PARTY supplies
my finds for party supplies, decorations and accessories
I was planning to showcase the actual Mother’s Day table I designed for my mom but due to my surgery, I will skip this year. I still can talk you about the design.
Mother's Day Tabletop Ideas
My scheme revolves around my baroque black & white dinnerware set.
It is becoming a habit to use this dinnerware set for Mother’s Day. I composed a Girlie Mother's Day inspiration board with the same set last year. This year, I decided to add vibrant pinks and greens to brighten up the black & white tableware.
A Portable Flower Vase
Recall Vazu from last year. It is the fun and innovative expandable flat flower vase.
The Tear Off Top is a more cheerful version with less packaging and all the advantages of the original. Since Vazu is designed to carry around cut flowers, a cute packaging has no real purpose most of the time. The Tear Off Top vase is half the price of the original.
Tear Off Top is available in 4 patterns in a choice of 3 colors each. Vazu USA kindly sent me three samples of Tear Off Top flower vases with cute pink and red hearts for my setting.
MushiMushi - Love Is All harmonizes the best with the design of my Mother’s Day tabletop. For an casual outdoor brunch or a teen birthday party, check out the EnFlor pattern. At this price, you can afford to spread many vases across the room.
Finishing Touch: the Flowers
A simple bunch of fuchsia gerberas looks great for any family event. Keep them long as much as possible; the idea is to see to create a well-defined section of green stems between the vase and the flowers. You can use a rectangular or an oval pinholder to perfectly align the gerberas. In the pink family, the Pink Purple Ranunculus Flower is a classic choice.
I prefer the fresh look of bright green flowers. I enjoy the Spider family and the Galiaro Green Chrysanthemum. Other choices include a handful of long lasting chincherinchee, dill, and button chrysanths.
For floral inspirations, I always check these two sites. The Flower Council of Holland and the Flowers & Plants Association both keep you up-to-date with floral design trends. The So simple. So try it is a wonderful initiative of the Flowers & Plants Association to demystify the art of floral arrangements.
>>> Sourcing:
Buy online: Vazu MushiMushi - Love Is All at Vazu USA – price; $4.99 USD
Photo credit: Gerberas from the Colorful Grey Inspirations Spring 2008 [flowercouncil.org] – Rights reserved
Photo credit: Mini-trees of chincherinchee [tryflowers.org.uk] – Rights reserved
Photo credit: Button chrysanths in a plastic pan scourer [tryflowers.org.uk] – Rights reserved
Photo credit: Dill in a test tube [tryflowers.org.uk] – Rights reserved
Photo credits: Dinnerware set and left bottom picture taken by Kim Vallee – Rights reserved
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
PARTY supplies
TRENDS
FAMILY style
posted @ Wednesday, May 07, 2008 2:18 PM | Feedback (1)
Summer is almost here so it is time to complete your outdoor entertaining kits. A Sunday afternoon at the beach, the park or the cottage with friends and family feels like heaven.
If the weather allowed, why not plan an outdoor party for Mother’s Day? After all, a day at the beach or the cottage encompasses joy, laughs and sharing a meal together.
A few outdoor entertaining accessories will make the day feels more special. I gather some cool stuff from Macy’s and Pottery Barn that your mother can reuse all summer long.
Gift Ideas
The Garden Party Lanterns at the top come with a 5 oz. bag of famous key lime cooler cookies.
Another solution for lighting that you can put on a table and hang is the colored tapered glass Pressick Lantern. Do not forget to buy the lantern stake sold separately if you want to hang the Pressick Lanterns. If you do not like these styles, there are 7 more models of candlelight lanterns and 3 string light lanterns at Pottery Barn.
The retro look of Acrylic Drink Dispenser captivates the imagination. These clear, blue, orange and green vessels are so useful for serving iced teas, cucumber mint water, punches and more. It is a must.
The BBQ Chipwood Baskets carry on the old restaurant style. Instead of complex barbecue equipment, travel light with a few stainless steel bucket-shaped charcoal grills.
If Mother’s Day is not sunny do not worry, you will be ahead for Father’s Day. When you plan an outdoor event, implement a plan B and think about how you will inform your guests about it.
>>> Sourcing:
Buy online: Byrd Cookie Company Garden Party Lanterns with Cookies at Macy’s – on sale at $14.99 USD
Buy online: Pressick Lantern at Pottery Barn – price: $24-$34 USD
Buy online: Acrylic Drink Dispenser at Pottery Barn – price: $59 USD
Buy online: BBQ Chipwood Baskets at Pottery Barn – price: $12 USD
Buy online: Portable BBQ Grill at Pottery Barn – price: $39 USD
Categories:
OUTDOOR
PARTY supplies
GIFT ideas
FAMILY style
posted @ Sunday, May 04, 2008 12:28 PM | Feedback (1)
I am certain that many sessions of Guitar Hero or Rock Band will happen in graduation parties this year. These games create an ambiance immediately.
With some bars hosting Guitar Hero nights, you can say that this video game is the new karaoke.
Cool Jazz and Cool Shooters by Fred
I introduced last year the fun cocktail accessories by Fred & Friends. Cool Jazz and Cool Shooters were designed in 2005. But I did not try them until now.
So I was glad when Anouk, the owner of giftOsphere (CadOsphere in French) told me that she added to her inventory Cool Jazz and Cool Shooters by Fred & Friends. I met Anouk through the social media events in Montreal. She is really nice. Her online store, CadOsphere ships in Canada and internationally.
CadOsphere supplied me with two samples of each for my test drive. When my husband saw them, he changed the theme of an upcoming Wii sport party to a Guitar Hero party. He craves for the Rock Band game. I am worried that those hip ice cube trays will give him an excuse. ;-)
Result of My Test Drive
I had two sets of each so I can check the consistency of the ice cubes. Wow, it really works! Because the moulds are made of silicone, removing the cubes from the mould works like a charm.
