Blog

Long story short... My daughter loves piano, so my husband found a used keyboard on Craigslist. We picked it up in Manhattan Beach (about 40 minutes from our house) and there's a HomeGoods nearby. My husband, being the kind, generous, and patient man that he is, hung out with my four-year-old, while I got to shop.

It turns out that HomeGoods is owned by the same people as TJ Maxx, where I went a few weeks ago, so it was no surprise that they had many of the same items, but much much more. The store is heaven if you love parties, entertaining, and decorating. I felt infinitely creative just walking through the door.

I saw Brenda F's Backyard Carnival Party and almost flipped. The attention to detail was amazing. Then I discovered she pulled the whole thing off on a budget of $464 for 70 people. That's about $6.50 per person.

If you see my blog posts or read my Facebook and Twitter posts, you know I'm a huge fan of creative cakes. I think if you're going to splurge on one item for your party in terms of money or time, a cake is a great way to go.

I've noticed some new cake trends (in addition to all the beautiful rainbow cakes and ruffle cakes) on our main site that I wanted to share. Take a look (and click on the photo to see what party it's from)...

Looking for party supplies and other cute items at discount prices? Check these vendors out!

PRINTABLES/INVITATIONS/CARDS

I've been so inspired reading about Chris Nease's work with Operation Shower on her blog, that I had to call her up personally to talk to her about it. Chris is the creative mind behind Celebrations at Home, one of my must-read party and entertainment blogs.

Operation Shower is a nonprofit organization that throws baby showers for pregnant or expecting military families. Chris has helped coordinate two showers for them in the DC area along with Amy Belle Isle from Stem Parties, who is Chief Event Organizer. The latest shower was held in October at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center and boy did they do a great job!

Take a look at these seriously fantastic kids' parties we've seen on our site... I'm blown away by all the creativity.

Courtney D's Children's Gingerbread House Decorating Party - This gingerbread house is unbelievable and we love the candy cane Christmas trees. We haven't seen those before.