Bird's Party Blog

I love you dad!

2012-01-27T14:15:00.001Z

Not sure what to write. Or even if I should at all. but going through these photos I can "hear" the laughs and it's comforting somehow...a therapy of sorts.

Bye dad. I'll miss you. I love you and always will. Thank you for being my dad!

"Um homem inteligente, engraçado, estressado, bom, carinhoso e grosso.. tudo ao mesmo. Perfeito em seus defeitos. Meu papai. Quantas lembranças!" Meu Pai, por minha irmã, Ludmila. Exatamente como ele era!

"An intelligent man, funny, stressed, kind, caring and grumpy...all at the same time. Perfect in his imperfections. My daddy. What fun memories!" - My dad, as described my youngest sister, Ludmila. Exactly how he was!

TE AMO!!!

TUTORIAL: DIY Matchbox Love Notes for Valentine's

2012-01-27T08:55:00.003Z

My husband and I first met in college almost 20 years ago. You know what? I'm even more attracted to him today (alright, he may have been a skinny Engineering student back then, but still). He really is my perfect match in so many ways.

On February 14th, show your Valentine some love with these Matchbox Love Notes.

Materials/Supplies:

* swap-bot.com matchbox template
* cardstock (I used gray cardstock)
* printable love notes
* washi tape (I used red solid, red stripe and red dot dash)
* 2 matchsticks
* cinnamon hearts candy
* scissors
* bone folder
* glue

How to:

1. Download and print the matchbox template on cardstock. Assemble the matchbox according to directions.

2. Line the inner sides of the drawer with red solid washi tape. Then line the outer sides with red dot dash washi tape.

3. Line the outer sides of the wrap with red stripe washi tape.

4. Tape 2 matchsticks to the top of the drawer with red stripe washi tape.

5. Download, print, and cut out the love notes. Fill drawer with cinnamon hearts candy and insert love note.

For more party ideas and party tutorials, visit Christine at Pure Joy Events!

Cool Customers: Alice in Wonderland Tea Parties

2012-01-26T12:15:00.000Z

Photography Daniel Guimarães.

Yep, you read right. Today's party post brings you not one, but two Alice in Wonderland Tea Parties from some of our sweetest little customers!

The first party comes from sweet Alice and her mom Regina all the way from Brazil!

Regina used our Alice in Wonderland printable cupcake toppers and buffet cards (in Portuguese!) to help decorate the stunning desserts table she created for Alice's 1st Birthday!! How adorable is that?! :)

Photography by Daniel Guimarães.

♥♥♥♥♥♥

Our next party of the day comes from another of our sweet customers, Ella who had a very Happy "Unbirthday" Tea Party for her 5th Birthday!!

Her mommy Caitlin used our custom, Alice in Wonderland printable cupcake toppers to embellish the desserts table she created and styled herself! Just look at that happy face! That's what every mom wants to see, right?! :)

Thank you so much to Ella, Caitlin, Alice and Regina for sharing your special day with us!!

♥♥♥♥♥♥

For the same personalized Alice in Wonderland party printables as seen in this post, click here!

NEWS: "Sweet Designs" - Amy Atlas Book Out!!

2012-01-25T15:13:00.001Z

Ok, so my first email this morning was really exciting one about Amy Atlas' first book! Yes folks, the book is out for pre-order, and I am rushing there to get my copy!

"This is a bible filled with 100 recipes, 75 crafts, instructions for templates, styling tips, and so much more. We hope that you can share this with your party friends. The links for pre-ordering are at Amazon and Barnes and Noble and the price for pre-sale is only $18.46! "

Amy and her sweet team are beyond talented and have not only inspired me on countless occasions, but also featured my work and parties on her stunning blog, so I'm really excited to see this much-awaited "bible"! If Amy's sweet tables are anything to go by, you can be sure the book will be AWESOME!! :)

A HUGE Congratulations to you Amy and your fabulous team, for such an incredible achievement!!

P.S. - The book is available on Amazon.co.uk, and with free delivery on Amazon.fr.

In The Spotlight: : Smita from The Party Wall!

2012-01-25T10:18:00.001Z

Today it's the turn of our talented blogging contributor, Smita from The Party Wall, to get "In The Spotlight"!

Smita has been blogging here for a while now, and she's become a very dear friend and party peep! :)
You might have already seen some of Smita's stunning parties here on the blog, or in Austin Woman Magazine, Amy Atlas and all over the web?!

I'm very lucky to have her support and contribution here at Bird's Party, so please don't forget to go and visit her blog and leave some love? ;)

A little about me...

I grew up in London, England (like my dear friend Bird!), but I now live in San Antonio, Texas with my wonderful husband and adorable 4-year old son. I’m actually not a party professional, I’m a lawyer (believe it or not), but I love throwing over the top celebrations for my family and friends and especially for my son’s birthdays. My friends kept telling me to start a blog to share my ideas, so I did.

I love sharing party ideas, tips, DIYs and inspiration over at my blog, thepartywall.blogspot.com.

and my signtaure style...

I love anything modern, with clean, lines (and that goes for the décor in my house, nut just my parties). I love bright, bold colors, especially when it comes to kids parties. However, when I plan a party, the first thing I think about isn’t the color scheme or style; it’s how to make the party as much fun as possible for the guests. I always try to pick a theme that is important in some way to the guest of honor and let the inspiration flow from there.

For children’s parties, it’s so important to look at it from the perspective of the child, who cares more about how much fun they are having than whether everything matches. I usually just aim to make each party as fun as it could possibly be and then I just sprinkle the style on top! The “styling” is just the icing on the cake (pun intended).

My favorite piece of work so far (and why)...

Wow, that’s a tough question. I guess I’d have to say my son’s 4th birthday, the Spiderman Party, was pretty awesome. I worked the theme through every single element of the party, from the dessert buffet, to the labels on the water bottles, to the games, to the t-shirts that I made for my “helpers” to wear.

I felt very proud of my work when it was featured by Amy Atlas. Most importantly though, my son had a Marvel-ous time!

On my to do list for 2012 (work aspirations, goal, dreams or projects)

Well, actually, I’ve told myself that in 2012 I need to slow down! It’s pretty tough juggling work, family, and party planning! I’m going to continue contributing to Bird’s Party, Bird’s Magazines and continue to post ideas on my blog.

I’m also room mom for my son’s class, so I’ll also be posting ideas from their classroom parties. Of course, my son’s 5th birthday party is on the agenda too! I also have a few other celebrations planned for our family.

Um, yes, so that thing about “slowing down” may have to wait until next year!

TUTORIAL: DIY Vintage Napkin Holder for Valentine's

2012-01-24T09:00:00.003Z

I have a thing for all vintage things lately! That is why I decided to make this super cute vintage napkin holder for my Valentine's Party. This idea can also be used for a wedding or a garden party.

You can check it in my Pinterest Vintage board HERE.

Materials Needed: (total cost for each napkin holder: $1.35)

* Mini wreaths - $1.80 for 6 wreaths (using my 40% off coupon)

* Embossed charms - $2.99 for 6 charms

* Ribbons - 33 cents for 10 yards

* Decorative mini birds - $2.99

Love love love it! :)

You can also use to decorate your mantel or a desserts table for Valentine's Day!

Cool Customers: Chinese New Year Party

2012-01-23T12:16:00.000Z

Happy Chinese or Lunar New Year to you!! It's the year of the dragon, and I'm so excited to share a real stunning Chinese New Year party by one of our cool customers, Gillian from Crumbs of Comfort Cake Design.

I first saw this party on our Facebook page where Gillian posted some of her fabulous party photos, so I naturally asked her if I could share with you guys!

Gillian styled the party herself, and created all the beautiful cakes and oriental desserts for her client's bash, and here's what she had to say about the party and how she got started with her cake decorating business...

Thank you for your wonderful feedback on my party!

I started my cake decorating business just over a year ago and have been blown away by the response. I had been an oncology/haematology nurse for 17 years and having 2 kiddies, I wanted something that was flexible. I certainly wasn't expecting to be so booked out! lol!

I honestly thought it would take years to build a client base. I have two more of your party printables that have been booked for parties in the next coming months - Your work is beautiful. The Chinese family I did this for were so thrilled with it!

Party Credits:

Party Styling and photography - Gillian from Crumbs of Comfort Cake Design.

Chinese or Lunar New Year party printables: Bird's Party

Cupcakes and Desserts: Crumbs of Comfort Cake Design.

The fan and lanterns: Beautiful Beach Weddings
The white compote bowl: Magic Stardust

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Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful event and mad-cake skills with us, Gillian. And I'm not at all surprise you're booked out! You are incredibly talented, and I hope your story is as inspirational to our readers as your gorgeous party!! :)

Wishing you all much prosperity, health and sweet blessing for the year ahead!!

Styling by Pure Joy Events, Photography by Rebecca Watkins

Click here to get your printable Chinese New Year party (with editable fields and invites included!) - Get 20% OFF by using the follwoing coupon code: BIRD

NEW Printable Party: Cookies and Milk Valentine's Day Party + HALF PRICE SALE

2012-01-21T08:43:00.001Z

One of my resolutions this year is to create simple but totally cute parties that can be easily achieved by anyone with the simple use of some fab party printables!

So the idea of a "Cookies and Milk" Valentine's Day Party seemed really appropriate to showcase Bird's Party latest "Sweetheart" printable party collection for Valentine's!

