Homemade Fruit Bars - Nut & Dairy Free!
I love fruit bars so much and have relied on them to be a healthy snack while on the run. My husband recently purchased "That's It" fruit bars that are made completely of fruit. I became addicted to them and wanted to know what was in them. On the back of the package, it listed two ingredients - apples and strawberries. That's It! {Hence the name, haha!}
I was so curious that the fruit bar could be so delicious with only two ingredients, so I was on a quest to make them myself! My favorite "That's It" fruit bar is apple and strawberry. The package states there is one apple and twelve strawberries in the bar. I blended the two fruits in my food processor, poured the puree in a pan and popped them in the freezer. If you follow me on Instagram, you saw my first attempt. Well...it would be a great popsicle but not a fruit bar. The mixture was too soft and runny.
How did they do it? This was a fruit bar with a thicker texture. Did they lie? Was there something added that they did not list?! I began to go over what I did wrong and I kept going back to the fact the puree was too runny. I needed to get rid of the water in the fruit. Voila! Dehydrated fruit!
I went to my local grocery store that offers dried fruits by the pound. I purchased dried apple rings, dried cranberries, dried cherries and dried cran strawberries. I brought them home and made these amazing fruit bars! Only two ingredients, nut free, vegan and delicious!
I went to my local grocery store that offers dried fruits by the pound. I purchased dried apple rings, dried cranberries, dried cherries and dried cran strawberries. I brought them home and made these amazing fruit bars! Only two ingredients, nut free, vegan and delicious!
Apple Cherry Fruit Bar
10 dried apple rings
1/2 cup dried cherries
Apple Cranberry Fruit Bar
10 dried apple rings
3/4 cup cranberries
Apple Cran Strawberry Fruit Bar
10 dried apple rings
3/4 cup cran strawberries*
10 dried apple rings
1/2 cup dried cherries
Apple Cranberry Fruit Bar
10 dried apple rings
3/4 cup cranberries
Apple Cran Strawberry Fruit Bar
10 dried apple rings
3/4 cup cran strawberries*
You could easily shape these with molds or form the mixture into balls.
My favorite is the Apple Cran Strawberry and my husband's favorite is the Apple Cherry!
Let me know if you make them! I would love to see your creations!
*This specific blend was offered in my grocery store. I did not blend cranberries and strawberries, but you can easily do it yourself!
My favorite is the Apple Cran Strawberry and my husband's favorite is the Apple Cherry!
Let me know if you make them! I would love to see your creations!
*This specific blend was offered in my grocery store. I did not blend cranberries and strawberries, but you can easily do it yourself!
Natural Changes
As my husband and I have taken meat out of our diets, I have begun analyzing other areas of my health that could be improved.
I have found some new techniques and products that are working well for me and are better for my health. I wanted to share some new changes in my daily routine and hopefully they inspire you to look to improve your daily routine as well!
Diet
Being a pescatarian for three years, I have noticed I have replaced meat with carbs. My go-to meal has become pastas and rice dishes to keep me feeling full without the meat. As I shared on my Instagram, I purchased the Veggetti which is a vegetable spiralizer. This tool helps you create spiral shapes from vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, squash and potatoes. I will be sharing a meal and full review soon, but it has definitely helped me get the "pasta" meal without the carbs.
I have purchased the book, The Food Babe Way, and also follow her through her website and Instagram. Reading her story of her health battles and how she relieved her symptoms through a dietary change is very inspiring to me. I am currently a third of the way into the book and looking forward to trying the recipes she shares! If you are interested in knowing the truth behind our food companies and how to clean your diet from chemicals, I encourage you to also check out her book!
I have been interested in drinking alkaline water versus the standard tap water and have been researching the benefits. Alkaline water is a pH balancing water without the added flouride our tap water has. Have any of you tried alkaline water? What are your thoughts?
Beauty
I have been sans makeup for a few weeks and have been enjoying the change in my skin! I recently received a sample of the St. Ive's Apricot Scrub and this one item has changed my skin overnight! On the first application I realized my skin looked brighter and the blotchy redness I have in the mornings was gone. The scrub is a very gentle daily exfoliant and has been the main tool to helping me go without makeup for so long.
I have also been using coconut oil as my moisturizer instead of lotion. When I can remember, I try to apply it before I go to bed so it can really sit on my skin overnight. Coconut oil is a very light oil for my skin, when applied lightly, and lasts throughout the day. During this winter season, my husband was experiencing dryness in the middle of the day and was trying to find a different lotion that could last. I suggested for him to give coconut oil a try and with only one day use, he was excited to see he did not have to reapply lotion and his skin was still moisturized at the end of the day.
Hair Care
As I am on the hunt for my holy grail product, I have found that my hair reacts well to Aloe Vera. I have used aloe vera gel and recently purchased Aubrey Organics Aloe Vera Juice. Using it in addition to the Mixed Chicks Leave In conditioner, my hair is still lightweight, but has a great curl definition/hold. Since I have seen how well my hair responds to aloe vera, I am now on a search for an aloe vera shampoo and conditioner. My hair is moisturized with the aloe vera juice and my leave-in conditioner, but it is dry after I use products to wash and detangle. I am interested to see what an increase in aloe vera will do to my hair health. I will keep you posted!
Do you have any natural beauty or health routines?
I would love to know what you do!
Two Year Anniversary!
This weekend my husband and I will be celebrating our two year wedding anniversary! We were told leading up to our wedding that the years would fly by once we were married and that saying couldn’t be more true! Our two years together as husband and wife have been filled with many great life moments which helped the months speed past us.
Here are a few of our favorite highlights from these two years:
In April 2013 we became husband and wife.
Here are a few of our favorite highlights from these two years:
In April 2013 we became husband and wife.
Now here we are in April 2015 celebrating our two year anniversary!
To celebrate our anniversary, we will be heading to Carlsbad, California. An hour north of San Diego, Carlsbad is a city along the Pacific Coast and is referred to as “The Village By the Sea.” Photography Services - ArtClip
We are looking forward to a weekend getaway and
I am counting down the hours until I can lounge by this pool and roast some s'mores!
To celebrate our anniversary, we will be heading to Carlsbad, California. An hour north of San Diego, Carlsbad is a city along the Pacific Coast and is referred to as “The Village By the Sea.” Photography Services - ArtClip
We are looking forward to a weekend getaway and
I am counting down the hours until I can lounge by this pool and roast some s'mores!
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I pray you have a blessed weekend. We do not celebrate Easter in the sense of bunnies and Easter eggs. For us, it is a time to remember Jesus Christ and his death for our sins. We honor this day through remembrance and take joy in knowing His rising from the grave has given us the opportunity to live in Heaven with Him for all eternity. Now that is truly something to celebrate!
What you Should Ask When Hire a Professional Wedding Photographer and Wedding Videographer?
Sometimes, while planning your wedding and looking for professional photo and video services, some couples could face difficulties to find the right person they really trust. In this case, the wise step towards finding the right videographer or photographer to film your wedding is to be prepared in advance.
What should you ask the Wedding Professionals when it comes to hiring their services?
To get the right answers, you need to ask the right questions. Whenever possible, put everything in writing to avoid any glitches later on.
How long have you been in business?
Do you have a portfolio I can browse through?
Who will be taking the pictures?
What packages are available?
Do you have skills in soft focus, diffused lighting, split framing and multiple exposure?
Will the equipment be able to shoot in any light available
Is negative retouching available?
How many pictures will be taken?
What picture sizes are offered?
How much time will the photographer spend at the Ceremony and Reception?
What are the costs? Reprints? Deposit? When?
What extras does the photographer offer?
How many weddings have been shot in the last couple of months and ask to see recent work?
I Hope, those questions will help you to make the right choice and you'll be happy with your wedding pictures and video and your precious moments will be with you a long time in your life!
