Entertain

Pretty parties, holiday gatherings, baby showers and birthday bonanzas...clever tips and creative ideas for all your entertaining needs. Themed food, DIY decorations, awesome activities and more.

how to make candy kabobs

How to Make Candy Kabobs

I was at the store yesterday and saw these cute Easter candy kabobs and was tempted to buy them for Easter baskets, but I knew that my kids didn’t like most of the candy included on them. So although they were cute, I knew the candy kabobs would go to waste. I decided to peruse … Read more

how to make candy kabobs
nutter butter acorn cookies

Easy Nutter Butter Acorn Cookies

Cute food has my heart. If it looks like it belongs at a party, I want to make it…and eat it. 😉 These adorable and SUPER easy Nutter Butter acorn cookies are definitely on the list of cute foods. They are the perfect treat for fall and, if you’re looking for a treat that the … Read more

nutter butter acorn cookies
cute football party ideas

How to Host a Cute and Easy Super Bowl Party

I was watching the NCAA National Championship football game the other night and it hit me that we are almost to Super Bowl time! It’s kind of wild for me to think about because last year we had a fun family over last minute to watch the big game, and that was the last time … Read more

cute football party ideas
No chill sour cream sugar cookie recipe

No Chill Sour Cream Sugar Cookie Cut Out Recipe

So, I had an idea. 😉 With quarantine not looking like it’s ending any time soon, I am working on something fun that I hope will help everyone keep kids busy and families having fun. I would rather have this time of uncertainty be a time making memories with our loved ones that time spent … Read more

No chill sour cream sugar cookie recipe
How to make a charcuterie board

How to Make a Charcuterie Board

Several years ago I walked into a restaurant (maybe I should say I walked into a bar because this is starting to sound like a bad joke 😉 ) and saw this word staring at me from the menu…CHARCUTERIE. Huh? What is that? The description read something along the lines of “Chef’s Choice of Meats, … Read more

How to make a charcuterie board
Spooky halloween party food

Awesome Spooky Halloween Party Food Idea – Sweets Charcuterie

Take me just about anywhere for dinner these days and I’ll be browsing the cheese and charcuterie board options on the menu.  I LOVE the pretty boards full of delicacies styled to the nines.  Creamy cheeses, nuts, dried fruits, olives, chutney, bread and crackers, spicy meats…so many good things!  And let’s face it.  There is … Read more

Spooky halloween party food
Pink pirate party ideas

Pirate Party Ideas : Trick ARRR Treat Pirate Halloween Party

Guys, can I just tell you how much fun I am having working with Oriental Trading these days?  When they emailed a few months ago and said hey…it’s Friday the 13th in September….let’s get our skeletons out of the closet and party, I couldn’t help but jump on board.  They are introducing a bunch of … Read more

Pink pirate party ideas
Under the sea party ideas narwhal party

Under the Sea Party Ideas : The Narwhal Party

This past week I had the pleasure of celebrating the birthday of a very special girl.  As went about planning this party, I wrestled with the idea of whether or not to share it here.  You know I love to share all the things I am up to, in hopes that I can inspire some … Read more

Under the sea party ideas narwhal party
Tie dye cake mix 11

How to Make Tie Dye Cake Mix and Cupcakes

I’m sure you’ve seen them all over the place.  Those super cool tie dye cakes and cupcakes.  You know the ones where you cut into the cake and it is all swirly and colorful inside?  Well, Ash has been wondering how to make tie dye cake mix for some time now, so we thought we … Read more

Tie dye cake mix 11
Awesome fiesta party ideas

Taco Bout A Party : Fiesta Party Ideas

If you know me, you know I never turn down a chance to party…especially if there are tacos involved!  I love the colorful vibe of a fiesta…everything goes!  Heading into summer there is no better way to celebrate all season long than with tacos, cold drinks and colorful decor!  I whipped up a little something … Read more

Awesome fiesta party ideas
how to make fruit decorations

How to Make Fruit Decorations : An Easy Strawberry Topiary

Spring and summer are all about Strawberries.  Strawberry Jam, Strawberry pie, a great strawberry shortcake recipe …I can’t get enough of them!  I am always looking for pretty party centerpieces and these strawberry topiaries are always a hit at any gathering…baby shower, bridal showers, Mother’s Day brunches..you name it.  If you are wondering how to … Read more

how to make fruit decorations
Ice cream sundae party ideas

Ice Cream Sundae Party Ideas : Ice Cream Party Food

An ice cream party is a timeless classic perfect for any occasion. I remember back when I was in elementary school they used to have an ice cream sundae party every year at open house. I can’t remember all of the details, (because I’m old! lol!) but I’m sure it was a fundraiser designed to … Read more

Ice cream sundae party ideas
17 awesome winter party ideas

17 Awesome Winter Party Ideas: Ski Party Themes

Baby it’s cold outside!  As I write this I am sitting in front of the fireplace, staring at about 3 feet of snow outside my window.  While I wish that spring was on it’s way, reality is that I am going to be cold for awhile still…so why not embrace it and celebrate with some … Read more

17 awesome winter party ideas
frozen birthday party decorations

Frozen Birthday Party Decorations : Frozen Party Ideas

My kids anticipate the holidays almost as much for the new kids movies that are coming out as the food and presents! Over the summer I took my kids to the movies. During the previews, they had the cutest digital short from Pixar. It was about a slightly funny looking, but adorable snowman. A few … Read more

frozen birthday party decorations
Ugly sweater party food ideas

Tacky Christmas Party Ideas : Ugly Sweater Party

It’s no secret that I love any excuse to party…we’re even known to have what has affectionately become known as “fake parties” here in our house just so I can have an excuse to set up something cute. HA! When Ashley mentioned getting a few girls from school together I immediately thought “PARTY!” but coming … Read more

Ugly sweater party food ideas
Halloween movie night ideas

Cute DIY Halloween Movie Night Party Ideas

It’s always fun to get a few friends together and celebrate the holidays, and in our house we love to do that with movie nights.  Putting something together that is cute doesn’t take a ton of effort, and for the kids, getting to invite some friends over for treats and a movie makes them feel … Read more

Halloween movie night ideas
Halloween candy buffet1

Colorful Halloween Party Candy Buffet Ideas

When you think of Halloween colors, black and orange are usually the first to come to mind, but Halloween party ideas don’t always have to revolve around those colors.  Having a girly-girl has definitely taught me that non-traditional colors and Halloween party ideas make for equally fun and pretty parties.  I put together these colorful … Read more

Halloween candy buffet1
Carnival 7911

Traditional Halloween Activity and Games Ideas

Halloween is just around the corner and if you are anything like me, you are looking for fun traditional Halloween activity and games ideas to keep the kiddos entertained.  While it has been a few years, I used to throw a big Halloween carnival for our neighborhood every Halloween, so I built up a pretty … Read more

Carnival 7911
Haunted hospital halloween party

Spooky Hospital Themed Party for Halloween

Halloween is one of my absolute favorite holidays.  Every few years I throw a Halloween party for 50 of my closest friends.  A chance to come up with a fun theme, create party food and decorations to work with that theme, and dress up?  That is right up my alley.   I usually start my party … Read more

Haunted hospital halloween party
pink baby shower ideas

Pink Baby Shower Ideas

I had the pleasure of collaborating with Shutterfly again this week, designing and styling a some pretty pink baby shower ideas.  I love the creativity that working with Shutterfly affords me.  There are so many fun pink baby shower invitations to choose from, creating an entire party based around one is just a dream.   This … Read more

pink baby shower ideas
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Cute Batman Party Ideas and Batman Food Ideas

There are some birthday party themes that will never go out of style, and for little boys, a Batman party will always be a hit.  I put this party together awhile ago for a kit I made for the Pink Peppermint Prints Etsy shop so I wanted to share it in case you are looking … Read more

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Mint green baby shower ideas 1