Party Design and Styling

I wanted to create some cute, playful Valentine's designs suitable for boys and girls of any age, (or even grown-ups) so the addition of browns in the designs helps to balance the pink and girly side.

The beauty of this theme is that I was able to use props and decorations I already had at home, like the fabric backdrop, a pink sheet from my little girl's bedroom as tablecloth and the pink crepe paper pomanders I created last year for a bridal party (tutorial here).

The little felt hearts on the backdrop were pinned to the fabric backdrop, to emulate the heart-shaped balloons of the printable designs! I made them myself with scraps of red felt: 2 heart shapes sewn together using a thick thread and filled them with poly-fill and hot glued a piece of string to the back.

I also used the printable scrapbook papers, cupcake toppers, printable cut-outs and editable buffet cards from the collection to embellish the mini-desserts table items like the candy jars, the milk bottles, the straws, the cupcakes, the prop boxes, the party favors and the Valentine's gifts.

The printable party invites are also included in the collection and can be edited digitally with your own text!

Food and Drink

The food was simple but tasty - Homemade choc-chip cookies and chocolate bark cupcakes, pink meringues from my local bakery, heart-shaped candy sours and mini chocolate bars, and off course milk!

The cupcakes were decorated with the heart cut-outs and cupcake toppers from the collection and displayed inside a brown gift bow filed with pink draguées. I then used the lid of the box to prop up the milk bottles and candy jar.

Party Favors and Activities

Since this was a milk and cookies party, the favors had to be inside a milk carton favor box! I filled mine with the heart-shaped candy sours, but some yummy milk-bottle sweets, chocolate or home-made cookies would also make for a really nice party favor or gift for a loved one!

In addition to the milk carton favors, guests can take home cute mini candy bars wrapped in a sweet candy bar wrapper!

The printable collection also includes mini Valentine's Day cards and matching printable envelopes, so the guests can have fun writing to each to each other or playing secret Valentine!

Party Credits:

Party Styling and Photography: Bird
Sweetheart Valentine's Day Printables: Bird's Party
Glass Bottles: Casa
Candy Jars: La Foire Fouille

Get your Sweetheart Valentine's Day Party Collection in the shop at HALF PRICE (until Friday 27th Jan 2012)!!

TUTORIAL: DIY Paper Globe Garland

2012-01-20T17:22:00.001Z

Photo by Rebecca Watkins Photography

Happy New Year everyone! It's Christine from Pure Joy Events.

Today I'll show you how to make the paper globe garland featured in the holiday issue of Bird's Party Magazine - The handcrafted paper globes were used to adorn a Lunar New Year dessert table, but simply switch out the patterned paper, and they make fabulous decorations for any occasion.

For this DIY project, you'll need:

* 6 sheets of patterned scrapbook paper from Bird's Party Lunar New Year printable collection (makes 3 paper globes)
* scrapbooking wire
* glue stick
* bone folder
* 2" round paper cutter
* triangle template (download here)
* cardstock

Printable scrapbook paper from Bird's Party

First, cut out 20 circles from the scrapbook paper. Print the triangle template on cardstock and cut it out. Center the template on top of each circle and score along the sides.

Fold along the scored lines. Take 5 pieces and glue the points together as shown to form the top of the globe. Repeat to create the bottom.

Take 10 pieces and glue them as shown. Then glue the first piece to the last one to form the middle section.

Lastly, glue the top and bottom pieces to the middle piece. Repeat the steps above to make 2 more globes. To create a garland, thread the scrapbooking wire through the tiny gaps of each paper globe.

Tutorial Photos By 6 Bittersweets

In The Spotlight: Christine From Pure Joy Events!

2012-01-20T09:05:00.004Z

On with our "In The Spotlight" series, today we're getting to know a little more about another of our fabulous and mega talented blog contributors, Christine from Pure Joy Events!

Christine started blogging here last year, and her work is just pure joy! :)

You might have seen some of her gorgeous parties around the web (including on Amy Atlas and HWTM!) and the STUNNING Lunar or Chinese New Year Party she styled for Bird's Party Magazine, right? Well, later on today she's bringing you a fabulous DIY tutorial post to show you how to make the same paper globe garland she used for the shoot!

A little about me...

I'm a full-time working mom of two with a passion for crafting, as well as designing and styling parties for children. I can't get enough of 80's music, reality television shows, washi tape and flan : )

and my signature style...

I'm not sure I have a signature style, but much of my work has subtle Asian influences.

My favorite piece of work so far (and why)...

It was such a joy to design and style the Vintage Sewing Party for my daughter's 7th birthday, and then to see it all come together on the day of the party.

On my to do list for 2012 (work aspirations, goals, dreams or projects)

With so many DIY party tutorials out there, my goal for 2012 is to make Pure Joy Events "the" site for party tutorials. I'll be rounding up some of my favorite tutorials and featuring them on the blog. Plus, I'll continue to share my DIY projects, starting with the paper globe garland, here on Bird's Party.

Be sure to visit Pure Joy Events on January 23rd, when the first Party Tutorial Contest of the year kicks off!

View more photos from Christine's Lunar New Year Party here.

Cake it Pretty: Valentine's Day S'mores

2012-01-17T16:25:00.001Z

Hello and Happy New Year 2012!

This is my first post of 2012 here at Bird's Party. I know we are only in the middle of January but my head is spinning with new exciting ideas for this year - I'm thinking Mother's Day, Summer, and even Fall. I can't wait to share some of my new recipes and baking tips with you as I hope stop by here more frequently. I promise!

Valentine's Day is around the corner and I wanted share with Bird's Party readers a really yummy treat you can make for your friends, dear ones, children or for yourself. I'm a giver so I gave some to my friend's kids and to my Zumba instructor for her kids.

These Valentine's Day S'mores may seem to be little too complicated to make, but in fact the most time consuming to make are Perfect Graham Crackers , but even so they are totally worth the time because they are delicious.

They are perfect to munch on alone, drizzled with some dark chocolate or you can use them to make these festive Valentine's Day S'mores.

Valentine's Day S'mores Recipe

What you'll need:

Perfect Graham Crackers -RECIPE - makes about 50 (depends on the size of the cookie cutter)

Homemade Marshmallows - RECIPE - makes about 20 heart cut outs( amount depends on the size of the cookie cutter)I decided to make them extra special by adding 1/2 cup dry cranberries into the whipped batter just before spreading it in the pan. You can also use cherries if you'd like or bit of mini chocolate chips would be lovely too.

Dipping Chocolate- Merckens Chocolate Wafers, about 2-3 cups
How to Put Sandwich Cookie Together -Once you bake your cookies and make marshmallow cut outs you can make sandwich cookies.

In a heat proof bowl and over the pot with simmering water melt the chocolate wafers. Use a tiny bit of melted chocolate to adhere cookies to the marshmallow, you can either spoon some chocolate onto the cookies or spoon slightly cooled chocolate into the sandwich bag and pipe chocolate onto the cookies. How to fill a zipoc/sandich bag with chocolate. Once you sandwich cookies and marshmallow together let the chocolate set. Then if desired dip 1/2 of the sandwich in the chocolate, shake of the excess and let harden.

Store S'mores in the airtight container in a cool place.

Serving Suggestion : microwave for 3-5 seconds and enjoy

All images and recipes by Haniela's.

FREE Party Printables: "Sweet Cupid" Valentine's Day Party Collection!

2012-01-16T17:09:00.000Z

What better way to start the week than with some FREEBIES, right?!

When fabulous Jillian from the AWESOME Catch My Party asked me to create some Valentine's Day Party Printables for their readers, I jumped at the chance!! I LOVE Jillian, her site and her work, so this is a huge honor for me!!

I called it "Sweet Cupid" Valentine's Day Party and you can download yours FREE over at Catch My Party!!

It includes, editable party invites (you can add your own text in Adobe Reader), editable buffet cards, printable "Happy Valentine's" banner, "Be Mine" cake bunting, mini valentine's cards to give to your friends or loved ones, and some cute cupcake toppers!

Hope you love them! ;)

In The Spotlight: Mindy From Creative Juice!

2012-01-14T11:06:00.000Z

As you well know, Bird's Party Blog posts are the result of many creative and talented minds, and I thought it would be nice, to start the year showing you a little more about each of these fabulous contributors who grace our pages every day!

Today we're kicking things off with one of our newest contributors, Mindy from the aptly-named blog, Creative Juice. Mindy is not only talented, but she's a total gorgeous gal inside and out. She's a real sweetheart and I'm so happy to have her as part of our team!!

Please help me to welcome Mindy and go visit her blog to check out all the goodies on offer! ;)

A little about me...

i am an eastcoaster at heart - i grew up by Annapolis MD eating crabs, playing lacrosse, and wearing vera bradley - but am currently in northern CA and loving it. I am a mommy to a spunky 3 year old girl and a sweetheart 1 year old boy and married to my best friend since we were seniors in college.

i love insects, hate using capital letters when i should, always would rather create something than buy it, and never drink milk...unless it has chocolate in it. i love to share what I am creating on my blog creative juice a place for diy, tricks, tips, tutorials and inspiration for your parties, home, and kids.

and my signtaure style...

i think i need someone else to answer this for me...

it's always easier for someone else to say what your style is than for you to describe it! but i guess i would say easy, modern, clean, unique, simple and chic...at least that is what i am going for!

