Written on May 26th, 2010 by Kim

We recently started a Facebook page and we want you to join us! We’re giving away a FREE set of printables, the winner’s choice, each time we hit another “oo” mark (e.g., 400, 500, etc.). Plus, when we reach 1,000 likes, we’re giving away a party package, winners choice again, of plates, napkins, cups, printables (if available for the collection chosen) and custom invitations for a party of 16 valued at $100 (must be a U.S. resident to win party package; printable giveaway is open to everyone).
And just so you know, the giveaways don’t end there. We often design and giveaway freebies (the next set of printable freebies are being featured in a popular mom magazine in June; can’t wait to give them to you!) and now that we’re on Facebook, our friends there will be first to know. Plus, you can get updates on what we’re working on before it ever hits the blog and you can give us feedback. We value you ladies (and you guys too) so very much!
Please join me on Facebook and leave me a comment. I love hearing from you all!
Tags: Join The Celebration Shoppe on Facebook
Posted in tips & tricks · No Comments »
Written on April 19th, 2010 by Kim

Born and raised in the South, transplanted to Ohio in my mid 20s, I need a few things to keep me grounded in my Southern roots. And laugh if you wish, but one of those things is my Southern Living magazine. {wink} The articles, the recipes, the images of the region… ahhhh!
So this weekend when I curled up with a cup of coffee and the latest issue, I saw this perfect shower idea for a beverage bar (right image). The half carafes are simple, inexpensive and a very cute way to offer multiple choices.
After going to the web, I found a few more things, like this chalk board beverage tag idea. The only thing I would do differently is use a whimsy template for a more ornate look.

And what about these very clever berry ice cubes (inside the drink) and decorative bottle coolers (around the drink). Love it! And for those of you that know anything about the South, creative ways to keep your beverages cold in the summer is a necessity!
Happy Monday!
Tags: beverage service ideas, clever ways to keep drinks cold
Posted in baby shower, bridal shower, july 4/memorial day, tips & tricks · 2 Comments »
Written on April 15th, 2010 by Kim

We all love to serve ice cream at birthday parties and summer gatherings, but sometimes it’s really difficult to serve quickly and before it melts. These two ideas from Country Living are perfect ways to simplify the sundae.
For the cones, they write “Dressing up a dozen cones before the party starts streamlines the dessert-bar process. To make these treats - think of them as environmentally friendly bowls and toppings all in one - just dip each cone in melted white or milk chocolate and roll in tiny marshmallows, coconut flakes, chopped nuts, crushed cookies, or candy chips. Set out a selection of ice cream flavors chilled in a tub of ice, and dessert is done - without your taking a single order.” All I would add is to refreeze them on a platter once decorated so that they are good and set before you serve them in the hot summer sun.
For the ice cream bowls served in a chilled tub, they share their Praline Ice Cream recipe. Yum!
Tags: praline ice cream recipe, pre-made ice cream cones, tips for serving ice cream
Posted in july 4/memorial day, tips & tricks · 2 Comments »
Written on May 28th, 2009 by Kim
It’s the worst when you’ve planned your child’s birthday party or your girlfriend’s baby shower to be outside and it rains! You want to hang pom poms from your pergola, all the games require open spaces, your living room just can’t accommodate 15 running and jumping children… What do you do!?
Well it has become so common that almost 15% of the invitations we print have a “rain date.” Typically it’s the next day, but we’ve also seen some moms plan for the next weekend. Either way, we wanted to share this brilliant way to ensure the event you’ve so painstakingly planned for doesn’t get drenched.
Happy planning!
Tags: ideas to avoid getting rained out of your outdoor party, rain date on your invitation
Posted in tips & tricks · No Comments »
Written on March 5th, 2009 by Kim
I know how tough it is to simply get around to purchasing the gift for an upcoming birthday party, much less finding the time to wrap it. But if you can muster the energy, you can add a lot of fun to your gift with only a few minutes of effort.
Most craft stores have a section filled with wooden die cuts and often they sell ones that are already painted, like my little dinosaur here. For less than a dollar you can really add interest to your gift.
And this is not exclusive to boxes. Even if you’re sending your child out the door with a gift bag, a fun accessory gives it a personal touch.
Tags: gift wrap ideas
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