Our boys get so excited about the season each year that we typically buy our pumpkins in mid September. So that we can enjoy our pumpkins longer, we outline a carving template on our pumpkins and then color them in with a black sharpie (we ran through two large ones last year). Our neighbors and guests think they’re carved and marvel at how perfect they are. And since we can’t illuminate them from the inside, we use purple and orange lights all around our display so you can see our creations in the dark.
September 26, 2008 No Comments
no carve pumpkins
September 25, 2008 No Comments
caramel apples
One of my favorite fall treats is the caramel apple. I used to buy the sheets of caramel from the grocery store… okay, I still do sometimes, but mostly I melt down my own so that I can decorate the apples with chocolate, nuts and even crushed candy bars. These are dipped in caramel and then rolled in Butterfinger candy bars and finally topped off with drizzled chocolate. As many treats as I make, I can’t eat them all, so I often package them up and give them away. These are best in clear cello bags with a nice ribbon.
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September 19, 2008 No Comments
memorable thank yous
Building on yesterday’s idea, develop the pictures you took of each child and insert them in your thank you notes. It’s a guaranteed way to make the moms smile and to make your thank you note (and party) memorable to your guests.
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September 18, 2008 No Comments
buckaroo photo op
A fun craft for any child birthday is to create a character photo op. We made this one for our cowboy birthday party so that the children could stand behind it and wear the cowboy hat. All you need is:
- 48″ dowel, ¾ inch in diameter (available at the hardware store)
- Two wire ties
- Hot glue
- Razor/box cutter
- Sheet of craft board
- Western shirt, jeans and vest
- Plastic sheriff badge
- Cowboy hat
- Rope for belt
- Bandana
Have your child lie down on the craft board and draw an outline of him/her. (You’ll notice that our cowboy is a little bowlegged and has one arm raised). Cut the board out using the razor and then poke holes in the center of the chest and at the belt level. Insert your wire ties and secure the cutout to the dowel. Now dress your cutout and secure the clothing with hot glue if necessary. (Tip: We used an old shirt and jeans and cut them to fit the child size.) Pin on your sheriff badge, insert the dowel in the ground (in front of a hay bale if you have one) and set the cowboy hat on top. The kids will have a great time and you’ll get fun pictures for your scrapbook.
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September 3, 2008 5 Comments
crispy pirate pops
My oldest is celebrating his fourth birthday this week and we’re hosting a swashbuckling pirate party. I thought I would share a few of the baking ideas I’ve got cooking.
The first is a crispy pirate pop. These will not only be in the goody baskets we’re giving to his buddies, we’re also taking them to his preschool class on Friday. Here are the ingredients, a tools list and simple steps on how to make them for your matey!
creative director & owner of The Celebration Shoppe. I have a passion for crafting, baking & modern entertaining. I'll post my ideas & share others in hopes of inspiring you for your next celebration.