My favorite piece of work so far (and why)...

i am pretty obsessed with the Potty Party I planned for my daughter. it was such a fun and unique theme. i think i laughed all the way through planning each detail! i just had so many quirky ideas I wanted to display.

some may say it was over the top or unnecessary BUT it worked, we all had a blast, and i love celebrating unique things like that. and it was funny.

{you can click HERE to see the full party}

On my to do list for 2012 (work aspirations, goal, dreams or projects)

Well my to do list for today is about a mile long so you can imagine my list for 2012!

i hope to decorate and paint our new house so there will be lots of tutorials as i make my way through each room...i think i am most excited about the playroom!

i have a few fun and unique parties planned - which includes client parties, magazine shoots, a designers challenge, a crafting competition {yes really.} and of course my kids birthday parties and holiday parties!

i am SO beyond excited to be a part of the Bird's Party team and can't wait to share all of my ideas with you!

TUTORIAL: Homemade Circus Crayon Party Favors!

2012-01-13T09:01:00.000Z

These homemade crayons make for really fun, and economical party favors for any age, and it's a great use for all those broken up crayons lying around the house! ;)

I made them for my kid's Big Top Circus birthday party to accompany some handmade coloring books. But you can adapt the tutorial to suit any party theme, just change the molds!!

What you'll need:

* Wax crayons

* Craft knife or x-acto knife

* Clean, Empty and dry food can

* Chocolate pop molds (Mine were from Wilton and I got them here)

* Platic bags

* Stapler

* Favor bag label

How to make them:

1. If your crayons have paper labels, take them off with a craft knife. Simply score down the length of each crayons (be careful!) and the paper comes off easily (NOT a job for kids, obviously!)

2. Break up the crayons into equal pieces so they melt evenly, and place them into the can. You can use similar shades of one color or mix crayon colors for a groovy effect!

3. Place your can in a low oven (about 100 Deg C) until it's all melted. It does not take more than 5 minutes.

4. Pour the melted wax carefully into the molds until it's level, and let it set in the fridge. Please note: Molds cannot be used again for cooking!

5. Once cooled, remove the crayons carefully from the mold and place them into a favor bag. Fold over the favor bag label and staple in place. Cute, right? :)

Click here to see our Big Top Circus Printables!

Cool Customers: A Bumble Bee 1st Birthday Party!

2012-01-12T17:04:00.001Z

Tired of the grey winter skies? No, this is not an ad for a travel company...I just came over to share a bright and beautiful party that is sure to bring a little sunshine to your day! ;)

Today's real party was sent to us by one of our cool customers, Gisi who styled (herself) her daughter Sarahi's 1st Birthday Party! Gisi used our Honey Bee Party Printables for her baby shower, and now she used the same party theme for Sarahi's 1st Bee-Day Party ! Isn't that sweet?! :)

Thanks you so much Gisi and Sarahi, for bringing a little sunshine into our day, and sharing your gorgeous 1st Birthday celebrations with us!

Party Credits:

Party Styling and Photography: Gisizapata
Honey Bee Party Printables: Bird's Party
Ballon Decorations: Peque's Partyhouse

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Get our Honey Bee Printable Party Collection (with editable templates) here!

Styled Shoot: Lunar or Chinese New Year Party

2012-01-10T18:59:00.000Z

Lunar or Chinese New Year is just around the corner (23rd January), so I thought you might like some party ideas?! Check out this stunning party styled by our very sweet and extremely talented blogging contributor, Christine from Pure Joy Events!

Christine styled this party for the winter issue of Bird's Party Magazine, and when she told me about the colors she wanted to use (red and tangerine), I just really went to town with the printables!

I love using vibrant colors and unique designs when creating party printables, and this exotic, oriental party theme allowed me to do just that. In bucket loads!

This printable collection has become one of my faves, as I spent aaages trying to get all the details right and searching for traditional Chinese and oriental saying and customs to incorporate in the designs. I also included some editable templates (buffet cards and invites) that you can add your own text to.

Christine and her fabulous team of party vendors really helped to pull the theme together with class and exotic beauty!! I mean just look at these intricate fondant toppers by Edible Details! Oh my! They emulate the printable designs to perfection! AWESOME to say the least!

Christine create some beautiful paper lanterns and paper cupcake stands using the scrapbook papers from the collection. She'll be sharing the tutorial for the lanterns here soon, and you can get the tutorial for the paper cupcake stands here.

The mouth-watering desserts from 6 Bittersweets are also pretty to look at, and beautifully photographed by Rebecca Watkins.

I LOVE the understated look and feel of this party, and the styling is so clean and chic but still very traditional and warm, don't you think? :)

Party Credits:

Design and Styling: Pure Joy Events
“Lunar New Year” Party Printables: Bird's Party
Photography: Rebecca Watkins Photography
Mousse and Tarts: 6 Bittersweets
Fondant toppers: Edible Details

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Thanks you so much Christine for bringing the printable to life in this shoot and for taking the time to create a really stunning and chic party! Thank you also to all the wonderful vendors who collaborated in this shoot, contributing their precious time and awesome products!

Watch out for a super fun tutorial from Christine coming this way soon! ;)

With over 18 printable templates in the kit, from editable invitations to editable desserts labels, traditional Chinese New Year red envelopes to favor tags, scrapbook papers, party icons and much more - our Lunar (Chinese) New Year Printable Party Kit is now available in the shop for only $14!

And if you use the coupon code "BIRD" you can get an extra 20% OFF - Shhhhh! ;)

Link Party: Link up your Party and Celebration posts here!

2012-01-09T13:24:00.004Z

Happy Monday! Ready to strut your party stuff?!

It's our first link party of the year and I'm soooo excited to see what you guys have been up to!! I totally love looking at all the party photos and creative ideas you link up, so don't be shy and get linking!

All you have to do is copy the link of your blog post, then paste it below.

Oh, and please don't forget to link back here on you blog post, so others can find their way to the party. Cheers! ;)

Cool Customers: A Marvelous, Spider Hero Birthday Party!

2012-01-06T15:38:00.001Z

As you probably can tell, this party theme is all about a much loved comic-book superhero but due to copyright issues, I have decided to call it a "Spider Hero" party! ;)

My dear friend Smita from The Party Wall styled this magnificent party for her little boy Sohan, and it was featured on Amy Atlas and Bird's Party Magazine Fall Issue 2011!

She used some of our Spider Hero party printables combined other the licensed images to create a true marvel! - d'ya see what I did there? hehe

Below are all the stunning details as told by Smita...

The Marvel-ous theme for this party came (just as it should!) from the birthday boy himself—he just LOVES Spiderman; so, even though I’m not a huge fan myself and the theme is fairly commercialized, I set out to create an amazing Spiderman party for him!

I envisioned something with lots of red and blue, skyscrapers, webs, spiders, and comic flair. I decided to go with the old Marvel Comics Amazing Spiderman, rather than the Hollywood movie Spiderman (which I find a bit creepy for a 4 year old!) I started planning a couple of months ago in order to be able to pull it all together in my limited free time.

My amazingly talented friend, Bird, from Bird’s Party, was able to take my vision and design a set of custom paper printables for the party.

If you missed the post about the invitations, click here. I made the invitations myself, using an electronic cutter to cut the black cardstock webbing for Spiderman’s face. The webbing was then glued to red cardstock. I backed the invitation with a Spiderman comic strip and topped it with a vellum sheet with the party details. I hand stamped the envelops with skyscrapers.

The focal point of the dessert table was a giant building backdrop that I drew by hand using thick, black permanent marker on foam board. I used foam blocks to connect the buildings to one another. I stuck a Spiderman wall decal on foam board too and suspended him in front of the building backdrop, with webs shooting out of his wrists, to create a 3D effect. I was really thrilled that it turned out the way I'd envisioned it in my head. Erin Homann Photography captured the event with her wonderful photography.

I designed the cake myself and had it made by the awesome folks at a local San Antonio bakery, D’Pasteles. Didn't they do a fabulous job?

I found a fabulous vendor on Etsy, Radiant Cakes, to make the cake pops. The cake pops came individually wrapped, complete with ribbon! And I heard that they tasted great; although, I didn't get to taste one because they were gobbled up really quickly by the children at the party!

I also bought the Spiderman cookies on Etsy, from SweetLill (which was an equally sweet experience). SweetLill is a new vendor on Etsy, but has a very high quality product. The cookies was as tasty as they were beautiful. She even sent me some mini Spiderman cookies (but those didn't last until the party!).

Last, but by no means least, the fabulous fondant cupcake toppers were also purchased on Etsy, from Village Cupcakes. These toppers were so adorable that most of the children took them home to "play with" rather than eating them! :-)

I made the cupcake stands out of tin cans and cake boards! For a tutorial on how to make these type of cupcake stands, visit Bird's blog. I covered the tin cans with scrapbook paper from the printables collection and covered the cake boards with red construction paper. I drew webs on the construction paper and rimmed the cake boards with more webbing.

For more details on the games, party favors and decor visit The Party Wall!

Party Credits:

Party Styling and desserts: Smita - The Party Wall

Photoigraphy: Erin Homann Photography

Spider Hero Party printables: Bird's Party

Custom Birthday Cake: D’Pasteles

Spiderman Cookies: SweetLill

Fondant Toppers: Village Cupcakes

Cake Pops: Radiant Cakes

Spiderman Crayons: The Party Wall

Printable Party Invites by Bird's Party

The complete Spider Hero Party Printable Collection is now available in our online shop!

