I have been wanting to tackle this post forever! I am excited to share with you all how I keep my thousands upon thousands of photos organized on my computer. As many of you know, I started out as a photographer many years ago, and as soon as digital SLRs came on the scene and … Read more
As much as I love Halloween, one activity I don’t particularly enjoy is cleaning out the gooey slimy pumpkin guts when it’s time to carve jack-o-lanterns. No-carve fall pumpkins have quickly moved to the top of my list of favorite Halloween DIY projects since they are cute and don’t involve any guts. 😉 This week … Read more
If you are even as close to as big of a fan of Amazon as we our at our house, then hopefully you will find today’s post funny. I am always excited to do anything where I get to team up with a group of talented bloggers and share ideas. I love creating for the … Read more
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
It’s that time of year when we are all looking for red and pink decor and fun heart shaped decorations to make. This wood button heart craft is my three favorite things: fun, easy and cute. In only a matter of minutes and with just a few supplies, many of which you probably already have … Read more
Hollywood award season is upon us and the next many Sunday nights will be full of glitz and glamour. When it comes to Oscar party ideas I don’t know about you guys, but I love any good excuse to get people together and eat yummy food! My idea of an Oscar themed party is to … Read more
I love making every season special with the kids. Crafts and fun themed foods, parties and outings…whatever I can do to make the seasons fun and memorable. I’ve spent a lot of time since we moved going through a bunch of pictures and things from over the years and have run across a few things … Read more
The holidays are so much fun, but really, there is nothing quite like seeing the holidays through the eyes of a child. The years are fleeting…as a matter of fact, the pictures in this post are from years ago…and I can’t believe just how much the kids have grown. I feel like these pictures were … Read more
I am so excited to be joining forces with some of the most creative girls on the internet today and tomorrow for a fun Halloween DIY blog hop. I love any excuse to craft something up, and working with these girls is the best! If you are joining me from Bird’s Party blog, welcome! I … Read more
With fall entertaining around the corner, I have started thinking about fun ways to decorate the dining room table. I love a good flower arrangement, but sometimes it’s fun to come up with what to put in a vase other than flowers. It’s even more fun to come up with unusual flower arrangement containers and … Read more
If you’ve been following the blog for awhile, you know that I love to make stuff. But I also don’t have much patience when it comes to making things. lol! That means that most of my projects are super easy and usually utilize some sort of pre-made something or other. I often walk down the … Read more
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
If you are looking for an easy DIY costume for Halloween look no further! This DIY Spider Headband is it! I am notoriously bad about waiting until the last minute to throw something together to wear for Halloween. Without a doubt, the day of Halloween rolls around, and while I may have dressed up … Read more
I have never understood the reason to have a basement…until the slime craze hit. If you could see the basement kitchen-turned slime making factory in our house, you too would understand. 😉 Ash has always loved having a shop…a lemonade stand, cookie business, you name it, she has done it. Lately she has been making … Read more
Every good party needs a party favor, am I right? These fun printable patriotic party tags are perfect for all of your 4th of July parties…or any red white and blue party for that matter…think Memorial Day party, Flag Day party, Election night party, Veteran’s Day party…you name it…there are tons of uses for these … Read more
Hooray for the Red, White and Blue! Seriously though, isn’t it such a great color combination?! It’s time to plan for some fun Patriotic parties, and there is nothing better than an inexpensive, easy and super cute party backdrop idea. I made this DIY Patriotic party backdrop in about 30 minutes, using nothing but some … Read more
Cupcake toppers are easy to make, are inexpensive, and add a personalized handmade touch to every gathering. The best part is, they only take minutes to make and can turn any store bought cupcakes or even appetizers into something special. While perusing the party store the other day for some Patriotic party ideas, I ran across some … Read more
My baby girl’s birthday is coming up and so I have parties on the brain. I love cute DIY party ideas, and this one is SO easy, and SO quick, you can make it anytime with just a few supplies. Washi tape craft ideas are some of the easiest crafts around. Here’s what you will … Read more
If you don’t already know this about it me it’s time you learned that I love all things glitter and sparkle! If I have a chance to add glitter to something, I will take that opportunity. 😉 What better way is there to celebrate a birthday than with a Happy Birthday Cake Topper Gold Glitter … Read more
