Arabic Wedding Invitation Ideas

Arabic weddings are prone to be traditional and include weeks of events before the actual vows are taken. Sending out the invitation becomes a social issue rather than a personal choice. Here's what you need to know.

Traditional or Modern

While most weddings in the Arabic culture are traditional, the younger generation is opting for the inclusion of trendy and modern details. Today, the youth want an updated look and opt for designs that are more abstract and have less symbolism attached to them.

Use of Colors

Traditionally Arabic invitations are classic white, cream, brown and other such muted hues. Modern invitations, however, feature bold, eye-catching colors and designs. Couples choose their invitations based on their budgets, and some will even opt for handcrafted cards with handwritten calligraphy. The colors of the invitation usually matches the theme of the wedding and the chosen colors become the basis of the whole wedding.

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Cute Ideas For Baby Shower Invitations With Rubber Ducks

Bright yellow ducks are a classic, fun theme for any baby shower. They're cute and appealing for either a boy or a girl shower. It's easy to find materials that will help you incorporate ducks into every aspect of your party. Does this Spark an idea?

Duck-Shaped Invitations

The simplest way to make your own duck-themed invitations is to cut them into duck shapes. Use yellow card stock and a picture of a duck from online or a magazine or children's book. Then cut out the duck shapes from the yellow card stock. You can draw beaks, wings and eyes onto your ducks if you want to, and write the invitation information on one side or both. Use square envelopes that are big enough for your invitations to fit into without folding. If you know the gender of the baby, a pink or blue ribbon around the duck's neck adds a colorful touch.

Duck-Themed Scrapbook Invitations

Another easy way to make your own duck invitations is by using scrapbook techniques to create invitations. These will be in a traditional square style, but aside from that there are many interesting choices to be made. Scrapbook techniques add depth and texture to any artwork. You can include the name of the baby or the mom-to-be, or include a picture of the pregnant mom. You can use card stock to cut out some of the words in your invitation as well as for the back. Keep yellow your main theme and, of course, make sure that a yellow duck is prominent in your design.

Store-bought Duck Invitations

If you don't have the time or the creativity to make your own duck invitations, there are many stores that sell duck-themed shower supplies. You can find invitations for every price and level of formality that have ducks as the theme. If you don't have time to wait for an online order to ship, your local party store will probably have duck-themed invitations in stock.

Tags: card stock, make your, duck shapes, duck-themed invitations, have time

About Tween Spa Parties

About Tween Spa Parties

Tween slumber parties offer plenty of fun, but most especially when there is a theme that activities and entertainment can circle around. Spa parties for the roughly 8- to 14-year-old crowd are not just easy and affordable, they create the perfect excuse for girls to pamper themselves, whether the occasion is a birthday or a "just because" day. Does this Spark an idea?

The Prep

Set the mood for spa night with the invitations. Evite.com is a simple way to spread the word. The website's spa-themed invitations range from "Bamboo Fresh" and "Spahhh..." for the zen approach, or, for something girlie "Spa Delight." Or, try the homemade option: Take construction paper or scrapbooking paper and embellish with Jolee's Boutique "Spa Retreat" stickers or "Day Spa" stickers courtesy of Paper Bliss Adhesive Embellishments (see Resources below.) If it's possible to hand-deliver invitations, consider purchasing inexpensive bars of soap, wrap them in ribbon and attach the invitation to the bar.

The Mood

Spa parties are all about relaxation, which the decor can set. Candles are a must and should be scattered throughout the room. In addition to tea lights and pillar candles, a touch of elegance can be added by taking crystal bowls, filling them with water and placing floating candles in them. Pillows are another decoration must. Ask guests to bring their favorite pillows in addition to the ones that the hostess provides. Since comfort is key, there is no way to overdo on the pillows.

Manicures and Pedicures

Before the guests arrive, set up a TV tray or a small table with pedicure and manicure incidentals that they can select on their way in. Offer a wide range of nail polish colors, from champagne pink, a delicate favorite, to emerald green, for the daring crowd. As guests arrive and get settled in, fill large bowels with warm water and bath salts in soothing scents such as lavender or rose geranium. Let each guest's feet and/or hands soak until the skin is softened. Once done soaking, it's time to take care of calloused heels and/or palms with pumice stones or foot brush files, even jagged nails with a basic salon board and push back cuticles using wood cuticle sticks. End with nail polish.

Grab Some Goodies

What would a night of luxury be without the treats? Naturally, chocolate is a go-to must. For something quick and easy, grab a box of chocolates and then set them out on dainty napkins. For something fancier, chocolate fondue is the way to go. Add a bowl of strawberries in the mix and the fondue is complete. Other finger foods that work are veggie trays, sliced fruits and cheese trays. Also, as any spa will tell you, staying hydrated is key, which means have plenty of bottles of water on hand; take it to the next level by serving the water in crystal glasses with slices of lemon.

Entertainment

Have plenty of beauty and tween magazines scattered around the room so guests can peruse at their leisure.

Also consider showing a classic "chick flick." Some ideal, (both popular and forgotten) movies include: "Clueless," "Mean Girls," "Mad Miss Manton" (This features Barbara Stanwyck as a NYC socialite who is constantly trying to solve murders. It's a classic comedy where she and her friends are running around, much to the ire of the police, in their silk robes with fur collars, looking every bit the leading ladies as they play Nancy Drew), and "Shag." (Made in the "Dirty Dancing" era, this was an unappreciated road-trip movie where four friends, who have just graduated from high school, decide to have a last go at wild fun down in Myrtle Beach. Taking place in the early '60s, "Shag" is a local dance craze and the contest on the beach is the finishing set piece. Keep an eye out for Bridget Fonda in a platinum-blond 'do that is as sassy as her character).

Or, with so many great shows debuting on TV, try one of those classics that had you glued to the TV and leave homework for another night: "Beverly Hills 90210," "Dawson's Creek," "Party of Five," "Gossip Girl," the complete first season, or "My So Called Life."

Tags: About Tween, About Tween Parties, guests arrive, nail polish, Tween Parties

Gift Bag Ideas For A Birthday Party

When you're very young, one of the best parts about going to a birthday party is to walk out with a bag full of cool new toys and candy. Goody bags are a great final touch to any birthday party, and there's no reason that party favors should end when childhood does. It's courteous and great fun for adults to leave their guests with a little something at the end of the night. Does this Spark an idea?

Ideas for Children

Parents love throwing theme parties for their children: If it's a fiesta, give guests a bandanna full of pinata candy or traditional Mexican toys. If your theme is summery, try a beach pail with a pair of sunglasses, a shovel and a miniature Frisbee. Take your theme and run with it.

If your party had no theme, you can always stick with traditional party favors: green Army men, yo-yos, spider rings, other tiny toys and some Tootsie Rolls have been hits for decades.

Alternative Ideas For Children

Some parents are simply sick of their drawers being filled with small toys their children received from gift bags. Other inexpensive alternatives include crayons, a flower pot with packets of seeds, Polaroid photos of the party, or substituting a treasure hunt for giving out goody bags in the first place (you may wish to rig it a bit so each child receives a reasonably equal prize.)

Also, if you're throwing a craft party, there's no need for a goody bag: The craft the children make is gift enough in itself.

Gift Bags for Grownups

Why should children be the only ones who leave their parties with a little something? Grownups have parties too, and party favors can be fun. Borrow some ideas from weddings, like a disposable camera for each group of guests, and a picture frame to go along with it.