What should you ask the Wedding Professionals when it comes to hiring their services?
To get the right answers, you need to ask the right questions. Whenever possible, put everything in writing to avoid any glitches later on.
How long have you been in business?
Do you have a portfolio I can browse through?
Who will be taking the pictures?
What packages are available?
Do you have skills in soft focus, diffused lighting, split framing and multiple exposure?
Will the equipment be able to shoot in any light available
Is negative retouching available?
How many pictures will be taken?
What picture sizes are offered?
How much time will the photographer spend at the Ceremony and Reception?
What are the costs? Reprints? Deposit? When?
What extras does the photographer offer?
How many weddings have been shot in the last couple of months and ask to see recent work?
I Hope, those questions will help you to make the right choice and you'll be happy with your wedding pictures and video and your precious moments will be with you a long time in your life!
Dollar Tree Haul
I love a great bargain and love hunting for deals. It is no surprise, I am addicted to Dollar Stores! I love the Dollar Tree and 99 Cents Only Store. I can always find name brand products for only a dollar and today I wanted to share a recent Dollar Tree Haul!
I have found people who haven't visited a dollar store believe there are cheap brands and items that aren't of quality. This is far from the truth! I compare shopping at dollar stores to shopping at a thrift store - it is not for everyone, but there are gems that you have to be willing to look for.
I personally love the Dollar Tree for beauty products, party decor and home decor items. The Dollar Tree tends to carry higher quality items than the 99 Cents Only Store and they have a great variety. I love the 99 Cents Only Store for paper goods, canned food items and kitchen items. Many local 99 Cents Only Stores carry the Betty Crocker and Pillsbury kitchen line and the items I have purchased have lasted a very long time.
On to the haul! This particular haul is from the Dollar Tree and I found some amazing gems I plan to repurchase!
Food Items
I purchased some new items to try and items I have loved.
I purchased some new items to try and items I have loved.
- I purchased the pita and flatbread crisps and look forward to seeing if I love them! I love eating pitas with hummus and thought chips would be a fun alternative.
- The Sunrise Fruit Snacks were delicious and will be a repurchase for me.
- I love the nectar juices and Arizona Iced Teas and love to purchase them for only a dollar.
- I am trying to drink more tea and thought adding the Hazelnut syrup would be a fun, sweet additive. I have already used it a few times and only use a cap-size full to a cup of tea. It is a light flavor and the hazelnut is a great touch to my morning routine!
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Beauty Products
I LOVE trying new beauty products and the Dollar Tree always carries new items I love to try!
I LOVE trying new beauty products and the Dollar Tree always carries new items I love to try!
- I am in love with these eye masks and face masks! This was my first time purchasing these items and instantly saw results with both items. I will definitely repurchase!
- I love the Yardley brand soap and the oatmeal is very beneficial to my skin
- You can never go wrong with a new water bottle and we recently went on a trip, so it was time to repurchase a travel toothbrush! This pack was great because it included a cap to cover the toothbrush, floss and tooth picks.
- The rose scented bath salts have the perfect rose scent and make my morning routines so luxurious. I don't take baths very often, but I love to sprinkle a few of the bath salts into the corner of my shower. The steam accentuates the rose scent and they naturally dissolve in the water. A great way to make a daily shower a spa like experience!
- The clarifying toner was a new purchase for me and I love it! It is very gentle on my skin and has really helped even out my skin tone. I also love to use the cotton rounds with the toner for easy application.
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Miscellaneous Items
- I love these new cups I found! The gold plastic tumbler cup is a beautiful cup and I love to take it with me on my errands. The glass mugs are beautiful and I love large mugs for my tea so the purple cup was perfect!
- This mercury pillar stand was a diamond in the rough!!! I could not believe my eyes when I saw this item in the Dollar Tree! I snagged it up very quickly and ran walked like a calm adult to the candle aisle to pick-up a candle to compliment it! I'm so excited to add this to our home and currently have it next to our bathtub.
- I love purchasing my bobby pins and scrunchies at the Dollar Tree. I have found the same items are $2 - $3 at other stores, so I always stock up when I visit the Dollar Tree.
- I love the Lady Speed Stick deodarant and can purchase a full size in the store.
- The accessory hanger and rhinestone key chain were new items that I am in love with! The accessory hangers are black felt that feel very high quality. I could easily see this item being sold in a Target store, so I was excited to see it here! I also love the rhinestone keychain and it is very sturdy for all of the keys I keep on hand for work.
What are your favorite items to purchase there?
Please let me know in the comments below!
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Healthy Meal Options
I recently stumbled upon an article that showed school lunches from around the world. It was a true eye opener to see the difference our American schools are feeding children vs. schools internationally. The article reminded me of our experience visiting Europe and how the dishes were so fresh, the flavors so powerful and the portions so small!
Americans eat so much food and the food we eat is so poor for us, it is no wonder our society is experiencing so many health issues.
After reading the article, it finally clicked for me - I need to eat better. I need to make more meals at home, I need to make sure my husband has healthy meals and we need to feel better overall. I noticed my recently hectic schedule has caused me to eat out more than I care to and I have felt sluggish and sick to my stomach far more often than I would want to be. When I finally had time to make a meal, my body felt fine and I had my normal amount of energy back. Seeing the difference in a short week and then reading the article gave me the fire I needed to make a change.
I wanted to share with you a few things I have found that is helping me get my family back on track.
Youtube Channels
I love Youtube and love finding new channels to watch! Below are some of my favorite Youtube Channels who have great, healthy recipes that are easy to make.
Fully Raw Kristina
A vegan lifestyle channel with gorgeous photos of fruits and vegetables. A great way to receive inspiration for a healthy, vegan lifestyle.
Rawvana
Another vegan recipe channel that infuses cultural flair to the dishes.
Mind Over Munch
A scientific look into eating healthy and healthy recipes. She is very entertaining, provides great health tips and knows her facts!
The Domestic Geek
Another great channel that provides a wide range of recipes from comfort food to healthy choices. She usually will show one recipe made three different ways and always incorporates a vegetarian/vegan option.
Fully Raw Kristina
A vegan lifestyle channel with gorgeous photos of fruits and vegetables. A great way to receive inspiration for a healthy, vegan lifestyle.
Rawvana
Another vegan recipe channel that infuses cultural flair to the dishes.
Mind Over Munch
A scientific look into eating healthy and healthy recipes. She is very entertaining, provides great health tips and knows her facts!
The Domestic Geek
Another great channel that provides a wide range of recipes from comfort food to healthy choices. She usually will show one recipe made three different ways and always incorporates a vegetarian/vegan option.
Pinterest
I love Pinterest and love finding recipes to try through the website. If you aren't following me, you can find me here and follow my "Dishes To Try" board where I pin various recipes from drinks, appetizers, meals, snacks and dessert ideas. You might even see some familiar dishes over there. :)
Blogs
I have to show my support to fellow bloggers and below are some favorites of mine. A few below (noted) are blogs my dear friend Leslie recommended and I have recently discovered.
Damn Delicious
I found this blog through a recipe on Pinterest and fell in love with the other recipe ideas.
Our Best Bites
This is an old favorite of mine with amazing recipes! Most of them are comfort food, but there are amazing recipes that can be altered to be a healthier option and they also are adding to their list to include healthier meals.
Food Babe
This is a new find and I am in love with the amazing recipes she shares. She also has great information about our food, how it is made and how to make the best choices when selecting food for your family.
Well Plated
A blog suggested by my friend Leslie. I have taken a quick look and am excited to try these recipes! The Veggie Lo Mein was recommended and is on my list to make this week!
Eating Bird Food
Another great recommendation. This blog features a lot of vegetarian and pescatarian dishes which I am excited for!
Do you have any favorites for recipe inspiration?
What is your favorite healthy recipe to make?
I would love more ideas!
Shea Moisture Product Line Review
When I began my natural hair journey, the Shea Moisture product line was the first one I become aware of. A company with natural products at an affordable price was an immediate draw for me. Over the years, the company has expanded their line to include various products targeting different hair needs. It became a little overwhelming to me to decide which one would work best for my hair type. If you have a similar hair type like mine (mix of 3b/3c curls), I hope you find this review helpful!
Tahitian Noni and Monoi Line - Rinse Out Conditioner
Fragrance:The fragrance is light and tropical. Very pleasant and since this is a rinse-out conditioner, the scent does not linger.
Cost: $9.99
Texture: A medium consistency that is more on the watery side, than thick texture. The product provides slip which allows in easier detangling.
Target Hair Type: Wavy, Curly and Frizzy Hair
Result: I purchased this product to reduce the constant frizz my hair has embraced. I found this product really reduced my normal frizz on the first application. However, I have been using this product for two weeks and have not seen a further reduction of frizz. With the smell and decrease of frizz I used to experience, I would still repurchase this product.
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Coconut & Hibiscus - Curl & Style Milk
Fragrance: This was the first line I tried and I fell in the love with the scent! The product has a fruity, sweet fragrance.
Cost: $10.99
Texture: A thinner creamy consistency, similar to a creamy salad dressing (like ranch).
Target Hair Type: Thick, Curly Hair
Result: I received this product from a friend with type 4 hair texture and she did not find it helped her hair. Unfortunately I was also very disappointed in this product. I used the product as a leave-in and styler, which left my hair very frizzy and caused high shrinkage. As you can see in the image above, there is a high amount of frizz remaining in my hair and my hair did not feel moisturized once dry.
Overall Rating: 1 out of 5 stars
Cost: $10.99
Texture: A thinner creamy consistency, similar to a creamy salad dressing (like ranch).
Target Hair Type: Thick, Curly Hair
Result: I received this product from a friend with type 4 hair texture and she did not find it helped her hair. Unfortunately I was also very disappointed in this product. I used the product as a leave-in and styler, which left my hair very frizzy and caused high shrinkage. As you can see in the image above, there is a high amount of frizz remaining in my hair and my hair did not feel moisturized once dry.
Overall Rating: 1 out of 5 stars
Coconut & Hibiscus - Curl Enhancing Smoothie
Fragrance: As previously mentioned, the product line has a fruity, sweet fragrance.
Cost: $12.99
Texture: A very thick consistency, with a slight greasy residue left on my hands after application
Target Hair Type: Thick, Curly Hair
Result: This was the first product I purchased from the line and it is a great product. When I initially tried the product, I was transitioning to my naturally curly hair and this product worked well to blend my curly/straight texture. Now that my hair is completely natural, I found my hair responds differently to this product. I receive great definition in my curls as you can see in the image above, but I experience a high amount of shrinkage. Although shrinkage is a sign of healthy hair elasticity, I wish my hair did not shrink so drastically with this product since I receive great results.
Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Cost: $12.99
Texture: A very thick consistency, with a slight greasy residue left on my hands after application
Target Hair Type: Thick, Curly Hair
Result: This was the first product I purchased from the line and it is a great product. When I initially tried the product, I was transitioning to my naturally curly hair and this product worked well to blend my curly/straight texture. Now that my hair is completely natural, I found my hair responds differently to this product. I receive great definition in my curls as you can see in the image above, but I experience a high amount of shrinkage. Although shrinkage is a sign of healthy hair elasticity, I wish my hair did not shrink so drastically with this product since I receive great results.
Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Jamaican Black Castor Oil - Strengthen, Grow & Restore Styling Lotion
Fragrance: A very strong play-doh smell. The smell lingers throughout the day and is so strong, other people commented on the smell throughout the day.
Cost: $10.99
Texture: A thick cream, but blends into the hair smoothly
Target Hair Type: Natural, Chemically Processed, Color Treated or Heat Styled Hair
Result: I was intrigued by this line because of the Jamaican Black Castor Oil. I have seen many women give rave reviews about Jamaican Black Castor Oil, how it provides great definition and seals in moisture. Since I experience frizz, I was hoping this product could aid me in reducing the frizz. As you can see, it provides amazing definition with little to no frizz present! However, this amazing product lost stars for me because of the scent. When I first smelled the product in Rite Aid before I purchased, I realized there was a faint smell of play-doh. I didn't mind and purchased the product. After applying the product to my hair, the smell was much stronger and lasted throughout the day. It became nauseating after awhile, which was disheartening because my hair responded well to it. I plan to find a way to fix the scent (possibly add essential oils to the bottle) to continue using the product. I experienced average shrinkage with this product, which was also great.
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 stars, 1 star removed for scent
Have you tried any of the Shea Moisture products? What is your favorite product?
Is there another line or product I should try?
Leave your comments below!
Cost: $10.99
Texture: A thick cream, but blends into the hair smoothly
Target Hair Type: Natural, Chemically Processed, Color Treated or Heat Styled Hair
Result: I was intrigued by this line because of the Jamaican Black Castor Oil. I have seen many women give rave reviews about Jamaican Black Castor Oil, how it provides great definition and seals in moisture. Since I experience frizz, I was hoping this product could aid me in reducing the frizz. As you can see, it provides amazing definition with little to no frizz present! However, this amazing product lost stars for me because of the scent. When I first smelled the product in Rite Aid before I purchased, I realized there was a faint smell of play-doh. I didn't mind and purchased the product. After applying the product to my hair, the smell was much stronger and lasted throughout the day. It became nauseating after awhile, which was disheartening because my hair responded well to it. I plan to find a way to fix the scent (possibly add essential oils to the bottle) to continue using the product. I experienced average shrinkage with this product, which was also great.
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 stars, 1 star removed for scent
Have you tried any of the Shea Moisture products? What is your favorite product?
Is there another line or product I should try?
Leave your comments below!
Valentine's Day Dessert: Fruit Tart
Valentine's Day is tomorrow and it is the perfect time to go the extra step for your loved ones. Whether you are in a relationship or using the day to hang out with family and friends, this fruit tart recipe will be sure to impress! I have made this fruit tart numerous times and it is the most requested dessert among my family and friends.
This fruit tart is sweet, light, easy to make and packed with delicious fruit -
there is nothing you won't love!
This fruit tart is sweet, light, easy to make and packed with delicious fruit -
there is nothing you won't love!
Fruit Tart Recipe
Instructions
- Graham Cracker Crust (pre-made as I used or homemade)
- Instant Banana Cream Pudding
- 2 cups of Milk
- Assorted fruit of choice
Instructions
- Prepare your homemade graham cracker crust or un-package your store bought crust.
- Prepare instant banana cream pudding based on package instructions
- Once the pudding filling has thickened, scoop prepared filling into crust
- Cut assorted fruit into halves or quarters and decorate as desired.
- The pudding will set within 5 minutes. I recommend refrigerating the dessert for at least an hour prior to serving to allow the fruit to settle into the pudding for easier serving.
I also served Pink Moscato with crushed candy on the rim. To further set the mood, I suggest playing Mike Phillips on Pandora for a smooth jazz tone to your evening.
I hope you have a great Valentine's Day!
My hubby and I are looking forward to a romantic night in with a home cooked meal
made together, this delicious dessert and snuggling up while watching movies.
What are your plans?
Ideas On Baby Shower Invitations
Since you're throwing the party, you get to make the rules. You get to decide if you want the guests to be dressed up or not. Afternoon tea generally means you want your guests to be comfortable but a little dressy. Nice pants and a blazer, a skirt and sweater. Most people get that, but let me know what you want them to wear and I'll work it for you.
