How to Set a Beautiful Christmas Dinner Table

Christmas dinner is the time to bring your loved ones together and create memories that will last a lifetime. One of the easiest ways that you can create a special meal is by creating a beautiful table to serve your meal on.

Start with a tablecloth. It doesn’t have to be expensive but a nice Holiday color that will match the rest of your décor. China is not always a must, especially when you will have a house full of guests and children. Using a simple color palette is the way to go. You can use an inexpensive red charger plate with a green plate on top or vise versa.

Another great way to set a beautiful Christmas table is to create a special centerpiece for your table. This too can be simple and affordable. Simply fill a glass bowl with Christmas bulbs or pine cones. You don’t have to be a designer to create a beautiful table.

For a fun and whimsical touch, add personalized holiday napkins. They come in several different holiday designs with many different colors to choose from. It will also give your table that personalized touch that will make your guest feel at home, not to mention save you from washing a ton of linen napkins.

By following these easy tips, you will be able to make a beautiful table while also getting your creative juices flowing. And as you sit down to your holiday meal, your heart will be filled with Holiday cheer to see how beautiful everything looks!

Carrie

Brooch Bridal Bouquets by Fantasy Floral Designs

This week we want to pay tribute to the exquisite bridal bouquet designs from fantasyfloraldesigns.com.  Amanda Heer of Fantasy Floral Designs creates the unexpected by fashioning mini brooches and the accents of your choice into one-of-a-kind bridal brooch bouquets.  We love her use of vintage inspired accents and unique materials.  Why brooches?  Besides being completely unique, your custom bouquet will never wilt or die and can be kept for years as a gorgeous keepsake of your special day.

Amanda takes great pride in giving brides her undivided attention, working one-on-one with clients to make their vision become a reality.  During your personal interview with Amanda, she will take notes on your likes and dislikes.  You will go through pictures and portfolios to find the look your after.

To contact Amanda, visit fantasyfloraldesigns.com; 949.240.3571.  Located in San Juan Capistrano, CA.  Consultations scheduled on Mon., Tues., and Wed. only.

Allie

Personalized Christmas Candy and Cookie Boxes are a Must Have This Holiday Season

These personalized candy and cookie boxes are just what you have been looking for. They are the perfect boxes for passing out all the Christmas goodies you will either be baking or buying this Holiday Season.

These boxes come in all shapes and sizes. They come with many different holiday designs and letter styles so that you can match the boxes to your favorite Christmas décor.

Save the wrap, tape and bows. With these personalized boxes you can fill them up with what ever treats or gift you have in mind and start passing them out to your mailman, paperboy, co-workers, school teachers etc. The personalized message you add will also save you that tag you normally have to add. Image all the time you are going to save on wrapping presents.

Don’t forget about Weddings! Personalized Christmas candy and cookie boxes are the perfect ideas for Christmas themed weddings. They will make the perfect favor box to send home with your guests. Filling these boxes with homemade holiday treats will not only make a great favor but also save you some money and definitely put a smile on your guest’s faces.

Carrie

Crafty Boutonnieres from Etsy.com's Peppermintcloud

Take a look at the fresh and innovative boutonniere designs from etsy.com seller Litton of peppermintcloud.  Litton has an eye for all things crafty and has filled her store with one-of-a-kind bridal hair clips/fascinators and boutonnieres.  We love her use of unique materials, funky color combinations, and retro inspired patterns.

To view more designs from Litton, visit peppermintcloud.etsy.com. 

Allie

Affordable Honeymoon Destination Ideas and Tips

Affordable honeymoon destination ideas are easy to come by. When planning your wedding, include a set amount in the budget for your honeymoon and stick to it.  With the increasing cost of international flights and tough economic times, consider less popular overseas locations or traveling within the United States instead of abroad.

A honeymoon registry will help curb costs the same way you register for wedding gifts and will give family and friends the option to pitch in for your trip.  Research all-inclusive package deals at resorts, cruises and hotels that offer honeymoon packages, which may even include airfare. When booking your trip with a travel agency online or in person, always ask for discounts. Discount information is not always readily volunteered, but is available. Also ask the travel agent the least expensive times to travel such as off-season tourist months when it becomes considerably cheaper.

Another great tip, don't be shy, mention often that you are on your honeymoon. Restaurants and hotels will sometimes throw in additional complementary services, such as bottles of champagne, free meals, gift baskets and more.

Whether you are planning your first or second honeymoon it’s best to choose a location that is appealing to the both of you and within your budget. Decide if you will travel by plane or car. Research activities you would like to try or already enjoy doing together for a great bonding experience.

Renee'