Mint Green Baby Shower and Party Ideas

This stunning mint green party celebrating a guest of honor with the first initial of G was created by the amazing team of Renee and Nina at Confetti and Crumbs.  I am in love with the versatility of this party.  The colors scheme is gorgeous and the idea of using shapes and monograms as your … Read more

Mint green baby shower ideas 1
Fiesta de mickey mouse9

Mickey Mouse Party Ideas for One Year Old

Growing up in Southern California, I think it’s a rule that you have to be a Disney fan. But really, who isn’t a Mickey Mouse fan, am I right?  I feel like as soon as you have a baby you start looking for Mickey Mouse party ideas for one year old babies. Mickey Mouse party ideas … Read more

Fiesta de mickey mouse9
Easy no cook summer menu and dinner party idea

Best Summer Dinner Party Menu Idea

We’ve seen glimpses of what summer will look like around here with a few warm nights.  The minute the weather heats up we are outside enjoying every minute, which for us means lots of dining al fresco and simple meals.  When the heat of the summer comes, it’s prime entertaining time…but it’s also the least … Read more

Easy no cook summer menu and dinner party idea
beach theme cookies

Beach Theme Cookies : DIY Clam Cookies

Living by the beach, we are always looking for fun beach party dessert ideas and cute beach party table decorations either for parties or our weekly trips with friends to hang out at the beach.  I saw some cute beach theme cookies while searching for beach themed party ideas a bit ago and I thought … Read more

beach theme cookies
Patriotic party decorating ideas

Patriotic Party Decorating Ideas : Red, White and Blue Party

One of my favorite things about summer is getting the chance to put up the patriotic decor, and leave it up all summer long. Kicking things off with Memorial Day in May and rounding out the summer with Labor Day at the end, is a perfect excuse to change up the decor and let it … Read more

Patriotic party decorating ideas
hosting a brunch party

Hosting a Brunch Party : Creative Brunch Ideas for a Crowd

Brunch is my favorite meal of the day.  I love finding new great restaurants that serve brunch near me or great brunch recipes.  Hosting a brunch party when the weather is nice is even more fun.  With Mother’s Day next weekend and the fun baby showers and bridal showers that spring and summer bring, I … Read more

hosting a brunch party
Graduation party ideas

Graduation Party Ideas : Follow Your Dreams

Graduation is such an exciting milestone in life.  Celebrate with these cute DIY Graduation party ideas that are perfect whether you are celebrating a high school graduation or university graduation.  You can find free downloads at the bottom of this post to create many of these DIY graduation party ideas yourself. This post contains affiliate … Read more

Graduation party ideas
Mermaid party ideas

Mermaid Party Ideas : Mermaid Pool Party

Sometimes I feel like what I do doesn’t really hold any significance, but this party was different.  Kelsey’s mom, a sweet friend of mine has been battling stage 4 Breast Cancer.  I was overwhelmed trying to think of a way to help.  One day it hit me that Kelsey was going to have a birthday … Read more

Mermaid party ideas
Teen beach movie featured header

The Ultimate Beach Party: Disney Teen Beach Movie Party

We are HUGE Disney fans at our house.  I’m sure living minutes away from the Happiest Place on Earth doesn’t hurt, but with the amount of time that my kids spend watching The Disney Channel, I’m sure they would be huge fans anyways!   I am always looking for a reason to throw a party, … Read more

Teen beach movie featured header
Christmas girls night party

Christmas Party Ideas : Girls Night In

The Christmas season is SUCH a fun and busy time of year. Something about decking the halls makes us want to gather our friends and family and celebrate with good food, Christmas party games, Christmas cookies and hot cocoa.  I always like to get a chance to gather my girlfriends together and do something fun, … Read more

Christmas girls night party
Christmas girls night

Christmas Girl’s Night Party Ideas

Christmas is the season of celebrations and I’m always looking for a good excuse to get together and Christmas girl’s night party to celebrate with friends.  If you’re looking for some Christmas girls night ideas, here’s one for you…grab some pretty wrapping paper, great appetizers and some fun girlfriends, and turn what can otherwise feel like a … Read more