NOW! You can throw any kind of shower that you want as well. Most showers are "general" ones, but "themed" ones are becoming more and more popular. So what you suggest in your question is the EXACT right thing. Instead of a "Kitchen Shower" or "Landscaping Shower" where the focus is on one area of the future bride's home, you can do a "Lingerie Shower". It's no more complicated than saying on the invitation "You're invited to a lingerie party for Lisa". That lets the guests know what they are expected to bring. If you want to be clever or funny about it I would find a "conversion" chart.
You know how an American size 9 shoe is called a 6.5 in the UK, a 40.5 in "EU" terms and a 26 in CM, whatever that means? I am sure there are charts on the internet mapping this out. Dot it with tons of question marks and word the party invitation as if YOU ALL don't get her nightgowns, the poor dear will have none, because who can figure these European sizes OUT? Just a suggestion.
NOW! You can throw any kind of shower that you want as well. Most showers are "general" ones, but "themed" ones are becoming more and more popular. So what you suggest in your question is the EXACT right thing. Instead of a "Kitchen Shower" or "Landscaping Shower" where the focus is on one area of the future bride's home, you can do a "Lingerie Shower". It's no more complicated than saying on the invitation "You're invited to a lingerie party for Lisa". That lets the guests know what they are expected to bring. If you want to be clever or funny about it I would find a "conversion" chart.
You know how an American size 9 shoe is called a 6.5 in the UK, a 40.5 in "EU" terms and a 26 in CM, whatever that means? I am sure there are charts on the internet mapping this out. Dot it with tons of question marks and word the party invitation as if YOU ALL don't get her nightgowns, the poor dear will have none, because who can figure these European sizes OUT? Just a suggestion.
Another thing you can do, see how you feel about it, has everyone offer to send her a care package. Each guest takes a different month in the future, writes out a card letting her know who to expect to hear from in March of 2015, for instance. If I were moving to Europe, I would probably like to get stuff from "home". Maybe it will just be pictures from someone's Christmas or vacation, or maybe a box with Kraft Macaroni and Cheese or Brownie mix. I have a friend living in Tokyo and you would be surprised at the odd things he misses and wants to be sent.
This alternative is risky, everyone is promising to do something in the future, and hopefully, they'd follow through. And postage can be expensive to Europe, even if the items you're sending aren't.
Theme bridal showers are common practice and your idea sounds quite thoughtful and romantic, while at the same time being practical. Simply state on the invitation what the theme of the shower is. When people call to accept, you can give them some suggestions of what to give as a gift.
Since the shower is also a tea party, the women should be dressed up a bit. You can also state the suggested attire on the invitation. It could read something like, "Please wear your Sunday best for the Tea Party Shower. It will make the shower that much more festive for "Mary."
Having family and friends there for you and going through everything with them makes you thank god that you had family and friends that love you and just want what is best for you and the soon to be a little one. Having people that went through what you are going through at your baby shower and talking to them about your plans for your little one and talking about the names that you and your husband are thinking about is something that you will always remember.
Don't forget to hire a professional videographer and photographer when celebrating your Baby Shower to capture the precious moments of your outstanding, special party!
This alternative is risky, everyone is promising to do something in the future, and hopefully, they'd follow through. And postage can be expensive to Europe, even if the items you're sending aren't.
Theme bridal showers are common practice and your idea sounds quite thoughtful and romantic, while at the same time being practical. Simply state on the invitation what the theme of the shower is. When people call to accept, you can give them some suggestions of what to give as a gift.
Since the shower is also a tea party, the women should be dressed up a bit. You can also state the suggested attire on the invitation. It could read something like, "Please wear your Sunday best for the Tea Party Shower. It will make the shower that much more festive for "Mary."
Having family and friends there for you and going through everything with them makes you thank god that you had family and friends that love you and just want what is best for you and the soon to be a little one. Having people that went through what you are going through at your baby shower and talking to them about your plans for your little one and talking about the names that you and your husband are thinking about is something that you will always remember.
Don't forget to hire a professional videographer and photographer when celebrating your Baby Shower to capture the precious moments of your outstanding, special party!