I took me a while to get the pictures I wanted. The ice cube kept their shape as they melted. I made one guitar where the handle was not as deep in the ice but it functions as well as the others.
Literal party theme and decorations are typically my thing. But in this case it works fine. I am telling you: Fred Cool Jazz and Cool Shooters will be a hit at a Guitar Hero party. At that price, it does not cost a lot to create an ambiance.
>>> Sourcing:
Buy online: Cool Jazz ice cube tray at CadOsphere – price: $8.95 CAD
Buy online: Cool Shooters ice cube tray at CadOsphere – price: $10.95 CAD
Learn more: Fred & Friends
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
PARTY supplies
posted @ Monday, April 28, 2008 5:05 PM | Feedback (5)
One year ago I told you about the Surya table linens by Simrin. Earlier this year, Simrin introduced rectangular trays, round trays and coasters.
The Construction
The trays and coasters are made with the same 100% handmade woven cotton from India used for the table linen collections. The fabric sits between ridged vinyls. The trays and coasters are shaped under heat and high pressure.
The trays are spill resistant and stain resistant. Manual labor plays a big role in making and finishing a tray. Therefore, each piece is unique.
The Patterns
Two out of the three linen patterns are available: Surya and Nature. The back of the Nature tray is brown while the back of the Surya tray is white. The Surya line carries a spring /summer breeze. Both patterns would look great at a party any day of the year.
I appreciated the level of sophistication impregnated in the collection. I refer especially to the the fact that the patterns differs from size to size and shape to shape.
Shopping Watch
Note that the Nature Coasters are cheaper at Velocity Art & Design than at Elsewares. Everything else is at the same price. Other online retailers carry Simrin products; simply Google them.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Surya Rectangle Trays at Velocity Art & Design – price: $50 small, $70 medium, $100 large
Buy online: Surya Coasters at Velocity Art & Design – price: $30 USD
Buy online: Nature Trays and Coasters by Simrin at Elsewares – price: $40-$100
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
PARTY supplies
GIFT ideas
LINENS
posted @ Friday, April 11, 2008 12:52 PM | Feedback (0)
The birthday of a girl friend is coming soon and you are looking for unique gift ideas. If she likes to throw dinner parties, I suggest you take a look at Violet.
My delightful picks are:
1. American Honey Flight
It is a great gift to plan a tasting event. The set includes a detailed description of each honey flavor and its origin.
American Honey Flight consists of nine distinct regional honeys that can be paired with warm crusty bread or farmstead cheeses for an evening of culinary nuance.
price: $72 USD - see Morning Person
2. Contrast Cheese Board
This is serving board with two surfaces. Place your cheese pieces on the oak side. Nestle your bread slices and crisp breads on the glass side next to some nuts and pear quarters.
If you want to set a sandwich station, put the meat cuts on the glass, and use the oak board for assembly.
price: $65 USD - see The Hostess Chronicles
3. Weighted Sphere Vase
Exotic single blossom can be stunning. The hand-blown glass sphere anchors the stalk while a separate clear glass cylinder let you position the blossom. Create a beautiful effect in a flash.
price: $72 USD - see The Hostess Chronicles
4. Coffee Mate
The knit cover retains the heat. I used a French press pot every morning and I want to design a cozy for it. So, you can imagine that I like the Coffee Mate. This Danish model comes with a built-in filter and drip-free spout. Easily to use than French press pot.
price: $78 USD - see The Hostess Chronicles
5. Magnum in the Middle
The wine rack is designed for seven wine bottles: 6 regular size and 1 large format. Even if you have a wine cellar, having a wine rack like this is useful. You can place the rack on the buffet table if you are having a wine and cheese party.
price: $85 USD - see The Hostess Chronicles
6. Geranium Cocktail Napkins
Any hostess needs several sets of pure linen napkins. These ones are printed with a delicate geranium leaf.
price: $40 USD - see Natural Selection
About Violet
This small retailer aims to be constantly on the lookout for what is Fresh, Foremost, and Quintessential. Unfortunately for Canadians, Violet only delivers inside the United States. I will continue to check around to see if I can find a Canadian source for these products.
Sourcing:
Buy online: The Hostess Chronicles department at Violet
Buy online: Morning Person department at Violet
Buy online: Natural Selection at Violet
Categories:
PARTY supplies
GIFT ideas
TABLEWARE
posted @ Thursday, April 10, 2008 5:58 PM | Feedback (2)
I was inspired by too many objects when I was writing my Dotted Theme for a Girl Graduation Party post, that I created a second mood board.
This one is an exercise in pattern arrangements. See how a traditional pattern can take a new life when it is harmonized with hip patterns.
My Design
You can leave the top open of the Teeny Green Dots Lunch Box to use them to store vintage mil bottle filled with non alcoholic cocktails or juices. Next to a buffet table, use them as a container for the napkins. Below is the Chain Link pattern from the MacBeth Collection. Chain Link is offer in Pool (blue) and Apple (green).
The Party Girls invites by Inviting Company are suitable whether you are preparing a Sweet 16 birthday for a girl, a graduation party or a girl night out. You can send them to your girl friends if you want to throw a Before Movie Cocktail the premiere of the Sex and The City movie. Add $50 for printed invites by thermography, lithography or value printing (I do not know what this means)
Pop Ink makes the retro style heavy-duty melamine plates. Their plate illustrations range from the whimsical with a touch of kitsch to lovable drawings. Each set of four plates are packaged in a jewel-like acrylic display box. The designs by Pop Ink are sure to inspire to throw more parties. I select a botanical design called Plant Food.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Metal Lunch Box at The MacBeth Collection – price: $48 USD, $35 for the mini
Buy online: Party Girls invitation cards at Paper Affairs – price: $13 for 10 unprinted invites
Buy online: Pop Ink Plant Food Melamine Plate Set at Velocity Art & Design – price: $36 USD for 4 dinner plates
Categories:
PARTY ideas
PARTY supplies
TABLEWARE
posted @ Monday, April 07, 2008 1:23 AM | Feedback (0)
When selecting a cake topper it is important that the bride and groom select one that represents well their couple. I am showing three that thinks outside the box.
