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Ultimate Blue and White Christmas Resource Guide: Tips, Decor, and Inspiration

This article is sure to give you tons of yuletide inspiration for your own blue and white Christmas decor!  This article is all about one of the most popular color combinations and popular Christmas Tree themes: blue and white.  This blog is a resource guide paired with our step by step decor guide for putting together your own blue and white Christmas tree.  The guide breaks down two Blue and White Christmas decor themes: classic blue and white with silver and white accents and a Miss America version incorporating lots of red.  Blue and white the classic chinoiserie color combination has enduring timeless appeal, with a symphony of tranquility and sophistication of Asian and European antiques.  The strong contrast of blue and white creates a timeless color combination that can be adapted to a vast number of Christmas tree decor themes.  And this step-by-step resource guide will help you find where the best blue and white holiday ornaments are available this season.  This article is all about Blue and White Christmas Decor! Classic Blue and White Chinoiserie Christmas Tree Theme This classic blue and white Christmas tree theme is adorned with an exquisite array of blue and white porcelain ornaments, matched with a muted and serene pallet of silver and white.  The blue and white Christmas ornaments really pop against the wintery inspired Christmas tree theme, silver mercury baubles, solid royal blue ornaments, handmade diy blue and white ornaments, shimmery silver ribbon, and white berry picks.  This version of the blue and white Christmas tree theme feels very sophisticated and wintery. Tips for Decorating Your Classic Blue and White Christmas Tree When you start mapping out this blue and white decorating scheme, it’s essential to create layers on your Christmas tree. As the base, each year we use a prelit tree and always add additional Christmas lights to create a beautiful warm glow that will showcase everything you place on your Christmas tree.  After the christmas lights we focus on creating layers on the Christmas tree design which add dimension and draw your eye in and guide your eye through the design.  Using elements like your largest baubles, berry picks, and ribbons placed strategically will make a map of your largest components to guide your placement of the smaller and feature blue and white Christmas ornaments to ensure they stand out in your overall design.   Blue and White Ginger Jar Ornaments These mini ginger jar ornaments are adorable and a must have for a blue and white Christmas tree theme.  Our favorites are the traditional mini ginger jar ornaments with a classic silhouette and china inspired patterns.  The blue and white ginger jar ornaments are very affordable and will look stunning for your Blue and White Christmas tree.   Silver Mercury Ornaments Silvery mercury ornaments also rift off of the historical vibes of blue and white ornaments.  Mercury ornaments were developed in Europe, particularly in Germany, in the early 1800s. Artisans would blow glass into shapes and then apply a mixture of silver nitrate and other chemicals to create a reflective surface.  In general, metallic Christmas ornaments in either silver or gold are timeless and a great investment.  Each year we plan our Christmas tree theme utilizing either silver or gold ornaments with every Christmas tree theme.  Learn more… White Berry Picks White berry picks are a stunning addition to any Christmas tree, enhancing the wintry aesthetic to your Christmas Tree Decor. Their delicate, frosted appearance captures the essence of a “white Christmas,” evoking feelings of warmth and nostalgia.  By incorporating these white berry picks into your holiday decorations, you not only achieve a stunning visual effect but also evoke the magic and beauty of a winter wonderland to the interior of your home.  To achieve the best visual impact, place the picks at varying heights and depths throughout the tree. This creates a more natural look, mimicking the appearance of fresh winter berries. Learn more… White Christmas Ornaments Incorporating white balls into your blue and white Christmas tree enhances the breathtaking wintry monochromatic color theme – creating a sophisticated and cohesive Christmas aesthetic. The crisp, bright white provides a striking contrast against the deep shades of blue, allowing each hue to stand out while harmonizing beautifully.  The interplay of these colors not only adds depth but also evokes the serene beauty of a winter landscape. The glossy finish of these white ornaments reflects light in a way that mimics freshly fallen snow. When decorating your blue and white Christmas tree strategically placing the white balls throughout the tree can help create focal points that draw attention to special blue ornaments or unique decorations. Learn more… DIY Blue and White Ornaments Creating your own blue and white Christmas ornaments can be a delightful and rewarding DIY project, especially when using elegant white glass balls as your canvas. These ornaments not only look beautiful on their own, but they also serve as a wonderful opportunity to personalize your holiday decor. Here’s how to bring your vision to life with blue willow-inspired motifs using a specific shade of blue color Sharpie. Start by gathering your materials. You’ll need white glass balls, the specific shade of blue Sharpie, a clean workspace, and possibly a paper towel or soft cloth for any smudges. Before you begin decorating, it’s helpful to wash the glass ornaments with warm soapy water to remove any residue or dust, ensuring that the surface is clean for the best results. Next, take a moment to plan your design. Blue willow patterns often feature intricate scenes with trees, pagodas, and birds, so consider sketching a few ideas on paper first. This will help you visualize how the motifs will look on the ornaments and guide your drawing process. Once you have a design in mind, carefully start applying the blue Sharpie to the ornament. Begin with lighter, flowing lines to outline your motifs, as this will allow for adjustments if needed. The smooth surface of the glass makes it easy to

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Ballerina Birthday Party

Ballerina Birthday Party: Step by Step Guide for the Ultimate Ballerina Party

There’s something incredibly classy and timeless about a ballerina-themed birthday party for a girl! From an early age, many girls naturally develop an interest and enthusiasm for ballet as they watch performances, begin dance lessons, and even take the stage themselves.  Our family loves attending holiday performances of The Nutcracker and A Midsummer Night’s Dream Ballet. The principal dancers showcase years of dedication to mastering ballet, pointe, and achieving excellence in their craft. Yet, our favorite moments come from watching the youngest ballerinas—those who have just completed their first year of lessons. Their sheer excitement for ballet and the joy of performing on stage is simply contagious, and they look absolutely adorable in their costumes!  Young girls admire these talented dancers and the skill they’ve cultivated to perform with such grace. Many start taking dance lessons early, developing coordination and committing themselves to learn all the positions.  A ballerina birthday party is the opportunity to set the stage with loads of pink, tulle, floral, and beautiful ballerinas taking center stage with your daughter getting to take center stage!  Here is our step-by-step guide to help you set up your ballerina party tablescape, dessert buffet, party decor, party gifts, party dress, and party favors.  This ballerina party is inspired by beautiful ballerina costumes, fabrics, and French fashion.  This article is all about a Ballerina Birthday Party! French Inspired Inspiration for your Ballerina Party Decor The look of our ballerina party was inspired by travel –  a Spring trip to Paris!  When you think about The Palace of Versailles and Marie Antoinette’s beautiful bedroom and the elaborate robe à la française dresses of that time period, the mix of pinks and florals is so beautiful and timeless.  This is the inspiration for our french inspired Ballerina Birthday party decor.  In addition to the beautiful florals and fabrics, macarons are quintessentially French.  Everyone loves  these soft patisserie with the perfect crunchy texture and delicious ganache filled cookies!  So we wanted to include macarons in the decor and feature them on the dessert buffet.  Here is the postcard from Paris that highlights this look for a French inspired ballerina birthday party. Meri Meri Laduree Floral Paper Garland These beautiful and delicate paper flower garlands are perfect for adding a french touch!  These garlands were a bit of a splurge and will be reused for future parties.  These garlands are made of delicate paper mache and pink ribbons.  You will want to assemble these a day or two before your party so you’re not rushed for time.  We found that laying them out face down on a table was the easiest way to construct these garlands.  And we used a quarter inch gold ribbon we had purchased instead of the gold thread that comes with these kits which was not easy to use and the slightly thicker ribbons makes it easier for each of the floral segments to have something to catch onto and stay in place without taping the backside of these delicate paper garlands.   Learn more… Stocking hangers You might be surprised to find these in a Ballerina Party guide, but these stocking hangers are perfect for use year round to hang garlands on your mantel without having to add nails which look terrible and can damage your fireplace millwork and mantel.  These very subtle hangers can hold weight garlands without falling off and are hardly noticeable. Learn more… Macaron Display Stand We have used and enjoyed this clear plastic macaron stand for several occasions.  This macaron stand is a beautiful and inexpensive addition to your french inspired Ballerina Birthday Party dessert bar.  You can’t underestimate how much time party planning and decorating takes and you will want to purchase  these macarons.   Even if you love to bake – French patisserie and macarons can be time-consuming and finicky.  Learn more… OOH LA LA Garland The OOH LA LA garland  is a playful and flirtatious French expression used to convey surprise, admiration, or excitement.  This garland comes in gold and silver and can be strung up.  For our ballerina party we displayed the Ooh la la garland  on the mantel.  In retrospect I think it would have looked even better strung up to hang at the top ⅓ of the mirror. Learn more… Ballerina Party Decor: Fabric Inspiration As part of dance and ballet is the movement captured both by the dancer and the fabrics in motion.  We wanted to incorporate the look of a ballerina’s tulle tutu in our party decor.   The fabric effect  is carried through the party decor in the cascading light blue backdrop, tulle pom pom chair backs, tulle pom poms added to the ballerina garlands, and an adorable party dress for the birthday girl! Light Blue Table Linens The cotton candy effect of light blue and pinks together is a beautiful color combination. The light blue offers a striking contrast that allows the pink and florals to shine.  This light blue table cloth is very economical and has a great weight that can be reused for other occasions and parties in the future. Learn more… Blue Iridescent Fabric Inspired Backdrop You’ll love how easy this is to use as a backdrop and the price.  This is an iridescent tablecloth from Walmart for under $3 each when I purchased them and includes two pieces: the color paper and iridescent sheet.  We used two of these tablecloths, repurposed from previous parties, as the backdrop for our dessert buffet.  The tablecloth itself will come with many wrinkles from folding creases in the packaging which is not a problem since you will use the iridescent sheet to drape over the colored sheet.  This tablecloth comes in two options: blue or pink.  Whichever option you choose would look great for the background.  The iridescent layer helps to create folds and movement like the fabrics of the beautiful ballerina costumes.  For this look we used two sets of tablecloth and for the backdrop. Learn more… Portable T Backdrop Stand This is a

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Thanksgiving tablescape

New York City Christmas Kids Books

Christmas in New York City New York City is a renowned destination for holiday cheer. The city is adorned with dazzling lights and elaborate decorations that create a magical atmosphere!  The holiday season kicks off with the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, featuring spectacular floats, giant balloons, and Broadway performances. The festive spirit continues across the city with numerous Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and elaborate department store window displays. Central Park is a picturesque landscape  for winter activities, while landmarks like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and the holiday windows of Fifth Avenue have become must-see attractions.   Some of the Christmas time traditions in New York are over 100 years old and have become long standing holiday traditions.  With the 1874 display of  R. H. Macy’s “grand illumination” of 14th Street and Sixth Avenue,  spurring the beautiful tradition of Christmas storefronts in New York City.  During the Great Depression, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, first assembled  in 1931 to celebrate Christmas time.   Pair Your New York Christmas Storytime with Christmas Movies Featuring Christmas in New York The enchanting scenery of New York City all in lights for the holiday season has become part of many families’ holiday movie lineup!   Home Alone 2: Lost in New York and Elf are two holiday film classics that showcase the magic and charm of New York City during the holiday season!  These holiday films would be the perfect compliment to a storytime with kids books featuring New York City!   As you  follow along young Kevin McCallister in “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York,” and his adventure in the Big Apple and some of the city’s most  iconic landmarks: Central Park, the Plaza Hotel, towering skyscrapers and rows of brownstones, the film beautifully showcases New York’s festive atmosphere, adding a touch of magic and excitement to his Christmas adventure.   In “Elf,” Buddy the Elf spreads Christmas cheer throughout New York City!  The scenes are set against the dazzling lights of Times Square, beautifully decorated Gimbels department store, Central Park, and the festive buzz of NYC streets. The city’s festive backdrop creates a delightful and whimsical Christmas experience.  These movies not only provide holiday entertainment but also offer a wonderful glimpse into how New York City transforms into a destination of Christmas buzz and excitement.  Kids Books: Tools for World Exploration As a Mom of two I love changing out the books for my kids seasonally and throughout the year with holidays, family celebrations, and in the Mountains with the change of the seasons.  Books are an easy way to introduce my children, who are still a little too young to travel, to the world.     As a passionate traveler, I find immense joy in introducing my two kids to the wonders of the world through books. Each story becomes a gateway to new places, cultures, and adventures, sparking their imaginations and broadening their horizons. From the bustling streets of far-off cities to the serene landscapes of distant lands, these books serve as a bridge, allowing them to explore the world from the comfort of our home. Sharing these literary journeys with them not only fuels their curiosity but also cultivates a sense of wonder and appreciation for the diverse world around us. It’s a beautiful way to inspire their sense of adventure and love for travel, one page at a time.   As a family, we love using our credit card bonus dollars to build our kids’ libraries with a special focus on fun and engaging travel books. Each book we choose is a new adventure, transporting them to far-off places and diverse cultures without ever leaving home. From illustrated tales of iconic destinations to captivating stories about different customs and landmarks, these books spark their curiosity and ignite their imaginations. By investing in their personal library, we’re not only creating a collection of wonderful stories but also nurturing their sense of wonder and excitement about the world. It’s a meaningful way to ignite a curiosity of other cultures and passion for travel, ensuring our kids have opportunities to explore and dream through the pages of their new favorite books. New York City Christmas Kids Books: 13 Books to Add to Your Holiday Storytime Line-Up Here are 13 New York City Christmas Kids book recommendations that you will want to add to your children’s holiday storytime line-up.  These are books we love to use for storytime during the holidays and that are kid approved!  And just for fun we have them in order of our family favorites, with our top favorite at number one:    1. Red & LuLu by Mat Tavares Red and Lulu written and illustrated by Matt Tavares is our favorite New York City Christmas kids book and with good reason, this heartwarming children’s story beautifully captures the spirit of Christmas through a charming story and artistic illustrations of New York City. The story focuses on the tale of Red, a cardinal, and Lulu, his beloved wife, who live together in a cozy Norway Spruce out in the suburbs.   When the tree is selected to feature in New York City’s Rockefeller Center, Lulu is suddenly separated from Red.  Red embarks on a desperate journey to New York City to find her. As he flies over the city, he witnesses the vibrant Christmas decorations, iconic landmarks, and festive lights that make New York so iconic and magical during the holiday season.  The story culminates with a heartwarming reunion under the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.  Red and Lulu is a wonderful book to read with children during the holidays and is a celebration of Christmas in New York City! Learn more… 2. Christmas in New York (pop-up) by Chuck Fisher Even though “Christmas in New York” was published in 1998 this beautiful pop-up book by Chuck Fisher is worth tracking down a copy.  This captivating pop-up book incorporates intricate and dynamic pop-up scenes of the city’s most iconic Christmas attractions and celebrations in a way that’s both

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Fall Kids books

The Best Fall Kids Books

This blog post is all about the Best Fall Books for Kids.   Fall is such a wonderful time for kids to explore the magic of the season through books!  As the leaves change colors and the air grows crisp, there’s a special charm in stories that celebrate harvest, traditions, and the beauty of nature’s transformation.  As a Mom of two I love changing out the books for my kids seasonally and throughout the year with holidays, family celebrations, and in the Mountains to celebrate the change of seasons.  Autumn in the mountains is certainly spectacular!  We love getting to watch each of the seasons’ change and each has its own unique beauty.  There is something very magical about the cool crisp mornings of Fall, the tapestry of Fall colors woven across the mountainscape, and during Fall the sun starts to set earlier making stories at bedtime extra special.  This blog post highlights the Best Fall Kids Books.   Curating Your Child’s Library As a Mom, I take great joy in selecting books for my children to build their libraries.  We prioritize finding special books as gifts for holidays, birthdays, and fun themes for our children to explore.  We love to use our credit card reward dollars to build our kids’ libraries with a special focus on fun and engaging seasonal and travel books. Each book we choose is a new adventure, transporting them to far-off places and diverse cultures without ever leaving home. From illustrated tales of iconic destinations to captivating stories about different customs and landmarks, we love to use books to spark their curiosity and ignite their imaginations. By investing in our children’s library, we’re not only creating a collection of wonderful stories but also nurturing their sense of wonder and excitement about the world. It’s a meaningful way to combine our passion for travel and learning to ensure our kids have endless opportunities to explore and dream through the pages of their favorite books. The Best 16 Fall Kids Books There is nothing like Carolina in the Fall!  The mountains light-up with a kaleidoscope of stunning colors of rust, orange, yellow, red, and brown and there is a natural excitement about the bursts of fall colors.  This excitement is carried over into our family ritual of storytime.  We select fall kids books that celebrate nature, faith, and creativity.  Here are the 16 Best Fall Kids Books to get your child excited about the magic of fall: Fall Kids Books that Celebrate Nature One More Acorn by Don Freeman This book has a beautiful origin story.  From the beloved author of “Corduroy,” “One More Acorn” was posthumous published, in 2010.  Don Freeman died in 1978, his son, Roy, inherited his father’s work and discovered the original story and artwork, set in Washington, D.C., about a squirrel gathering nuts for the winter. The project was unfinished, so Roy partnered with his father, thirty years after his death, to bring this story to life. “One More Acorn” by Don Freeman captures the essence of fall through the eyes of a charming squirrel. The squirrel’s quest to find one more, perfect acorn, taking him on a delightful journey through the beautiful autumn landscape of Washington, D.C. Learn more… Earl the Squirrel by Don Freeman Another classic by Don Freeman.  Even though this one was published in 1962, “Earl the Squirrel“ has an adorable story and has charming illustrations.  The story revolves around Earl, a spirited and adventurous squirrel who lives in a large oak tree and is constantly seeking new adventures and finding creative solutions to problems. Learn more… Fletcher and the Falling Leaves by Julia Rawlinson and Tiphanie Beeke “Fletcher and the Falling Leaves” by Julia Rawlinson, is a delightful Fall kids book that beautifully captures the essence of autumn through the experiences of a charming fox named Fletcher.  Fletcher is deeply concerned when he notices that the leaves are falling from his favorite tree. Fletcher loves his tree and its vibrant green leaves that adorn it, so when the leaves start to turn colors and drop to the ground, he becomes worried that something might be wrong.  Through the story Fletcher tries to understand what is happening, he seeks reassurance from his friends and attempts various ways to save the leaves. Through his journey, Fletcher and children learn about the natural process of autumn and the change of seasons. Learn more… The Fox Went Out On a Chilly Night by Peter Spier “Need I say more it’s the Caldecott Honor Book from 1962!  The beautifully detailed illustrations are stunning and perfectly captures the New England countryside during the peak of Autumn.  “The Fox Went Out on a Chilly Night” by Peter Spier is a classic children’s book that brings to life a traditional folk song, “The Fox Went Out on a Chilly Night.” It follows the adventures of a clever fox who sets out on a chilly night to find food. The fox is on a quest to steal some chickens from a nearby farm.  Learn more… A Farm Prepares for Winter Sleep Tight Farm by Eugenie Doyle “Sleep Tight Farm: A Farm Prepares for Winter” by Eugenie Doyle, is a charming and educational story that explains the process of a farm preparing during autumn for the winter season. Published in 2012, this book is celebrated for its warm narrative and beautiful illustrations.  Each part of the story depicts a different aspect of farm life, from harvesting crops, gathering firewood, to caring for animals, storing supplies, and all of the preparations that are essential for the farm’s survival during the winter. Learn more… The Little Yellow Leaf by Carin Berger Fall is certainly all about change and “The Little Yellow Leaf” by Carin Berger celebrates change and bravery.  The story centers around a little yellow leaf at the peak of Fall that is hesitant to let go of its branch. As the wind begins to blow and the other leaves fall to the ground, the little yellow

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Complete Guide to a Berry First Birthday Party

A Berry First Birthday Party combines sweetness and elegance for a perfect celebration of your baby girl’s first birthday! The theme of the day is a delightful fusion of strawberries with pink and gold, perfectly complementing the joyous occasion!  This article is all about a Berry First Birthday Party and your complete guide to party decor, party food, party outfits, party gifts, party favors and even ideas for your Strawberry themed cake smash.   And whether you’re planning a baby shower or birthday party, a Strawberry themed celebration is sure to please everyone!  For your party decor, pink and gold provide the perfect base for showcasing your strawberry decor.  This is a party theme we did for our daughter’s very first birthday and we’ll provide helpful tips, insights, and share the products that worked best for our Berry First Birthday Party and Berry First Cake Smash.  Berry First Birthday Cake Smash Celebrate your little girl’s first birthday milestone with a delightful cake smash session that’s both charming and memorable.  We used a soft golden backdrop for our cake smash that sets a dreamy and whimsical tone for the celebration showcasing a delicious white Chantilly cake, adorned with fresh strawberries.  The soft golden backdrop provides a beautiful contrast to the pink and red honeycomb balls and balloons that add a vibrant pop of color and a touch of natural sweetness to your cake smash decor.  And for a Berry First Birthday Party themed Cake Smash select a romper in shades of pink or strawberry print for your little princess.  The birthday romper can be featured during your cake smash and at your Berry First Birthday Party.   Another great budget friendly option for a Berry First Birthday Cake Smash backdrop would be to go outdoors and select a grassy area or spot next to a flower bed full of white hydrangeas for a backdrop.  Then finish with a white wash basin milk bath filled with strawberries.  And for a Berry First Birthday Party themed Cake Smash select a romper in shades of pink or strawberry print for your little princess.  The birthday romper can be featured during your cake smash and at your Berry First Birthday Party.   Cake smash sessions are one of our favorite sessions!   A Cake Smash session is fun-filled, capturing your baby’s personality, excitement, laughter, and reactions to cake, often the first time a baby has tasted cake.  The white Chantilly cake, with its light and fluffy texture, is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for her tiny taste buds. And for a cake smash I would recommend a cake with great tasting icing and not using fondant. The fresh strawberries on top not only add a burst of flavor but the white icing also enhances the overall aesthetic with their vibrant red hue of the strawberries adorning this cake.   Berry Chantilly Cake with Fresh Strawberries The Chantilly Cake is carefully handcrafted with vanilla cake, almond flavoring, and Chantilly-mascarpone cream frosting and is delicious!  This Chantilly Cake is decorated with fresh strawberries and blueberries and makes a statement. This beautiful cake is perfect for your Berry First Birthday Party!  And note it’s best to request your order pick-up for the same day as your cake smash or party as it requires refrigeration and the icing looks best in photos on the day it’s made. Learn more… Pink Honeycomb Balls Using this trio of honeycomb balls in various sizes as party decor and in your cake smash creates a delightful geometric effect, catching the light and adding depth to your cake smash photos!  Learn more… Red Honeycomb Strawberries Red Honeycomb Strawberries are a fantastic choice for a berry-themed first birthday cake smash session. They bring a vibrant pop of color that perfectly complements the berry motif. Learn more… Gold Dot Garland Add a touch of charm and elegance to your Berry First birthday party or cake smash with this delightful gold dot garland. This eye-catching garland, adorned with shimmering gold dots, is the perfect way to enhance your party decor and create a festive cake smash backdrop.  In a Berry First Birthday Cake Smash, this Gold Dot Garland catches the light and adds sparkle to your child’s birthday portraits. Learn more… Pink and Gold Party Decoration Kit Transform your Berry First birthday party or cake smash into a vibrant celebration with this delightful party decoration kit! This set features charming pink tissue pom poms and a playful pink and gold dotted pennant garland, designed to infuse your event with tons of color and fun.  Together, these decorations will create a stunning backdrop for your Berry First Birthday Party.  Learn more… Berry First Birthday Party Decor As your guests arrive, they’re greeted by a strawberry themed dessert bar dressed in elegant pink and gold. Red strawberries take center stage with strategically placed decorations and accents. Fresh strawberries are elegantly displayed in glass bowls, their vibrant color providing a striking contrast against the pink tablecloth  and gold backdrop. The backdrop, a golden fringe curtain is used to highlight pops of red strawberries and add dimension to all of the pink tablecloths. Here are the top Berry First Party Decor picks for party decor: Berry First Birthday Banner, Glitter Strawberry Banner By thoughtfully incorporating a berry-themed banner into an archway to greet your guests, hang over the gift table, photo area, or dessert buffet this Berry First Birthday garland will help you to create a cohesive, and memorable celebration for your child’s first birthday. Learn more… Strawberry First Birthday Party Decoration Berry 1st Monthly Photo Banner Milestone Photograph This strawberry-themed milestone photograph bunting garland is a delightful addition to your little one’s birthday celebration! Ideal for a strawberry-themed or first birthday party, it features a charming 12-month photo display. Each month of your baby’s first year can be showcased on this pre-strung, assembled garland, making it a breeze to highlight their growth and development. It’s a sweet and easy way to create a memorable focal point

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Keepsake Gift Ideas for Kids

Keepsake Gift Ideas for Children

This post is all about Keepsake Gift Ideas!  Being a parent involves continually adapting to change. Every few months, Moms find themselves swapping out their child’s clothes, just as they’ve grown accustomed to seeing a particular shirt in the drawer; it’s time for change!  Alongside physical growth, children’s interests evolve, leading to changes in toys, books, and room decor. As a Mom, I crave meaningful gifts that will hold enduring value, foster fond memories, and develop a sense of deep affection when my children reflect on these keepsake gifts in the future. While change is inevitable, choosing lasting gifts keepsake gifts  for your children can be testaments to their fond memories of their childhood many years from now!  This article is all about Keepsake Gift Ideas for your children.   This post is all about Keepsake Gift Ideas!  Being a parent involves continually adapting to change. Every few months, Moms find themselves swapping out their child’s clothes, just as they’ve grown accustomed to seeing a particular shirt in the drawer; it’s time for change!  Alongside physical growth, children’s interests evolve, leading to changes in toys, books, and room decor. As a Mom, I crave meaningful gifts that will hold enduring value, foster fond memories, and develop a sense of deep affection when my children reflect on these keepsake gifts in the future. While change is inevitable, choosing lasting gifts keepsake gifts  for your children can be testaments to their fond memories of their childhood many years from now!  This article is all about Keepsake Gift Ideas for your children.   Memories and Milestones: Keepsake gifts help capture precious moments and milestones in a child’s life, preserving memories that can be cherished for years to come. Whether it’s a baby’s first footprint or a child’s handwritten note, these items evoke nostalgia and allow families to reminisce about special times when your child is growing up. Family Heritage and Tradition: Keepsake gifts often carry family history and tradition. They can be passed down through generations, serving as a tangible link to the past and reinforcing familial bonds. These gifts can become heirlooms, connecting children to their roots and heritage.  In our family we have garments that were mine when I was a little girl that I love watching my own daughter wear.  My husband and I have saved toys from our childhood and delight in sharing them with both of our children.   Emotional Connection and Bonding: Giving and receiving keepsake gifts fosters emotional connections between gift-givers and recipients. These gifts are often imbued with love, thoughtfulness, and sentimentality, strengthening the bond between family members and loved ones. Celebrating Milestones and Achievements: Keepsake gifts often commemorate significant milestones and achievements in a child’s life, such as birthdays, graduations, or religious ceremonies. They serve as tangible representations of these important events and can be cherished as symbols of accomplishment. Encouraging Reflection and Gratitude: Keepsake gifts encourage reflection on the passage of time and the importance of gratitude. They remind both children and adults to appreciate the moments and people that shape their lives, fostering a sense of gratitude and mindfulness.  Keepsake gifts are not just material possessions; they are investments in memories. By choosing a keepsake gift with long-term value, you’re investing in the child’s future nostalgia. These items become touchstones for reminiscing about childhood experiences and milestones.  Keepsake gifts encourage reflection on the passage of time and the journey of life. As children grow older, they can look back on these gifts and gain perspective on their personal growth and development. Later on in life these keepsake gifts will serve as reminders for children of how far they’ve come and the experiences that have shaped them. Generational Connections: Keepsake gifts often have the power to connect generations. A gift passed down from a parent or grandparent carries with it the stories and memories of previous generations. As the child grows older, these connections to family history become increasingly important, fostering a sense of identity and belonging.  Keepsake gifts contribute to the continuity of family traditions. They serve as tangible reminders of shared values and experiences passed down through generations. As children grow into adults, they may continue these traditions by passing on keepsake gifts to their own children, thereby perpetuating a sense of family continuity.   Keepsake gifts are laden with symbolism and sentimentality. They represent more than just the object itself; they symbolize love, care, and the bonds between family members. As the child matures, these symbolic meanings deepen, reinforcing the emotional significance of the gift. Choosing keepsake gifts for children with long-term value and significance involves recognizing the enduring impact these gifts will have on the child’s life as they grow older. By selecting gifts that transcend material value and hold deep emotional meaning, you’re providing the child with enduring treasures that will enrich their journey through life and contribute to the tapestry of family history. 31 Life-Changing Keepsake Gift Ideas Treasured mementos crafted with utmost care and thoughtfulness await your child in the form of keepsake gifts. Each piece is imbued with personalized touches, meticulously handmade with love. As a devoted parent to two, I make it a yearly tradition to hand make a bespoke item for each of my children. There’s an indescribable joy that fills my heart when they unwrap these handcrafted treasures, knowing they are receiving not just a gift, but a piece of my affection and dedication. Seeking out these hand crafted creations isn’t just a preference—it’s a quest for gifts that resonate with sincerity and heartfelt sentiment, echoing a tender moment in time and hold sentimental value. Here I’ve broken up the resource guide with Keepsake Gift Ideas for Baby and Keepsake Gift Ideas for Children. These recommendations are items I’ve purchased and have enjoyed as a family. And I provide any helpful tips along with each keepsake gift. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases Keepsake Gift Ideas for Baby Personalized Keepsake Gifts for Baby Create a baby keepsake box is such a special

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Panache Photography VIP Client Experience

Portrait Photography Gear for a VIP Client Experience

Being meticulously prepared for a photoshoot is akin to laying out a welcoming red carpet for my clients. It not only showcases professionalism but also demonstrates a deep level of care and consideration for their experience.  Here’s how being prepared can make clients feel cared for and served well.   Showing up as prepared as possible helps me to anticipate challenges for my clients. Despite careful planning, unforeseen issues can arise during photoshoots. Being prepared to handle unexpected challenges calmly and efficiently reassures my clients that their session is in capable hands by someone who really cares for them and their needs.   Also bringing this gear along to portrait sessions helps me to create a comfortable environment for my clients. Setting up and being prepared helps to create a comfortable and welcoming environment, whether it’s through providing mini-fans or refreshments, this helps my clients relax and enjoy the experience. A relaxed atmosphere leads to more natural and authentic photographs.   Here are 10 items of quintessential gear we suggest to anyone wanting to create a VIP experience for their photography clients.  These are tried and true products that I take along to photoshoots to be as prepared as possible. 1. ForPro Professional Collection Premium Hand Mirror with Handle When shooting outdoors the options for the last minute teeth and hair check are limited.  This hand held mirror gives my clients the opportunity to make any last minute adjustments. Learn more… 2. TriPole Mini Handheld Fan Battery Operated Small Personal Portable Speed Adjustable USB Rechargeable If you are in the South and deal with heat and humidity, these little fans feel like a VIP treatment. Learn more… 3. NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Matte Blotting Paper Again, the heat!  These blotting sheets are so helpful for having a delicate way to remove excess oil during a portrait session. Learn more… 4. Tide Stain Remover for Clothes, Tide To Go Pen, Instant Stain & Spot Remover for Clothes Yes, accidents happen to all of us and we all seemingly take a turn!  This stain remover can be a lifesaver in a pinch.  Learn more… 5. Sewing Kit for Adults and Kids, Needle and Thread Kit with Sewing Supplies Granted if you know how to sew on a button or sew a simple lock stitch seam this sewing kit can be a lifesaver.  Learn more… 6. Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose Portable Compact First Aid Kit Say no more, we just like to be prepared. Just having this little first aid kit on hand is peace of mind! Learn more… 7. Basics Clear Bubble Umbrella If you get caught in a quick shower during your session this super durable clear umbrella offers the VIP treatment for your clients! Learn more… 8. Foldable Step Stool We take this foldable steep stool along for outdoor photo sessions just to help get that additional height when needed or offer a small seat for our clients to set on for cropped-in headshots. Learn more… 9. Treasure Chest Treats for Kids We know from experience chocolate has a powerful sway over most kids and they will listen for a chocolate reward. We have mistakenly brought Starburst to a session as a reward before, but there are so many allergies and issues with food dyes it’s also nice to have little toys and wind up cars as rewards in your arsenal. Learn more… 10. Bottled Water Take along a bottle of water for each person participating in your portrait session, just to help make sure your clients are comfortable.  This is an inexpensive way to care for your clients. Learn more….

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Panache Photography VIP Client Experience

11 Beauty Products You Need to ROCK your Photo Session

To ROCK your photoshoot, you’ll want to choose beauty products that provide a flawless finish, and ensure your makeup lasts throughout the session. I’m not a beautician by trade.  These recommendations are all based on my personal experience and high level of satisfaction with these products both as a photographer and for my own beauty regime.  As a photographer in the South, I often deal with humidity and heat at photo sessions; which makes your make-up, hair, and skin care dissipate.  These product recommendations offer a very polished finish for your daily beauty routine, hold-up well to hot and humid outdoor conditions, and are perfect to Rock Your Photo Session!!!  This article is all about the eleven beauty products you need to rock your photo session. Hair Care Products to ROCK your Photo Session 1. Paul Mitchell Hair Serum Again heat and humidity during photoshoots are not always kind to your hair.  This Paul Mitchell Hair Serum is perfect for reducing flyaways!  And a little really goes a long way!  This product will last you several months. Learn more… 2. Joico Power Spray Fast-Dry Finishing Spray Protect Against Heat & Humidity While hairsprays in general don’t smell good, this Joico brand has made me a fan!  My hairdresser of over 20 years recommended this product to me.  You apply hair sparingly to your “bangs” or “fringe” and your center part; it’s great for helping you maintain your style and shape the entire photo session. Learn more… Skin Care Products to Rock Your Photo Session 3. SimplyVital Face Moisturizer Collagen Cream – Anti Aging Neck and Décolleté – Made in USA Day & Night Face Cream – Moisturizing, Lifting & Recovery – 1.7oz Several clients ask me if I could recommend a foundation or use a skin smoother in post processing on their skin.  For men and women, I’d recommend using a moisturizer.  What goes on your skin to prep your skin is equally important to any make-up selections you make. Learn more… 4. Revlon Face Primer, PhotoReady Primer, Mattifying & Pore Reducing, 1 Oz This primer helps you create a smooth canvas for your makeup, helps your foundation adhere better, and minimizes the appearance of pores. Learn more… 5. NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Matte Blotting Paper We keep a box of these in our camera bag.  During photo sessions these matte blotting papers are great for touching-up any oils or perspiration on skin. Learn more… Make-up Products to ROCK Your Photo Shoot 6. e.l.f., Matte Magic Mist & Set – Lightweight, Long Lasting, Controls Shine, All-Day Wear This setting spray locks in your makeup and ensures it stays fresh throughout the photoshoot. This E.I.F setting spray is so economical and really holds it on even compared to more expensive brands.  You’ll love how this spray helps your make-up to last longer without feeling heavy or sticky and has a matte finish. Learn more… 7. Lancôme Cils Booster XL Enhancing Lash & Mascara Primer This Lacome primer does not disappoint! It helps your mascara adhere better to your lashes and has amazing volumizing and lengthening effects!  Learn more… 8. Milani Baked Blush Milani Baked Blush, is a long-lasting blush formula is perfect for adding a pop of color to your cheeks with a rosy pink for a healthy, youthful glow. Learn more… 9. essence Lash Without Limits Extreme Lengthening & Volume Mascara Essence Lash Without Limits Mascara is the perfect finish for your eye makeup with a volumizing or lengthening mascara to make your lashes appear fuller and more defined in photos. Learn more… 10. bareMinerals Mineral Veil Setting Powder, Weightless Talc-Free Finishing Powder Makeup, Extends Makeup Wear Set your foundation and concealer with a translucent setting powder to prevent shine and ensure your makeup stays in place throughout your entire photoshoot. Learn more… Nail Care Products to ROCK Your Photo Shoot 11. Opi Manicure Set Fingernails can be often overlooked prior to photo sessions however, your hands will end up in many of the portraits in your final gallery.  I love the OPI Manicure set, even as a busy Mom this is something I can do before bed applying the cuticle oil. And using the base coat and top coat polishes really adds to the longevity of your at nail care.  Learn more…

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Very Hungry Caterpillar Party

The Ultimate Very Hungry Caterpillar Party Resource Guide

A Very Hungry Caterpillar themed first birthday is a whimsical journey through the magic of childhood, where every detail tells a tale of wonder and discovery. From vibrant colors to delightful treats, celebrating the milestone of a little one’s first year is just like the caterpillar’s transformation into a beautiful butterfly. Top 36 Products for a Very Hungry Caterpillar Themed Birthday Party Here is the shopping list for this very festive “Hungry Caterpillar Party” to save you some time if you are looking to source items used in this photoshoot and party decor below or looking for gift ideas for your own “Very Hungry Caterpillar.” This resource guide aims to support fellow busy Moms in crafting cherished moments for their children and it incorporates our firsthand experiences with the products detailed in the descriptions, offering valuable insights. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. “A Very Hungry Caterpillar themed first birthday is a whimsical journey through the magic of childhood, where every detail tells a tale of wonder and discovery. From vibrant colors to delightful treats, we celebrate the milestone of our little one’s first year, just like the caterpillar’s transformation into a beautiful butterfly” Very Hungry Caterpillar Party Decor Using bright primary colors for decorations at a “Very Hungry Caterpillar” themed party really helps capture the vibrant and playful essence of the book’s illustrations. It creates a cheerful and inviting atmosphere that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Plus, those bright colors can make everything from the decorations to the food pop and look extra appetizing, just like the delicious fruits the caterpillar devours in the story; making the party visually stunning and memorable! 1. The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ Garland – Party Decor At our Very Hungry Caterpillar Party we used this Eric Carle inspired party garland on the mantel. And because the size is 7ft x 8” we reduced our garland to “Best Day” and it’s made of sturdy cardstock. Learn more… 2. The Very Hungry Caterpillar Tablecloth The perfect base for your tablespace this plastic Very Hungry Caterpillar tablecloth, is 8″L x 54″W, adds a ton of color and is quick for party clean-up. Learn more… 3. Very Hungry Caterpillar Lunch Napkins for Birthday – Party Supplies – 16 Pieces At our Very Hungry Caterpillar Party we pared these napkins and tablecloth with inexpensive solid green plates for a punch of color on our party tablescape. Learn more… 4. Green Caterpillar Balloon Garland Kit For First Birthday Baby Shower Kids Hungry Caterpillar Themed Party Decoration This cute caterpillar balloon garland come with eyes, mouth pre-cut and two antenna long balloons for you to assemble and two red 18″ balloons for the head (things happen, so you’ll have an extra head just in case.) Learn more… 5. Cartoon Very Hungry Little Green Caterpillar Happy Birthday Banner Birthday Party Backdrops add a fairly inexpensive, visual anchoring point to your party decor. You can also use the backdrop solo or accompanied with a balloon garland.  Note from a photographer’s perspective if you had to choose one: the balloon garland looks best in photos; it creates a border to frame your party table and party pictures. For our Very Hungry Caterpillar party we used this banner over a picture frame in our dining room to add lots of color and a backdrop for pictures with guests. Learn more… 6. Cartoon Very Hungry Little Green Caterpillar Happy Birthday Banner These Two Very Hungry Caterpillar Door Banners are brightly colored and made of durable fabric. Each banner measures 71 long x 12 inches wide. Learn more… 7. Caterpillar Paper Lanterns   This adorable caterpillar set comes in two different sizes 12 inch lanterns and 8 inch lanterns, creating a Mom caterpillar and Baby caterpillar.  Each caterpillar is made up of 7 lanterns: one red lantern for your caterpillar head, 6 variegated green lanterns for the body and comes with 2 sets of caterpillar eyes and feelers,  For easy assembly, your kit also comes with glue dots so it’s super easy to glue your lanterns together and attach the eyes and feelers. Learn more… 8. Green Tissue Paper Pom Poms, Light Green Hanging Pom Poms 12 Green Tissue paper pom poms: 6 pieces of 12 inch diameter dark green tissue pom poms and 6 pieces of 10 inch diameter light green tissue pom poms so you can create your own Very Hungry Caterpillar. You could use one piece of red posterboard and make two Very Hungry Caterpillar faces. These tissue pom-pom is individually packed, and it is very easy to fluff out and easy to attach to ceilings, walls, door, staircases, or tree branches. Learn more… 9. Artificial Grass Table Runner For the photoshoot, two table runners were overlapped to cover the span of the backdrop. The table runners were also showcased at the party one used as a table runner and the other to top the dessert buffet table. These cute grass table runners are versatile and can be used for Easter and a variety of other party themes. Learn more… 10. The Very Hungry Caterpillar Cutout For our Very Hungry Caterpillar themed Cakesmash, we used this Very Hungry Caterpillar cutout as the backdrop.  As well as a great piece for the photoshoot the cutout was perfect as the central piece of our party decor.  For our Very Hungry Caterpillar birthday party we placed the cutout, pride of place on the mantel of the fireplace in our dining room. Learn more… 11. Burton & Burton the Very Hungry Caterpillar Shape Foil Balloon, 43″ These cute Very Hungry Caterpillar shaped balloon measures 43 inches and are made of helium-quality foil. Learn more… 12. Colorful Party Paper Garland Circle Dots This garland was perfect for replicating the classic dot borders on the hungry caterpillar illustrations in the photoshoot and party decor. Learn more… 13. Glitter 1st Birthday Photo Banner   For a ‘Very Hungry Caterpillar’ themed birthday celebration, vibrant primary colors such as the dazzling glitter blue of this Happy Birthday photo

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