2011-06-30T10:26:00.000-07:00

Spotted this 'wish' party on HWTM and about died of party-cuteness-overload!

Details, details. The details are perfect.
(and can anyone tell me where to find an armoire like that?! It's awesome)

A peek into the doggy party

2011-06-29T13:37:00.000-07:00

Chevron striped party hat

2011-06-27T06:36:00.000-07:00

(Bare with me and let me gloat for a while-lol)

I'm working on my sons party decorations (for this Saturday!!)

and couldn't help myself by posting this chevron striped hat I made

I know he is my son, but he is too cute...

and with this hat on, he's the cutest thing EVER!

It is his birthday today..... so,
Happy 1st Birthday Makana!!!

DIY 4th of July decor

2011-06-24T06:07:00.000-07:00

If you haven't already seen Lisa Storms' craft ideas for celebrating the 4th of July, then you must.

It's amazing what you can create with some paper and paper punches.

Make your own pixie sticks

2011-06-23T10:23:00.000-07:00

This is just awesome!!!

Find out the how-to, here on instructables.

Push pops

2011-06-22T06:42:00.000-07:00

The possibilities really are endless with these push pop containers with lids from Garnish.

Fill it with cake, pudding, cake and pudding, frozen treats, fruit, candies...etc.

image 1, 2, 3

Rainbow gift wrapping

2011-06-21T09:42:00.000-07:00

I like simple wrapping that makes a big statement. This is one of them, from Mini-eco:

Strawberry cupcakes

2011-06-19T21:41:00.000-07:00

It's strawberry season!!! Top off a party with these adorable cupcakes from Design of the Month

Flags

2011-06-14T13:16:00.000-07:00

Before the 4th of July, comes Flag day.
Get your flags out and represent!

patriotic bike, flag swag, flag cakes stand, fruit flag, layered flag cookie, cake

Hot dogs

2011-06-09T18:59:00.000-07:00

I love hot dogs. Any kind, and especially loaded with lots of toppings.

Have you ever tried shredded potato chips and raisins

(along with the regular toppings)??

It's the perfect salty-sweet combo and is surprisingly good.

(I had them from a lunch wagon in Brazil, too many times)

I think our 4th of July celebration will be something like this:

more ideas/images and free downloads at hwtm

Hello Yellow

2011-06-06T12:29:00.000-07:00

I couldn't help myself not to post about this yellow party. My favorite feature: a tent of ruffled crepe paper streamers cascading over a candy buffet.

via the sweetest occasion

Tissue Paper glass window collage

2011-06-05T23:15:00.000-07:00

If you are like me and save up every piece of tissue paper from every gift you have ever received, then this craft is for you.

instructions and images via Filth Wizardry

Birthday Season (and balloons)

2011-06-02T12:49:00.000-07:00

I only have two kids but they are born one month apart in July. So while my husband and I celebrate our birthday in April together, it seems like we have a month long celebration in those two months.

I am planning up both kids parties right now (my son's will be bigger, being that he is turning 1), but I can't help myself turning all my thoughts to my daughters' party theme: BALLOONS! (her preferred toy)

Maybe because balloons make everyone smile.
Some inspiration for the party (collected from my pins):

I love all the ideas of hanging balloons upside down. It cuts the costs of helium and you get to see the more rounder part of the balloon.

click images for sources

Kebabs

2011-06-01T12:18:00.000-07:00

Food tastes much better on a stick. And kids love it too.

Wouldn't a party full of kebabs be fun?!

Antipasto Kebabs

Fruit kebabs

French Toast Kebabs (good idea for Fathers Day)

Strawberry Shortcake Kebabs

Mini Pancake Kebabs

Desert Kebabs

Lemon Meringue Kebabs

Tomato Kebabs (with edible sticks)

DIY stripey paper straw pennant garland

2011-05-27T13:03:00.001-07:00

A little spark when off in my head when I saw this simple paper straw garland...
*spark*... why not add pennants?

So here it is. And it's so easy to make.

You'll need:
-Paper straws (I got these at hey yo yo, but you can get them cheaper in bulk here)
-Coordinating card stock
-String and needle (a quilting needle works best, something with weight to it)
-Hot glue

Cut out your card stock into triangles, however big you want them and however many you want.
I had two to each straw. You could even try letters, circles, squares...etc. whatever. Just make sure they measure up to each straw since you'll be attaching it to them.

Place hot glue across the tops of each pennant then place paper straw on top. Again, make sure you measure it out before you place on the straw.

Then, string in your needle/string through the straws.

Hang.

Admire.

Paper napkins never looked so good

2011-05-27T13:02:00.000-07:00

from UGUiSU blog. purchase here.

Ribbon Lanterns

2011-05-26T12:25:00.000-07:00

With summer here and outdoor dinners in store, these ribbon lanterns would be great decor and lighting.
from martha stewart

Edible crayons

2011-05-25T06:46:00.000-07:00

Yes, you read that right. These looks like a lot of fun.

from little.happy.things

image from Luxirare.com

Oprah

2011-05-24T06:51:00.000-07:00

I'm a fan of Oprah, but not this much of a fan- to host a viewing party. If you are, click over to Design Editor for complete Oprah party printable package.

Paper straw garland

2011-05-23T06:40:00.000-07:00

I love garlands. I love paper straws. So its fitting that I love this easy paper straw garland from Crossing the Bugger-Dixon Line.

Real Parties

2011-05-20T20:37:00.000-07:00

These are a few photos of a party back in December from a customer, Kristyn.
The theme was Moose and Zee for her darling little one year old boy!
That cake is amazing.

Edible bunting and cupcake topers

2011-05-19T13:14:00.000-07:00

This is fun!... Edible cupcake toppers and bunting- a DIY from the sweetest occasion.

This is a great solution for cupcakes... I always feel awful for throwing away something that I spent time making (regular paper toppers)... this way, I won't feel so bad because I get to eat it too!
They also teach you how to make a simple edible bunting set.

No set up required

2011-05-16T01:58:00.000-07:00

Skip the decor, fancy table settings and buffets, tissue poms, stripey straws and coordinating cupcake toppers.... to me, you can't beat a simple birthday party on the beach.

Breakfast Cereal Party

2011-05-13T15:49:00.000-07:00

I saw this party on Birthday girl... it featured Merrilee and the cereal party she threw for her son. The party looks amazing without being over the top.

My favorites would be the invitation featuring a cheerio and the rice krispie cereal cake!

One long dining table

2011-05-10T15:15:00.000-07:00

I'm liking the look of this long dining table... instead of groups or individual tables.

and the lighting makes it all magical.

image

Zara love

2011-05-09T01:25:00.000-07:00

Everything on this site is my cuppa' tea.
And I'd take one of each of these for my 2 year old girl and these for my baby boy.

Give me some Zara please!
(if anyone knows who sells it online, please let me know- or if there is any store in the west coast)

Just for the record...

2011-05-06T00:36:00.000-07:00

{I posted this on my personal blog and felt the need to post here too.. so for those of you who are reading this twice, I beg for your pardon}

Just for the record.. don't ever attempt to form shapes out of rice krispie treats and pack them together while they are still warm. Unless you are going for a petrified dinosaur egg... because they come out as hard as rocks.

I attempted to be all crafty for Easter and make rice krispie treats in the form of eggs. The next day we found ourselves with a basket of those petrified dino eggs- which were not edible- so we used them for can crushers then tossed them away.

Cinco de Mayo and Children's Day craft

2011-05-04T15:29:00.000-07:00

Thursday, May 5th, we celebrate Cinco do Mayo and Children's Day.

I thought I'd re-create this simple pinata from scrumdillydo in celebration of both holidays.

Cookies make me happy

2011-05-03T00:15:00.000-07:00

...and it would make me even happier to go home with some after a party.

They make great party favors.

I especially like these picture below.

So, I purchased these two (1, 2) a few weeks ago in getting ready for my sons 1st birthday. Each of our guests will be going home with a homemade cookie.

;

Doughnut poms

2011-04-29T14:26:00.000-07:00

Is it lame if I make these pom toppers for myself and put them atop doughnuts for my own birthday? Well, call me lame then because it will happen tonight.

For more doughnut ideas go here.

image via shortcakepartypicks etsy

The cutest greeting cards

2011-04-27T17:09:00.000-07:00

These handmade cards, by Sam Debeau, are just about the most amazing thing I could ever imagine opening up out of an envelope.

via urban scarlet

DIY chalkboard on a wall

2011-04-26T13:27:00.000-07:00

I made this little chalkboard last week for my 2 year old daughter and she has put it to good use so far.
She loves to draw circles and people. Even though its hard to make out what is who and who is what... she points to each figure and says, "that's momma, that's dadda, that's grandma, that's baby, that's... etc". I'm glad her creativity is being stretched already.