Anime and Video Game Figurines
A cake topper is basically a cake doll. There is no reason why you should restrict your choose to a character wearing a wedding dress. With the profusion of adorable and well executed figurines from anime, video games and TV series, the universe of potential cake toppers is expanding fast.
Russ and Lisa selected Toshiro Hitsugaya and Momo Hinamori from the anime series Bleach as their wedding cake topper. The figurines carry a mystical, refined mood. I love it! Thanks to ToastyKen for posting his pictures of Russ and Lisa’s wedding on Flickr.
Objects as Cake Toppers
It does not have to be people. Objects can sit on top of a wedding cake. Meg and Bob did that. Their cake maker sculpted out of fondant a woman evening shoe for her next to a golf shoe for him. Check it out Meg & Bob Reception photographed by Hankins on Flickr.
Toppers for Couples with Flair
The dancing bride and groom look so happy and fun. The hip bride & groom metal cake topper is all about attitudes. Very movie stars or diva like! These two models will look great on modern style cakes and art deco cakes.
Two Things to Remember Before Selecting a Wedding Cake Topper
The cake topper must fit your personalities. Since the cake topper must look harmonious on your cake, make sure to talk to your cake designer before making your final choice. Bring a picture of the cake toppers that you like when you are meeting your cake maker. This way, you avoid any miscommunications.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Metal Wedding Cake Toppers at Beaucoup Wedding Favours – price: $69.99 USD
RELATED POSTS:
+ Your avatars as wedding cake toppers
+ Unique cake toppers by Chapeau de Gateau
+ Whimsical wedding cake toppers by Weddingstar
Categories:
PARTY supplies
BIG events
CAKES
posted @ Saturday, April 05, 2008 4:28 PM | Feedback (2)
Outstanding flower arrangements fill a room or a table with elegance. The Flower Council of Holland Web site is always a good source of inspiration for floral trends.
What is hot for Spring 2008?
Design trends are global. Floral arrangements follow what we are seeing in fashion and home decor. Grey, whites and happy colors steal the show.
The excellent blog ROOM and Serve showcased yesterday four amazing Easter bouquets. I am showing two of them. The rest are from the Spring 2008 photo gallery. A series of bouquets shows that white provides energy. They are all impressive and inspiring.
Finally, I hold a prejudice against carnations. But looking at these fashionable pink, lilac and green carnation installations, I may have to agree that carnations are in vogue. Look at the step by step instructions to reproduce this sophisticated presentation.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Flower Council of Holland
Via: Inreda med ägg till påsken on ROOM and Serve
Categories:
EVERYDAY
PARTY supplies
HOLIDAY
TRENDS
posted @ Thursday, March 20, 2008 12:39 AM | Feedback (0)
When you entertain with kids it is best to plan ahead some activities. Several activities should run over the entire course of the event.
Beside the traditional Easter egg hunt, plan for an Egg dress up contest. This kit from Martha Stewart Crafts made it easy for you. Then, stop by the art store to pick up additional supplies so the kids have more options to create their masterpieces.
Hold the contest before the meal so you can deposit the eggs in potted grass beds. Use them as your centerpieces. Kids will be delighted and you have one less thing on your to do list.
A twist on the Easter Egg Hunt
Earlier this week, I read on a blog or a magazine (I cannot recalled which), a cool idea for the Easter Egg Hunt. Paint or decorate the eggs in 2 different colors or completely different styles. Assign each color/style to an age group. This way, you get more than one winners. And the game is fairer for the little ones.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Egg dress up kit at Martha Stewart Crafts – price: $6.99 for 12 decorated eggs
Via: Get Crafty on Cookie magazine
Categories:
PARTY supplies
KIDS party
posted @ Thursday, March 13, 2008 1:39 PM | Feedback (0)
I was at a wedding not too long ago where the centerpieces were at the wrong height. After 30 minutes, one guest sitting at our table had enough to not see everyone sitting at the table that he removed the centerpiece from our table. This may be an extreme behavior (that I do not endorse btw) but this action clearly demonstrates that the comfort of your guests must be a top priority.
Before you decide on the kind of flowers, the colors or a specific arrangement for your centerpieces, consider the human scale factors and analyze carefully the room where the event will take place.
In my mind, the elements that you must consider first refer to:
Room Ornamentation
If you host your party in a castle style room with moldings and ornamentation, the room already makes a statement. You should not try to compete with the room. In a room like, minimalist elegance typically work best.
But if you rent a tent, you need lots of things to dress up the drab vinyl white finishes. I always recommend lanterns or if you can afford it, ceiling dropping floral arrangements so the eyes stop before the roof. And always plan a look with the walls because you can never predict the weather.
Room Scale
The height and the ground surface are the obvious elements. But never underestimate the power of lighting, patterns and colors on the perceived room scale. It is necessary to analyze the overall effects. For example, large and tall hanging chandeliers lower the room height mark.
If the walls feature bold patterns, low height centerpieces on the dining tables would not look out of place even if the room is vast and have 17 feet high ceiling.
Guests must see each others
When you are in doubt about the height of your centerpieces, ask the florist to prepare a sample. They test drive it with friends of different heights sitting at the table. As you can see on the top right picture, low centerpieces enable you to put the emphasis on hanging decorations.
Otherwise go for the tall bouquet on the smallest clear glass base that is possible. Like I told you earlier, medium height centerpieces would not work.