Theme parties are great for burning CDs: For a beach party, a disc full of Beach Boys anthems is a sure hit. Is it a disco party? That's an easy call. And if you're going totally '80s, pack that CD with New Wave and glam rock.

Tags: party favors, birthday party, Ideas Children, leave their, little something

Diabetic & Renal Diet

If you are a diabetic who also suffers from chronic kidney disease (CKD), you have to follow both a diabetic and renal diet. Taking both conditions into consideration, you need to limit carbohydrates, fats, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and sugar. Adhering to diet guidelines may be tricky at first, but you should be able to follow a healthy diet plan with a few tips.

Good-Carb Foods

As a diabetic, you need to keep your blood sugar levels under control by following a meal routine and consuming the same level of carbohydrates with each meal. You should discuss your caloric needs with a dietitian, but try to have three carbohydrate servings (with one serving equaling 15g) at each meal.

Fruits, vegetables and starches provide "good carbohydrates," which are unprocessed and appear close to their natural state. You can eat the following low-phosphorus and -potassium fruits: apples, apricot halves, blackberries, blueberries, canned pears, cherries, cranberries, fruit cocktail, grapefruit, grapes, mandarin oranges, pineapple, plums, raspberries, strawberries, tangerines and watermelon.

Vegetables provide a high amount of minerals and vitamins to your diet and are low in calories, phosphorus and potassium. Among good-carb vegetables you can eat are asparagus, beets, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, cucumbers, eggplant, frozen broccoli cuts, green and red peppers, iceberg lettuce, kale, onions, radishes, snow peas, summer squash and turnips.

Low-potassium and phosphorus starches you can consume include a bagel, cornbread (homemade), cream of wheat, grits, flour tortilla, non-salted crackers, non-sweetened dry cereal, noodles, pasta, rice, a sandwich bun and white bread.

High-Protein Foods

Your diabetic and renal diet also should consist of non-carbohydrate high-protein foods. You can eat limited amounts of cottage cheese (which has high sodium levels, so sparingly), eggs (or a low-cholesterol substitute), fish, lean cuts of meat, poultry and seafood (without boiling in high-sodium seasonings).

Among meat and high-protein foods you should avoid are cheeses (American, cheddar and Swiss); dried beans (such as kidney, lentil, lima, pinto or soy); high-sodium meats (such as bacon, canned and luncheon meats, hot dogs, organ meats, pepperoni, salami and sausages); nuts and peanut butter.

Beverages and Milk Items

Among the sugar-free and phosphorus-free or -light beverages you can consume are clear diet sodas, Crystal Light, unsweetened lemonade or tea you make at home and water. If you are on a fluid restriction, limit your amount of fluid intake.

Since you are on a diabetic and renal diet, you should limit milk products to 2 daily servings. You can consume fat-free or skim milk, plain yogurt, sugar-free ice cream and sugar-free pudding.

What to Avoid

You should not include potassium-rich fruits and vegetables in your diabetic and renal diet; these include items like artichoke, avocados, bananas, brussels sprouts, cantaloupe, fresh broccoli, fresh pears, honeydew melon, kiwi, oranges, potatoes, prunes, pumpkin, raisins, spinach, tomatoes and yams.

On your avoid list of phosphorus- or sodium-rich starches should be biscuit, cornbread, gingerbread and pancake mixes; potato chips, corn chips and salted crackers; sugar-coated and instant cereals; whole grain cereals (such as bran flakes, granola and oatmeal); and whole wheat or whole grain breads.

Phosphorus-rich milk items you should avoid include buttermilk, chocolate milk, sweetened yogurt and sugar-sweetened frozen desserts, ice cream and puddings.

You should stay away from phosphorus-rich drinks, so do not consume beverages like beer, canned or sweetened lemonade and tea, dark colas, Gatorade, Hawaiian Punch, Powerade and Sunny Delight.

When deciding on the best diabetic and renal diet plan, you will find various options at your disposal, with some professionals even disagreeing on certain items you can eat and what you should avoid completely. For perspective on amounts you should consume on a diabetic and renal diet, visit http://www.bcrenalagency.ca/NR/rdonlyres/D33FEBC5-5B2F-46EA-942A-18CF63C968A8/25612/FridayPMConcurrentTreenaHansen.pdf.

Tags: diabetic renal diet, renal diet, diabetic renal, should avoid, diabetic renal, diet plan

Diy Thundercats Costume

For those growing up in the 80s, "Thundercats" was one of the biggest and best-loved cartoons of the decade. The animated series followed the adventures of Lion-O, and the Thundercats such as Cheetara, Panthro and Tygra as they fought to protect their home and people. "Thundercats" continues to have a strong and loyal following with the release of the original series on DVD and a new animated series in 2011. Whether you're headed to Comic-Con or just a neighbor's Halloween party, relive the best of the Thundercats by dressing up as your favorite character.

Instructions

Lion-O

1. Wear a light blue spandex suit, like the ones wrestlers wear, for Lion-O's outfit. If you can't find a spandex wrestler's uniform, just wear a light blue leotard. Create a belt with the Thundercats logo, using pictures from the cartoon. Make the logo out of poster board and staple it to a blue stash to create the belt. Wear blue knee high boots if you can find them. If not, just wear any blue shoes with blue knee-high socks.

2. Wear a bright, orange-colored wig for Lion-O's hair; the bigger and wilder looking, the better.

3. Cover your mouth area with the lightest foundation you can find and do the same to the eye area and your forearms to emulate Lion-O's look. Add a dark face bronzer to darken the rest of your face if necessary.

4. Purchase a toy sword and attach another poster board logo on the handle, Lion-O's weapon. Place a shimmery gold glove on your left hand.

Cheetara

5. Wear pale orange tights and a bright orange leotard for Cheetara's outfit. Attach a poster board Thundercats logo on the front at the collar. Wear bright orange knee-high boots.

6. Wear a long blonde wig for Cheetara's hair.

7. Use a picture of Cheetara to copy her diamond-shaped dark orange makeup around your eyes. Draw cheetah spots on your shoulders using black costume makeup.

8. Spray paint an old shower rod gold and add a few cheetah spots on it, to use as Cheetara's weapon.

Panthro

9. Wear light blue tights and a dark blue wrestler's uniform or leotard to mimic Panthro's all-blue look. You could also wear dark blue men's swim briefs and attach the same Thundercats belt as Lion-O. Sew or staple plastic paper spikes to a pair of suspenders and attach them to the swimsuit or wrestler's uniform.

10. Cover your entire face with gray costume makeup, except for the mouth area which should be white. If you're bald, cover your entire head with the gray makeup to create a more authentic looking Panthro.

11. Purchase elf ears from a costume shop and paint them gray, and attach to your ears. Purchase a pair of plastic or real metal nunchucks to complete the outfit.

Tags: light blue, poster board, wrestler uniform, animated series, bright orange, cheetah spots

Anniversary Party Invitation Sayings

Invitations are commonly sent out for annivarsary parties.

If you're throwing an anniversary party in honor of your marriage, you will likely send out invitations to inform friends and family of the event. The way you word your anniversary party invitations should reflect the formality of your event while being cheerful and welcoming to make your guests want to attend. Whether you are hosting a casual get together or a formal soiree, it is essential to appropriately word your invitations. Does this Spark an idea?

Casual

For a small, casual anniversary party, use a low-key saying inside of the invitation that is simple and conversational. Include all the relevant details of the party such as the date, time and location. An example of casual anniversary party invitation wording is:

"We invite you to share with us a special day in our lives

Please join us as we celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary

March 1st at 1 p.m.

123 West 3rd Avenue

Please respond to Jane Doe at 555-5555"

Formal

For a formal anniversary party, such as a banquet or gala, the invitation wording should be more formal and slightly less conversational. While the wording should reflect the formality, avoid choosing a saying that is too pompous or cold sounding. An appropriate saying to put in a formal anniversary party invitation is:

"Jane and John Doe request the pleasure of your company as they celebrate the joyous occasion of their 25th wedding anniversary

Dinner will be served at six o-clock in the evening

Thursday, March first, two thousand and ten

123 West 3rd Avenue"

Poetic

For a playful, enticing invitation saying, a short poem makes an appropriate choice. A poem about love or a poem that reflects the occasion are both options to consider. An example of poetic wording you could include in your anniversary party invitation is this poem by Karl Fuchs:

"There are few who are so lucky

To have the things we do,

Companionship and friendship,

And loving feelings, too

Please join us as we celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary

May 6th at 2 p.m.

123 West 3rd Avenue

Please R.S.V.P to Jane Doe at 555-5555"

Tags: anniversary party, anniversary party, wedding anniversary, West Avenue, anniversary party invitation, Avenue Please

Crafts Using Artificial Flowers

Use vibrant artificial flowers to create charming crafts.

When it comes to craft projects, artificial flowers can look as appealing as real blooms. Faux flowers have several advantages for art and craft projects. Plastic or silk flowers typically cost less than their fresh counterparts, and they last a lot longer. For a classy look, choose only authentic-looking artificial flowers when making crafts.

Floral Wreaths

Make festive floral wreaths to celebrate any holiday or special occasion. Create customized artificial flower wreaths to hang on doors or walls, or to give as thoughtful and inexpensive presents. Create an autumn-inspired floral wreath using harvest-hued decor items. Start with a straw or grapevine wreath base for a country style. Choose wired flowers featuring fall colors, such as yellow, orange and deep red chrysanthemums, sunflowers and roses, and twist them onto the wreath. Completely cover the base with flowers, or make small arrangements. Stick plastic acorn and pine cone picks, along with sprigs of red and orange berries, into the wreath, or use a hot glue gun to attach the decor pieces.

Silk Flower Centerpiece

Silk flowers can look just as elegant as real blooms in a centerpiece for a special event. For a fresh spring- or summer-inspired arrangement, fill a square glass vase with a bouquet of bright pink, yellow, orange and white silk gerbera flowers. To make a sweet baby or bridal shower centerpiece, create an ice cream sundae-inspired arrangement using silk flowers. Line a large glass ice cream sundae dish with white tissue paper and place a bit of florists' foam in the bottom. Insert stems of pink silk carnations into the foam so the blooms rest on the top of the dish, resembling frothy ice cream. Complete the piece by placing a plastic straw into the middle of the blooms.

Candy and Flowers

As a sweet Valentine's Day or birthday gift, create a charming candy and flower craft. This easy-to-make project is delightful to look at and eat. Fill a clear glass vase with vibrant treats such as candy-coated chocolate pieces, gumdrops, jelly beans or red licorice. Insert the stems of colorful faux flowers into the vase, nestling them into the candy pieces for a snug fit. If the arrangement is a gift, use the recipient's favorite blooms, such as pink and purple tulips, red roses or pink daisies. As a decorative touch, tie a matching ribbon around the center of the vase.

Tags: artificial flowers, craft projects, create charming, flowers look, flowers make, glass vase, glass vase with

About Tiki Huts

About Tiki Huts

Tiki huts are structures that are built out of dried sable palm fronds and treated cypress wood in order to provide a decorative structure for homes and businesses. Tiki huts can be designed and wired to have electricity to allow proper lighting for entertaining. Most tiki huts have open sides that are susceptible to the weather elements, making tiki huts a seasonal item. Does this Spark an idea?

Function

Tiki huts are used mainly for decorative purposes to accent an outdoor bar, patio area or awning. Tiki huts showcase thatched roofing that provides both shade and protection from outdoor elements such as rain, sun and wind. Popular in tropical regions and where the weather is warmer, tiki huts can be found primarily on shorelines, patios and in the backyards of people who are looking to add tropical design elements to their outdoor living area. Most huts are permanent fixtures of the property; when properly constructed, a concrete or wood foundation is laid before constructing the Tiki. The cypress structure poles are set in concrete and leveled to provide an even and sound foundation base for the hut. Tiki huts are typically constructed by a professional contractor who is licensed, insured and has had experience creating tiki huts in the past.

Types

Some of the main types of tiki huts are huts that cover a bar, more commonly called a tiki bar, or those that cover an umbrella table, gazebo or patio area. Some huts are stand alone structures that house tables, chairs or bar stools with entertainment centers inside. Similar to chickees, which are tiki hut-type structures inspired and built by Seminole Indians in areas of southern Florida; tiki huts differ because they are generally not used to live in like the chickee can be.

Geography

Tiki huts are prevalent in areas where the weather is warm enough for the hut to withstand the elements. The Bahamas, Caribbean, Hawaii and Florida are popular hot spots for tiki huts. Most beach bars and restaurants are lined up with tiki huts as a way to welcome patrons into a tropical atmosphere. Tiki huts are also more popular in tropical climates and areas because most of the items used to build and construct tiki huts, such as palm trees, cypress trees and other natural wood products, grow naturally in warm tropical and sub-tropical locations.

Features

A distinguishing feature of a tiki hut is the thatched roof made from the natural leaves on the palm tree. The Cyprus poles that hold up the hut are also very distinguishing, and are located in the four corners as well in the center and roof of the hut, providing structural support. Many tiki huts accent the famous tiki statue that they are named after. The tiki statue is a tall wooden totem object with a face carved out of wood. Tikis were once worshiped by the Polynesians and designed as a way to scare away negative spirits. Today the tiki statue serves as a piece of history that oftentimes becomes a decorative accent to most tiki huts.

Considerations

As the fresh palms dry out over time, they are more susceptible to mold and insect infestations. A tiki hut's thatched roof is only designed to last between 5 and 7 years. After that time, a professional tiki hut builder should replace the worn roof.

Tags: tiki huts, tiki huts, tiki statue, About Tiki, About Tiki Huts, patio area

Fun Hawaiian Games & Activities

Hawaiian-themed parties are fun, simple and great for all ages to enjoy. It's easy to get a bit carried away with themes, but familiarizing yourself with the beautiful Hawaiian culture can make your event a little more authentic. Keep the games and activities true to the Hawaiian style, simple and laid-back. Does this Spark an idea?

Luau

Luaus are Hawaiian celebratory feasts that include many native foods like the kalua pig, poi, poke, lomi and haupia with beers and entertainment. Hawaiian recipes can easily be found online (http://www.hawaii.edu/recipes), but most require a full day to cook. Personalize your luau with your own foods and add a bit of island touch to them. Keep in mind foods native to Hawaii like bananas, mangos, spam, taro, pineapple, fish, coconut and macadamia nuts. Substitute regular fries for taro fries. Grilled bananas, mangoes and pineapples make delicious condiments. Be sure to serve island-inspired drinks like mai tai either with alcohol or virgin. Check out Asian supermarkets for mochi ice creams, which are sticky rice with ice cream fillings. They come in various flavors like green tea and chocolate coconut.

Hula

Hula is a traditional, religious dance that tells a story. Find a simple hula story and share it with your guests or teach them the story. Offer costumes that include a grass skirt and leis. Be sure to put on Hawaiian music like Gabby Pahinui, Arthur Lyman or more recent artists like Teresa Bright and Iz Kamakawiwo'ole.

Poi

Although poi is a Maori tradition, fire poi is popular in Hawaii. Poi is a juggling performance using two balls attached to long strings or chains. It can begin with simple spins to more complex tricks that involve bouncing them off of a body part. Practice poi using soft balls can be found in juggling or magic shops. They can also be easily made at home. Take two tennis balls and poke a hole in each end. Then take a thin rope (3 feet long) pull it through the top hole and a bit past the bottom hole. Knot it tightly at the bottom hole so the ball is placed just at the bottom of the string.

Make poi juggling a contest to see who can do the most complex tricks.

Leis

Leis are generally made from plumerias but can often be substituted for carnations, marigolds, orchids, roses or any other medium-sized flowers. Use a large needle (10 inches) and 45 inches of dental floss. Carefully string the flowers by needling through the center of the flowers from front to back. Slide two or three flowers at a time down the string. Leis can be worn around the neck or by using a shorter amount of string, can be worn on top of the head, around the wrists or around the ankles.

Musical Instruments

Lay out Hawaiian instruments like the ukulele, drums and rattles. Ukuleles are small, guitar-shaped instruments with four strings which can be purchased inexpensively. These are easy and fun instruments for anyone to pick up and play.

Tags: bottom hole, complex tricks, that include, with your

Different Wedding Centerpieces

Recycle a perfume bottle into a wedding centerpiece.

Capture your unique spirit when designing your wedding centerpiece. Find the items that make your heart sizzle and bring them into your centerpiece design. Whether you group a collection of mismatched objects or combine them with flowers, create a display that reflects the personality of the two of you on that special day.

Nautical Theme

Set the course and sail off into the sunset with a nautical-themed centerpiece. Three model boats sit within a sea of blue tulle material bunched up to replicate the balmy waves of the Caribbean. These tiny boats contain watercolor paper sails which arch out gracefully as they catch the balmy breezes of twilight Caribbean sea. A semicircle of crystal champagne flutes surround the scene while a silver bucket holds a bottle of champagne.

Black Ice

Add a shimmering centerpiece to your wedding table with a candelabra. Silver taper candles shimmer from a tall, five-arm, black crystal candelabra. Crystal beads combine with crystal teardrop pendants as one and drape down its arms. Black crystal goblets hold bunches of silver Christmas balls, while strands of black and silver crystal beads play within a shimmering twist of black and silver tulle hiding a strand of twinkle lights. Tiny black crystal votives hold silver tea lights which shimmer across the crystal display.

Perfume Elegance

Waft the sweet smell of flowered perfume through your wedding. A gold plated mirror tray contains five Egyptian perfume bottles. The elegant elongated bottle shapes combine with squat round shapes for an interesting design. One graceful flower peeks from the opening of each bottle. Some flower choices include a creamy white calla lily, a turquoise orchid, a delicate peach tulip or a pink anthuriums. Another option is to mix small colored candles into the bottles or blend a design of flowers with candles inside the bottles.

Moroccan Market

Illuminate the maze of colors in a Moroccan centerpiece as a colorful Moroccan lamp brings up images of Aladdin and his princess bride. Bright yellow pillar candles cast light across the table while a ring of daisies in bright colored jars circle the lamp. Another option is draping vines around the base of the lamp or tiny colorful coral pieces mixed with white sand. The lamp may also serve as a container for an exotic collection, such as a group of orchids, one of crystal figurines or a collection of shells.

Tags: your wedding, Another option, black crystal, black silver, combine with, wedding centerpiece

Family Reunion Keepsake Ideas

Family reunion group pictures are a must.

Family reunions build strong family relationships. Make your next reunion a long-term success by handing out memorable keepsakes for your guests to take home. These keepsakes are a way to say thank you to those who attend and a reminder of the enjoyable time they had, encouraging them to come to the next family get-together. Does this Spark an idea?

T-Shirts

Create T-shirts for all the family members who attend the reunion. Personalized shirts are available online and at some retail stores. The shirts can say, "______ Family Reunion 20__." T-shirts are available in a variety of styles and colors. If your reunion has any kind of competitions, you could get the shirts in different colors to designate teams. Have someone take a picture of all the family members in their new shirts before they leave.

Photo Books

If the budget allows, hire a photographer to take pictures at the reunion. Use the pictures to create a photo book to mail to all the attendees after the reunion. Many online print companies offer discounts for bulk orders. Photo books make great keepsakes because they preserve visual memories of people and events at the reunion. If a photographer is out of the budget, see if someone in the family can take the pictures. Be sure to get a picture of the entire group and the individual families.

Personalized Candy Bars

Order personalized candy bars for the reunion with wrappers that say, "_______ Family Reunion 20__." Put the candy bars in metal pails to use as centerpieces during the reunion. After the reunion is over, each guest can take a candy bar home as a keepsake. Candy bar wrappers are available online and at printing companies. You also can buy personalized candy online with the reunion name printed directly on the candy.

Beach Bag or Tote

You can have personalized beach bags or totes made for the guests who attend the reunion with the family name and year on each bag. If the budget allows, fill the bags with other personalized items, such as magnets, keys, notepads, coasters, mugs and stickers. Personalized beach bags and totes are available at many print shops, online and at some department stores.

Tags: Family Reunion, attend reunion, available online, bags totes, beach bags, beach bags totes, budget allows

Cute Ideas For Red Velvet Cupcakes

Decorate your cupcakes with as much confetti, sprinkles and candies as you want.

Red velvet cupcakes are a delicious treat to enjoy at any party or celebration. To coordinate them with the celebration, vary the toppings or wrappers according to the festivities. This way people will enjoy looking at, as well as biting into these delicious treats. There are many cute ideas for red velvet cupcakes, get creative and enjoy your petite pastries. Does this Spark an idea?

Frosting

Frosting a cupcake is not only fun, but also a creative way to make unique cute cupcakes. Use food dye to color some of your frosting red. Play with the red and white frosting, or even make chocolate frosting as well, to decorate your cupcake tops. Make a cream cheese frosting for an alternative topping which is not quite as sweet as traditional frosting recipes.

Blood Theme

Prepare the red velvet cupcakes for a festive Halloween party by dripping red food dye onto the tops of white-frosted cupcakes. This will create the illusion of blood. This is also a cute idea for "Twilight" or vampire-themed parties. There are "Twilight"-themed cupcake toppers available online. Use miniature figures to decorate the cupcake tops, or simply write R.I.P. in red food dye on the tops.

Valentine's Theme

Use red and pink sprinkles to decorate the tops of cupcakes. Use red food dye to create shades of pink in your frosting bases. Place candied hearts on top or sugar candy flowers for a sweet touch. Any red, pink or white candies and sprinkles can be used to decorate.

Wrappers

Cupcake liners come in a variety of prints, themes and sizes. Choose liners with cute images that correspond with the theme of the party or event where you are serving the red velvet cupcakes. For a little girl's birthday party or a tea party, cupcake wrappers with tiny flowers printed on it are a cute touch. People will appreciate the appearance and then the delicious taste of the red velvet cupcakes.

Tags: velvet cupcakes, cupcake tops, cupcakes food, your frosting

Decorating Ideas For A Backyard Wedding

Nuptials in the backyard

Backyard weddings provide intimacy and privacy that is different from traditional church weddings. The primary decorating ideas for a backyard wedding focus on flowers and nature. Purple, white and green are often the main colors for backyard weddings. Be certain to plan for ample seating, parking and restroom facilities for your wedding guests. Select a backup location for the service and reception should weather interfere with your backyard wedding plans.

Purple and White Color Scheme

Use the colors purple and white to complement the natural setting of a backyard wedding. Incorporate lavender and white into the decorations, seating and even the flowers used for the wedding. Fill urns and vases with flowers that have purple or lavender color in them such as Bells of Ireland, sweet peas, hydrangeas and purple roses.

Separate Reception and Wedding Areas

Use dividers to separate the reception and wedding areas. Use the same color scheme for both areas. You can set up the reception area before the wedding ceremony. A white picket fence or a double row of tall vases with flowers (see purple and white color scheme section) make beautiful dividers.

Another option is to purchase shepherd's hooks from a garden store. Spray paint the hooks white. String several rows of lavender ribbon between them to separate the reception and ceremony areas for the backyard wedding.

Landscaping for a Backyard Wedding

Hire a professional landscaper to mow, trim hedges, prune trees and provide general cleanup. You want the yard to be spotless and beautiful. Remove fading or wilting flowers from flower beds. Replace with new, blooming, annual flowers to match the wedding color scheme.

Wedding Gazebo

If you have a gazebo in your backyard, convert it into a ceremonial wedding gazebo to use as the focal point and place for the vow exchange. Cover the floor of the gazebo with white rose petals and a green runner. Hang green and ivory wedding garland around the top, along the support columns and around the railings of the gazebo. Another option is to use lavender ribbon.

Wedding Arch

Rent a wedding arch if you don't have a yard gazebo to convert. Wind white tulle fabric and lavender ribbon around the arch. Stand two waist-high vases filled with flowers on both sides of the arch. Another option is to decorate the arch with live or artificial flowers that fit the colors of the wedding. Some brides opt to have the florist do the actual decorating of the rented wedding arch.

Seating Decorations

Cover each chair individually with white linen cloth. Secure the cloth at the chair seam with a piece of lavender or purple ribbon. Line the chairs up for the wedding ceremony area in rows. At the end of each row, add a short vase of appropriate flowers. If you use two rows of chairs for the groom's and bride's sides, put ribbon on the ground to form the aisle. Cover the ground area with rose petals for the bride to walk on toward the wedding gazebo or rented wedding arch.

Tags: Another option, backyard wedding, color scheme, lavender ribbon, with flowers

Food Scavenger Hunt Ideas

Ask guests to find specific food-related items.

A scavenger hunt is an easy way to liven up a school event or a party, and to get people talking. The traditional scavenger hunt involves giving teams a list of items to find and bring back to the event venue. A food scavenger hunt can work the same way, but you also have other options. For instance, ask teams to find items relating to a specific type of cuisine, or ask that they bring back items to share with the other teams.

Fast Food Hunt

For a fast food hunt, you need to write out a list of questions relating to fast food restaurants in your area. Ask questions about both the food and the restaurant itself. For example, ask how many stalls are in the woman’s bathroom of one restaurant, and how many windows another restaurant has. Ask teams to find the prices for certain items, the name of a restaurant manager, names of other employees or even the type of car the manager drives. To ensure that the teams actually went to the restaurants themselves, ask them to bring back something from each restaurant, such as a branded sugar packet or plastic spoon.

Canned Foot Hunt

Create a canned food hunt, donating all the food found to a charity or food pantry in your area. Make a list that includes specific types of canned food, and diversify the list. Ask for items such as green beans, tuna, canned soup and other vegetables. If you’re worried about the groups finding everything too fast, include a few harder-to-find items, such as a specific brand of canned food found at only one store. You can even get the community involved, by advertising the event and encouraging your teams to ask neighbors and others in the community to donate some items.

Gourmet Food Hunt

For an adult party, make a gourmet food scavenger hunt. Decide ahead of time on a certain cuisine for the party, like Mexican or Italian. Make a few dishes that relate to the cuisine and ask your teams to find dessert and appetizer items. Create your lists ahead of time so that each team knows what to find. For example, if you’re having a Mexican food party, ask guests to find green peppers, jalapeno peppers, tortilla chips and flan. Your teams may need to venture into lesser known stores to find everything on their list.

Tags: scavenger hunt, bring back, canned food, teams find, ahead time

Fun & Inexpensive Wedding Favors

Inexpensive wedding favors don't have to look cheap. Making your own wedding favors can cut costs and allow you to give your guests a favor they will enjoy and appreciate. You can also opt for inexpensive favors that take very little effort yet are useful, cute and sentimental. Work with your wedding theme to create wedding favors that end your day on a perfect note.

Edible Favors

Edible treats are a great choice for wedding favors. They don't add clutter, are sure to be appreciated, and can often be made at home inexpensively. A candy buffet is a popular choice. Fill pretty apothecary jars with various small candies and allow guests to fill their own bags or take out boxes as they leave. You can even include some specialty candies printed with your initials or the date.

For a summer wedding, consider salt water taffy as a wedding favor. Caramel apples or sugared pecans are appropriate for an autumn wedding. You could even give fudge for a winter wedding, if you like.

Candles and Soaps

Small individual candles and soaps are good wedding favor choices. Choose a seasonal scent and package the favors in simple cellophane bags. You may even find that a local soap or candle maker can work with you to make small custom soaps or candles for your wedding. Consider pumpkin or apple scents for autumn, cinnamon or pine for winter, and fresh light fruit and floral scents for a spring or summer wedding. Depending upon what you choose, these favors can typically be made for under $2.00 per guest.

Seed Packets

Seed packets make a beautiful, sentimental and affordable wedding favor--and they're environmentally-friendly, too. Choose seeds that fit the season and style of your wedding or with sentimental meaning. You might select the flowers you used in your bouquet or centerpieces, seasonal seeds, or your favorite flower. Package seeds prettily, either in their original packages or repackaged in small cellophane bags attached to cards you create on your computer. You can purchase good-quality heirloom or organic seeds in large quantities from garden suppliers.

Tags: wedding favors, your wedding, cellophane bags, favors that, summer wedding

Food Ideas For A Jimmy Buffett Party

Cheeseburger

If you're having a Jimmy Buffett-themed, you're in luck for food ideas; he included a lot of food and drink references in many of his songs. "Cheeseburger in Paradise" and "Margaritaville" have them right in the title. Other songs like "I Wish Lunch Could Last Forever" also include ideas for your party. Does this Spark an idea?

Cheeseburgers and Beer

Whether you grill up full-size burgers or serve mini-burgers, cheeseburgers are a must at a Buffett-themed party. To make them Buffett-approved, cook them medium-rare and serve with an onion slice, mustard, lettuce, tomato, Heinz 57 and french fried potatoes on the side. Don't forget the big kosher pickle and cold draft beer.

Margaritas

The margarita is the perfect cocktail to serve at a Jimmy Buffet party--after all, he named his own restaurant Margaritaville. A classic margarita mixes tequila with triple sec and lime juice. Be sure to rim all your glasses with a generous portion of salt and serve on the rocks or frozen, whichever you prefer. Jimmy Buffet wasn't picky.

Grilled Fish

In "I Wish Lunch Could Last Forever," Buffett savors the scent of fish on the grill. Get some fish, preferably a fresh catch, and season it up with spices, then begin the barbecuing.

Pina Colada

"If you like pina coladas ..." you and Jimmy Buffett will get along just fine. Although he didn't originally write or record "The Pina Colada Song"--Rupert Holmes did--pina coladas are another beverage staple that fits perfectly at a Buffett-themed party. This frozen drink is easily prepared with hard rum, cream of coconut and pineapple juice--serve blended or on ice.

Coconut Tart

In "I Wish Lunch Could Last Forever," Buffett sang "We'll begin with dessert a little coconut tart." A coconut tart can be prepared by simply combining eggs, sugar, melted butter, lemon juice and vanilla extract. Stir in flaked coconut and then pour the mixture into individual tart shells, baking for about 40 minutes at 350 degrees. Allow to cool and then serve to your guests. Jimmy Buffett would be proud.

Tags: Could Last, Could Last Forever, Jimmy Buffett, Last Forever, Lunch Could

Food & Culture Of Hawaii

Hawaii's beaches serve as a backdrop to vibrant culture and food.

The U.S.'s 50th state, the islands of Hawaii are not only ecologically beautiful but also blessed with a bright and vibrant traditional South Pacific culture. Though the end of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1959 brought about cultural change, Hawaii has maintained many of the customs from its past that give the state its own character. From dance to food, Hawaiian culture projects warmth and hospitality, bringing together a generous spirit with a unique island flavor.

Surfing

Hawaii gave birth to the sport of surfing, originating as a royal sport but becoming a popular symbol of Hawaiian cultural pride in the early 20th century. Surfing provides great exercise as well as an opportunity to tame the wildness of the waves. Many of the sport's top competitions are held in Hawaii, and a bronze statue of famous Hawaiian surfer Duke Kahanamoku stands as tribute to Hawaii's unique contribution to the world of sports.

Hula

Hula began as a ritual dance performed in honor of a volcano goddess, but was dramatically changed by Christian missionaries in the 19th century. The dance consists of six traditional moves performed in varying orders and styles to the sounds of men chanting. Men and women traditionally wore short skirts made of leaves and loin clothes. Modern tourism has influenced the dance to include the use of full-length palm leaf skirts and guitars or ukuleles.

Hawaiian Food

Hawaiian cuisine is both flavorful and healthy. The sea provides plenty of protein in the form of fish, crabs, squid and shellfish, and chickens and pigs have also been popular. The traditional Hawaiian dish, poi, is a nutritious carbohydrate paste made from pounded taro that came to symbolize peace and hospitality in Hawaii. Fresh fruits like pineapple, bananas, berries and coconuts bring color to any table, and sugar cane is chewed as a snack.

Luaus

The luau is the traditional Hawaiian feast of celebration and hospitality. The feast centers around the imu, a pit dug into the earth, in which a pig cooks. The pit, lined with stones, holds the pig and bundles of side dishes with hot coals. Cooks cover the pit with leaves and dirt. Party-goers sing, dance, and tell stories until it's time to dig up the pit, and all enjoy the slow-cooked pork with various cooked sides such as poi, seafood and fresh fruits and vegetables.

Hawaiian Hospitality

Hospitality is an important aspect of Hawaiian culture. A flower lei necklace is commonly offered with a kiss, and should not be removed in the presence of others. The Hawaiians consider feasting and celebrating luaus to be an important part of social life. The term "aloha," which means hello, goodbye, love, sympathy, compassion and affection, has come to signify the warm and hospitable character of Hawaiian culture and society.

Tags: Hawaiian culture, traditional Hawaiian

Cheap Family Reunion Gifts

Get ready for family reunion by preparing gifts.

Family reunions have been an American tradition for many, many years. Family members can share their histories over good food and reconnect with distant relatives. With families traveling from every corner of the country it is only fitting for them to leave with a small gift or souvenir. Reunion gifts need not be expensive -- it is the thought and creativity that goes into the gift which makes it treasured or memorable.

Family Secrets Cookbook

Have families write down their secret recipes.

During the family reunion preparation stage, send out requests for family recipes. Recipes can be submitted from individual family members or a family as a group. It is especially important to gather favorite recipes from the older relatives -- ones which may have even been handed down to them by ancestors. Print out each recipe and the name of the family member who submitted it and compile a "Family Secrets Cookbook" for reunion attendees. Books need not be professionally printed -- a simple ring binder with clear plastic sleeves will do to immortalize the recipes.

Customized T-Shirt

Make them feel united in a custom printed T-shirt.

Once you've determined exactly how many family members will attend the reunion, order customized T-shirts. When bought in bulk, T-shirts can prove to be a very economical gift. They can be printed with a personalized design, or perhaps the family crest, which proudly unites family members. It is always a nice idea to add the year and location of the family reunion and the shirts usually become a talking point.

Personalized Candy Bars

Personalize the wrapper with the reunion location and date.

Treat each family member to a personalized candy bar as they arrive at or leave the reunion. A chocolate bar is rewrapped, leaving the original wrapper intact. The new wrapper is one which has been personalized to the specifications of the buyer. You can choose from a number of designs, or make your own. Decide between using the family name, individual members' names, or the reunion date, location and a message. Personalized candy bars are a sweet treat for all and the wrapper is a great souvenir.

Magnetic Photo Frame

Take a group photo for the frame.

Present families with a magnetic photo frame. These are picture frames which are traditionally used on the refrigerator and are made in sturdy acrylic. You can also buy them in a soft sleeve design. Once the photograph is inserted, magnets hold it onto the fridge. Gather everyone and take a group photo -- or, depending on how many families attend, photograph each family unit. At a later date, you can mail out the photos and reunion attendees can complete the picture frame. They are certain to bring a smile and family pride in kitchens from coast to coast.

Tags: each family, family member, family members, family reunion, Family Secrets, Family Secrets Cookbook

Filipino Birthday Games

Try some time-honored game ideas for a filipino birthday party.

Filipino birthday games can be traditional games played by children of Philippine descent. In the Philippines, children play in the streets with sticks and rocks and play running games similar to the game of tag. Traditional Filipino birthday games don't require fancy equipment or a lot of preparation. Children from any culture will enjoy these fun and energetic games.

Tumbang Preso

Tumbang preso is a simple game in which three or more children can participate. According to the Cultural Heritage website, globalpinoy.com, players select the child who will be "it" or a child can volunteer to play "it." Place a can or plastic bottle in the middle of the game area. The child playing "it" stands near the can or plastic bottle and tries to protect the can from being knocked over by the other children. The game is then played similar to the game of "tag." The child playing "it" must chase the other children around the play area trying to tag one of them while protecting the can. If the child playing "it" tags a child, but another child has knocked the can over, the tag does not count. A tag only counts if the can is upright.

Children may throw their shoes at the can, or run into the play area and kick the can over. If a child manages to run into the play area and kick the can over without getting tagged first, she can recover all the shoes before the can is placed upright again and bring them back to the other children.

