Your Four-Legged Ring Bearer by Gretchen of mywedding.com

natasha Leave a comment

pets

 Photography by Anna Kuperberg – see more at www.annakuperberg.com

Forget about having your sister’s temper-tantrum-throwing five year old son as the ring bearer. You’ve got your loyal, dedicated doggie to do the job. You know, that obedient, furry pal who cuddles at your feet every night in bed? Yes! Have your pet walk down the aisle on your big day! The trend is vastly growing and therefore, many attire options, as well as training classes are available for you and your pup to get ready for the big day.

There are just a few things to think over before Rover’s name is printed in the program. How is his temperament? Is he relaxed and cool, or hyper and jumpy? Is he friendly or territorial? Does he leap up on people, whether it’s for excitement or to threaten? These things are very important to consider in making your decision.

Here are a few guidelines to follow if you do decide to have your pup be a part of your special day:

  • Suit up your furry friend with formal wear. Dog Tuxedo’s are so cute are plentiful today. You can also get personalized dog tees for you little doggy. And if Rover is getting walked down the aisle, there are tons of fancy leashes and collars to choose from.

  • Have your pup washed and thoroughly cleaned right before the ceremony to keep people with allergies from having a bad reaction to his dander.  

  • Make sure your dog has relieved himself before the ceremony! It would be horrible for him to use a pew as his fire hydrant.

  • Bring Rover to the ceremony site a few times before the actual big day so he can familiarize himself with the site. Dogs get stage fright too!! 

  • Assign one of your dog-lover friends to keep Rover friendly and polite through the night. This person should make sure Rover doesn’t leave “surprises” under the reception tables!  

  • Be considerate of guests who may be fearful of dogs – as cute as yours is.

There you have it. Your favorite four-legged friend can make a great addition to your special day if you take a few precautions. Get some professional training if you wish, but if you can cater to these suggestions you should be fine without it. And if your sister can’t get over the fact that you won’t have little Timmy as the ring bearer, well, maybe suggest professional training for Timmy. Ouch! Source

 

Tartelette

natasha Leave a comment

Tartelette is a wonderful blog filled with a ton of elegant and artful confections. If you are looking for inspiration for your wedding dessert menu, then I suggest you check out this site. Tartelette has everything from pastries to wonderfully flavored ice creams. I have compiled a few of my favorites below! But beware, you may not want to read the rest of this post hungry!

 

 

dessert

Top 15 Wedding Dresses to Wear this Spring

bridalpartytees Leave a comment

Spring brings with it glorious weather, sunshine, flowers, and an air of renewal. And if you’re a spring bride, you should carry these themes through in the dress you choose. Several trends that are hot for spring wedding dresses this year, include light cotton, organza, and chiffon materials, eyelet patterns, floral accents and lace. Being a spring bride, you also get a little freedom to play with length. Spring is a playful time, a time for us all to celebrate our release from winter hibernation and go forth into the great outdoors. Go short or mid-length if you dare, pick a babydoll style or go long with a natural and casual material. Here are some of the top picks for spring wedding dresses this season.

 

