From the monthly archives:
The weather’s gorgeous, patriotism is high, and the fourth of July is almost here. It’s time for a BBQ!
Cardstore.com Buns Over Here Party Invitation by Kate Spain
Patriotic Gazebo and Firework Table Decor from Martha Stewart
Napkins, Cake Toppers, and Salt and Pepper Shakers from Sur la Table
Fourth of July is one of my absolute favorite holidays, and I make sure to go all out! The fourth is not a time for subtle decor. I love this table setting from Williams-Sonoma. It’s bright and so star-spangled!
When it comes to babies, there’s almost nothing on this earth cuter than a baby elephant in my mind. They’re so small compared to their mothers but still wrinkly and wise looking that I find their charm simply irresistible. I initially fell in love with this Baby Shower Invitation designed by Kate Spain because of the sweet elephant. When I saw the polka-dotted border with muted, yet colorful shades, I thought this invitation could provide such inspiration for an upcoming baby shower. When paired with a picture of a real baby elephant, there’s just nothing more adorable.
Baby Shower Invitation from Cardstore.com
Baby Elephant photo from Flickr photographer Andy Lederer
1. Handmade Paper Lanterns – I have always loved the romantic, whimsical looks of paper lanterns hanging outside for twilight dinners and parties, but have never known how to recreate the look on my own. However, this post from Curbly has 5 fantastic options for making similar paper lanterns on your own, and they’re all adorable! I’m not sure which tutorial to try first…
2. Handmade Southern Wedding – Everything about this wedding seemed heartfelt, laid back, sentimental, and fantastically personal. With so many details from their flowers to the guest book could easily provide inspiration for your own wedding. And that dessert trunk; how cute can it get??
3. Hollywood – Summer movies have always been a family favorite, but they’re generally confined to the couch or the movie theater. However, after seeing this backyard movie party on design*sponge this week, I can’t get thoughts of hosting something like this out of my head. The great snacks and vintage-looking decor make this celebration one of the best I’ve seen this summer.
… make a striped tote bag? The look of a relaxed and well worn tote bag has always been so stylish to me, but I’ve never been able to find one to fit all my needs. Stripes are perfect for the summer months, so this tutorial for making your own tote bag seen on Momtastic is a definite must for a lazy weekend. Pairing it with a cute dress or bathing suit for the beach would look fantastic.
… make your own bouquets? Although this post from 100 Layer Cake is meant for making your own wedding bouquets, I think it provides great inspiration for making bouquets for the home as well. To add a pop of color to the home, these bouquets would be a lovely idea for achieving that.