At the risk of looking like a crazy lady, I am going to show you my family room Christmas decor. 😉 I LOVE a ridiculous feature wall, some of my favorites are the Halloween wall I did out of old medicine book pages, and last year’s snowflake wall. To create something fun doesn’t cost much … Read more
I had to make a quick stop at Michaels the other day (let’s be real…when is a trip to Michael’s ever quick? 😉 I have to look at everything. ;)) As I was wandering I found the cutest little wood elephant stamp. It was a need, so into my cart it went. 😉 I love … Read more
January makes all of us want to organize, right? I think it has something to do with the influx of new things that come in during the holidays…especially kids stuff. We need room to store new clothes and toys, and if your house is anything like mine, we do not have extra space, which means … Read more
Our New Year’s Eve parties are always a family affair. We have some dear family friends that we celebrate with every year…bowling, dinner and then festivities at home with games, more food and fun. Because we always involve the kiddos, all of our New Year’s Eve party ideas are kid friendly. This easy DIY New … Read more
Earlier this season I was browsing through the website (something I find myself doing often 😉 ) and I found these darling milk bottles that had seasonal sayings on them in gold. Cute sayings like “cheers” and “sips” that I thought would be perfect for a New Year’s Eve party. I bookmarked the page so … Read more
I have a super easy and cute DIY for you today, just in time for all your fall entertaining! Can I tell you a little styling secret? Sometimes I have food around my house that I use in shoots for a LONG time. I work with SO much party food that I can’t possibly let … Read more
I was at Target the other day looking for Halloween clearance, and of course I was totally side tracked by the Christmas stuff that was going up. 😉 There were So many cute wrapping papers, gift bags and boxes that it got my creative juices flowing. I wanted to figure out a way to use … Read more
We have a week left! The countdown to Halloween is on and the energy level in my house is palpable…how about in your house? We are finishing up the neighborhood “booing” this week, attending our yearly Trunk or Treat party, visiting the pumpkin patch, carving pumpkins and having class parties. Whew! By the time the … Read more
Pom Poms are EVERYWHERE!! They are decorating pillows, towels, shoes, bags and baskets…you name it, it’s probably got a pom pom on it. My pom pom maker is probably my favorite crafting tool right now and has been for some time. From garlands to cupcake toppers, I use pom poms for SO many projects and … Read more
Hi everyone! Today we are back again to show you a few of our very favorite features from last week’s Pretty Project Party. There were some amazing projects shared this month, today we are featuring three that caught our eye, but you can see everything that was linked up HERE. First up, Making it in … Read more
I was at Target a couple of weeks ago and found this super cute tote bag. I am always looking for cute bags to tote around all of my things, especially during summertime when we are back and forth from the pool and the beach. There are tons of cute tote bags at the store, … Read more
Ashley and I love visiting those cute paint your own pottery shops and that is what inspired this quick and easy DIY. I stumbled on these cute modern ceramic faceted planters in the fun new Target craft section and knew they were going to be perfect for this DIY. Have you seen their line? SUCH … Read more
As the kids get older and all of our schedules get busier we have found it harder and harder to find time where all four of us are in the same spot. Does that happen at your house? When I was growing up we had dedicated family time both on Sunday afternoons after church and … Read more
February has flown by. I can’t believe that we were just celebrating Valentine’s Day and red and pink were filling up my Instagram and blog feeds, and now it’s already time to switch to green for St. Patrick’s Day! Here is a simple but totally cute and delicious treat you can make this month to … Read more
Looking for the perfect, easy Valentine’s Day breakfast that will only take a few minutes to make and will make the kiddos squeal with delight? Well, look no further! These red valentine heart pancakes with a powdered sugar heart are the perfect treat and SO easy! Simply make your favorite pancake recipe. When you are … Read more
Here’s another quick and easy DIY for you for all of those upcoming football parties. These little party bags are so cute and SO easy. There are two ways to make them…either with paper or with tape. I found my little kraft lunch sacks at Michaels, they are available at most craft stores and you … Read more
With the Super Bowl coming up on Sunday it’s time to prep for parties with a few easy DIY handmade decorations. These simple felt pennant flags are SO easy and make great decorations and fun favors for your football party guests after the game. You can make them in any colors to match your favorite … Read more
This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #GameDayGlory #CollectiveBias Are you getting as excited for The Big Game at your house as we are at ours? After watching exciting games this weekend, the excitement has definitely built to a frenzy! I love a party and any … Read more