Cool Customers: Penguin Birthday Party

2012-01-04T17:38:00.000Z

This is our first party feature of the year, and what better way to debut then with this stunning winter, Penguin Birthday Party styled by my sweet and mega talented friend Dorangela, from Two Prince Bakery Theater?!

Dorangela used our Cool Igloo Party printables to style her little boy's birthday party, which we also featured in Bird's Party Magazine Holiday Issue.

Below are the amazing details as told by Dorangela, and links of all the fabulous, dedicated and hugely talented vendors involved!

This party would have never come to fruition if it wasn't for some fabulous vendors. They were so quick to participate and turn their products around much quicker than they normally would in order to make this party such a huge success.

First up this lovely little guys that the lovely Brittany from Edible Details came up with based on Bird's Party adorable penguins from the Cool Igloo collection. Down to the last detail of adding the cake for some of the penguins and the polka dot balloons we would be using in the party, she made these pieces of sugar art the main event at our party. Be sure to check out her website to be wowed by the talent she has for making such gorgeous creations out of sugar.

Nikki, from Nikki in Stitches has been such a great resource for several parties that I have styled. We just provide her with the color scheme for the event and she creates these fabulous custom headbands. The little girls loved them as did I. They tied everyone's clothing together very nicely down to the sparkly rhinestones that resembled the ice in our Cool Igloo party!

Carmen, from Pomflair, creates amazing paper poms and pomettes as well as tassels entirely by hand. She stocks any color you can dream of and has been a crucial part of several parties we have recently styled. Not only is she super talented in creating this lovelies out of tissue paper, she is also a wonderful party stylist and I'm happy to say friend as well.

Jaimee, from Bushel & Peck Paper, has worked on several parties with us. She had a ridiculously short time frame to create two items for us especially for this party, the custom birthday boy print and custom birthday place mats. Her attention to detail sets her apart from many other paper party companies and it results in an amazing product every time!

We had the pleasure to work with Heather from Vintage Confections. Not only is she super sweet, her lollipops are gorgeous and SO delicious. I ordered these in coconut flavor and I will tell you they were so yummy that I actually wrestled the last one away from the chubby hand of a two year old. I am not proud of it but that's how good they are! Her work has been featured on Martha Stewart and she even created lollipops for the candy queen herself, Dylan Lauren! She was so gracious to take time away from her busy schedule to add a very special element to our party and it was perfect!

We love working with the Paper Nook. She has come up with several adorable goodie bags for my boys for several parties and she always does an amazing job! For this party I told her I wanted Polka dots in my party bags. These were not an item she already had in the shop so she created them just for this event! They tied the balloon colors perfectly to the rest of the table.

Sweeties by Kim creates the perfect chocolate covered Oreo. Not only does it look perfectly beautiful and polished in our party colors, but they also taste amazing!

Shop My Little Love, is stocked with the most fun and colorful assortment of paper products. These polka dot baking cups were perfect for our Penguin cupcakes. If you haven't already you need to check out her adorable shop were she sells every color paper straw and baking cup you could ever want as well as other fun party goods!

I have been a fan of The Cookie Jar for some time. Ira and Lisa are two of the nicest people you will ever meet and they make gorgeous and delicious cookies. For goodness sakes they even sent me Hello Kitty cookies one time because I was having a particularly challenging week! They can make anything you dream up into a cookie!

Party Credits:

Party Styling: Two Prince Bakery Theater

Photography: Two Prince Bakery Theater

and Brian Shroyer Photography

Gluten Casein Free Igloo Cake: Two Prince Bakery Theater

Cool Igloo Party Pritables: Bird's Party

Fondant Toppers: Edible Details

Cookies: The Cookie Jar

Party Supplies (cupcake cases, straws): Shop My Little Love

Custom Birthday print and Mats: Bushel and Peck Paper

Designer Oreos: Sweeties

Goodie Bags: Paper Nook

Lollipops: Vintage Confections

Custom Headbands: Nikki in Stitches

Paper Fans and Poms (backdrop): PomFlair

---------------------

Just wanted to re-iterate what Dorangela said about each vendor who gave their time and fantastic products to make this party possible! I am very grateful for your contribution, and immensely honored to have had so many stunning vendors and friends come together to produce such an outstanding party and fab magazine article!

Special thanks to you, Dorangela, for having the vision, talent and determination to make it all come together so beautifully, and for sharing Daniel's special day with us! :)

The Cool Igloo Party printables are now available at Bird's Party Shop!

Bird's Party Shop back online + a 20% OFF Sale!!

2012-01-03T03:00:00.030Z

Happy 2012 my friends! Missed you! :)

Yes, what can I say?! It's true...I missed you guys and this little nook, despite having had a cozy Christmas with my family and some much needed time out...

My main resolution this year is to spend my time on stuff that really matters and really means something to me, like family and friends, so I hope to be able to incorporate some blogging changes here to make sure my time spent online is as enjoyable and as productive as I can manage! ;)

Now that the holidays are over, my first priority this year was to re-vamp the Bird's Party Shop, though there are lots more cool changes to come!

In the meantime, I look forward to hearing what you guys think of our new look and shopping cart - The shop is now back online and I thought we'd start the year on a frugal note with a 20% OFF January SALE - Just use the discount code "BIRD" at the check out to get your reduction!

Ok, off to fulfill my resolutions...

Very glad to be back, and hope your new year has started with a bang!! :)

Happy New Year!!

2011-12-31T14:11:00.000Z

It's been a choc-a-bloc year with many memorable and fun moments, some of which I have shared in this very blog with you guys, so thank you for stopping by and for taking the time to "listen"! :)

And as the song goes..

"We two have run about the slopes,
and picked the daisies fine ;
But we’ve wandered many a weary foot,
since auld lang syne...

And there’s a hand my trusty friend!
And give us a hand o’ thine!
And we’ll take a right good-will draught,
for auld lang syne"

I hope 2012 brings you much health, happiness and many blessings!

We Wish You a Merry Christmas!

2011-12-22T15:31:00.000Z

Only 3 sleeps to go, so just wanted to wish you and yours a fabulous Christmas full of sweetness and fun!

May Santa bring you all that you wish for! :)

Many blessings and yuletide cheers,

Bird

Cake it Pretty TUTORIAL: Edible Hot Cocoa Mug Mini-Desserts!

2011-12-19T14:04:00.002Z

These adorable little mugs of hot cocoa are super easy to make! This one was actually my daughter's idea! She spotted this idea in her American Girl Magazine! We did a twist and dipped the whole marshmallow into chocolate! YUM!!

What you'll need:

* regular size marshmallows,

* mini marshmallows,

* mini candy cane pieces for handles,

* sugar sprinkles

* melting chocolate bar or choc chips

1. Simply melt the chocolate as directed and dip the marshmallow into the melted chocolate.
2. Adding embellishments: I made them in two ways - I added the candy canes and the mini marshmallow when the chocolate was still melted and I also did it when the chocolate was hard. Even though it was harder when the chocolate was still melted, the results looked a lot better!
3. Using more melted chocolate, attach handle (candy cane)
4. Then add the toppings to your mini cocoa mug!

We also made some the same way as the American Girl Magazine. A lot easier but just as cute!

Happy Holidays! :)

Sweet Table Contest 2011: Party Entries # 15 - 22

2011-12-12T16:07:00.001Z

STC French Entry #15 - Rym Ben Tili

Today's we're showing the last of the French dessert tables #15 to #22 of the Sweet Table Contest 2011.

Je suis ravie de partager avec vous aujourd'hui, les sweet tables du Sweet Table Contest no. 15 à 22.

STC French Entry #16 - Pique et Toque

STC French Entry #17 - Une pointe d'épices

STC French Entry #18 - Lady Cupcakes

STC French Entry #19 - L'armoire de Léo et Lisa

STC French Entry #20 - Diaposityph

STC French Entry #21 - Pomkipik

STC French Entry #22 - So Lovely Sweet Tables

Thank you all for taking the time to take part! I loved seeing all your fabulous sweet tables, and wish you all the best of luck!!

Merci à tous pour votre participation, J'ai beaucoup aimé voir vos fabuleuses tables!
Et bonne chance à tous! :)

TUTORIAL: DIY Christmas Gumball Tree

2011-12-08T18:24:00.000Z

Today's tutorial is courtesy of one of our newest blog contributors, Cris from Crissy's Crafts! I "met" Cris recently when she submitted her Halloween Party for a blog feature, and I just fell in love with her and her work!

I mean, this lady is one creative momma as you'll see from today's tutorial; and her beautiful parties and clever craft ideas will be a fabulous addition to our little nook! Hope you leave Cris some love in the comments to make her feel real welcome! ;)

This is a super easy treat to make for the Holidays - Gumball Trees! Who does not like gumballs? I know my children love gumballs and even more, the gumball machines! Gumballs are an inexpensive way to bring colors to your Holiday table!

Materials Needed:

* Gumballs

* A piece of Styrofoam

* Mini marshmallows

* Lollipop sticks

* A wooden skewer {to make holes in the gumballs}

* Paper cupcake cases

* Ribbon to decorate the trees

How to make them:

1) Using a skewer stick, poke a hole in the middle of each gumball as the picture shows.

2) Add as many gumballs as you would like or as your stick will hold, I made my tree using 3 gumballs.

3) Insert the stick into the Styrofoam, add some mini marshmallows to cover, tie a ribbon and you are done!! So easy, right? Would make fabulous desserts table decorations or yummy party favors!