  1. Floral and Strapless: While the material on this dress is a little more formal, the light, pastel floral accents and sparkly beaded detail on the skirt make this dress a perfect pick for spring, allowing a bride to play on the theme of the season without losing the formality and princess-like quality many brides seek in a dress. Outside of wedding fashion, colors and bold prints are hot this spring on the runways and in the department stores. While this dress doesn’t quite fit that mold, it does add a splash of color and some bold accents. The back of the dress, with its light, wavy fabric accents, pastel bow, and ruffled skirt gather even further enforce this dress’s qualifications for a spring bride. This dress is unique and any lady who chooses to wear it on her big day will undoubtedly be the center of attention. The floral dress really makes you look like the pedals of a flower and is definitely an eye catcher. With this dress you can be both elegant
    and playful at the same time and it will
    certainly be one that people will talk about.
  2. Maggie London Eyelet Halter: Eyelet fabric is all the rage for the casual girl this spring, and if you’re looking for a casual, light wedding dress, look no further than this number from Maggie London. The halter cut and empire waist makes it flattering for almost all body types, and the not-quite-floor length allows a long, leg-concealing dress to appear fun and flirty. The fabric is extremely breathable and the style embodies the spirit of a social butterfly – this dress is great for any girl, whether you’re preppy, sporty, fashion-forward, extremely simple, or artsy. Perfect also for those of you planning an outdoor wedding.
  3. Platinum for Priscilla: If you’re going to go short, by all means check out this amazing new dress from the Platinum for Priscilla Spring 2008 collection. It’s cute, flirty and sophisticated all at the same time, and it completely evokes the character of Carrie Bradshaw from “Sex and the City.” The organza dress features well-executed bands that add texture and depth to the dress; the satin belt accents the waist nicely and adds a floral element that screams, “Spring!” The bouncy skirt is spunky and chic. This dress is the perfect short, spring dress that could certainly accommodate many different personality types. Alright alright so platinum isn’t exactly the color you were thinking of for your wedding. This dress might not come in the wedding white that you would see normally on a bride on her big day. But this isn’t just any normal day. This is your day and with the Platinum for Priscilla dress you will definately be the the center of attention and it will be a dress that goes remembered for a long time. Do you like to take a step on the wild side and have some fun? If you do then try this dress on for size it will not disappoint.
  4. Henry Roth Chiffon Halter: The light, flowing chiffon material used for this dress is easy, understated, yet so very elegant. The dress hangs simply, gathering in a pool of airy ripples at the bottom. The Swarovski crystals used to accent below the bust bring a bright and fun element to an otherwise simple, yet beautiful dress. This style is perfect for spring because of its light, flowing nature. There are almost no complications to its design, meaning architects all over the world will appreciate its form, function and innate beauty. A bride in this dress would be comfortable walking down a church aisle or skipping across a field of flowers to reach her intended. Definitely a must-see for a no-nonsense bride.
  5. Lela Rose Two Tiered: A fun and stylish dress, this one really has it all for spring. First off, the two-tiered design lends an air of playfulness and is a nice diversion from the traditional ball gown or A-line cut. Second, the chiffon material used drapes very nicely and it’s frothy and spring-like in its weight and measure. Third, the floral accent used on the bodice is nicely done. It’s big, bold and simple, and it’s a terrific alternative to minute, beaded floral accents. And who can really argue with the sheer beauty of the delicate, wide straps and detailed pleating on the bodice? This dress is a trend setter for the season and really one of a kind.
  6. Vera Wang Swagged Ball Gown: The runways this spring all have one thing in common – color and bold patterns. So, if you’re the adventurous type, consider ditching the white and going for something a little stronger. Just take this gorgeous, draped, iridescent golden ball gown from wedding-dress master Vera Wang. It’s a full and classic shape with a shimmering fabric that sparkles and commands attention. The pinkish hue of the material also makes it a perfect tone for spring. But the crowning jewel of this gown is the attention-commanding, deep burgundy rose accent that curves around the waist, making a big splash. This gown is sophisticated and avant-garde and is a great option for the bride who turns her nose at all things pastel and pink.
  7. Mori Lee Chantilly Lace: Stylish and dainty, this strapless, floor-length gown by designer Mori Lee is a great option for this year’s spring bride for many reasons. First of all, the A-line cut is simple and flattering to most body types. Second, the intricate lace overlay gives the dress a light, airy feeling, while maintaining a strong sense of femininity. Lace is definitely in this season, as are empire waists. And the subtle crystal Swarovski beads you’ll find on this wide empire waist band add a sense of elegance, formality and sheen. For brides so inclined, this dress comes with the option of ordering an accompanying shawl, which is available in three lengths. And don’t neglect the gentle scalloping that ruffles out around the train. And beautiful detail for the bride that appreciates beauty!
  8. Jim Hjelm Short & Satin: Another terrific option for brides interested in short dresses, this sassy number from Jim Hjlem’s Spring 2008 collection has many of the simplest elements that are defining spring style. First of all, the shimmering satin fabric is fresh and comfortable and the above-knee length is fun and flirty. The feature that really makes this dress one with the times is the careful and waist-enhancing diagonal pleating that starts midway down the bodice, narrows to a point underneath the crystal-beaded sash and then spreads back out through the voluminous and lively skirt. The blush tint of the satin further qualifies this dress for a spring wedding by lending a warmness and lightheartedness to the look. Again, this is another dress that is a great option for both the cosmopolitan and the spunky bride.
  9. Judd Wadell Cap Sleeve: Most spring dresses this season are strapless or feature dainty, lacey straps. That’s why this dress is a great addition to what’s available in the spring collections. The cap sleeves are very flattering to the arms and add a level of class and sophistication lacking in some of the shorter skirt or strappy varietals. This style will suit brides looking for something more classic, yet still modern. Made of Peau de Soie, a drapeable, matte fabric that has satin woven into the fibers, the dress’s medium weight and dull finish makes it flattering to most figures since it hides imperfections instead of highlighting them like some shinier materials. The empire waist is doubly flattering to most body types. A simple dress without being too plain, the bodice features a shimmering satin that extends just below the bust and is intricately woven. The floor-length dress also has a chapel-length train. A gorgeous dress for the romantic bride.
  10. Monique Lhuillier Floral Strapless: Floral accents are in, in, in this season and no one does them better than Monique Lhuillier, who is known for her elegant and romantic dress designs. This beige dress is one of the best pieces out of Lhuillier’s 2008 collection, which was dubbed “The Enchanted Forest” in her runway show. