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Posts from the ‘General’ Category

Jun 15

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Baby Shower for the Second Child

When a couple has their first child, the baby shower can often be a huge celebration with many guests and major gifts like car seats and strollers given. By the time the second child comes around, many moms aren’t looking to be showered in the gifts they received for the first child, and often want to celebrate with a much smaller group of family and friends. Called a “Sprinkle”, this more low-key affair for moms on baby #2, 3, 4, or more gives moms the chance to prepare for the baby’s impending arrival with more useful gifts such as diapers and wipes to complement the bigger baby items they already own from the baby shower for their first child. A sprinkle takes the focus away from the gift-giving aspect of a baby shower, and instead lets the expecting mom enjoy time with family and friends to celebrate the newest addition to her family. As these sprinkles are gaining in popularity, we’ve collected some of the best tips below to make planning and throwing a sprinkle stress-free, and full of pre-baby fun.

1. Pick a date. Even though sprinkles are less formal than showers, be sure to pick a date that’s far enough in advance so that your invitations can be sent out 4 to 6 weeks in advance and is about 2 months before her due date so she’ll have plenty of time to do any last-minute prepping before the baby arrives.

2. Decide on a guest list. Does the mom-to-be want as many friends and family there as possible, or is she hoping to keep the gathering to a smaller group? Is this going to be a kid-friendly sprinkle so the older sibling can be involved? Make sure you know what she’s expecting, and plan accordingly with the guest list.

3. Send the invitations. Cardstore’s normal baby shower invitations can be used for sprinkles as well, where the less-fussy details of the get-together can be emphasized. If you want to include a note about gift suggestions (hand-made items, formula, onesies, etc.), this can give guests a better idea of what to expect for the shower.

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Featured Cards: Bonjour Bebe, Whale Oh Boy, Oh Baby Girl

4. Get creative with decorations. If the second child is a different sex than the mom’s first child, picking a cute theme to fit this is a fun way to celebrate the little one. Be sure to check out Cardstore’s Pinterest board for some ridiculously sweet decor and party activity ideas.

5. Create a menu. As sprinkles generally feature a more intimate group and more casual theme, it’s best to keep the menu light to keep the whole affair stress-free. If kids will be invited, be sure to include some kid-friendly fare that will help make the sprinkle a blast for them as well.

The best part about a sprinkle is that it lets the expecting mom and her family and friends focus on what really matters; the new addition to the family! Have you ever been to a sprinkle? What was your favorite part about the celebration?

Jun 14

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The History of Flag Day: June 14th!

Did you know that today, June 14th, is Flag Day? You might have seen people talking about the holiday on Twitter or Facebook today, but do you know where it came from? Here’s a quick little Flag Day history lesson that you can share with your friends and family!

While Flag Day isn’t an official federal holiday, it is the day that the United States adopted that beautiful red, white, and blue flag in 1977–by resolution of the Second Continental Congress. Here’s another fun fact: two years before the establishment of Flag Day, on June 14, 1775–the United States created the American continental army.

President Woodrow Wilson established Flag Day officially in 1916, and in 1949, Congress declared the National Flag Day that we celebrate today! Various American cities–primarily in New England–celebrate the holiday with small, patriotic parades, the biggest of which is in Fairfield, WA.

Now you know why we celebrate Flag Day on June 14th–so get out your star-spangled banner and do some celebrating yourself this Friday. Do you have any special Flag Day traditions where you come from?

 CS SC BLG 06142013 SHELF half; The History of Flag Day: June 14th!Card pictured: Yay America! 4th of July card.

Jun 13

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Baby Shower Party Planning Checklist

You’ve probably already spent hours picking out the cutest theme for your friend’s upcoming baby shower, and pinning your favorite ideas on Pinterest for some serious inspiration. But, in the flurry of adorable ideas and photos, it’s easy to lose sight of the basics vital to planning baby shower party. Check out our quick baby shower party planning checklist to make sure that you don’t miss a thing:

The Invite (6-8 weeks in advance):

  • Select your baby shower invitation design to suit the mom-to-be and the baby on the way!
  • Decide on a date, time, and place. Include both starting and ending times, and don’t forget the full address! Decide who will host the party, or if an alternate location will be used. Be sure to consult with the mom to be and other important family members to make sure that everyone can make it.
  • Prepare the guest list–ask the mom-to-be for plenty of help with this. Add all the addresses into your address book.
  • Add a map (if desired).
  • Include RSVP info and date.

Food (6 weeks prior):

  • Decide what type of food and drinks will be provided at the party. Hire a caterer ASAP, or ask other guests to help with preparation.
  • Buy napkins, cutlery, disposable plates, and tablecloths.
  • Make a shopping list with appropriate budget.
  • Contact friends and guests for extra servingware.
  • Decide on the cake. Order if necessary.

Decor (3-4 weeks in advance):

  • Go shopping for decor–but don’t go too crazy! Streamers and balloons go a long way.
  • Order flowers.
  • Settle on a theme.
  • Brainstorm games and buy appropriate supplies.

Gifts (2-3 weeks prior):

  • Get your own gift for the mom-to-be!
  • Pick up boxes and packing material to transport the gifts back to the mom-to-be’s home.
  • Designate a baby shower secretary, to write down who gave what as the mom-to-be opens her presents.

Last Minute (1-7 days in advance):

  • Confirm food, cake, and flower reservations.
  • Clean up your house!
  • Rearrange the furniture.
  • Go grocery shopping with your list.
  • Decorate.
  • Relax!!

What would you add to our baby shower planning checklist?

CS SC BLG 06102013 SHELF; Baby Shower Party Planning ChecklistBaby Shower Invites Pictured: Bonjour Bebe Baby Shower Invite, Whale Oh Boy Baby Shower Invite, Oh Baby Girl Baby Shower Invite.

Jun 13

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Who’s Your Daddy? Father’s Day Gift Ideas

This Father’s Day, don’t wait to get your dad’s gift until the last minute! Instead, plan ahead to avoid the last minute frenzy of what to buy, resulting in yet another tie or button-up shirt. Getting the perfect Father’s Day gift requires equal parts creativity and thoughtfulness. Try to think of the activities that your dad really enjoys and get a gift that the two of you can share.  Focus on what makes your dad unique, and make your gift revolve around his special qualities. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

-Give your dad tickets to his favorite event: Is your dad a sports fan? Get him two tickets (so he can bring you!) to his favorite team’s next game. If he’s a music fan, get him tickets to the local symphony or his favorite band. Tickets are a great way to add a fun experience to your mutual memory bank.

-Help your dad achieve his dreams: Does your dad love to travel? Get him a travel book to a desired locale, or get him a huge travel book to help him choose his next destination! Does your dad dream of designing his own invention? Get him a how-to guide to get him started, or a notebook (or app) to jot down his ideas on the go. Does he dream of writing a book or a screenplay? Biking through Europe?  A book might not seem like a great gift, but if you choose it carefully, it can really show your dad how closely you’ve been listening.

-Get your dad a homemade treat (or help him make one!): Is your dad a total foodie? Does he love to grill or make his own treats? You have two options. You can either make your dad his favorite sweet (or savory) treat, OR, if he’s the kind of guy who likes to make it himself get him a do-it-yourself gift, like an ice cream maker or a beer crafting kit! If he loves to cook, get him a cookbook from your favorite foodie blogger to introduce some new recipes into his repertoire.

-Plan a day of fun perfectly suited to your dad: Is your dad the active type? Plan a day with all of his favorite activities, and print out the itinerary! Add hikes, bike rides, and his favorite lunch spots. Plan a delicious picnic or go to the movies. Organize a game of pick-up soccer or a beautiful day at the golf course. It’s up to you–but the more thorough you make your itinerary, the more your dad will see how well you know what he enjoys! If you want, you can even make a brochure filled with maps and pictures, to outline your exact course for your dad’s perfect day.

Once you’ve settled on your perfect Father’s Day gift, don’t forget to get a Father’s Day card to match–everyone knows that a thoughtful card trumps any fancy gift. Do you have any unique ideas for your dad?

Jun 6

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Funny Father’s Day Cards

If your Dad is the one who always leaves you in stitches, whether intentionally or not, why not celebrate him with some humor this Father’s Day? For those Dads who are still learning some of the recent updates to technology, hearing them talk about things like Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest can be hysterical. One of the funny Father’s Day cards Cardstore is featuring this year is a Father’s Day Dadism Tribute to a Dad talking about “the facetalk.” This funny Father’s Day card gives you the perfect chance to commemorate one of your favorite “Dadisms” in a sweet and funny way he’ll definitely laugh about.

