Tag, You’re It: Using vintage style luggage tags as escort cards, your guests won’t have any trouble locating their seating assignment. Or cut out your own and loop twine  or ribbon or the string through reinforced the hole punches. {The Whimsical Paperie}

Map Quest: Find vintage maps and hang on easels or pipe and drape to create a backdrop for photo opportunities. You guests will take advantage of the photo opportunity. {Photos by Stephanie Williams}

Globetrotter: Hit up second hand shops, Craigslist or Ebay to find affordable globes. Use the globes as centerpieces or use them to flank the floral will add a nice touch to the table and reduce the need for florals. {Project Wedding}

Seating Assignments: Use envelopes and stamp (stickers or printed images in shapes of stamps are recommended, no need to add up costs for no reason) for your guests escort cards. {The Knot}

Standby List: Set up your guest book area with stacked vintage suitcases and postcards of your favorite travel locales. Or use postcards from your honeymoon destination and ask your guests to fill out a welcome home message. Ask your bridal party to drop off stamped postcards in mail, so you have some welcoming messages upon your return.

Passport Approved: Find ways to add the travel bug to the details to really tie in all the elements. Using a passport-like template for your wedding ceremony, it can provide the details needed to navigate the nuptials. {Style Me Pretty}

Stamp Attack: Use several stamps to add up to the correct postage amount, but choose stamps that feature flags from other countries or images of unique destinations. Checkout USPS to see their stock of stamps.  {Source}

All Aboard: Boarding pass inspired invitations will set the tone for an international affair. {CeCi New York}

Excess Baggage: Speak with your cake vendor to see if they do custom fondant designs. Having a stacked cake resembling suitcases will be a sweet way to celebrate your union. Request travel stickers to be added to the cake that show off memorable places you’ve traveled together. {Sweet Life}

Marriage is a journey, why not travel with your best friend? Happy travels!

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Bone Collector: The tricked out appetizer plates will surely make your head spin. (Pottery Barn; $5)

Fright Invite: Custom invites with a cauldron full of skulls and eerie font will haunt your guests’ mailboxes. (Wheeler Studios; $2)

Gourd-geous Garland: DIY garland directions are easy to follow and can be hung anywhere for instant harvest decor. The gourds are aplenty at your local grocer.

Fierce Fireplace: Drape dark ivy around your mantle to add a somber feeling to the space.

Painted Pumpkins: Why carve when you can paint? Forget the standard Jack-0-Lantern look, paint spider webs or outline the trunk of a tree on your pumpkin.

Dreadful Drinks: Set up a drink bar and print off the recipe cards for each drink. The black vodka sets the tone for all three drinks.

Wicked Welcome: Before your guests enter your haunted house, have them wipe their wearing feet on this welcome mat. (CB2; $20)

Feather Your Nest: Set the tone for the party with a feathery wreath for your front door. Want a cheaper options? Make one yourself. Buy a metal wreath (Target; $30)

Bat Cave: Place removable bat vinyl decals on the walls of your house to instantly increase the haunt factor. Remove when you are done and save for next year. (Wilson’s Graphics;$30)

Sinister Sweets: Create a food buffet with a theme centered on color. Don’t forget to include dark chocolate!

Any other ideas? What are you going to be for Halloween? We have four parties to attend (that’s what happens when Halloween falls on a Saturday) and I am still tossing around ideas.

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Bundles of Joy: Buying bottles of pink juices (Trader Joe’s, World Market or your local grocer) will help keep with the monochromatic scheme. Wrapping the bottles in fun colorful print and sealing with oversized pink diaper pins will bring bring out the baby themed without being tacky.

Tree of Life: A simple DIY project will make a boring gift table come to life. Once the tree is painted and set in the foam, it is ready for decorations. If dried Manzanita branches are out of your price range, use Mitsumata branches instead, they are more affordable. Embellish with pink baby pacifiers ($1.99), pink safety pins ($1.99) and pink ribbon bows. All can be found at your local Joann Fabric.

Waterlogged: To keep things simple in this overloaded pink party, submerse your flowers in large glass vases. Scatter them through the party space to keep the table clear for your guests’ food plates and drinks.

Pillow Talk: Tossing a few throw pillows around the seating area, will really make it cozy with color. Lovely ruffles that accent the hot pink and baby pink pillows are a great way to incorporate color and feminine frills to the party. (Hettle; $17)

Banner: Etsy can be a non-stop stop for most events. This is the ultimate way to welcome your guests and Jami, your guest of honor. Frills, ribbons and pink colors are all featured in this customized banner. Send a personal request via Etsy convo, as her shop is currently away due to an influx in orders. (Burley Girl; $30)

Tabled: Using linens that are aligned with the party’s colors will really make the party over-the-top. Layering a hot pink table runner atop of a light pink or white table cloth is more dramatic than just a table cloth. If you really want to push the pink limit, only use linens in shades of pink (ie napkins, runners, table cloths etc). (Table Cloths Factory; $2.99)

Cuppy Cake: Cupcakes are delicious alone. But add a cupcake wrap to add more color to the delicious dessert. Cupcake wraps come in a variety of colors and designs. You will definitely find one that will fit your needs. (Paper Orchid; $13)

Shades of Pink: While you’re at Ikea, pick up some very affordable pink vases. The chubby round vase ($3.99) can be used to run down the table runner on the table, while the tall skinny vase ($1.99) can be used to flank the food table. Both come in your party’s colors. (Ikea)

Ring of Love: These lovely sparkalicous napkin rings can be found at an Etsy shop (surprise!). Tie your napkins in these rings to really add some drama to your tablescape. Wait, did I just use tablescape. Oh, Sandra Lee. (Divine Design; $12)

Floats Your Boat: Kari lives in Portland (love) and our local Ikea is having a 50% off on all Grodby candles. With a set of 10 floating candles (in various shades of pink), float the candles in vases of water. The party will be during the afternoon, there may be no need to light the candles. However, if it is a normal Portland afternoon, it could be cloudy and candles bring instant warmth and comfort to a space. (Ikea; $1.99)

Feather Your Nest: Feathers maybe over the top, but they do add a bit of fun to the setting. If feathers are not your thing, giant wooden letters (also found at Joann Fabric) can be used to welcome Jami’s newest addition. Using the baby’s last name or baby’s initials are a great way to personalize the event.

Menu
To keep things simple, I would suggest ordering from a local deli. My favorite is Elephants Delicatessen and there is a location close to you as well. Their menu includes party platters that make hosting a snap. It also helps that their food is made with local ingredients and kills your hunger immediately with their fresh and simple.
If you are want to cook and prepare the food. Here are a few ideas:

Antipasto platter
Cheese plate (3 types: goat, Gouda and blue)
Seasonal fruit tray
Quesadillas de Camarones
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeños
Puff Pastry Paneer Wheels (Sub paneer with cheddar or Swiss for the mama-to-be)
Olive Cheese Bread

Dessert
Cupcakes from St Cupcake
Lemon bars (or something not too sweet)

Drinks
Frozen Grapes for a splash of color (use raspberries as well)
Melon Cooler (sub watermelon for the cantaloupe)
Various pink drinks

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Don’t forget to enter to win cupcake note cards, cupcake toppers and tissue poms for your next party. Cheers!

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Colors: pink, orange and pops of lime
Theme: youthful, modern and fun

Top Row: Fluffy Pink Ranunculus Boutonniere; Personalized Jones Soda; Short Silk Bridesmaid Dresses
Middle Row: Rock Candy Decor; Tiered Cake, Groomsmen Ties
Bottom Row: Low key centerpieces; Balloons; Poppies and Grass

Does the rock candy bring you back to your childhood? How about the giant balloons? To create a “ceiling” for the outdoor space, adding balloons will help make an outdoor space feel more intimate. The personalized soda labels are a great way to add a peronal touch to a favor. This can also serve as a escort card. If you don’t want to pay for the customized price, create your own labels, print and adhere with Zots.

These options are a fresh way to bring back elements of your childhood without making it look like a birthday party.

Cheers!

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Colors: olive, cream and brown
Theme: natural and earthy

Table numbers; Floral; Bridesmaid dress; Chocolate Cake; Moss Monogram; Hair Accessory; Wooden Bowls; Invitations; Truffle Favors; DIY Centerpieces

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Cakes; Flowers; Invitations; Cake Topper; Bird Cage Card Box; Wedding Programs; Nest Favors; Candy Bar; Birdseed Decoration; Party Decor; Ring Bearer; Bridesmaid; Parasol; Party Setting; Glass Vases

Just a simple mood board. Request your gratis mood board today.

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1) Wooly Wonder: This crunching cake pop is cuteness overload. Their sugar coat looks like cottony puffs. They are definitely cuter than just cake. The little feet are made of black licorice (ewe). I am not a fan of black licorice, but will appreciate it for it’s usefulness when replicating sheet feet. For your next sheep themed party (ha), use this recipe to conjure up cuteness.

2) Doh!: Homer’s weakness usually let him down the wrong path, but it would sweet victory once the donut hit his lips. This perfect prop like donut will melt in your mouth. Follow her simple steps on creating a delicious fried goody.

3) Single Slice: How can one make a slice of cheesecake look so decadent? Simple toppings that are commonly found in one’s pantry will make your dessert look like it came from a 5 star restaurant. The extra touches like chocolate lace squiggle, piped whipped cream, warmed raspberry jam and fresh raspberries really take the cake.

4) Pie on a Stick: What even better than cheesecake? Mini cheesecake! Anything that is miniature sized adds bonus points in my book. Decadent cheesecake pops are covered in chocolate (more bonus points) and rolled in dark chocolate shavings or sprinkles (Gah! Even more points!!!!). I am definitely making these for my next party.

5) Pomp and Circumstance: It must be that time of year. Graduates walk down the aisle towards the stage, while everyone and their mom capture the moment by snapping photos or recording the age old ritual. For the after party, this simple candy pop is a pleasant party favor to help celebrate sweet success. It is made with a mini Reese’s cup and Godiva squares. These candy caps will make a big impression on your party guests. The tassel might be a bit tedious, but it really makes the mortar board look authentic.

6) Cakes for Cancer: Mini cupcakes dipped in various colors of chocolate make for a great way to promote cancer funds and awareness. Our chef made these cake pops to sell at an American Cancer Societyevent and packaged them up perfectly. Maybe I should make these for my works’ booth at Komen? Do anyone know if there a “Eat for the Cure” option?

7) Citrusy Sweet: Oh lemon bar. How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. Is it the powdered sugar dusting or the crispy crust? Or maybe it is the sugared lemon concoction that keeps me coming back for more. Either way, this is a great refreshing treat for summer bbqs or liven up a dead-of-the-winter dinner party.

Which one is your favorite? For me, I want to try to cheesecake pops for an upcoming event. Of course, I will do a “test” batch for myself, just to make sure it is a yummy recipe.

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1) Short and Sassy: Made of cotton and silk, this shift dress has gathered ruffles at the neckline. Hidden seam pockets and dramatic open drawstring back makes this gown fit for a fashion forward bride. The banded bubble hemline creates a crisp and clean hem. (Priscilla of Boston; $2400)

2) Drop it Like it’s Hot: Details, details, details. This dress does not fail in the details department. The drop waist and lace back with fabric covered buttons elongate the body. While the rows of lace and tulle punctuate the dress and trickle down the gown. (La Sposa; unknown)

3) Clean Sweep: Sweet, clean and simple are words that describe this affordable gown. The bateau neck is perfect for the woman who is small chested or wishes to be more conservative. This dress is customizable, as all Aria dresses. Remove the sash and add a double hem to add a pop of color or texture. (Aria;$395)

4) Bedazzler: Beaded embellishments add sparkle and a richness that looks and feels elegant in this fit and flare silhouette. The chiffon illusion halter neckline gathers at the neck and ripples down to a beaded empire waist. This fitted frock has a deep keyhole back that adds sex appeal without being overly obvious. (Maggie Sottero; >$500)

5) Zip-A-Dee-Do: A zip back or tie back bodice are the two options on this beaded lace dress. The lace detailing and beading on the sheer high neckline and skirt delicately flourishes this matrimonial dress. An asymmetrically piece of chiffon drapes the bodice creates a bed of lace and chiffon on the lower part of the bodice. The open back shows off a toned back and highlights the shoulders. (Morilee; >$1500)

6) A Sheer Thing: Ornate detailing on the sheer illusion neckline sets the tone for this empire waist gown. Over the entire dress, lies a shimmering overlay that intermittently catches the light. Perfect for a evening nuptial by candlelight. (Cosmobella;$500-$1000)

What do you think? Are high necklines a thing of the past?

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2) Tip Top: Flowers line the neckline of this simple, yet striking strapless dress. Organza flows gently from the natural waistline and creates a breezy look made for any happy go-lucky bride. (Manuel Mota; ~$1700)

3) Blooming Bud: This dress is perfect for all the pomp and circumstance that goes with a wedding. The pleated tulle columns have rows of organza flowers that naturally bloom from the dress. The empire silhouette paired with a strapless neckline makes this ultimate feminine frock. (Pattis; $1500-$3000)

4) Miss Capulet: This romantic sleeveless illusion dress is made with soft lace. The delicate shoulder straps connect to the lace empire bodice with sweetheart neckline. Lace flowers highlight the outer layers and hem of the organza skirt. (Rina de Montella; $1500-$3000)

5) Flutter On By: Embroidered flowers grace the biased cut bodice, while the directional fabric accentuates the natural curves of a body and exudes sexiness. The skirt flares a bit, allowing movement, as the sheath silhouette limits your mobility. (Reva Mivasagar; $3000+)

6) Enchanted Garden: The lace flowers are delicately beaded and are scattered throughout the dress. The re-embroidered lace and duchess silk satin strapless gown feature a chapel train. A bustle will keep the dress from gathering too much earth while the bride is sashaying around the garden. (Watters; $2500)

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2) Grab Bag: Baby Chloe is sitting on a foam tile surface made by Skip Hop.This versatile and child friendly flooring option can be used after the party, in the playroom. Notice the items placed in front of the birthday girl. It is Korean Tradition to place specific items as it symbolizes the future of the child based on the object she grabs. In front of the Chloe, (from left to right): money – wealth; golf ball – success in sports (maybe take after her parents); some fabric – longevity; a bowl of rice – prosperity and a book – a scholarly life.

3) Hats Off: Using your family’s skills is one way to cut the budget (even though this bash did not seem to have a budget). Chloe’s uncle designed the visors and matching invitations. Repetition is key to holding a theme throughout an event. Using the same design throughout ties everything together.

4) Bonkers for Balloons: This balloon background is jaw-dropping. It really adds so much to the table. Balloons are often forgotten and labeled as a cheap trick, but for children birthday parties it is absolutely perfect.

5) Fabulous Foursome: Matching polos and visors in the party’s color scheme is almost too much, but this gorgeous family pulls it off very nicely. It also makes fora  great photo opportunity they won’t soon forget.

6) Invitational Only: As mentioned above, this is another creation by the Uncle. Using a play on words such as par-tee and invitational

7) 18th Hole: At the last hole, party favors were features. Favor labels were created using the argyle pattern and the golf club design.

(Photos by Minmi Photography)

What do you think?

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