Strawberry Favor box

Supplies Used: Paper, adhesive, ribbon, candy of choice

Helpful Tip: Use a bone folder to score

1. Print and cut out the pattern. You can adjust the size using your computer or a copy machine.  Trace one strawberry box pattern and a leaf pattern onto the papers of your choice.

2. Score on dashed lines and fold. 

3. Punch out the circles using a 1/8 inch hole punch. 

4. Using a strong adhesive, adhere the tab to the inside of the box. 

5. Weave the ribbon through the holes in the box and gently pull closed. At this point you can fill them up with candy.

6. Thread both ends of the ribbon through the paper leaves and tie a bow to secure.

Bella N Me : unique handmade fashion!

I often find myself scrambling to find the perfect present: what to buy a little girl that she doesn't already have?  That is why I love the idea of a unique handmade piece.

Bella N Me is a Miami based online store that offers handmade children's clothing and accessories at reasonable prices.  You can purchase homemade clothing, knitted sandals and shoes, headbands and hair accessories, but their specialty is the matching Bella dress and doll.  The dress is available in different designs, colors and fabrics. The Bella matching doll comes blonde or brunette.  Besides offering an excellent product, Bella N Me is a socially conscious bussiness: for every Bella doll sold they donate US$5.oo to an orphanage in Haiti.  That's shopping you can feel good about!

All dresses, headbands and dolls are home made by Erika Fernandez-Cordero and her mother. They also have a cute selection of mommy and me matching dresses!!

See their complete product catalog at www.bellanme.com

Baby elephant party

I came across this cute elephant birthday party ideas and just HAD to share them! 

For more pictures click here

Credits: Kara's party Ideas

How to choose a party venue

One of the first steps in party planning is choosing a venue.  It is worth taking time to find just the right location, because the atmosphere and style of the place will set the tone for the occasion and party theme.  Here are a few pointers that will help you choose the perfect location:


1. Capacity   How many people are coming and what kind of party you are hosting (sit down meal, dance party, kids birthday...)
2. Location  Is the place easily accessible for guests and suppliers? if you have guests from out of town are there accommodations nearby?
3. Availability  Remember to make your venue reservation ahead of time specially if you are planning a party on a weekend.
4. Budget  Do not overstretch yourself on the venue...remember you still have to decorate the place, plan for food and entertainment!

Ask the venue about what is included in their price (tables, chair, linens),if they offer catering,and their clean up policy.  
If you are looking to put on an outdoor event, ask if the they will be able to provide a different area to run the party in case of rainy weather. Ask as many questions as you can, and request to see pictures of events that have been held in the past.

I heart parties!

If you want to look at it from a sentimental point of view: a party is a celebration of love! Whether it's a birthday, anniversary or a dinner party, you are gathering with people who are important to you, and who share a bond.
Parties are just fun!  I love how when you are in a party laughter is infectious, and you can feel happiness all around you.  The smile of children playing at a birthday, the excitement of the cake and opening presents, and even the occasional meltdown of a tired party guest (we have lots of those in my kids parties, LOL) makes for an unforgettable celebration.

Now, if you ask me as a designer why I love parties? that's a whole different answer!  The mere thought of a celebration gets my creativity going.  I start the research right away and start putting together a theme, color scheme, menu and everything starts coming together.  Thinking about decor, party favors and everything related to a party can be very stressful for some people.  I have some friends who would rather buy prepackaged party kits, because they can't handle the stress of planning a celebration.  For me the entire process is exciting and fun!  Whether a party is just a birthday cake with the family, or an extravagant affair, the reason for having a party is the same: celebration of love, friendship, joy, and just plain old fun! 

Super Mario Party!

My son wanted to have a Super Mario party this year.  We were out of town for summer vacation, and I only had a week to plan it...this is what i came up with!

I designed stickers and cupcake toppers

Cake toppers!

Look at these colorful cake toppers made out of craft foam. They fit on top of a regular store bought cake, and can be disassembled for storage and keepsake.  

Contact me for pricing information.