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.

Img 0393

Confetti Cake DIY: Make this Amazing Dessert and Surprise Your Guests

I’m always on the hunt for new and fun cake ideas, and I’m obsessed with anything that resembles confetti, glitter or sprinkles, so this cake is pretty much perfection in my eyes.  This simple confetti cake trick will leave a lasting impression on your guests, and it makes the perfect centerpiece for any dessert table! … Read more

Img 0393
Hot chocolate bar header

DIY Hot Chocolate Bar

I have been seeing some SUPER cute hot chocolate bars lately.  Have you noticed them all over pinterest?  They are just darling and very stylized…like a party in themselves!  While you all know how much I love a party, and I love tons of details, I also love simplicity and EASY!!  I have guests coming … Read more

Hot chocolate bar header
Sparkling cider pound cake 1

Sparkling Cider Pound Cake with Cider Glaze

Who says sparkling cider is just for drinking and toasting? Why not for dessert too? This sparkling cider pound cake recipe with cider glaze is the perfect recipe for your New Year’s Eve celebrations. The pound cake is moist and delicious and the glaze…well, let’s just say be sure to make extra because you will … Read more

Sparkling cider pound cake 1
Peppermint bark recipe 1

Delicious Peppermint Bark Recipe

Peppermint bark is one of the reasons I get up in the morning during the gloomy days of winter! Creamy white and milk chocolate topped with crisp and cool peppermint is a dreamy, delicious way to spread holiday cheer! This Peppermint Bark recipe is so simple to make, you don’t even need those tricky little … Read more

Peppermint bark recipe 1
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
Kids christmas party bottles

DIY Kid’s Christmas Party Ideas

In case you haven’t noticed, I love these little bottles.  They are SO cute, the perfect size for drinks, super sturdy plastic (so you can wash and re-use if you want, but also don’t feel guilty throwing them away if you don’t want to wash them) that makes them great for kid’s party drinks…and my … Read more

Kids christmas party bottles
Pie header

DIY Thanksgiving Table Idea and Free Printable

If you’ve been following the blog for awhile now, you’ve probably noticed that I LOVE pretty things and I love to entertain…but I also love to find the easiest ways to make things pretty so that I’m not a huge stress case before and during the event.  I want to enjoy it too, you know! … Read more

Pie header
Nancy drew featured

Nancy Drew Party Ideas

A few weeks ago my hubby and son were out for the week at a Scout Camp in the Sierras.  Ash, who is totally in love with her big brother, was absolutely devastated that she was going to be separated from her best friend for a whole week.  They have NEVER been apart for any … Read more

Nancy drew featured
Halloween dinner ideas

Eat: Spooky Halloween Menu

What are you having for dinner tonight?  Every Halloween I do a traditional dinner for the kids and it’s become a favorite that they look forward to each year.  I know that Halloween is a super hectic day, so this is purposely easy to put together.  As a matter of fact, it can all be store … Read more

Halloween dinner ideas
Halloween wedding 721 682x1024 1

Entertain: ‘Til Death– A Sophisticated Halloween Inspired Wedding

When Shana of Society Sweets contacted me early in September with an idea to style a shoot to feature some of her amazing Halloween desserts, I was so excited!  I typically throw a big Halloween party of some sort…either a big carnival for my neighborhood, or an adult Halloween bash…but this year I didn’t have … Read more

Halloween wedding 721 682x1024 1
Photo 1

Sweets: Foolproof Caramel Apples

Have you ever made homemade caramel apples, only to have the delicious caramel slide off the apple? There are different ways to make sure that doesn’t happen, but I’ve got a secret for you that will make your life so much easier! Sandpaper. Yes, I said sandpaper. Simply run the sandpaper over the entire surface … Read more

Photo 1
Ghost 1 for blog featured image2

Sweets: DIY Halloween Meringue Ghosts

As Halloween quickly approaches there’s just one question you need to ask yourself. Who doesn’t love a friendly little ghost? These little darlings are easy to make, delicious on their own, and also double as the perfect topper for a cake or cupcakes.   These little cuties are spooky, sweet and delicious! Enjoy! To see … Read more