I just painted a piece of wood (actually it was a piece of thin cupboard backing) with brown chalkboard paint and glued on a strip of molding to the bottom to hold the chalk.

The Royal Couple and a Golden Birthday

2011-04-23T06:21:00.000-07:00

The Royal Couple knows a good date for a wedding when they see one... April 29th!
It's not only the 5th anniversary for my husband and I but it is also my birthday. Yes, we got married on my birthday (my husband will never forget important dates).
And this coming Friday isn't just my birthday... its my golden birthday.
29 years old on the 29th!!!

Since your golden birthday only happens once a lifetime, I'm celebrating big time.

Actually, It's been a 2 week affair. ha! My 2 kids and I have been celebrating the past week and will continue on celebrating this coming week.

Some of our activities:
-hitting up Target for some new swim wear, Easter outfits, and clothes
-making homemade play dough
-picking out some new shoes
-eating malasadas
-having some pre-Easter egg hunts (practice, I say)
-strolling down to the petting farm with the kids
-the beach
etc.

And no, we won't be tuning in to watch the big Royal wedding next Friday. We've decided to celebrate our own special dates with our kids here in Hawaii for a little staycation.
Which I am too excited about.

But here's to you, William and Kate!

If you are wanting free royal wedding party printables click on over here to design editor.
image from design editor

Happy National Jelly Bean day!

2011-04-22T11:11:00.000-07:00

Jelly belly's are my favorite. And my favorite jelly belly's are: juicy pear, black licorice, and pina colada.

But really, I like them all.

What are your favorite flavors?

Easter round-up

2011-04-22T04:51:00.000-07:00

Here is some of my Easter collection on pinterest.

I've made the Easter bunny memory game (adorable)

for my 2 year old daughter and she loves it!

Easter memory game

Peep Smores

Silly putty

DIY puppet bunnies from purl bee

Easter breakfast (using boba bubbles!!! YUM!)

Egg nest treat

Happy Easter to you

If you want a quick decoration for some last minute cupcake treats... print these off from last year.

Ice Cream Cone Rice Krispies

2011-04-21T06:40:00.000-07:00

I stumbled upon this fun idea the other day-

an ice cream cone rice krispie coated in chocolate with hidden candies inside.

What could be better?

from confessions of a cookbook queen

Easter Egg garland

2011-04-19T12:59:00.000-07:00

I came home with empty Easter eggs from the store the other day. They were too colorful and cute not to put them on display so instead of leaving them in the bag we ended up with this until Easter morning (when they'll be coming down to be stuffed and hidden)...

I'm all about easy and this is definitely easy.
If you know how to tie a knot then this craft is for you.

You'll need:
-plastic eggs
-colorful bakers twine (or any string)
-tulle

-Cut your twine to your desired length of the garland.
-Cut strips of tulle, enough for two pieces in between each egg. I cut 50 4"x2" strips and my garland measures about 9 feet when hung (including swags).
-Place the string across the center of an egg and clamp shut.
-Clamp all eggs on twine then tie two strips of tulle in between each egg.
That's it!

Happy egg hanging!!

Easy peasy DIY rabbit ears

2011-04-18T06:31:00.000-07:00

Easter is coming!!! Whether you're ready or not. I got ready with this easy DIY by martha. All you need is felt, a headband and a hot glue gun.
Normally my daughter doesn't like headbands, but with a little bribing and some candy (as you can see in her mouth), she posed for me.

Balloon lights

2011-04-15T12:07:00.000-07:00

I just ordered a box of these balloon lights from save-on-crafts for my daughters 3rd birthday party. She, like any other kid, is obsessed with balloons. Obsessed!
Maybe its because I always keep a small helium tank at home so whenever we get bored we inflate a few balloons to keep us entertained for a day or two.
I'm thinking these balloon lights will be the highlight of her day. Her party theme is balloons and you can bet there will be too many balloons everywhere.

I think I'm more excited than she is.