Find out more about Cris and her work here.

Connect with Cris on Facebook and on Twitter.

Sweet Table Contest 2011: Party Entries # 11 - 14

2011-12-07T17:07:00.005Z

STC French Entry #11 - Sweet and Wooly

Today's we're showing French dessert tables #11 to # 14 of the Sweet Table Contest 2011.

Je suis ravie de partager avec vous aujourd'hui, les sweet tables du Sweet Table Contest no. 11 à 14.

STC French Entry #12 - Céline avec "Un Beau Jour en Automne"

STC French Entry #13 - Julie et Ludivine avec "Pique-Nique en Seine"

STC #14 - Marion Dubanchet

TAKING PART: If you'd like to take part, you have until December 9th to send in your photos. The overall winner will be awarded a cool 1000 euros (about 1300 US dollars!) to spend at the online store Chocolat Show!

More details on how you can take part here.

Pour les Canditats Français:

PARTICIPEZ: Si vous souhaitez participer, vous avez jusqu'au 11 Décembre pour envoyer vos photos à: bird(arrobase)birdsparty.com

La sweet table française gagnera un bon d'achat de 350€ chez Love'n'Gift ainsi que un bon d'achat de $50 pour etre validé sur BirdsParty.com et la table gagnante finale un bon d'achat de 1000€ chez Chocolat Show.

Plus de détails sur comment vous pouvez participer par ici.

TUTORIAL: Ribbon Christmas Trees

2011-12-05T13:15:00.001Z

For those who missed our tutorial on Celebrations at Home last week, here's another chance for you to see it....In fact, it's soooo easy, that's quite cheeky to call it a tutorial! ;)

Materials needed:

* Polystyrene cones
* Scraps of ribbon of different designs and colors
* Metal pins (or hot glue)
* Scissors
* Pompom

How to make it:

1. Gather your supplies, then cut lengths of ribbon from different colors – Keeping all lengths the same.
2. Fold each in half to form a loop.

3. Starting at the bottom of each cone, pin the ribbon in a row all the way around the cone , slightly overlapping each one.

4. Carry on with new row of ribbon on top of the preceding layer, hiding the pins from the layer below.

5. Finish by pinning a pompom to the top. You could use hot glue instead of pins, but the great thing about pining is that you can start again if you go wrong, AND you could always re-use the cones next year to update your decor! (if you're stingy like me..)

Happy Crafting! :)

Time Out and Exciting NEW Projects for 2012!!

2011-12-04T09:43:00.002Z

So that's it folks, the shop is now closed and my automated "out of office" reply is up.

Just wanted to say "farewell" properly though, and let you lovely people know that I'll be away until January, apart from a couple of few scheduled posts that will surface now and then to keep you coming back! ;)

But I won't be around to reply to comments or emails. I'll miss you for sure, but after a really fun, productive and challenging year (without any breaks or vacation...) I feel I need this time to re-group my ideas and project for the year ahead. Plus I'm sooooooo looking forward to spending quality time with my family just hanging out and enjoying time together!

I have so many wonderful projects for Bird's Party in 2012, one of which is getting Bird's Party YouTube channel populated with fun videos, a couple of book projects in the pipelines and off course some great parties to help you feel inspired, and can't wait to tell you more about each!

In the meantime, I leave you with a little video put together for our Holiday Magazine

Get your Bird's Party magazine paper copy here.

Speak to you later and Happy Holidays! :)

FREE Party Printables: "Dear Santa" Letter Template!

2011-12-02T10:10:00.001Z

So, have you written to Santa yet? :)

All I want this Christmas is to relax with my dear family, bake some great festive treats, watch lots of telly, veg out in front of the fire and to truly create some fun memories and traditions with my kids - One of these traditions includes writing the obligatory "Dear Santa" letter!

I thought you guys might like one too....for your kids or yourselves?! ;)

Download your "Dear Santa" letter template for FREE here.

For personal use only - Please do not share the document link, but rather the post link.

Cheers, and Happy Holidays!

(BTW - Scribd is a FREE platform. All you have to do is create a FREE account to be able to download your printables or log in using your Facebook account.)

Cake it Pretty: Meringue Christmas Poinsettia TUTORIAL

2011-11-30T09:13:00.003Z

Poinsettias are synonymous with Christmas, so adorning any baked creations with these edible, glittered beauties ticks soooo many boxes for me this season!

Not only these Poinsettias meringues make for a stunning, festive desserts or decorations, but they also make for a beautiful handmade gift! AND they're a lot easier to make then they look! ;)

Last year I made super cute Meringue Santa Hats, and since I'm trying to be loyal to a tradition I decided to make Poinsettia Meringues this year, but before we get down to it, here's a tiny bit of history for you:

The Poinsettia, the Flower of the Holy Night (history) was introduced to the United Stated in 1828 and became part of the whole Christmas tradition in early 1900s. It is now being used worldwide and just like a Christmas tree, people associate this beautiful flower with Christmas season - Even better when it's edible and dusted with glitter, I say! ;)

Meringue Ingredients: (about 25- 30 medium size flowers)

* 4 large egg whites
* 3/4 cup sugar
* pinch of salt
* 1 1/2tsp extract(use, vanilla, mint, orange, lemon..etc)
* red, green and yellow gel food coloring
* rainbow luster dust (optional)
* small brush (optional, use to apply disco dust)
* 3"x3"parchment squares

* flower petals -tip Wilton #70
* green leafs - tip Wilton #352
* yellow dots - tip Wilton #3

* flower nail (if you don't have a flower nail, you can easily use your KitchenAid Cook's Series Stainless Steel Meat Thermometer - wrap it in the plastic wrap to protect the surface and then continue as if you were using a flower nail, I find this to be really useful and have used it numerous time as I keep loosing flower nails)

How To Make The Meringue:

1. Wipe your mixing bowl and tools using with a paper tower dipped in vinegar, wipe dry.
2. Using a whisk combine egg whites, pinch of salt, sugar in a heat proof bowl, best tempered glass or your stainless steel mixer bowl. Set the bowl over the pan with simmering water.
3. Whisking constantly, until sugar dissolves and mixture is hot to the touch, about 5 minutes or so.
4. Transfer the bowl to your electric mixers, using wire attachment, beat the mixture gradually from low to high, until stiff peaks are formed. About 8-10 minutes.
5. Add the flavoring and mix for a minute or so to incorporate extract.

Coloring The Meringue:

1. Take one cup of white meringue and color it green
2 Take 1/4 cup of white meringue and color it yellow
3. Color remaining meringue with red

Piping and Baking:

1. Fit your piping bags with your tips and fill them with meringue and Preheat oven to 180 F.
2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
3. Place a dot of meringue onto the flower nail and place a piece of parchment square on top to secure it.
4. Pipe the first row of 5 petals s using red meringue
5. Pipe the second row of 5 petals, slightly shorter and offset to the first row
6. Add green leaves
7. Add yellow dots
8. Dip small dry brush into a disco dust and shake of the excess over freshly piped meringues(optional)
9. Bake for 3 hours, turn the oven off and let the meringues cool in the oven. Store in the airtight container.

NEW: Check out our latest Printable Party Collections!

2011-11-29T02:16:00.003Z

Snowman Holiday Printable Party

Since Bird's Party Shoppe will be closing soon for the Holidays (from Dec 3rd to Jan 02nd), I decided to give you a quick taster of all the NEW printable party collections now available in the shoppe so you can go get yours before it's too late! ;)

Winter Wonderland Holiday Printable Party - With Editable Templates

Glam Holiday Printable Party Collection - With Editable Templates

Winter Birch Printable Party Collection - With Editable Templates

Lunar (or Chinese) New Year Printable Party Collection - With Editable Templates

Vintage Snow-White Inspired Birthday Party Printables

Cool Igloo Birthday Party Printables

I worked with some AMAZING stylists, photographers and vendors, and I urge you to check all the party collections in more detail in our Holiday Magazine here!

Glam Holiday Collection styling by: Sparkling Events and Designs

Winter Birch Styling by: One Stone Events

Lunar New Year Styling by: Pure Joy Events

Cool Igloo party styling by: Two Prince Bakery Theater and Creative Juice

Hope you feel inspired, and happy shopping! :)

CYBER MONDAY SALE: Get 20% OFF Bird's Party Magazine!!

2011-11-28T18:38:00.000Z

Just wanted to spread the good news: Bird's Party Magazine Holiday 2011 - Paper Issue is now on SALE!! Wish I had waited instead of getting my copy full price! ;)

Get your paper copy at the reduced price here!

Happy Cyber Monday!

Sweet Table Contest 2011: Party Entries # 5 - 10

2011-11-28T09:48:00.002Z

STC French Entry # 5 - Blanc Coco

As a judge for the Sweet Table Contest 2011, I'm delighted to share with you today, the French dessert tables # 5 - 10.

En tant que juge pour les entrées françaises du concours Sweet Table 2011, je suis ravie de partager avec vous aujourd'hui, les sweet tables no. 5 à 10.

STC French Entry #6 - So Lovely Moments

STC French Entry #7 - Little Lola

STC French Entry #8 - La Reine Mère La Majestueuse

STC French Entry #9 - That's Amore!

STC French Entry #10 - Une Irrésistible Envie De...

More details on how you can take part here.

Pour les Canditats Français:

Black Friday GIVEAWAY: Win a $75 Shopping Spree to Wayfair!

2011-11-25T13:39:00.001Z

How would you like to win a fabulous $75 shopping spree to spend on ANYTHING you like at Wayfair online store? I know I would! ;)

Simply enter below for your chance to win a $75GC to spend at Wayfair!

Wayfair's online stores (formerly known as CNS Stores) offer a "zillion things home". You can find anything from nursery furniture, to kids and baby gear, home and kitchen appliances, décor items, office supplies, tools and even shoes!!

If you're like me, you'll spot at a glance your Christmas list - Either for your loved ones or as a treat for yourself! I dare say it, but their stock is as large as Santa's!! :)

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T08:31:00.000Z

To say thanks: Download your FREE Thanksgiving party printable here

There's so much to be thankful for, despite the curb balls life throws at you...I'm very thankful for my loving family and friends that's for sure, and for this wonderful blog and my beloved job that allow me to encounter so many wonderful people, some of whom have become dear friends!

I'm very thankful for YOU also, for being such loyal supporters of this little nook, and for allowing me to enjoy what I do even more! Thank you all for your sweet comments and for the kind words of encouragement - It means more than you can imagine!

I hope each one of you has a very peaceful, relaxing and joyous Thanksgiving with your loved ones!

XOXO

Bird

PRESS: Kiki Magazine New Year's Editorial!

2011-11-22T16:47:00.003Z

Very excited to share our New Year's Party Editorial for Kiki Magazine!

It's the first time I have worked with a US national magazine and it's been FUN, FUN, FUN!! I worked with journalist Jessica Blair who contacted me a few months back for a collaborative six-page editorial spread for the 2011 Kiki Holiday Issue!

So exciting to be even asked, but to see my work in a national mag is just beyond surreal! I'm still pinching myself...

Kiki is a fashion magazine and creativity journal written for girls who are ages eight and older. As such, the editors wanted New Year's Eve and a New Year's Day parties that Kiki readers could re-create or style themselves - from the invites to the food and décor!

I can tell you I LOVE parties, designing and styling them, but putting myself in the shoes of an 8 year old for this project was not a given...Especially when you're over 30 - No matter how goofy one may be...ahem.

So I enlisted the help of my 4 year old - Yes, if she can do it then older girls will be able to do it too. In fact, you can even see her little hands in one of the photos, bless! :)

I'm still waiting on my copy of the magazine, but Jessica sent me a few snapshots, and I couldn't wait to share with you guys - So in case you're passing a book store and fancy a nice read, pick a copy of Kiki!! You can always tell the cashier it's for your little niece...

BTW, did I mention I created some FREE party printables that you can download exclusively from Kiki?! The more reason to go get a copy, don't you think? ;)

Sweet Table Contest 2011: Party Entries # 1 - 4

2011-11-21T08:33:00.005Z

Sweet Table Contest French Entry #1 - Prunille Fait Son Show

Bird's Party has been asked to guest judge and manage the French entries for the Sweet Table Contest 2011, and I'm delighted to share the first 4 with you today!

En tant que juge pour les entrées françaises du concours Sweet Table 2011, je suis ravie de partager avec vous aujourd'hui, les 4 premiers participants!

Sweet Table Contest 2011 French Entry #2 - Greedy Collector

Sweet Table Contest 2011 French Entry #3 - Croqueries Féeriques

Sweet Table Contest 2011 French Entry #4 - I ♥ Cakes

More details on how you can take part here.

Pour les Canditats Français:

PARTICIPEZ: Si vous souhaitez participer, vous avez jusqu'au 9 Décembre pour envoyer vos photos à: bird(arrobase)birdsparty.com

La sweet table française gagnera un bon d'achat de 350€ chez Love'n'Gift ainsi que un bon d'achat de $50 pour etre validé sur BirdsParty.com et la table gagnante finale un bon d'achat de 1000€ chez Chocolat Show.

Plus de détails sur comment vous pouvez participer par ici.

Friday Giveaway: Product Review and a GIVEAWAY from GiftGloss®

2011-11-18T12:20:00.000Z

When I first came across GiftGloss® I must say I was intrigued. But when I looked at their website and saw the myriad of beautiful gift wrapping ideas, I was in my element!

For those who don't know, GiftGloss® is a slide n' tie sleeve that transforms anything into a gift - an ingenious product that will make wrapping a whole more fun!!

There's really nothing like it in the market - It is a unique gift wrap material, developed by the FoofQueens®, that allows you to create snazzy gifts in minutes. Whether you’re wrapping a birthday treat, wedding gift or plate of yummy cookies, GiftGloss® instantly turns your gift into a show-stopping celebration - Believe me, I tried it! ;)

It really is so practical and easy to use, and you can create stunning packaging for any gifts, without having to take a gift wrapping or crafting master class!

EASY - any age, any skill level can do it

ECONOMICAL - each roll wraps 15-20+ gifts

FOOD-SAFE - great for homemade or store-bought goodies

CONFORMS to any shape - no boxes needed

VERSATILE - creative ideas are endless

CONVENIENT - fits in a drawer, easy to store and access

You may have seen some of the fantastic gift wrapping ideas using GiftGloss in our Holiday magazine, right? Well, I was sent a beautifully "foofed" GiftGloss® kit to try out just in time for the launch, and I was hooked! Once I started wrapping one thing, I couldn't stop - Very addictive because it's so much fun to use! Check out some of the wrapping I did...

So, how would YOU like to win your very own, handy GiftGloss® kit?!! :)

EXCLUSIVE PROMO CODE: Use Coupon Code BIRD to get 20% of a GiftGloss Kit until November 30th, 2011

TUTORIAL + FREE Printables: How to make an easy "Just Married" Banner

2011-11-17T16:17:00.003Z

Hey guys, just wanted to quickly drop you a note to let you know we have a new tutorial + FREE printables you can download at GetMarried.com!

Tutorial video below:

I was very touched to have been invited back by the Get Married team to create an exclusive "Just Married" (or Just Hitched) banner tutorial for them, and I thought you guys might also like some free printables, so there you have it...Hope you like it and find it useful! :)

Download your free printables here.

XOXO
Bird

UPDATED - Bird's Party Magazine: Holiday 2011, Issue 4 - OUT NOW!!

2011-11-10T09:21:00.002Z

Want to start this post saying a massive thanks to all the wonderful writers, fabulous events stylists, vendors, sponsors and friends who made this issue possible!

A special thanks also goes out to my delicious, supportive family for putting up with my late nights, crazy schedule and busy weekends, whilst I worked on editing and styling the magazine!

It's been a fun, challenging and utterly enjoyable experience, and we hope you'll find lots of fun inspiration for your Holidays in there!

BUY your paper copy of this issue here.

Read it online for FREE here.

♥♥♥

P.S - I've been trying to thank everyone individually on Facebook for helping spread the word about the mag on Facebook, but today I was told by FB and I quote: "You are going too fast, so we have banned this feature for 2 days" - OMG!!! I guess there are more due thanks than they can handle!! ;D

Thanking duties will be resumed soon then....in the meantime, I'm using the blog to re-iterate how grateful and delighted we (the editorial team, sponsors, vendors) all are with the amazing response and support this issue has received!!! Thank you from the ♥

Magazine contributors, vendors and sponsors:

Celebrations at Home

Haniela's

Edible Details

Sparkling Events and Designs

Celebrating Moment by Marcie

The Purple Pug

Pizzazzerie

Lynlee's Petite Cakes

Brancoprata

One Stone Events

Pure Joy Events

Two Prince Bakery Theater

Creative Juice

Belle Cake Topper and Mould

Frog Prince Cake and Cookie Design

Life's Little Celebrations

Sweet Style

Sweet Temptations

The Green Hedgehog

Allyson Jane Designer Desserts

Operation Shower
Smidge and Pinch

Cupkate's Event Design

For Pete's Sake Pottery

Cakes by Costa

Mimi's Mocha Treats

Darci Woodiwiss Photgraphy

We Take The Cupcake

Celebrate2Da

Rebecca Watkins Photography

6 Bittersweets

Brian Shroyer Photography

Nikki in Stitches

Bushel and Peck Paper

WOW, what a great list huh?

Thank you all for taking the time to be a part of this issue, and thank YOU (yes, you there) for being such loyal cheerleaders and subscribers! :)

XOXO

View Larger - Buy a paper copy - Past Issues

Styled Shoot: Fall Harvest Party for your Thanksgiving Celebrations!

2011-11-04T09:09:00.000Z

As seen on Bird's Party Magazine Fall Issue, we designed our first Fall Harvest Party Printable collection for this STUNNING shoot - Perfect for your Thanksgiving celebrations!!

My darling, mega talented friend Marcie from Celebrating The Moments is the genius behind the styling and breath-taking photography, with amazing, mouth-watering desserts by herself and the dessert queen, Marilyn from Whatever Whimsy!

I KNOW you'll love this party as much I do!! Check out all the incredible details below...

Amazing, right?!