Creating movements
Each picture produces the illusion of movement in their own way. Repetitions force the eyes to jump to the next element. Playing with the heights is a successful tactic that is illustrated on the bottom picture.
The place cards station use the fireplace as a focal point to attract you. Beside the flowers, make sure they are enough decorative elements on your table to create an impact. On a rectangular table, repeating a sequence of two accessories bring refinement to the room. On a round table, you try to create the effects of circles inside a circle.
The elegance of single blooms
I personally prefer centerpieces done with one or two colors. Since you have multiple bouquets on a single room, I think monochromatic centerpieces produce a more sophisticated look than the multicolor centerpieces. You can play with textures to add dimensions. When in doubt, remember that calla lily flowers look amazing for any occasions.
Inspiration shots
I used the creations of a floral design studio specializing in floral event. Located in Rhode Island, Stoneblossom has established a solid reputation over the last decade by designing artful and lush arrangements.
If you wonder what it was, the bottom picture showed a Brazilian dessert table. Over 1000 mini-desserts were placed in gorgeous Brazilian silk blossoms, and arranged with plateaus of glass, orchids and calla lilies. That is what I call an ultimate luxury in events.
Sourcing:
Photo credits: L.Logon Photography, Ludwig Photography and Cloutier Photography – flowers by Stoneblossom
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
PARTY supplies
posted @ Thursday, February 14, 2008 2:19 AM | Feedback (2)
After a career as a jewelry, fashion and accessories designer, Alison Dawson found a new vocation when she founded Chapeau de Gateau (cake hat in French).
As you can see, Alison Dawson produces stylish cake toppers. Every detail is taking care including delivering your one-of-a-kind cake topper in a keepsake box.
Ideal for wedding and any special occasions, each Chapeau de Gateau topper is handmade with the finest quality Mokuba ribbons. These ribbons are imported from Japan.
Cake toppers can be chosen from the Chapeau de Gateau line. For the ultimate in event design harmonization, opt for a custom designed topper.
The talented cake maker / decorator, Papillon Cakes, that I introduced two days ago, works with Chapeau de Gateau.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Chapeau de Gateau
RELATED POSTS:
+ Your avatars as wedding cake toppers
+ Fresh Ideas for Wedding Cake Toppers
+ Whimsical wedding cake toppers by Weddingstar
Categories:
PARTY supplies
BIG events
CAKES
posted @ Tuesday, February 12, 2008 1:21 AM | Feedback (1)
I suggest housewarming gifts, but you could tag those suggestions for Valentine’s Day or any occasions of the year. In fact, I suspected you may go and buy those for yourself.
Cookbook Stand
Once you used a well-designed cookbook stand, you wonder how you lived so long without one. Besides its look, I am craving for the weighted chains to keep the pages in place. From experience I can tell you that with a thick cookbook, the bar at the bottom are not enough.
The Architectural Cookbook Stand is more suitable for a larger kitchen. If the style harmonizes well with the recipient’s kitchen, I am telling you that you cannot find a better gift for $29.
Glass Domes
Right now, any stylish entertaining scheme involves a few glass domes. We see more and more affordable options. The top right picture shows the 3 models available at Wisteria. They all come with a thin natural stone plate.
I shown you before Christmas how a glass dome keeps your miniature vignette free of dust. Glass domes are suitable for outdoor and indoor entertaining. The most common uses are for keeping cheese, canapés, pastries or cakes fresh and bug free.
Sold without a platter, the model at the bottom gives you freedom to harmonize the tray / plate to your tablescape.
Conversation Pieces
Displaying stylish decorative accessories with a one-of-a-kind look gives personality to a space. I am particularly fond of those vintage Chinese Cake Molds on iron stand. Because these are antiques, sizes and shapes will vary.
The designs on the mooncake molds symbolize longevity, prosperity, or wealth. Mooncakes are a Chinese pastry traditionally eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival. But you can still bring those decorative molds to the host of a Chinese New Year party on February 7, 2008.
Table Accessories
You can never have too many sets of elegant napkin rings. For practical reasons, it is best to buy 8 to 12 rings. The Maxfield silver-plated brass napkins rings can be monogrammed.
And the Barona condiment set will announce the style of your cocktail and dinner parties. The tray and four bowls are made of a food-safe aluminum alloy. The surface is hand polished to better reflect candlelight.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Architectural Cookbook Stand at Wisteria – price: $29 USD
Buy online: Square Glass Cloche at Wisteria – price: $79 USD
Buy online: Bell Glass Cloche at Wisteria – price: $79 USD
Buy online: Tall Glass Cloche at Wisteria – price: $99 USD
Buy online: Glass Dome at Bodie and Fou – price: £32.50
Buy online: Vintage Chinese Cake Molds at Wisteria – price: $29 USD
Buy online: Maxfield Napkin Rings Set at Pottery Barn – price: $30 USD for 6 rings
Buy online: Barona Square Condiment Set at Pottery Barn – price: $49 USD
Categories:
EVERYDAY
PARTY supplies
GIFT ideas
TABLEWARE
posted @ Thursday, January 31, 2008 2:34 PM | Feedback (1)
I am not a huge fan of wedding cake toppers but these ones got my attention. As a leisure gamer, I found those cake toppers pretty amazing.
Targeting the fans of Nintendo Wii this Valentine, Paul Pape Designs got an overwhelming demand. Their production does not start there. Paul Pape Designs also produces clay imitations of your game avatar characters.
For a wedding, the mid and deluxe options are worthwhile. For $200, the deluxe version delivers a custom job including the reproduction of your wedding dress and the groom's tuxedo. You can decide on your own pose and even, add a scenery.
Not just for getting hitched!
If it is your birthday, have them create a clay imitative sculpture for your event.