Christmas girls night
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Ready for Take-off: Airplane Themed Party

Cute Jane from Lendingham Paper and Party Supplies submitted this darling Red, White and Blue Airplane themed party.  I am in love with the bold colors and you know I love the travel theme!  So many cute details…here’s a look at Jane’s beautiful styling:   Isn’t that adorable?  Thanks Jane for sharing your talents with us!  … Read more

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Baptism party bridal shower baby shower ideas party ideas 681x1024

Entertain: Pink, Gold and Mint Baptism Party

Pink and Mint Green. That color combo always makes me laugh. When I was 9 years old I started in the party planning business. My parents were going to celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary not long after my birthday…(hello honeymoon baby!) and I talked my grandma into helping to throw them a surprise anniversary party. … Read more

Baptism party bridal shower baby shower ideas party ideas 681x1024
Puppy party header

Animal Themed Parties: The Puppy Party

I was sifting through old posts today and I reaized that I never posted this party!! I can’t believe it! It was SUCH a fun one to put together. When little G’s momma hired me to put something together for his first birthday, there was one requirement…that it had to do with puppies!! Little G … Read more

Puppy party header
Embark 10

Parties: Anchors Away : A Nautical Themed Party

I have the pleasure of working with the young women ages 12-18 at our church.  Each year a new yearly theme is introduced to the youth and there is a night to celebrate, introduce the new theme, and welcome those that will be turning 12 during the year to the program.  This year’s theme is … Read more

Embark 10
Donuts on sticks copy 682x1024

Easy DIY Party Food: Donut Holes on a stick

I am always on the hunt for cute and easy DIY party food ideas, and these semi-homemade DIY Donut Holes on stick certainly fit that description.  Everything is cuter on a stick, and donut holes are no exception!   Andy’s class was having a Valentine party at school past week, and I was assigned to … Read more

Donuts on sticks copy 682x1024
Awesome kids valentine party ideas

11 Valentine Party Themes for Kids: Valentine Card Party

I am so excited to be teaming up with 11 of my favorite blogging friends to share fun Valentine party themes for kids!  Sweet Summer, from She Leaves A Little Sparkle invited us to create a cute and fun Valentine party themes to share.  And, it is easier than you might think!  If you’re joining me … Read more

Awesome kids valentine party ideas
Mccormick wedding header

Trail Mix Bar DIY : Perfect for Weddings and Parties

Are you looking for a fun and different party food idea?  One of the biggest hits at the Farmer’s Market Wedding was a “make your own trail mix bar.”  Guests loved being able to create their own custom mix of trail mix.  I created custom bags with labels that matched the rest of the wedding. … Read more

Mccormick wedding header
Baby shower 1 web 2

BABY SHOWERS: GIRL PARTIES: The Butterfly Baby Shower

One of my favorite client parties was a baby shower I put together for little Sloane.  I love it when clients trust me enough to give me simple direction…in this case…minimal pink and not too frilly…and then give me the rights to let my imagination run wild and create something fun for them. Here’s what … Read more

Baby shower 1 web 2
dashion camp party 138 web 199x300

Girl Parties: Fashion Camp Birthday Party

  I’m so excited to share this fun and totally girly party with you!  It was too much fun to make all the individual parts, and putting it all together and seeing it come to life is always so rewarding!  I feel so fortunate to have Fashion Camp close to home and I love the … Read more

dashion camp party 138 web 199x300
Host an outdoor movie night

Nighttime Outdoor Party Ideas : Host an Outdoor Movie Night Party

There is nothing quite like a summer night.  The hot daytime temps create perfectly warm nights.  All your usual indoor activities move outdoors so you can celebrate the season.  If you’re looking for fun nighttime outdoor party ideas…look no further.  An outdoor movie night party is the perfect way to enjoy those warm evenings with … Read more

Host an outdoor movie night