Wheather you are having a kid's play date or grown up Thanksgiving dinner party, our Fall Harvest party printables are perfect to help you decorate in style, without breaking the bank! At only $14 the complete printable collection includes the following:

* Fill-in Party Invitation: To be filled in manually
* Cupcake Toppers (2" or 5cm party circles) 12 Designs
* Party Icons: Scarecrow and pumpkins of different sizes
* Napkin Rings/jar or water Bottle wrappers: 3 designs read “Give Thanks”
* Patterned scrap-booking paper: 2 Designs that can also be used to make straw flags, as scrap-booking sheets, as candy jar wrappers and more!
* Blank Fancy Party Labels
* Blank place-holder tent cards
* Pre-printed buffet labels: Read “Pumpkin Pie”, “Autumn Cupcakes”, “Harvest Punch”, “Corn Pops”
* Favor Tags that read “Thank You”
* Wine bottle wrappers: 2 designs that read “Give Thanks”

Party Credits:

Styling and photograohy: Celebrating The Moments
Fall harvest/Thanksgiving Party printables: Bird's Party
Desserts and Cookies: Whatever Whimsy

Real Parties: A Bug's Party + TUTORIALS + FREE printables!

2011-11-03T09:02:00.000Z

Taking a mini break from magazine duties to post something...it's been a while, I know!

But I'm sure you'll love this totally fun and creative BUG PARTY by the talented girls over at Creative Juice, who are teaching you how to get the look AND giving you some of the printables to download for FREE!!!

Keeping reading to get all the details...

It was a client party - they requested the bug theme & it was for a 2 year old birthday party.

Food and Desserts:

Included: Cheese beetles, beetle juice with bug ice cubes, chocolate covered bugs (mini crunch bars), bug shaped fruit skewers, butterfly pb&J sanwiches, cupcakes topped with either "dirt" (crushed oreos) or "grass" (colored coconut) and then decorated with bugs molded from starbursts.

Decorations and Party Printables:

Bug mason jars, apples with worms, happy birthday banner (donated by vendor Kroger Kreations), table backdrop (diy tutorial included). The favor tags & bug game station signs can be download for free - see below. And the cupcake toppers, candybar wrappers, food tents, bottle wrappers are from Sugartot Designs.

Party Games and Favors:

Dig for bugs - large tubs of dirt with shovels and hidden bugs. The kids each got a bug jar (made from baby Food jars - I spray painted the lids & decorated the jar with cupcake topper printables). any bug they found they got to take home in thier jar

Build a bug - lots of preped materials to build one of three different bugs

Favors included gummy skewers any bugs they found in their bug jar & the bug they made favor bag - insect book, bug gummies, bubbles with printable wrapper, coloring pages, crayons, stickers

Party Credits:

Styling and Photgraphy: Creative Juice

Kroger Kreations

Sugartot Designs

TUTORIALS + FREE Party Printables:

DIY for favors and backdrop

Free download of circle favor tags: Click here

Happy Halloween!!

2011-10-31T16:10:00.000Z

Just taking a quick break from my magazine duties to wish you guys a Happy Halloween!! :)
Hope you have a fun, safe and fabulous Halloween!!

(My heart goes out to the kiddies stuck indoors due to snow! BOOO!)

Friday Giveaway: $70GC to Pretty Little Party Shop!!

2011-10-28T18:10:00.000+01:00

Anything that my sweet, talented friend Sandra (from Sandra Downie Events Designs) touches turns into something beautiful. Be it a party, wedding or a party supply shop!!

That's right folks, Pretty Little Party Shop is Sandra's brand new online store, stocking some AMAZING party goodies! Trust me, I know what I'm talking about...I have spend a good while browsing and drooling over the stock!! ;)

I have selected some of my fave items above (already on my Christmas wish list...), and today you could win yourself a cool $70 Gift Coupon to spend as you wish over at Pretty Little Party Shop!!

Bird's Party Shoppe: Holiday Opening Hours

2011-10-28T08:43:00.001+01:00

Just to let you all know in advance that Bird's Party Shoppe (and the blog) will be closing for the Holidays on December 5th and re-opening on January 2nd.

Please ensure you place your Holiday orders by December 3rd!!

With the Bird's Party Magazine and everything else, I have been working weekends and late evenings these days, so I need to spend some quality time with my loved ones, my ever growing laundry basket, and also create some fun Holiday memories with my kiddies whilst they're still little! ;)

If you have already booked your party in advance, it's already been scheduled so not to worry! You'll get your files as promised, at the required dates.

I'll miss blogging for sure, but will re-charge my batteries and come back with lots of new, and fun party ideas and printable designs for you!! :)

Happy Holidays!!

Halloween: A Wicked, Witch's Potion Cupboard as seen on HWTM!!

2011-10-25T13:03:00.001+01:00

BOO! If you still need some ideas for your last minute Halloween party, then this post is for you!

Whether you're throwing a huge spooktacular bash or simply joining the kids on your "trick or treats" , I hope today's post will help inspire and at the very least, spook you very much!

Oh, and huge thanks to Jenn and Amber at Hostess with the Mostess for the fabulous feature!! ;)

I styled and photographed this shoot for Bird's Party magazine Fall Issue, but I have sneaked in some exclusive photos just for you! ;)

I was very very fortunate to have collaborated with some amazing vendors for the shoot, which made my job of styling the Halloween Printable Collection, a LOT easier!

So a massive thanks to Lynlee's Petite Cakes for the stunning cake and cupcake topers that perfectly matched the Halloween party printables, to Bella Ariana for making the most glam of all little witche's tutus, to Sweet Estelle Baking Supplies for the essential cupcake liners, straws and sprinkles, and to Sweet Dough, for making the most blingy, adorable and scrumptious decorated cookies!! :D

You can get the complete Halloween printable Party Collection in the shop for only $15!! With over 30 printable templates, including invites, treat bag label, coloring pages and much more!!

Party Credits:

Styling, Halloween Party Printables and Photgraphy: Bird's Party
Cake and Cupcake Toppers: Lynlee's Petite Cakes
Decorated Cookies: Sweet Dough
Cupcake Liners, Sprinkles and Straws: Sweet Estelle Baking Supplies
Witch Tutu: Bella Ariana

Halloween: "Tapas and Treats" Party!

2011-10-24T11:41:00.000+01:00

If candy is not your thing this Halloween, then you'll LOVE this whimsical and totally yummy take on this theme, as styled by my dear friend Smita from The Party Wall!

Smita used our Halloween Party Printables to create this savory and scrumptious buffet table for Bird's Party Magazine Fall Edition! Check out all the creative details and recipes below...

My aim was to make small "tapas" style plates that looked like treats! Although the dishes were not true "tapas" dishes, I liked the play on words of "Tapas or Treats".

"Spider web" guacamole and chips: This is so simple to make--just top the guacamole with a spider and a sour cream "web" piped on using a piping bag (or even a Ziploc bag with the corner snipped off).

"Swamp dip" (aka spinach dip), served with toasted spider bread. Cut the bread into spider shapes using a cookie cutter. Serve the dip in tiny "tasting" cups, to keep with the tapas feel.

Goat cheese and poppy seed "bats": Mix crumbled goat cheese with cream cheese; roll into bite size balls and coat with poppy seeds; use olives for eyes and blue corn tortilla chips for wings.

"Deviled" eyeballs: Make deviled eggs per your favorite recipe, garnish with hot sauce "blood" and olives.

"Jack O Lantern": Naval orange and pumpkin seed salad. After scooping out the inside of the oranges, "carve" faces into them like pumpkins. Fill with a mixed greens salad, tossed with the leftover orange pulp and toasted pumpkin seeds.

"Blood" orange martinis: Make the martini with vodka, triple sec and orange juice (or use St. Germaine instead of Triple Sec for an interesting twist); drop candy corn into the glasses and rim with paper bats from the printables collection. The candy corn will bleed a little (no pun intended), creating a nice effect.

To make a "pumpkin pom" simple attach a face made from black cardstock, to a tissue paper pom pom using either double-sided tape or hot glue!

We have some really spooky posts coming up all this week, but in the meantime, you can get your party printables here (with over 30 printable templates + invites): Halloween Printables Collection click here!!

More Hallowen Party Ideas here.

Friday Giveaway: Win a Giant Rose Ring form Blush Envy!

2011-10-21T14:25:00.000+01:00

Today we have a pretty special giveaway for your ladies!! Not a party piece, but a piece of pretty! :)

Yes, you could win yourself a stunning, totally gorgeous Blush Envy Giant Rose Ring (in your color of choice) + FREE shipping!

Check out full details below...

For those of you who don't know, "Blush Envy is an ever growing line of accessories for you and your home, inspired by romance, daydreams, vintage, modern, and all things feminine lovely. Unique, inspired, and uncommon...just like you."

Blush Envy is really an online romantic's haven...the place to go for a dash of romance to gorg-e-mous goodness to pretty up your wardrobe! They specialize in handmade, floral, art rings, and really, any other pretties that make me go all "Ooooh, aaaahh!!" :)

And to help mark their incredible, Holiday Madness Sale Event (starting on November 11th) Blush Envy are giving one lucky winner a stunning Giant Rose Ring in the color of their choice!!

So, what are you waiting for?! Go enter below for your chance to win this fabulous piece!

Real Parties: Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween!

2011-10-19T23:00:00.002+01:00

As promised, today we bring you another whimsical take on Halloween!! This time inspired but one cute, and not so scary little mouse! ;)

This fun take on a Halloween Party was sent in by the talented Crissy from Crissy's Crafts Blog, who styled the entire party with the help of her little girl! Here's Crissy's styling tips in her own words...

We LOVE Mickey and since we weren't able to go the real party this year we made our own: A Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party!

This party was a lot of fun to design! All the decorations, food and sweets were made by me with the help of my daughter Christina.