Paul Pape Designs is also renowned for its true-to-scale, laser die-cut paper furniture called Pop-Out Furniture.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Mid-grade Cake Topper by Paul Pape Designs - price: $150
Via: Chocolate Mii for you and Wii on Popgadget
RELATED POSTS:
+ Fresh Ideas for Wedding Cake Toppers
+ Unique cake toppers by Chapeau de Gateau
+ Whimsical wedding cake toppers by Weddingstar
Categories:
PARTY supplies
BIG events
CAKES
posted @ Friday, January 25, 2008 12:56 AM | Feedback (7)
With less than 2 weeks before the big game, it is time to finalize your design. You know me; I am going for a stylish look. So I compiled a mood board to get you started.
My best advice is to stay away from the easy and expected props to celebrate the Super Bowl. The trick is to find an inspiration and to harmonize the rest.
Vintage meets modern
My design kicked in with these cute vintage football plates. A glass set completes the series inspired by classic 1940s artwork. A new addition to the Williams-Sonoma catalogue, each set shows a quarterback, a cheerleader, a punter and a running back.
Some of your guests may be die-hard fans. A kicker can be to serve walnuts as a snack during the game. The dark wooden bowl is a two in one serving ware piece: the bowl integrates the nutcracker. I suggest you get an extra nutcracker so no one fight for one.
You can serve nuts in a carafe like I have seen at Westin Casuarina in Las Vegas. Very hygienic, the shape pours easily the nuts in your hand without touching the nuts.
It is also a great time to serve Almond Croccante and Peanut Brittle. Read my Homemade tricks and treats post for the recipes.
Football field Invitation and Centerpiece
This water color invitation by Oddballs sets the tone of your Super Bowl event. The same idea is translated into a playing field made of flats of wheatgrass covered with miniature plastic football players. I took this Super Bowl theme centerpiece from the In Style Parties book.
Instead of wheatgrass available at the florist, you could stop by the garden center for a sample of turf. Or even, use artificial turf as a reference to what they installed in most stadiums.
Each Football Guys package at Kaskey Kids includes 26 players, one referee and two goalposts. There is no need to over pack your wheatgrass field; use just enough players to look great. The washable felt field can become a thematic tablecloth. You may find a similar kit at a hobby store near you.
About the presentation
Have a signature drinks. I am in my margarita phase sine I went to Vegas. Drop ice cubes into the tube insert to keep your drinks cool with watering it.
For dessert, serve long tubular cupcakes. With a cap, cupcakes look more stylish. For details on how to make them, see my muffin presentation. Use raffia ribbons of the color of the opposing teams. The square cake stand carries on this most modern look.
I hope you get fun participating in this national pastime event.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Super Bowl party invitations by Oddballs at Fine Stationery – price:$83.90 for 30 custom prints, $33.90 as blank stock
Buy online: Vintage Football Plates at Williams-Sonoma – price:$29.99 for a set of 4
Buy online: Vintage Football Glasses at Williams-Sonoma – price:$24 for a set of 4
Buy online: Nut Bowl & Cracker at Williams-Sonoma – price:$75
Buy online: Football Guys at Kaskey Kids – price: $25.99
Buy online: Icing Pitcher at Williams-Sonama – price: $18
Buy online: Square Cakestand at William-Sonoma – price: small $48, large $65
Buy online: In Style Parties at Amazon.com
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
PARTY supplies
DISHING tips
TABLEWARE
posted @ Thursday, January 24, 2008 12:13 AM | Feedback (1)
Nowadays, it is frequent for singles to host a party with single friends. When you make a party, you simplify the bartending task by having a signature drink for the event.
To go with its time, Sagaform proposes a cocktail set with a lemon reamer and a muddler. You can make the popular mojitos. But you may prefer a drink associated with winter.
There is no better way to warm up the atmosphere than to serve a mulled wine or cider. Glöggset, a Mulled Wine Pot is designed to keep the wine at the right temperature. This is a practical solution to quickly serve refills at a party.
This one displays a traditional Nordic pattern. The heart symbol is prominent. It is one of this time where it is ok to be literal in your decor.
A homemade solution
Glöggset is made of stoneware. For its superior thermal quality, a cash iron works perfectly. After examining the Sagaform mulled wine set, the only thing I miss to assemble my own with my latest Le Creuset Fondue Set is the cover.
Where to place the ladle?
One question that intrigues me is if there is a hole in the cover to insert the ladle between servings? If you find out the answer, keep me informed. This set will hit the shelves soon, right in time for Valentine's Day.
For a no-fuss mulled wine recipe, get the gift set with cookies for you or the hostess. The set includes 6 mugs, coasters, spice biscuits and mulled wine mix.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Mulled Wine Pot and Ladle by Sagaform – price: £24.99 at StylishLife.co.uk
Buy online: Mulled Wine Mugs – price: £14.99 for 4 mugs at StylishLife.co.uk
Buy online: Mulled Wine Set – price: £19.99 on sale right now at StylishLife.co.uk
Buy online: 3-piece cocktail set by Sagaform – price: $29.95 at Amazon.com
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
PARTY supplies
posted @ Tuesday, January 15, 2008 2:52 AM | Feedback (4)
A quick way to push further your table decorations is by using decorative place card holders. This personal touch makes your table stands out.
Although those are sold for weddings, they work as well for your dinner parties. From my experience, if you are looking for something that is not widely available at typical retailers, search at wedding favor stores.
I received some samples from My Wedding Favors to appraise what they look like. I went for the traditional ones because I want to check the detailed works on the pieces since they are quite affordable. After review, I am satisfied with the look, especially considering that they do not cost a lot.
My Wedding Favors has a huge catalogue. Take the time to explore to find the right design for your event. To speed things up, I selected 11 place card holders for you; all fitting into my entertaining style.