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Featured Cards: Hall of Fame Card, Father’s Day Dadism Tribute, Photo Head Grilling Dad

If your Dad is fond of a good laugh, why not celebrate him this Father’s Day with some of Cardstore’s funniest Father’s Day cards? With personalized details like adding his photo to a funny scene, along with hysterical messages, funny Father’s Day cards are the perfect way to celebrate those god-humored Dads who love to laugh at themselves. Check out some of our picks below for the funniest Father’s Day cards this year, and be sure to look at the rest on Cardstore.com to find a card that fits your Dad perfectly. What are some of the things your Dad does that are sure to crack you up?

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Featured Cards: Father’s Day Chart, Funny Dad and Daughter Translator, Baby Pee Card

Jun 5

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Gifts for High School Graduates

We’re in the tail-end of graduation season, which probably means you’re fresh out of gift ideas for all those high school graduates heading off to college. It’s easy to get the grad a gift card to a favorite store or give them some much-needed cash, but giving them something special that will help with the transition or make them an instant hit in the dorm rooms will make your gift really stand out. Check out some of our favorite gift ideas for high school graduates that are perfect for plenty of grads, especially when paired with a personalized graduation congratulations card that shows how proud you are of all they’ve accomplished.

1. Help them record all of their favorite memories with a digital camera. Taking pictures of their dorm room, floor socials, and new best friends will help any new college student remember what made the first year the best year yet. A digital camera is the easiest way for them to share their pictures on facebook with friends and family, and will help keep everyone in the loop about what a great time they’re having.

2. Making new friends has never been easier than with portable games like foosball or pingpong. Created in small sizes perfect for a dorm room or small apartment, these games are the perfect gift for the sporty grad who can connect with new friends over a friendly game.

3. Let them connect over music with speakers. Whether sharing their favorite new artists or listening to some of their favorite songs together, having a set of speakers beyond the normal computer ones will make this high school grad the hit of the college dorm.

4. Cancel out the noise of roommates (or those new speakers!) with a set of noise-cancelling headphones. Whether the new grad wants to jam out to his or her music in peace or needs to drown out the noise to make studying easier, these headphones will come in handy for a variety of occasions.

5. Remind the grad of where they’ve come from and where they’ll go. As they start this new chapter, any new grad will be a little sentimental for their home and friends from high school. A photo collage frame that holds pictures of their family and friends is a sweet decoration for any dorm room that their new friends will love to see as well. Tell the new grad how much you think they’ll still accomplish with a copy of a book like Dr. Seuss’ “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!“. You can personalize it with a sweet note inside to remind the graduate of how proud you already are of them, and how excited you are for all that the future holds.

Be sure to check out Cardstore’s collection of graduation cards to find one to pair with your gift for an added touch. Whether featuring a photo of the grad or an inspirational quote, it’s a great chance to share your best wishes with the grad. What are some of your favorite gifts to give to high school grads?

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Featured Cards: Colorful Grad Owls, Colorful Graduation Lettering, Graduation Signposts

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Featured Cards: Notebook Class of 2013, Yearbook Photo Graduate, Watch Out Graduation

 

Jun 4

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Father’s Day Gift Idea: Create a Coupon

We all know what our dad’s favorite activities are–and what better time than Father’s Day to let him do the things he loves?  For this Father’s Day, eschew the tie and promise dad his favorite activity with a coupon designed precisely with him in mind! Simply customize your Father’s Day coupon with his name and his gift to let him redeem his gift at any time! Here’s some ideas for your Father’s Day coupon–a fun twist on the traditional Father’s Day card!

From Kids:

… one round of golf

… one night of total TV control

… one homemade breakfast

… one car wash

… one lawn mowing

… one GIANT hug

From Spouse:

… one back rub

… one romantic date night

… one movie pick

… one night of silence from the kids

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What custom activity or treat will you add to your Father’s Day coupon?

Featured Cards: Father’s Day Coupon from Kids and Romantic Father’s Day Coupon.