How To Make Your Favors A Hit
Favors are meant to be little tokens of appreciation from you to your guests. Whether they are elaborate or simple, what you give your guests should reflect your gratitude and be something most of your guests can appreciate.
Before you spend countless hours and lots of money on favors that will be ignored or thrown away, we’d like to offer you some hints to make your favors a hit.
Before you spend countless hours and lots of money on favors that will be ignored or thrown away, we’d like to offer you some hints to make your favors a hit.
1. If it’s not edible or useful in everyday life, you’re likely wasting your time and money. The idea of a favor is to give your guests a little “thank you” for sharing your day. Most guests are appreciative of the gesture, no matter what it is. However, not everyone wants to cart home little trinkets to clog their junk drawers, memory boxes or garbage cans.
2. Find favors that will appeal to MOST OF YOUR GUESTS. You may find lacey, highly scented potpourri sachets to be the veritable cat’s meow, but 50% of your male guests, 2% of your highly allergic pals, and 30% of your friends who have very different decorating ideas will not be as charmed by them like you. You’ll likely end up with lots of left-overs.
3. Forget monogrammed items. Frames, glassware, trinkets with your initials are likely candidates to get left behind. Why? Who wants someone else’s initials on their glassware? It’s kind of creepy. Want to put your monogram on something? Attach a little card or ribbon with your names/initials to the favor or put your monogram on the packaging, not the item itself.
4. You’re an adult. The majority of your guests are adults. Please distribute favors that (a) look like something an adult would appreciate OR (b) appeal to the kid in all of us. Nostalgia toys (Legos, Pez dispensers, Play-Doh) are big hits for kids and adults alike because most of us can relate to them. Frilly, girly things are better saved for 7-year-old girl guests or for your bridal showers if you’re into that sort of thing.
5. Inexpensive doesn’t have to look cheap. Chances are if the favor looks cheap, it’ll get left behind or will get tossed.
6. Make certain guests know they exist. We’ve attended many receptions where the favors were hidden in a basket next to the door. Putting favors next to each guest’s place setting is ideal or personally handing them out to each guest during the reception is a nice way to greet each person and thank them individually.
So, what are the favor “shoulds”?
- They should appeal to most adult guests, male and female.
- They should not be highly scented.
- They should be useful or edible.
- They should be given with love and gratitude.
2. Find favors that will appeal to MOST OF YOUR GUESTS. You may find lacey, highly scented potpourri sachets to be the veritable cat’s meow, but 50% of your male guests, 2% of your highly allergic pals, and 30% of your friends who have very different decorating ideas will not be as charmed by them like you. You’ll likely end up with lots of left-overs.
3. Forget monogrammed items. Frames, glassware, trinkets with your initials are likely candidates to get left behind. Why? Who wants someone else’s initials on their glassware? It’s kind of creepy. Want to put your monogram on something? Attach a little card or ribbon with your names/initials to the favor or put your monogram on the packaging, not the item itself.
4. You’re an adult. The majority of your guests are adults. Please distribute favors that (a) look like something an adult would appreciate OR (b) appeal to the kid in all of us. Nostalgia toys (Legos, Pez dispensers, Play-Doh) are big hits for kids and adults alike because most of us can relate to them. Frilly, girly things are better saved for 7-year-old girl guests or for your bridal showers if you’re into that sort of thing.
5. Inexpensive doesn’t have to look cheap. Chances are if the favor looks cheap, it’ll get left behind or will get tossed.
6. Make certain guests know they exist. We’ve attended many receptions where the favors were hidden in a basket next to the door. Putting favors next to each guest’s place setting is ideal or personally handing them out to each guest during the reception is a nice way to greet each person and thank them individually.
So, what are the favor “shoulds”?
- They should appeal to most adult guests, male and female.
- They should not be highly scented.
- They should be useful or edible.
- They should be given with love and gratitude.
Photos used under Creative Commons from calmenda, pudgeefeet, Javcon117*