Ghost 1 for blog featured image2
Spider ice 1

DIY: Spooky Halloween Spider Ice Cubes and Black Sugar Rimmed Glasses

Here’s a quick and easy way to spookify your Halloween meal.  Spider Ice Cubes!  It’s SO simple, you can’t help but make them. All you need…an ice cube tray, water and some plastic spiders. 🙂  Fill the ice cube tray, add spiders and freeze.  Serve in your favorite beverage…I liked the idea of 7up or … Read more

Spider ice 1
Crab apple cak 2

Sweets: Two Ways to Dress Up Your Fall Desserts

You don’t have to be an experienced baker to add a little style to your fall desserts! All it takes are a few extra ingredients from the store, and you’re in business! I’ve made a pumpkin spice cake with maple frosting, but a boxed cake and frosting would work beautifully here as well. After completely … Read more

Crab apple cak 2
Mi and match with shutterfly 3 1024x10241

Mix and Match Note Card Box Sets by Shutterfly

I don’t now about you, but I still love good old fashioned snail mail.  I’m sure it has something to do with my love of paper.  Whatever the reason, I still get a little excited each day when I hear the familiar sound of the mail truck, as the anticipation of what might be waiting … Read more

Mi and match with shutterfly 3 1024x10241
01

Shutterfly Baby: My Latest Project

It’s always such a pleasure to work with Shutterfly, and I’m so excited for my newest project.  I know it’s not necessarily typical, but my favorite part of working with their amazing products is the opportunity that it gives me to design my own line of products.  It’s a total dream.  Here’s a sneak peek … Read more

01
Hearth featured

The Hearth Magazine Gathering

Last week I had the pleasure of attending a #hearthgathering that was held here in Orange County.  I was excited that it was being held at one of my favorite design studios/furniture stores RJ Imports.  If you are in the area and need some design inspiration, head down to San Juan Capistrano and take a … Read more

Hearth featured
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
Fm 336 681x1024

Farmer’s Market Wedding at Parker Ranch

I can’t believe I haven’t shared this here yet!  The newest edition of Mingle Magazine is hitting store shelves as we speak, and this wedding is a feature in the issue!  It was such a fun day with so many special touches. The Farmer’s Market theme allowed for arts and crafts, a super laid back … Read more

Fm 336 681x1024
As american as apple pie free printable 4th of july patriotic printables 1024x1024

As American as Apple Pie Free Patriotic Printables

I LOVE the 4th of July!  Fireworks, Red White and Blue, a warm summer night, great food and patriotism…how could I NOT love it?  Do you have a favorite Apple pie recipe?  You often hear the saying “as American as Apple pie,” and really, what is more American than apple pie?  It is the perfect … Read more

As american as apple pie free printable 4th of july patriotic printables 1024x1024
1922078 394023144073992 2648990939396861186 n1

Wild Dinosaur Birthday Party

This Dinosaur party by Sam of Sugarlicious Parties is SO cute!  I love all the wild, very “boy” props and the super cute and clever names for the dinosaur themed foods.  Here’s a little bit about the party from Sam… “When my little man decided he wanted a Dinosaur Party for his 3rd Birthday, my mind … Read more

1922078 394023144073992 2648990939396861186 n1
Oh joy summer shoot colorful party rainbow party summer party 681x10241

Welcome Summer Party with Oh Joy for Target Collection

Hooray for Summer!! I don’t know about you, but I would rather have my kids home all the time and no schedule than them gone all day and have a strict schedule. (probably why I’m a homeschooler! 😉 ) Maybe I’m funny like that…but I LOVE the freedom of summer!! 🙂 We’ve been enjoying summer … Read more

Oh joy summer shoot colorful party rainbow party summer party 681x10241
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
Shutterfly 21

Carnival Themed Engagement Party with Shutterfly

Happy Monday!  I hope you all had a fabulous weekend and are looking forward to a wonderful week! 🙂 I was totally excited when Shutterfly asked me if I’d like to team up again on a new project.   I had so much fun creating the Graduation party for them last month that when they gave me the opportunity to … Read more