I was at Michaels a bit ago and found this cool box in the scrapbooking and papercrafting department. I wasn’t quite sure what I was going to do with it, but I knew I needed it. 😉 I finally figured it out…it was destined to be a cute DIY Valentine gift for friends, teachers, neighbors … Read more
One of the trickiest things I find when wrapping gifts, is trying to find a clever way to wrap a gift card. Here’s a quick and easy DIY that I came up with for your gift card giving this year. These cute DIY Glittered Muslin bags take just a few minutes to make and looks … Read more
Are you in charge of taking dessert to a Christmas party this year? Well, here’s an easy DIY cake topper that will make any cake, homemade or store bought, look festive and fun in minutes. These washi tape Christmas trees can be made with just a few supplies and you can make them in any … Read more
If you are looking for a super cute and easy DIY Christmas gift for teachers, friends and neighbors that requires NO baking and takes only minutes to make…look no further! It’s cute, useful and takes no time at all! This time of year when everyone is wrapping gifts like crazy, this darling jar of twine … Read more
Looking for a fun, easy and thoughtful gift this Christmas? Here’s a perfect DIY for you. These diy painted wooden utensils and cutting board set are inexpensive to buy and can be dressed up and customized to match your recipients home or favorite colors to make it a truly personal gift. If you’re headed to … Read more
I stumbled upon these cute little white ceramic feathers at Michaels in the dollar bins and they were calling my name. I decided to give them a little shine and add some metallic paint to the bottom half, giving them a dipped look. So easy, they take minutes and just a few supplies. Add them … Read more
It never ceases to amaze me how brilliant and creative kids can be. The other morning I came downstairs to find Ash crafting at the kitchen island. She made the most adorable DIY Kid’s craft, I wanted her to show you how to make these fun Thanksgiving crafts for your party or Thanksgiving table this year. I have … Read more
Trunk or Treat is upon us! This fun night is one of my kid’s favorites. Probably because it involves about 1000 kids in costume running from car to car over and over collecting more candy than they can carry. Each year there’s a little contest for who decorates their trunk the cutest or spookiest. I love … Read more
Hard to believe, but Halloween is just around the corner! Whether your hosting a party, staying home to welcome trick or treaters, or in charge of classroom parties, it’s time to start thinking about treats! Here’s a quick and easy tutorial for a fun treat bag for party guests and little Gobblins alike. Fill these … Read more
Halloween is almost here!! My second most favorite time of the year! (hey, I’m a poet and I didn’t even know it!…sorry…I couldn’t resist!) 😉 I always have so much fun creating new projects each year to share with you all. Actually, sometimes it’s a bit nerve wracking to be honest. I REALLY want to bring … Read more
If you’re looking for a super cute and easy DIY for your next party or get together, this is it! The best part? You don’t even have to break out the cake pans. 😉 There are SO many fun colors of candy melts available these days, you can make this cake to match any party … Read more
Well that isn’t an impressive alliteration, I don’t know what is! 😉 Here’s a quick and easy way to dress up your glassine bags for a party or gift. What you’ll need: Glassine Bags (mine are 5×7) Glue (I used Elmers) Gold Glitter ( I use Martha Stewart) Simply paint the bottom inch to inch … Read more
A while back I had the pleasure of designing and creating a graduation line for Shutterfly and styling a party using all the fun products. This triangle garland is a little something I created for the shoot and it is SO easy and can be made for just a few dollars and with a few … Read more
Palmiers are a sweet little french treat you can make at home! Start with defrosted puff pastry (found in most grocery store freezer sections), Nutella and cinnamon sugar. Spread the Nutella across the pastry with a rubber spatula or butter knife. Next, sprinkle generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture and begin to roll one side … Read more
I’m back this week with a simple idea to dress up your Easter dessert table! It’s a completely edible treat, including wafer paper grass from World Market! Simply make your favorite frosted cupcakes (or grab some from your local bakery) and surround them with edible grass. Top with your favorite foil-wrapped holiday chocolate. Imagine how … Read more
From St. Patrick’s Day treats to Easter treats… it’s a quick turn around between holidays, so let’s get you ready to dazzle, create and amaze this spring! We’re talking easter bunny cookies, two ways. You could say level 1 difficulty and level 2; we’re going to focus on level 1 today, but here’s a quick … Read more
Easter is just around the corner and that means it’s time for cute bunny crafts and candy! Here is a cute and relatively easy DIY to spruce up those peeps and make them even cuter than they already are. 😉 What you’ll need: Lollipop Sticks Chocolate Chips (I used milk chocolate) Shortening Bunny Peeps Parchment … Read more
St. Patty’s Day is around the corner and today we’re making a super simple DIY Felt and Canvas Shamrock pennant banner that is SO easy you’ll be making one for every occasion. 🙂 Have you seen these pre-made and cut canvas banner pieces? They make this banner take all of about 15 minutes. 🙂 Here’s … Read more
Remember last week we made a gloriously tall rainbow cake for St. Patrick’s Day? Well why not kill two rainbows with one stone? If you’re going to all the trouble of coloring your cake batter six ways, let’s use that leftover goodness to make a whole new treat! It’s simple as can be. Fill cupcake … Read more
I’m just an Irish girl at heart, and with St. Patrick’s Day just around the corner, it’s time to celebrate by making the magically delicious rainbow cake. Turn up the volume on your celebration this year! Add simple chocolate coin candy detail for that extra festive sparkle! Next, it’s time to play with food coloring. … Read more
As you’ve probably noticed, I’m slightly obsessed with garlands. 😉 Anything hanging from the ceiling or on the walls really makes it look like a celebration. Whether you’re throwing an actual party, or just celebrating life and wanting to bring color into your space, you can’t go wrong with a garland! Here’s a quick and … Read more
I’ll just call this what it is… a dessert hack. It’s my take on strawberry shortcake, and it’s so simple and delicious! Take puff pastry from freezer section of the store. Thaw and cut pastry with your favorite biscuit cutter (or a drinking glass works well, too!) Brush the top with an egg wash (1 … Read more
Whenever I’m styling a party or dessert table I’m always looking for ways to add height. Suckers and treats on sticks are always super cute, but finding ways to display them standing up can be tricky. Last year when I did Ashley’s Fashion Camp party, I created these easy and cute spools to hold the suckers. … Read more
A few weeks ago at Alt I had the chance to take an up close and personal look at Minted’s art. Have you seen it before? As someone who regularly creates printables for you all and art prints, I always wondered how their printed material looked…paper quality (that’s huge for me!) and the color quality. … Read more
I was walking through Macy’s yesterday and their valentine campaign ads stuck out at me. I know it sounds crazy, but I never know when inspiration is going to hit! 🙂 The tag line was “follow your heart.” Instantly I thought of following…what do you follow? Arrows that point you in the right direction! An idea … Read more
I’m sure you’ve seen them all over the internet. The cute, DIY felted garlands using felted balls and fun shapes decorating kid’s rooms, mantels, Christmas trees…you name it. Did you know they are super easy to make? Well, I’m here to show you how you can make your own in minutes. Don’t buy a felted … Read more
This post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and Universal Pictures, but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #BoxtrollsFamilyNite http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV We love movie nights at our house and I love nothing more than an excuse to party. 😉 I have been known to throw a few … Read more
Everything is more darling in miniature form, don’t you think? This sweet cake is a simple little show stopper! Bake your favorite cake recipe and take a circular cookie cutter or a round glass and cut several layers. Frost between each layer and stack! Wouldn’t this cake be the most perfect 1st birthday dessert for … Read more
How many cake pans do you own that have been turned dark and sticky from cooking spray? I’ve owned a million. I thought cooking spray was the best way to go for years and years. Once I started baking professionally, I decided it was time to get serious, get new pans and figure out a … Read more
Well, the teams are set and the Super Bowl is on in just over a week. You know I love any excuse to party, so we are starting the party prep around here early this year. 😉 Are we really excited about football, or are we most excited about the food that comes with it? … Read more
A little secret about me…I have a HARD time finding art for my home. Are any of you in that same boat? My walls are pretty bare because I’m a bit of a commitment phob when it comes to actually hanging something. Another secret…I’m not a huge fan of wrapped canvas art. Not the pictures … Read more
Raise your hand if you’re a fan of red velvet desserts! I’ve got both my hands up. Ordering this southern classic is easy as pie, but getting that bakery quality red velvet flavor and coloring is a whole other challenge. Until now. Let me introduce you to the cheat of the century. LorAnn’s Red Velvet … Read more
Last year I debuted this Frozen party on the day the movie came out. I had NO idea that the movie was going to be so popular, and lucked out that I happened to jump the gun and base a party off of a silly little snowman that I had seen in a preview months … Read more
I must have been living under a rock, because I have never seen these adorable little mini Martinelli’s bottles. Even my husband said he’s seen them a million times…where have I been?? These DIY Glittered Party Bottles are one of the easiest DIY party ideas, and it is SURE to get a lot of oohs … Read more
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
You guys! Are you ready for one of the easiest DIY projects on the planet? This DIY garland is it! You only need two things and about 2 minutes to put this together. I made it for the Shutterfly Baby Shower, and I’ve also used it for gift wrapping. It will be perfect for all of … Read more
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
Are you giving gift cards this year for Christmas? Here’s a quick and easy DIY Christmas Crafts Gift Card Holder that will make them look like something extra special. MATERIALS Plain Bags Permanent Ink Rubber Stamp of Your Choice Crinkle Paper A gift Card I found this cute stamp at Michaels last year, but … Read more
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
I have a new obsession. Don’t worry. It still involves glitter. 😉 I have been wanting to make something with German Glass Glitter for years now, but for whatever reason, I just haven’t gotten around to it. I love the chunky-ness of it and the vintage feel. As an added bonus, it catches the light … Read more
This week we’re talking sweets with staying power. We’re talking frozen cookie dough; and not just any frozen cookie dough, but the NYC’s Momofuku Milk Bar Cornflake Chocolate Chip Marshmallow cookie dough. Homemade, pre-scooped and fabulous for gift giving! Your friends and family can make fresh baked cookies anytime they want with your beautifully prepared … Read more
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
Ever wonder how your favorite bakery frosts their cupcakes so perfectly? It isn’t as hard as you might think. You just need the right tools, equipment and technique! The tools and equipment are affordable and easy to find, and in just a few short steps I can show you how to get the professional look … Read more
When I hosted the Nancy Drew party for my daughter this summer, I made a quick and easy coffee filter banner. It’s super easy and would be so cute as a Christmas banner! The best part about these is that they are inexpensive, easy and can be made with just about anything. It’s all about the … Read more
If you’re anything like me, you’re not quite ready to release your firm grip on pumpkin season. Sure, Christmas is everywhere, but it’s still November and I’m dedicating this month to warm, spiced desserts! My sweet friend, Maggie, shared this recipe with me last year and it’s my go to for something delicious and autumn … Read more
Everyone knows that everything is better with Nutella. Pair a little of this incredible chocolate hazelnut spread with puff pastry, and you’ve got a simple, rock star dessert in no time! Here are our ingredients (not pictured, one egg): Start by laying out puff pastry on a flat, lightly floured surface, and use any shape … Read more
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
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
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
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
With summer days and lots of little messy hands headed our way, I decided to share this quick and easy way to help keep messes at bay! I always love finding kid’s food ideas both that make my life easier and more fun. During the summer months my little Ash has a “popsicle a day” … Read more
For Ashley’s baptism a few weeks ago, I wanted to try something new. I was wandering the aisles of Michaels one day and ran across these Martha Stewart Foil Transfer sheets. Have you seen them? I thought it might be neat to try so I grabbed the supplies and came home to try it out. The … Read more
This cute little Kid’s Easter craft is a perfect DIY for even the littlest kiddos in the family. It’s a great craft for your nursery school or preschool classes too. I love that it only requires a couple of easy to find supplies (most of which you probably already have on hand) and it will … Read more
As a party planner I spend countless hours searching the internet for the perfect party or picture prop, party favor, creative decoration or party activity. Sometimes it is challenging to find exactly what I have dreamed up, and other times it is just WAY too expensive and out of my, or my client’s budget. Most … Read more
So excited to announce our newest contributor Laura of Laura LeAnn Photography. Her work is gorgeous and you will love her creativity! Check out her blog for more of her amazing photos and fun ideas! Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and I can hardly wait! This year, make your valentines extra special by … Read more
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
Looking for a cute and easy gift for the crafty women in your life this Mother’s Day? You can make this fun and easy gift in a matter of minutes and there’s a free printable Mother’s Day tag to go with it! If you don’t want to make the DIY sewing jar, head to your … Read more
These are the cutest little gumball machines that you can use as both decorations and party favors at your next birthday bash. If your kids are anything like mine, they will LOVE these to take home because they are gum fanatics!! 🙂 The great thing is you can make these in any size. Just like … Read more
This little DIY cookie jar is so cute, easy and inexpensive to make! They are the perfect thing for your next cookie exchange, cookies and milk baby shower or birthday party (how cute would they be in favor size??) and even as a gift. You will need the following: -a round jar/vase in any size … Read more