Decorative Document Pillows - Marriage License, Movie Tickets and More

These are the coolest DIY project EVER - check out this easy tutorial for making document pillows.  A great way to document your special event or even a fun gift for the bride/groom. Check out a Beautiful Mess blog for great inspiration.

DIY Washi Tape Calendar

Well, well, well look what I found - a calendar made with washi tape. I can think of so many ways to use and make my own version of this calendar. I love Japanese washi tape, sticky notes and the creative process of design. Now, I just need to find a blank wall to create my masterpiece.

Bow Tie Ring Bearer Pillow

I first saw this bow tie ring bearer pillow in the latest issue of Martha Stewart Weddings. And, I couldn't stop thinking about it. Martha is the queen of wedding DIY, so check out the DIY direction on her website to create your own bow tie pillow. I am going to try to make one when things slow down, it does look super easy.

Materials - ink-jet printer, 1 yard of menswear fabric, a silk weave works best, white pencil and a handful of batting, cord that matches the fabric.

Will you be my Bridesmaid - Surprise Luncheon

Picking that special person to be a member of your wedding party should celebrated. Why not throw a surprise luncheon for the girls and shower them with love and of course - gifts. I am recreating this party for one of brides including the flower gift boxes with pictures, cards and great cuisine.

Photos by Inga Finch Photography

Natural Scrubs - Salt vs Sugar

I've been experimenting with creating my own of scrubs with essential oils and vitamin e. Scrubs are very easy to make with little cost. There are tons of natural recipes on-line DIY if you want to make your own. I'm still struggling with salt vs sugar? Personally, I do prefer salt scrubs because I like the consistency of the batter for exfoliation. Here is one of my favorite hot salt scrubs is Philosophy Senorita Margarita (the smell is lovely) found locally at Sephora.

DIY Lampshade - Before and After

Remember my DIY lampshade post ...well you can check it out in the new issue of Occasions magazine. I have always been a crafter and DIY fan. Spending hours at a craft stores and off the beaten path sorting through a thrift store for treasures is my idea of a good time. I can't wait to share my next project!

Before photo

Great buy - lamp & lampshade at the Goodwill

Photo by Harwell Photography

Photo by Harwell Photography

Sneak Peak - Peyton's Very Hungry Caterpillar Party

I was so excited when a past bride wanted to create a theme first birthday party for her little one. Well, the Very Hungry Caterpillar is hungry no more. The party was held at Little Shop of Stories in Decatur and included a storyteller, coloring books, story mats for the kids and fun cuisine. These pictures were taken on my cell phone, so stay tuned for professional pictures.

Tea sandwiches were shaped into a caterpillar - Stationery by T-evenire

This tissue caterpillar was a pain to put together, but looked great once it was finished

Peyton's had two cakes - this was the larger one 

Grape Kebobs Caterpillars were a hit at the party

Birthday's girl special cake

Glasses vases that I filled with peas then added eyes & pipe cleaners ears and flowers

DIY Tissue Paper Backdrop

This is such a great DIY project - head over to Ruffled blog for the full step-by-step instructions for this tissue paper backdrop. I like simple, uncomplicated projects, especially ones that can be completed while watching TV using only tape, tissue paper, scissors and water bottle. The final look creates a big impact.

DIY Lampshade Project

Last weekend, I completed my lampshade project. I found a great buy at the Goodwill, this lampshade was $4.94 and 50% off (great deal). I also found trim - 50% off and I purchased three yards to complete the project. The shade exceeded my expectation. The final picture doesn't do it justice. I hope to show you some professional pictures of my DIY lampshade project soon.

What a deal - did you say half off?

Add ruffle trim

BAM!

All you need is a LOVE sign

There are few things that make me go ohhhhh! And, sequins and sparkles go hand in hand. Check out this super cute LOVE sign. The site says they rent out the sign; unfortunately they are located in Europe so that means I will make my own sign! LOVE IT!

According to one of my favorite blogs - Pocketful of Dreams:

"We created a gold LOVE shimmer sign which looked really beautiful as it gently glistened in the wind. Made from a hundred metallic gold mirrored discs which hang slightly away from the wood backing so they are able to move gently with the wind and as they do so catch and bounce the natural light around."

All you need is LOVE

Just a bride and you have a stunning backdrop

The creators of this lovely sign

Here is close up shot

Image Credit:  Leo Bojesen 

Bridal Shower Gift Wrap

I was so excited to be invited to my bride's bridal shower. I never get a chance to relax, chill and just be a guest. Her shower theme - Victoria Secret (black and pink).  So, I whipped out my ribbon, scissors and added bride and groom tags to her Victoria Secret gift that can be used for their honeymoon. Forgot how much fun wedding showers can be....

Luggage tags