For the food, we had Mickey's favorites! Macaroni and Cheese, Cheese Balls and Cheese Sticks. For the desserts table, I made Mickey {The Ghost} Cookies, Mickey{The Mummy} Cupcakes, Mickey {The Ghost} Oreo Pops, Mickey {The Pumpkin} chocolate favors.

Hope this party inspires you to have your own Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party!

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There are so many fun details that I love here, and Crissy has kindly posted some equally FAB tutorials to help you re-create the styling of this fun party!

Tutorials

* Mickey{The Ghost} Oreo Pops
* Mummy Mickey Center Piece
* Mickey's Banner
* Favor Boxes
* TP roll party favor
* Dress up the juice boxes
* Mickey Mummy Cupcakes - Family Fun

Real Parties: Whimsical "Dia de Los Muertos" Halloween!

2011-10-19T19:00:00.004+01:00

Ready for more spooktacular eye candy? Well, we have a couple more wonderful and whimsical ideas for your Halloween Parties today! The first, a really fun and vibrant "Dia de Los Muertos" Inspired party!!

This fabulous "Dia de Los Muertos" / Halloween party was sent in by one of our sweet readers, Deanna from Mirabelle Creations. Deanna describes the details of the party below...

Truthfully, I had never heard of Dia de los Muertos, until two years ago. My daughter is blessed to take ballet with a former professional dancer from Mexico. She choreographed a beautiful, educational ballet about Dia de los Muertos, which was performed here in Kentucky. While performing in the ballet, my daughter (and I) learned so much about the holiday, which occurs every year on November 2nd.

I started by designing the party printables using brightly colored calaveras, the skull image that is typically associated with the holiday. The main colors of the printables are black, orange, lime, yellow and purple. Because Dia de los Muertos is just a couple days after Halloween, I designed the printables so that they could be used with either holiday. The pictures show cupcakes topped with toppers that say "Dia de los Muerots" or, alternatively, "Happy Halloween" and "Boo!".

Another traditional Dia de los Muertos element is the use of cut paper banners, papel picados. Many of the banners are intricately cut works of art. I created a banner over the top of the table, inspired by the papel picados. I also used mini banners as a banner on the bread and mason jar glasses. For the favor boxes, I made paper flowers. Paper flowers are often used to decorate the altars and graves during Dia de los Muertos. Another DIY project for the party was the black cake stand. I could not find a black cake stand, locally. So, I purchased a $5 glass cake stand from Walmart, then used glass paint to paint it black.

For the food, I again took a cue from traditional Dia de los Muertos food. All of the food was handmade. I thought about ordering some of the food, however, I wanted to try making the food with my daughter as a way of learning more about the cultural aspects of the holiday.

First, we made pan de muertos, an anise-citrus flavored sweet bread, which translates to bread of the dead. We also made sugar skulls, using skeleton ice-cube molds that we purchased locally. Sugar skulls are traditionally made as a gift for a visiting deceased loved one's spirit. We also made calaveras sugar cookies, using fondant toppers. Lastly, we made calacas, or skeleton cupcakes. For a drink, we made canteloupe agua fresca.

I chose a Dia de los Muertos theme for Halloween because the calaveras image is a fun, festive skull; a change from the typical scary skull used for Halloween. The bright colors make for a cheerful Halloween party. Also, the educational aspects of learning about another culture appealed to the mom in me!

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Thank you Deanna, this is such a fun and vibrant party!! I love the Hispanic twists on the Halloween Party and the fun details like the paper flowers really make it very pretty and totally whimsical! :)

Styled By You: Little Monster Birthday Party - Part 3

2011-10-19T10:50:00.003+01:00

Halloween is nearly upon us, and I can't help but post yest another spooktacular post!! In fact, we have some pretty cool parties in store for you today!!

So stick around and check out the fun and fabulous version of our styled "Little Monsters" Birthday bash, as seen and photographed by the creative and totally awesome Shawna from Shawna Brockmeier Styled Events...

What I love the most is that Shawna went for the tablescape idea as opposed to the desserts table set up. She really embraced the printable designs in every element of her décor, from the handmade little monster cushions to those cute and oh-so yummy home-made cupcakes!!

Love also how she incorporated some Halloween details in the table setting! Perfect for a Halloween or Fall Birthday, don't you think?!

Hope you feel eerily inspired too! ;)

Party Credits:

Styling, Desserts and Photography: Shawna Brockmeier Styled Events

Little Monsters Party Printables: Bird's Party

Styled By You: Little Monsters Birthday Party - Part 2

2011-10-18T17:36:00.002+01:00

Following on from last week's Part 1, here is the second rendition of our "Little Monsters" Birthday Bash as styled by the talented and mega-fabulous Jenny from Crossing The Bugger-Dixon Line!

Jenny collaborated with some pretty fantastic vendors and party-industry professionals to create this gorgeous desserts table, that was also featured in our Fall magazine! Check out all the fun details as captured by Tea Rose Photography...

So many creative ideas and inspiring details, I'm still in awe! :)

Especially love how Jenny used yarn to decorate her wooden frames (backdrop), as bottle wrappers and general embellishment to table props! GORGEOUS!!

Thanks you again to you Jenny, and all the wonderful vendors and professionals you worked with to bring us such a fun and fabulous party for our magazine!!

Party Credits:

Party Styling: Jenny - Crossing The Bugger-Dixon Line

Little Monster Party printables: Bird's Party

Photography: Tea Rose Photography

Gumballs, cupcake wrappers, pipettes, napkins, straws: Polka Dot Market

Cookies: Dandy Delights

Cake Topper: Bunny with a Toolbelt

Cake Plate: Delightfully Lovely

Edible Cupcake Toppers: Two Sugar Babies

Oreos: Sweet Temptations

Ribbon Garland: A to Zebra Celebrations

Cupcakes: Icing on the Cake

Good Cheer Pom Notes: Potter and Butler

Hope you guys feel inspired too, and look out for Part 3 coming your way soon! ;)

Real Parties: A Glam Barbie Birthday Party

2011-10-17T13:19:00.003+01:00

Happy Monday my friends! Today we're going all pink here at Bird's Party, and to kick things off, a gorgeous, pink and black, and totally handmade Barbie Birthday Party created and styled by one of our sweet readers, Rina!

Check out the beautiful details as told by Rina...

Inspiration and Party Details:

My daughter's birthday party was based on her favorite book "Barbie and a Fairy Fashiontale". My pictures start out with the paris themed dessert table. Then I added the main "STAR" table where each girl had a personalized name tags. I created most of the decor and desserts myself, with the help of family and frineds.

The Barbie Cake was from Publix Supermarket, the Tutus, hot pink daisy flowers, and boas from Halo Haven.

The French Poodle cookies, Eiffel tower cookie, cupcakes, French Trifel and wrapped up Hersey's candy bars; all done by myself and help from my friends Jigna and Asmita. Water bottle labels, juice box labels, food tags, station signs, names tags on the gift bags were all designed by myself.

Party Activities and Favors:

We had 4 main stations for the birthday party. First station was the "Tutu" station, where each girl got dressed into their tutus with a hot pink daisy flower attached to their top.

Then the girls were headed to the "Makeup Studio" where each girl got a barbie tattoo on their arms, a hand made pink necklace, hair tied up in a pony tail with pink ribbon and glittery makeup.

We used Loreal lipgloss and L.A. Eyeshadow from the Dollar Tree and for the fabulous necklaces, we bought spools of pink beads from Joann's, Cut the beads and hand stitched ribbon to each end to make the necklace. Nail polishes and nail art work stickers from Walmart.

The funky Barbie Tattoos from Party City, Glittery body spray from Claire's and Bath and Body Works (Paris themed bottles) and Spool of pink ribbon for girls ponytail were from Michael's. Glittery body powder from Victoria's Secrets.

We also had a "Design me Glamorous" station where the girls embellished their own individual Barbie Gown!

Black and Pink satin fabric (for the hand made Barbie dresses) black & silver ribbons (used as belts for the dress), spools of silver bead chain (cut them up in small pieces for the barbie necklace) all pink and silver flower gems for the dress and the silver and hot pink bows (that went on top of the belt) from Joann Fabrics.

The hangers were hand made by my husband Prashant, who used jewelry wire from Joann's. The plastic mannequin and the hot pink sofa is my daughters old toys. The gowns were hand stitched with the help of my friends mom - Best experience! :)

I had made embellishment kits for each girl which included a necklace, gems for the gowns, ribbon for the belt, pink or hot pink flower to be attached onto the ribbon, and a few barbie stickers.

For the "Designer Flip Flops" station where each girl was given a pair of pink flip flops and they designed them with flowers and pink and hot pink gems.

They were ready to head to the final station and get their nails painted in pink or hot pink nailpolish. Each girl also got a few nail stickers and gems as an accent. The grande finale: "The Fashion Show" each girl had their makeup, hair, shoes, and nails done they were ready to hit the runway.

For the final "Fashion Show", I had a pink runner as each guest entered into the house. The pink runner had silver and black stars with each girls names on it, like a true superstar!

Each girl received a pink or hot pink boa to walk down the runner along with their glamed up barbie doll. We had fun music playing in the background and parents cheering all the girls as they lined up for the catwalk. All the girls had a blast on the runway. Last but not the least we ended the party with freeze dance. ALL THE GIRLS LOVED IT!!!

WOW!! Thank you Rina for sharing your stunning work and Aanya's special day with us!