 

Jun 3

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Father’s Day Gift Ideas

How many times have you given a tie to Dad or Grandpa for Father’s Day when you couldn’t think of any better gift idea? Inspired by this Father’s Day card featuring the stat “65% of Dads would rather receive nothing than receive another tie,” we thought coming up with some alternative Father’s Day gifts would be the best way to help you celebrate Dad this year. Paired with some of our favorite Father’s Day cards, there’s no better way to thank Dad for all he does. Check out our list of ideas below for some DIY and last-minute gift ideas that are sure to impress him much more than another tie ever could.

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1. Does Dad have a sweet tooth? Tell him how much you love him to pieces with this cute jar of Reese’s Pieces featuring some DIY details.

2. If Dad loves his beer, why not grab one that has an adorable note already attached? Check out this tutorial to find a creative way to dress up one of his favorite brews. If Dad takes his beers very seriously, why not order him a beer flight sampler paddle that can even be engraved with his name, or sign him up for a beer of the month club!

3. Is Dad a total techie? Get him a gift that gives throughout the year, like a subscription to a great magazine! If he loves learning about new gadgets, choose a magazine like Wired to keep his interest piqued for months on end.

4. If your Dad is absolutely in love with his sports teams, maybe the best gift for him is something like this iphone case featuring his favorite team’s logo! As long as it’s personalized with his favorite team or sport, you can’t go wrong.

To round out some of these great gift ideas, be sure to include a great Father’s Day card that fits his personality. The combination of a one of a kind, personalized card and a thoughtful gift will help to make this Father’s Day especially memorable. Are you planning on getting Dad something outside of the box and unexpected this upcoming Father’s Day?

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Featured Cards: Number One Baseball Player, Father’s Day Blueprint Design, Dad Photos With Robots, Free Beer for Dad

Jun 2

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First Father’s Day for Grandpa

Did you ever notice while growing up that some of the best advice you ever got was from your Grandpa? He was always the coolest man you knew, and could tell a million stories at the drop of a hat. Whether taking you to a baseball game, holding your ballet slippers as you got ready for the big show, or firing up the BBQ for your favorite dinner, Grandpas are always there when you need them. If you have a baby on the way or a newborn, we think it’s a great idea to celebrate that incredible Grandpa for the first time with Father’s Day cards for Grandpa. Celebrating what wisdom he’s sure to bring, all while getting into plenty of trouble with his first grandchild in tow, Father’s Day cards for a first-time Grandpa are especially meaningful. With Father’s Day approaching on Sunday, June 16, there’s no better way to thank Grandpa for how much he already does for your little one, or tell him how you’re looking forward to seeing him with his very first grandchild. Do you have a new Grandfather in your life you’ll be celebrating for the first time this year?

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Featured Cards: Promotion to Granddad, New Grandpa Lions, Cute Grandpa Dog, Super Smart Grandpa Photo

May 24

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What to Write in a Graduation Thank You Card

Now that graduation is over, you’ve finally walked, and all the celebrations have come to a close, you have one more graduation task–graduation thank you cards! Here’s our quick how-to guide of grad thank you card do’s and don’t's:

  • Do make a checklist of everyone you need to thank. Create a quick list with their name and present to jog your memory! Ensure that no one gets forgotten.
  • Don’t mention the money or gift first: share how much their presence (or their card) meant to you on your big day instead. Thank them for the gift second.
  • Do share your future plans with them. Everyone wants to hear about your post-grad plans! If you don’t have a job or future education secured yet, don’t hesitate to let them know what you’re thinking of doing–maybe they can help!
  • Do include a photo–use one of your senior pictures or one from the big day instead; give them something to put up on the fridge. Photo graduation cards are perfect for capturing your memories.
  • Don’t make it too long. Graduation thank you cards don’t have to be a novel. You likely have a fair amount to write, and four to five sentences will do the trick.
  • Do make sure the last sentence is all about them. Use this space to reiterate your thanks and how they helped to make graduation special.

That’s all there is to it! What are some of your do’s and don’t's for graduation thank you cards?

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Graduation Thank you Cards Pictured: Modern Type Overlay Thanks, Classic Overlay Grad Thanks, and Speech Bubble Photo Thanks.

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