Piko

Piko is a hopping game played by an even number of children and similar to hop scotch. According to globalpinoy.com, the children draw a game board on the ground with chalk. The diagram consists of an oval divided with an X. Write the numbers two, three, four and five inside each wedge of the oval created by drawing the X. Draw a semi-circle at each end of the oval and half oval on each side. Write the numbers one and six inside the semi-circles at each end, and write the numbers seven and eight in each of the half ovals on either side. The semi-circles and the half oval shapes are called the "moons."

Each player selects his or her "moon" and tosses a stone into that section. The player needs to hop onto the game board and kick the stone out of the moon. The next time the player throws the stone into the number two, he hops to that space and kicks the stone out of the space. Number five is next and then six and so on.

Patintero

According to the Center for Southeast Asian studies at Northern Illinois University, players for the game, Patintero, are divided into teams with an equal number of players. The teams decide on the winning score before the game begins. They may decide that the winner will be the first team to score five points, for example. The play area is a rectangle divided into four parts. The teams can toss a coin or draw straws to decide which team will be the taggers, and the other team will be the runners. The taggers have to stand on the perpendicular lines of the rectangle. The tagger standing on the perpendicular line in the middle is allowed to move on the parallel line that intersects with the middle line. The runners must take turns running through the rectangle while avoiding the taggers. A runner scores a point when he gets through the taggers. If any runner gets tagged, the teams switch places. The winner is the first team to reach the agreed upon score.

Tags: play area, child playing, other children, area kick, area kick over, birthday games, divided into

Elmo Birthday Party Ideas For Toddlers

Elmo themed birthday parties appeal to young children.

Elmo is a popular character from the Sesame Street children's television show. He is a red Muppet character that remains at the age of three years old. Elmo appeals to younger children because he enjoys having fun by investigating new things and playing. Invite children to an Elmo party and ask them to wear red to fit into the Elmo theme. Does this Spark an idea?

Elmo and Friends

Create a classic party theme of Elmo and his friends from Sesame Street. Include the classic characters of Big Bird, Cookie Monster, Grover and Oscar the Grouch along with the more recent characters of Zoe and Abby. Continue the classic party theme by playing traditional games of pin the nose on Elmo and counting the number of pieces of candy or coins in a jar with Count Dracula. Serve pizza, if having a meal, since it is Elmo's favorite food and include a plate of cookies from Cookie Monster. You also could have the children decorate Sesame Street shaped cookies with frosting instead of having a cake.

Elmo Says

Elmo has many things to say, which makes a great theme for a party. Start by hanging signs with Elmo sayings printed on them. Use large pieces of tag board to make the signs easy to read with plenty of room for colorful pictures. Make or purchase an Elmo birthday cake and include cupcakes with red frosting. Insert an Elmo saying attached to a toothpick into each cupcake to follow with the theme. Include a game of Elmo Says, which has the same rules as Simon says except Elmo is the main character.

Elmo's World

A party theme using "Elmo's World" will brighten the eyes of young children. Decorate the party room similar to the crayon animated room in the television show. Draw a table, dresser and other furnishings onto tag board and hang them over the real object in the room to transform it into "Elmo's World." Include the characters of Mr. Noodle and Dorothy the goldfish to follow the theme. Use crayon candles on an Elmo shaped or decorated cake and give crayons with a sketch pad to the kids as party favors.

Elmo Luau

Elmo likes to have fun, which makes having a luau or beach themed party a perfect theme to combine with the Elmo character. Purchase low cost grass skirts and leis for the party guests to get them in the party theme. Another option is to create a crafting area where each guest can make their own skirt out of large sheets of paper and leis out of silk or paper flowers. Decorate the room with luau and beach themed items along with Elmo. Dress Tickle Me Elmo or stuffed Elmo toys in grass skirts and flower leis to place around the room.

Tags: party theme, Elmo World, Sesame Street, with Elmo, along with, beach themed

90s Dress Up Party Ideas

90s Dress Up Party Ideas

As a decade, the 1990s had its fair share of memorable fads and makes a great theme for a costume party. Between 1990 and 1999, fashion, music, and technology trends came and went rather quickly. From costumes to music, there is a wide variety of 1990s topics that can be touched on for the big party. Does this Spark an idea?

Invitations

Make invitations that capture the theme. Use pictures of '90s icons like The Fresh Prince, Nirvana, the Spice Girls, or Seinfeld. References to Y2K, the Monica Lewinsky scandal or pogs are other classic additions. Be sure to tell guests that 1990s-style costumes are expected.

Costume Ideas

The 1990s had an array of fashion fads: overalls worn with one or both straps unbuttoned; pants worn backwards like Kris Kross; backwards and sideways baseball caps; sagging jeans with boxer shorts underneath. Band t-shirts featuring Pearl Jam, Soundgarden or Nirvana were popular, as were bleached-blond hair and fanny packs. Teenage girls sported midriff-exposing shirts with bellybutton rings. If these ideas don't inspire you, consider dressing up like a famous 1990s celebrity such as Baby Spice, Kurt Cobain, Bill Clinton, Ross Perot, anyone from "Friends," the Fresh Prince or one of the Saved By the Bell characters.

Music

Liven up the party with a classic 1990s play list. For hip hop, don't forget to include MC Hammer, Vanilla Ice, Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg. Pop music trendsetters like TLC, Backstreet Boys, Jewel and Alanis Morissette are also musts for a 1990s theme. Grunge hits and 90s rock from Nirvana, the Smashing Pumpkins, Pearl Jam, Radiohead, Sublime, the Mighty Mighty Bosstones, U2, Metallica and Limp Bizkit will bring nostalgic moments to the party.

More Ideas

Have your guests bring classic photos of themselves from the '90s and set them up on a board or lay them out on a table. Bust out the old Nintendo 64 or Sega Genesis for the evening. And put on The Macarena by Los Del Rio to get everyone dancing.

Tags: Dress Party, Dress Party Ideas, Fresh Prince, Party Ideas

Breast Cancerfree Party Ideas

Breast cancer survivors celebrating in walk

You have beaten breast cancer and you want to throw a life-affirming celebration like no one has ever seen. A party celebrating that you are finally breast cancer-free can be a truly joyous occasion. Fortunately, there are more products than ever before to help you celebrate this milestone. First and foremost, you will want to do everything in pink, and remember to display the breast cancer awareness pink ribbon symbol. Does this Spark an idea?

"Pinkify" Your Guests

Woman in pink dress

Pink is an excellent color theme for a breast cancer-free party. Ask your guests, even any men who are invited, to wear something pink, and pass out pink ribbons for guests to pin on their shoulders. You may even want to have pink clip-in hair extensions available. Make the theme as pink as possible.

Decorations

Woman blowing up pink balloon

Decorations can include pink and white balloons with the word "free" written on them. Another option is to write "breast cancer" on the balloons and then cross the word out. Use a black marker to do the lettering, and to it after the balloons are blown up. String pink and white streamers up as well. For centerpieces, you can set up pink and white candles.

Food

Woman toasting with strawberry daiquiri

"Pinkify" your food as well. Serve pink lemonade or punch to drink. The cake should be pink and say something about surviving breast cancer. Mix pink food coloring into biscuit dough and make pink pigs in blankets. Whip up sandwiches with pink mayonnaise. Add pink to anything you can think of or that ties in with the theme. You may want to get a cookie cutter in the shape of a ribbon and cut out little sandwiches with it.

Party with a Purpose

Susan G. Komen benefit concert

Since you're throwing a party, people will likely want to bring a gift. A good alternative to accepting gifts is to request that guests donate to a breast cancer research organization such as Susan G. Komen or the National Breast Cancer Foundation. The easiest way to request this is on the invitation, and it should be a request, not a demand. Word it something like this: "In lieu of gifts, please donate to Susan G. Komen." This wording informs guests that if they want to donate they can, but they do not have to.

Tags: breast cancer, pink white, Susan Komen, breast cancer, breast cancer-free

Beautiful Birthday Cake Ideas For Kids

Birthday cakes for kids can be as creative as they are sweet.

Birthday cake is perhaps the most important ingredient for a special and memorable day. Sometimes vanilla or chocolate just doesn't cut it. All it takes is a little creativity to mix up a beautiful birthday cake that will wow kids and delight taste buds. Draw inspiration from these ideas, and then let your imagination run wild. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Castle Cake

Castles cakes are stunning to look at and inspire magical wishes in girls and boys. Depending on the child, you can tailor the cake's colors to make a fairy princess castle (pinks and purples), a wizard's castle (blue, white and purple) or a medieval castle (browns and golds). Use a round cake pan to create a base, and then add a smaller round cake on top of the base. Create towers by turning sugared ice cream cones upside down. Use various sizes to add height and dimension to the castle. Create details such as a draw bridge bricks, and trees using candies and cookies.

Cupcake Cake

A cupcake cake is ideal for big birthday parties with several guests. Simply bake 24 cupcakes in your favorite flavor. Allow them to cool before frosting. Assembling the cupcake cake can be a bit tricky. You will need several long, wooden skewer sticks on hand to steady your creation. Start with a cake tray, and place a craft cone (available at your local craft store) on to the tray. Place a cupcake on to the side of the cone by poking your skewer through the top of the cake into the cone. Continue adding cupcakes to the cone until the entire shape is covered. If you're serving small kids, make sure to help them remove the skewer. This is a a beautiful cake that will make a stunning party centerpiece.

Doll Cake

The doll birthday cake is a classic and still a favorite today. Kids love this cake because, not only do they get dessert, they get a toy as well. The doll is submerged into the cake up to her waist. The cake forms a gorgeous, full skirt around her waist. This cake is actually quite simple to make but does require some fairly detailed decorations. For the cake, you will simple need to bake two tube shaped cakes and one bowl shaped cake in whatever flavor you'd like. Once baked, assemble these parts so that you have a dome shape. Pop your doll into the top of the dome. Frost the cake completely, and then add details like flowers, swirls, metallic beads and curls. Make the decorations as detailed and beautiful as you chose.

Bird's Nest Cake

A cake shaped like a bird's nest is a delicate, beautiful choice for nature lovers. Bake a traditional, round chocolate cake and frost with chocolate icing. For the bird's nest, you will need several pretzel sticks. If possible, choose sticks that are low sodium to avoid an unpleasant clash in flavors. Place the sticks on to the surface of the cake by sticking some into the cake and leaving some to lay flat. You are aiming to build up the nest to about 1 inch high. Continue placing sticks in a random nest shape. Use frosting to hold sticks in place, if necessary. Add marshmallow chicks and foil-wrapped Easter eggs to the inside of the nest.

Sunflower Cake

Sunflower cakes are bright and beautiful for a summer birthday party. Bake a round yellow cake, and frost it with lemon or vanilla icing. Using citrus slices, decorate by placing the slices in a circle around the top of the cake. Start with orange slices, and place them side by side around the perimeter of the cake. Switch to lemon slices as you move inwards. When you get to the center of the cake, switch to chocolate chips. Kids love to pick the candies and chocolate off of the cake, so this one is a real crowd pleaser.

Tags: bird nest, cake frost, cake frost with, cake that, cake that will, chocolate cake

Diy Boarding Pass Invitations

You can make your own boarding pass using card stock.

Planning a party requires invitations to let the guest know the party details. You can always purchase generic invitations at your local party-supply store. But if you are planning a party that revolves around trains, planes, boats or traveling, you can make your own distinctive and creative invitations yourself. Making boarding pass invitations is inexpensive and requires only card stock and some time to complete.

Instructions

1. Cut a piece of card stock into a rectangular shape using scissors. You can use any color card stock you like, such as solid colors or a patterned paper that matches your theme. For example, consider card stock with trains on it or a map pattern. The final size of the rectangle is up to you. A good size to shoot for is 6 by 4 inches.

2. Turn the rectangle so that the long sides are the top and bottom and the short sides are the sides. Write the words "Boarding Pass" across the top of the card stock. Use freehand writing, stencils or stamps to write the words.

3. Write your invitation information below the words "Boarding Pass." Use boarding pass wording for the headings. For example, include "Date," "Departure Time," "Arrival Time," "Departure Location" and "Destination." Departure time would be the start of the party, and arrival time would be the end time. Departure location would be the party's address. Destination would be anywhere you are "going" with the party.

Also be sure to include an RSVP request. Personalize it to the type of boarding pass. For example, if you are doing train invitations, use "RSVP to the conductor." Substitute "pilot" if these are plane invitations or "captain" if they are boat invitations.

4. Indicate on the ticket that your guests should bring the invitation with them. Use wording such as "Ticket Required for Boarding." When the guests arrive, either tear the edge off the invitation when they pass through the door or use a hole punch to punch the edge of the invitation.

5. Repeat the entire process to create as many invitations as you need. Place the completed invitations in an envelope and mail or hand-deliver them.

Tags: card stock, boarding pass, Boarding Pass, edge invitation, make your, time would

Game Ideas For A Hawaiian Party

Leis make good game prizes for a Hawaiian party.

The Hawaiian Islands represent many things to many people, but in general people associate the islands with such pleasant things as honeymoons and vacations. Anyone who loves Hawaii will enjoy a party with a Hawaiian theme. Adding some tropical games to your next Hawaiian party will help to make the fun complete. Does this Spark an idea?

Limbo

Get some lively Hawaiian music playing and grab a piece of bamboo or a stick about three to four feet long. Two people hold the stick, starting at about waist high, and players dance under it, one at a time. To do the limbo, lean backwards, bend your knees and lower yourself so that you pass under the limbo stick without touching it, your back above and clear of the ground and your face pointing upward. Once everyone has passed under the stick at one height it should be lowered. This is repeated until only one player is able to make it under the stick, and he becomes the limbo champion for the night.

Name Game

As people arrive, give each person a name tag with his name in both English and Hawaiian. Websites that provide translations are available online to help you find Hawaiian names for everybody. Be sure each person wears her name tag, and encourage the guests to mingle and learn each other's Hawaiian names. Later in the party, ask everyone to remove their name tags. Have each guest try to identify everyone by using only the Hawaiian names. The person who remembers the most is the winner.

Hula Hoop Contest

The object of this game is to keep the hula hoop spinning around your waist for as long as possible. Use some Hawaiian hula music for the background and give each guest a chance to see how long he can work a hula hoop before it falls to the ground. If you have a variety of age groups divide players by age. Each age group can compete among themselves or against the other age groups. Other ways to make a hula hoop contest more interesting are to award points for style in addition to timing how long a person can keep the hoop from falling. If you have a large group, break everybody up into teams of three or four people, and have two teams hula-hooping at the same time. Whichever team has the last player spinning her hoop is the winner of the round. They will compete against the next team to determine the overall winner.

Tags: Hawaiian names, each guest, each person, give each, Hawaiian party, hula hoop