Water Color garland

2011-04-14T14:29:00.000-07:00

I have tons of watercolors left over from college. I've been meaning to use them to paint something for the house, but with two kids at home I don't have that kind of time. Yet. But I think this garland by you are my fave shouldn't take too long. I love it.

Styled. mag

2011-04-11T06:36:00.000-07:00

need some creative juices for a party?
check out Styled. magazine.
the images alone will inspire you.

amazing.

learn how to make lemon favor bags too.

Just about the coolest DIY birthday card EVER!

2011-04-09T06:35:00.000-07:00

...and it is complete with down loadable templates too! Click to create.

From Martha Stewart staff

get extreme with this edition

The birthday party without a theme

2011-04-08T07:53:00.000-07:00

My niece celebrated her birthday with us so we, or course, had to have a party.

She likes pink, Rapunzel, candy, and gumballs. So I guess that was our theme.

Some favor bags

Pin the hair on Rapunzel

Prep for a party: stripes and dots

2011-04-07T06:28:00.000-07:00

My son turns 1 (a big deal for us Hawaiians) in June so, naturally, I started planning out his party when he was born. ha!

We are keeping it simple though... really.

The theme is basic 'stripes and dots' with colors baby blue, sunshine yellow and lime green.

image

Some ideas floating in my head...

{click into pinterest for all sources}

Chalkboard painted Easter Eggs

2011-04-06T06:46:00.000-07:00

I found some wooden eggs at a local craft store and covered them in chocolate brown chalkboard paint. And they have kept my 2 year old entertained all day long (well, at least for a good hour). They look great plain too... like chocolate eggs.

Simple to make- just get yourself some chalkboard paint (it comes in all colors, just like egg dying) and some wooden eggs. Cover them in about 3 coats of paint, let dry, cover the egg in chalk then wipe clean for sealing.

If you don't want to do the work I put up a few in the shop here.

Edible Flags

2011-04-05T13:27:00.000-07:00

I really like these DIY Edible flags from Hank+Hunt.

They are made from fruit roll-ups, so the possibilities of colors are practically endless.

How to: tissue garland

2011-04-04T06:29:00.000-07:00

I made this little tissue garland to hang up for various birthdays and holidays. Here's the how-to in case you wanted to, well, know how-to.

You'll need: tissue paper, string, and some shredding scissors (or regular scissors will work)

Step one: Cut out various colors of regular tissue paper into rectangles (the tissue paper you use for gift wrap). I cut mine into rectangles around 4.5x3inches, but you can do whatever size you prefer.

Step 2: Fold about 5 sheets in half length wise. Cut towards the fold but not cutting all the way to the fold, like the photo. Here is where your shredding scissors come in handy. Regular scissors work, but take much longer in time.

Step 3: Unfold each rectangle and pinch the two sides (that aren't cut up) together. Like the photo.The more the merrier.

While you're at it... wrap a few candies for someone using the tissue. Brazilians do this for their parties and it looks awesome when there are hundreds of candies together wrapped up like this.

Next: get your string and tie a single knot onto the middle of the tissue and fold both ends to one side, as pictured.

Repeat steps until you get what you want. Remember, the more the merrier.

Hang and admire. Ah!

PEEPS!

2011-04-01T06:01:00.000-07:00

I am expecting our third child in about 7 months and all the little guy wants me to eat are Peeps. Seriously, I crave them all the time. So... I thought I'd leave some tasty marshmallow treats for you to drool over for the weekend.

Peep, peep.

(links below)

1. Rainbow peeps

2. Peeps bunny bunting

3. Peeps treat bag

4. Peeps centerpiece

5. Easter peep cupcakes

6. Peep Wreath

7. Easter peep bunny on a straw

8. Tuxedo peeps

9. Easter Peep Wreath

10. I know these aren't PEEPS, but it was too cute not to post, Marshmallow Bunny Tails

Happy Weekend and APRIL FOOLS about the pregnant thing. No children for a while.

Easter garland made from paint chips

2011-03-31T21:53:00.000-07:00

I just realized it has been a few days since I last posted. Sorry. I'm up to my head in making party accessories for the upcoming craft fair. It should be a fun weekend.

In the meantime here is a neat DIY link...
If you are one of those people with extra paint chips around the house, then this is the project for you.... super easy and perfect for Easter.

via modern parents messy kids

*Party Accessories*