Modern style place card holders
If you are looking for modern style, check the Classic Round Place Card Holders and the Silver Plated Fortune Cookie Place Card Holder. I usually prefer holders where the card is higher in the air. Sitting like that on the plate, The Silver-Plated Perfect Pair Placecard Holders look inviting.
Since Valentine is not too far away, I suggest either the Silver Mini-Heart Place Card Holder or the iconic love sign of Silver LOVE Place Card Holders with Matching Place Cards.
When you are short on ideas, you can let the party themes be driven by the style of your card holders. Over time, you could gather several styles and then, you will be set for all occasions.
Traditional style party ideas
These classic style chairs symbolize an elegant soirée in a traditional setting. It give you the chance to host a Victorian feats or a Dangerous Liaisons inspired dinner party. But I prefer the look of the all pewter chairs.
For a tea party, use any of these chairs to write the tea blends. If you like to host tea parties, get both Silver Teapot Placecard Holders and the plantation style Silver Pineapple Placecard Holders.
If you are celebrating a new baby, a promotion or a new house, champagne is in order. There is nothing wrong in this case to be literal and use these modern champagne bucket card holders. These sleek holders could be used on a buffet table to write the name of the dishes.
The wine buckets can inspire you to host a medieval dinner party. If you dress up your table with a few pewter serving pieces, the style of these wine bucket card holders will complement the pewter. It is ideal for an Italian style feast.
Creative place cards
A few tips on etiquette. Always handwrite the guest names and if any, the table number. At larger events where people do not necessary know each other, you can write the names on both sides so people can learn the names of everyone sitting at the table.
I find these beautiful handmade tags at Cox and Cox. If you stop by the art & craft store, you can buy fine paper by the sheet to make your own handmade tags. One trick of the trade, keep your old blade on hand for cutting. Having a slightly uneven edge adds warmth to your place cards. Or use a ruler to cut the edge of your paper.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Hand-Made Cards at Cox and Cox – price: £14 for a pack of 50 place cards
Buy online: Pewter Chair Set with Epoxy and Rhinestone Accents at My Wedding Favors – price: $7.95 for a set of 4 chairs (4 models per set)
Buy online: Set of 4 Unique Pewter Chair Placecard Holders at My Wedding Favors – price: $8 for a set of 4 chairs
Buy online: Wine Goblet Placecard Holder at My Wedding Favors – price: $1.80 each
Buy online: Silver Plated Miniature Champagne Bucket Card Holder at My Wedding Favors – price: on sale at $1.80 each
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TABLESCAPE
PAPER goods
PARTY supplies
posted @ Wednesday, January 09, 2008 1:49 PM | Feedback (2)
We just celebrated Christmas but retailers are already looking at next year styles. As a true fashionable crowd, you want to be in the know.
One great source of inspirations is the European fair in festive decorations that will be presented in Frankfurt from January 23 to 27, 2008. The left column pictures are from last year event.
Over 30 000 trade visitors will assist and admire a spectrum of Christmas decorations ranging from handmade Italian cribs and 'smokers' from the Ore Mountains ('Erzgebirge') to beautiful porcelain for your dining table.
Exhibitors include suppliers for candles, floral art, fireworks, party and festive articles. Not just about Christmas, the show covers Easter and other festive celebrations.
We can read on Christmasworld's Web site:
Since 2007, Christmasworld has been paying tribute to the diversity of the world’s festivals by presenting some of the festivities celebrated in guest countries. The launch event, this year, featured the "Las Fallas" spring festival held in the city of Valencia. In 2008, Sweden’s "Midsommar" and "Sankta Lucia" festivals will move into the Galleria of the Frankfurt Fairground.
What will be the 4 festive trends for 2008?
The creative mind behind Christmasworld since 1998 is Gunnar Frank. He is a trend researcher living in Amsterdam. Gunnar Frank predicted four trends for next season. See the above illustrations.
Banzai East takes its roots in the orchids, Zen blossoms and exotic Japan. Orange-gold, linden green and sky blue take the center stage in this Far Eastern style.
Candy West brings back the kitsch style with elements of Pop Art. But the retro candy store has been updated with modern cool furniture. My husband and I both received an Andy Warhol watch this Christmas; I guess we will be able to wear them next year.
Dressed in a pink, sky blue and leaf green palette, the simplicity of the decorative elements is stretched further with Lagom North. This Swedish merry décor is composed with handmade accessories, naïve floral patterns and natural wreathes.
The baroque elegance lives on by mixing them with contemporary design with Baroque South. Think of opulence with a modern touch. We already see the emergence of this trend in 2007. I am happy because I really enjoy this design. Baroque South suits my home decor. Therefore add gold accents, large candlesticks, floral patterns and damask. Prefer tablescapes done in theatrical magenta, aquamarine and ruby red.
If you cannot assist, know that a Christmasworld trend book is available for €20.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Christmasworld 2008 at International Frankfurter Messe
Photo credits : all rights reserved by Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH /Petra Welzel
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PARTY supplies
HOLIDAY
posted @ Wednesday, December 26, 2007 4:51 PM | Feedback (0)
With a few days left until the celebrations, I am giving you my last suggestions for Halloween decorations. This time, let’s talk about bringing the Halloween spirit to your kitchen.
These looks target the family. The first stop is the cleaning center in the kitchen or the bathroom. The Halloween Critters Jacquard Guest Towels and the spider Web soaps make a cute match.
What can you do?
Every family fridge that I know is filled with children drawings, photos and reminders. The Magnetic Spider Scatters is a fun way to hang them up. A package contains 12 small spiders and 4 large spiders.
Bake cookies in shape of an owl, a cat, a broom, a witch, a pumpkin and a bat for the joys of the kids and adults. Let go your imagination to decorate your own one-of-kind Halloween cookies.
Put half a dozen cookies in a clear cellophane bag or a paper bag, glue a sticker and distribute them as treat favors to your friends and colleagues.
Take the time your own cookies with a tea or coffee in one of the whimsical Halloween Critters Small Ceramic Mugs. Kids will prefer your hot chocolate if you served them in one of those.
An outdoor lighting
Putting up festive outdoor lights will feel inviting to your guests. You can decorate your driveway or the porch with a set of 10 Spider Web String Lights. The effect will be more impressive if you loosely mix and drape some angel hair-type around the lights.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Halloween Critters Jacquard Guest Towels at Wrapables – price: on sale at $9.99 for 2 towels
Buy online: Spider Web soap set at Wrapables – on sale at $9.99 for 3 soaps
Buy online: Magnetic Spider Scatters at Wrapables – on sale at $9.99 for 16 spiders
Buy online: Trick or Treat 6-Piece Cookie Cutter Set at Wrapables - on sale at $9.99 for 6 cookie cutters
Buy online: Halloween Critters Small Ceramic Mug (set of 4) at Wrapables– on sale at $15.99
Buy online: Spider Web String Lights at Wrapables – on sale at $15.99
RELATED POSTS:
+ Cupcakes for Halloween
+ Go wild with pumpkins
+ Carving pumpkins stencils
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PARTY supplies
HOLIDAY
posted @ Tuesday, October 23, 2007 1:54 AM | Feedback (1)
In response to a reader who was looking for a mingle plate made of glass, I went scouring the Web.
So far I found one glass tapas plates designed for d'dimension from Sweden.
Johan Sandström designed a plate suitable for both sweet treats and tapas, the salty small dishes. We can read about this young designer on d'dimension Web site:
Johan provides solutions to our everyday problems in a Scandinavian steadfast manner. The outcome is an innovative design combining style and functionality.
Something called social plates, mingle plates are a must because having a free hand while you are socializing at a cocktail event is a necessity.
As you can see from the picture, d'glas fits on top of almost every shape of bar glasses. And when comes the time for bite-sized desserts, I am guessing that d'glas can stand on top of a regular teacup with saucer.
Sourcing:
Buy online: d'glas mingle plate for d'dimension at Scandinavian Design Center - price: $33.95 for 10 plates
Learn more: Products of d'dimension
RELATED POSTS:
+ Wooden and Porcelain Wine and Dine plates
+ A Handful of plate by Alissia Melka Teichroew
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
PARTY supplies
posted @ Thursday, October 18, 2007 10:59 PM | Feedback (3)
I was challenged by Lucky Designs last Tuesday but since I was out of town, I decided to respond to the Green Challenge at the same time as the Blog Action Day for Environment. A two for one.
The best way to participate in Blog Action Day is to post on your blog something that relates to the environment.
The Green Challenge
This is: What are you doing to introduce environmental sustainability into your daily life? I decided to tell you what I do relating to entertaining.
- I carry a folded shopping tote bag in my purse so I always have it with me.
- I bought a Two Bottle byobag by Built NY and a Reisenthel Bottle Bag (9 bottles) that I used for wine shopping. The Built NY byobag is very handy to bring wines at external parties.
- I always use real dinnerware, glassware and table linens when entertaining. Once in a blue moon, I must confess that I used paper napkins to add decorative patterns to my tabletop. But since I never use disposable tableware beside that, I think I can get away with this infraction.
- I buy gift wrap papers and ribbons in commercial sized rolls. I made my own bows with tissue ribbons. You can make your own signature gift wraps. They look more special and nothing goes to waste. And you fell good knowing that you create less waste in packaging and unusable small pieces.
- I make my own salad dressing the old fashioned way: in a bowl with a whisk. This way I do not use electricity and do not throw away lots of commercial bottles. My mother taught me that trick.
- I buy my household products in large containers at Costco and opt for the ultra concentrate formulas. Again, the idea is to produce less waste through packaging.
- Announcement: I am launching an eco-chic party and stylish green living weekly column. Stay tuned! The first post will be next Wednesday.
Take action with the WWF
If you wish to donate money for the protection of environment, I encourage you to support your national chapter of World Wife Foundation (WWF Canada). WWF works hard so that Humans, animals and the Earth coexist in harmony.
Bloggers that I am inviting to take the Green Challenge
I challenge these five bloggers to tell us about their environmentally friendly behaviors on a daily basis?
Jennifer of Design Hole – Her favorite holiday is Arbor Day
Bettina for Inside My Artist’s Studio – Bettina Forget is a talented painter with mostly astronomical themes. She is also an avid hobby astronomer
Janick of Blogue Fonetik Blog – A jewelry creator from my home town
Lana of Lana Stewart blog – She is a talented custom invitation and stationery designer from Ottawa
Eden of Bargainista – If you want to stay current on the best deals in Toronto, you will not want to miss reading Bargainista
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PARTY supplies
posted @ Monday, October 15, 2007 12:07 AM | Feedback (3)
They are popular in restaurants, hotels and commercial events for security reasons. When you think about it, they could be a life saver when entertaining at home.
First of all, battery-operated candles do not require supervision. You can create the ambiance you like ahead of time so everything is perfect when your friends enter the room.
Candle Impressions manufactures pillar flameless candles that emit a realistic flickering. Their pillar candles take many forms. Swirl, Hurricane, Koshi,Twist and Bookend add more creative. The typical square and round pillars are available in different heights and surfaces.
Flameless candles come handy for outdoor use since they are not subject to the wind factor. This is a safe option to light your pumpkins this year.
A long list of retailers in Canada and the Unites States sells the flameless candles by Candle Impressions. Refer to their Web site to find a retailer near you.
And be kind to the environment by using rechargeable batteries.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Flameless candles by Candle Impressions - starting at $11.95 USD
Learn more: Store locator for these flameless, battery-operated candles
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PARTY supplies
posted @ Wednesday, October 10, 2007 1:21 AM | Feedback (3)
I came across Thaw by Mathmos Lights while reading The Notebook blog on Monday.