Shutterfly 21
Ashley mothers day header

Mother’s Day Table Ideas for a Garden Party

Ashley from Sugar and Soirees is showing us how to put together a cute and budget friendly Mother’s Day table today. Celebrating the everyday is a must and it doesn’t have to break the bank! Today I’m thrilled to share with you a budget friendly (and still crazy beautiful) DIY Mother’s Day Table setting. I love … Read more

Ashley mothers day header
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
Garden 9

Host a Garden Party

Spring has finally sprung!  Hopefully those of you in cold climates will soon begin to thaw out and the sight of flowers blooming and sound of birds chirping will warm your soul. 🙂  We’ve been enjoying unusually warm temperatures all winter long, which has been great…minus the severe drought conditions! 😉  We may not be able … Read more

Garden 9
St. Patrick's Day Party Ideas

Holiday Parties: Cute St. Patrick’s Day Party Ideas

Growing up St. Patrick’s Day was NOT a big holiday in our house. It was more or less a day that we just made sure that we wore something green so we didn’t get pinched. Well, fast forward to today and things have changed a little in our house. 😉 Now St. Patrick’s Day is … Read more

St. Patrick's Day Party Ideas
Mermaid party ideas

Mermaid Pool Party Ideas

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
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
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
Carnival 7911

Diy Halloween Carnival Games

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
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
Teen beach movie featured header

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
Halloween movie night ideas

Haloween Movie Night

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
Christmas girls night party

Girl Christmas Party Ideas

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
17 awesome winter party ideas

Ski Themed Party Decorations

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
Icm fullxfull 40413784 4n2uu9e5vny808w08w0w

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

Icm fullxfull 40413784 4n2uu9e5vny808w08w0w
Fiesta de mickey mouse9

Mickey Mouse Party Games For 1 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
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
No chill sour cream sugar cookie recipe

Sour Cream Cut Out Sugar Cookies

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
layered drinks

How To Layer Drink Colors

Are you looking for a show-stopping idea for your 4th of July party this year? These layered drinks are incredible looking and easy as can be to make. It is absolutely as simple as pouring three pre-made, store bought drinks into a container or glass. Think you can handle it? 😉 Isn’t that cool? This … Read more

layered drinks
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
School shoot 5

Breakfast Items For School Party

There is nothing like summer.  I love the days of freedom without being tied to a schedule, no homework, no bedtime, just enjoying time spent together as a family and the kids getting a chance to be kids! Year end celebrations and end of the school year activities can get crazy at this time, but … Read more

School shoot 5
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
Web 154 batman kids party ideas batman party cupcakes batman superhero kids party diy pictures and ideas 681x1024

Batman Party 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

Web 154 batman kids party ideas batman party cupcakes batman superhero kids party diy pictures and ideas 681x1024
Haunted hospital halloween party

Haunted Hospital Ideas

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
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
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
Pitch perfect 2 how to throw a girls night movie night ideas

Pitch Perfect Themed Party

“Even though some of you are pretty thin, you all have fat hearts, and that’s what matters.” -Fat Amy I don’t know about you guys, but when Pitch Perfect 2 came out I couldn’t get to the theater fast enough.  I was appalled to learn that my husband hadn’t seen the fist one, so we … Read more

Pitch perfect 2 how to throw a girls night movie night ideas
Ugly sweater party food ideas

Ugly Sweater Party Food Ideas

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
cute football party ideas

Best Super Bowl Party Ideas

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
Mint green baby shower ideas 1

Mint Green Baby Shower 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
Donuts on sticks copy 682x1024

Donut Holes Display

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
Under the sea party ideas narwhal party

Under The Sea Party Ideas Food

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
Awesome kids valentine party ideas

Valentine Theme Ideas

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
Pink pirate party ideas

Halloween Pirate Theme Ideas

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
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
Baby shower 1 web 2

Butterfly Decorations For 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
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