This company from United Kingdom sells unique lightning products internationally. Mathmos Lights all share a whimsical touch.
Setting the mood with Space Projector
This is a cool affordable gadget, perfect for a dance party. You get everything you need when you buy the Space Projector. The machine and a set of graphics come in the box.
A variety of young designers draw the graphic packs. You can pick the best styles for your party. Basically, you project on a wall or ceiling with interruptions a moving image up to 1.5 meter wide. Choose between 7 graphic themes and 4 oil wheels. The space projector is available in a translucent or a silver finish.
If you want to replicate a psychedelic night club atmosphere, get the oil wheel plus several Fluidium lamps. Fluidium is the update of the lava lamp. And revive the spirit of Austin Powers for a night.
Ice, water and melting process viewed in three candle lights
What if you decide to play with the nature elemental components? That is a little what Mathmos tried to do with three candlelight designs. They pieces will not pass unnoticed.
1 | Ice candlelight with Thaw
You freeze an ice cylinder around the tea candle. It takes 8 hours to freeze the ice structure and about three hours for it to melt.
With Christmas and the winter season coming in a few months, I suggest you buy them early.
2 | Water movement and wind simulation effects with Float
Fill the vase with water. As the candle floats in the water it castes a moving shadow patterns on the surface. I enjoy the dynamic effects.
3 | Candlelight interconnection with Melt
Melt is a wax based candle holder system. You can rotate and join together several Melt candle holders to create patterns. Use to your imagination and design flair to create your unique composition for a centerpiece. This may be the less flamboyant of the three candle lights by Mathmos but if you are clever about Melt, the resulting look can be amazing.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Catalogue by Mathmos Lights
Via: Positively Polar! published on The Notebook
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PARTY supplies
posted @ Thursday, September 20, 2007 12:13 AM | Feedback (1)
My husband Jerome really likes the idea of a Mad Scientist party theme. So he went online to gather tips and tricks on making drinks and decorative items with dry ice. I share his best finds with you.
Awesome Dry Ice Experiment Videos by Steve Spangler
The first experiment by Steve Spangler for News9 is cool. The graduated cylinders work so well with our Mad Scientist theme. Basically what you need to do is to pour the hot water and pour 2-3 small cubes of dry ice.
Add coloring tablets to look more mysterious. Or you can drop a bent light stick into your bubbling dry ice potion for a great eerie effect.
To have a continuous flow of bubbles, just a little bit of dish soap. Make sure to put the cylinder on larger container to catch the running bubbles. If you only have time to watch one video, I suggest watching the last one on the list, the one named More Dry Ice Experiments.
How to use dry ice in drinks and punches
First, you must buy food grade dry ice. Wait until everyone shows up since the effect of the dry ice on drinks is short. Keep the unused dry ice wrapped as much as possible. You need to buy it the day of the event; you can keep it in your freezer for up to 8 hours.
Pour smaller pieces of dry ice so the drink does not get too cold. For the biggest effect, warm pop and water. Wait until the dry ice is completely gone before serving the drinks. For more about safety issues, visit HauntYourHome.com.
Sourcing:
Learn more: How to Use Dry Ice in Drinks at HauntYourHome.com
Learn more: How to Use Dry Ice for Halloween Effects at HauntYourHome.com
Learn more: Awesome Dry Ice Experiments at Steve Spangler Science
Best video: VIDEO: More Dry Ice Experiments at Steve Spangler Science
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PARTY supplies
HOLIDAY
posted @ Friday, September 14, 2007 2:06 PM | Feedback (0)
Almost two weeks ago, I introduced the wine and dine plates which enable you to carry with your wine glass inside your plate. I found something more fun and exclusive.
I spoke about the importance of having a decent plate rim. Dutch-born designer Alissia Melka Teichroew (AMT) came up with a neat solution with her Handful of Plates. Alissia explained her concept in these words:
Ever been in the middle of a great conversation at a party when you suddenly realize that your canapés have rolled off the flimsy paper plate you’re holding? AMT has a solution: pre-folded, natural-colored ceramic plates that are easy to hold and keep food and utensils in place.
Handful of plates is a trio of plates each with its own level of curved sides. The two higher Taco shell folds were designed for eating. The lesser curved plate can be used for serving food and eating.
Useful tips to set a buffet table
Serving snacks and sweets is quick and easy with the flatter plates. The shown buffet table looks better than a simple buffet but it lacks some eye-catching elements. When you plan a party, I suggest you set aside some time to be more creative with the food presentation and the basic layout.
Try to create zones on a long table. One decorative trick is to highlight the repetitive elements. Before you position the plates, scan your plates and food. Then, imagine a scheme under the theme of repetitions. Remember that things do not have to be identical to be repetitive; they need to share a common element. Shapes, colors, textures, patterns, sizes are the obvious choices.
The grouping technique is more effective when done in clearly defined zones. Your area can be defined by putting them at different heights; 5 to 8 inches is often enough to get noticed.
Elegance dictates that you should never overcrowd the buffet table with food. It is easier to keep the serving plates this way. Plan two services if you have too much.
Tips to save money
The flatter plate is more curved up than the rim on typical mingle plates. To be kinder to your wallet, let your guests enjoy the 3 plates. Use the serving dishes you already own to layout the snacks and sweets.
We have all seen people reproducing this technique with cheap paper plates. Let me reassured you that it looks lots more sophisticated with these ceramic plates. Since a set of three plates costs $110 at GreenerGreenDesign; no one will think you are cheap if Handful of Plates become your mingle plates.
You can stop by Spring in Brooklyn to take a peek at Handful of plates before you buy it. Otherwise, GreenerGreenDesign sells it online for $10 less.
Sourcing:
Buy online: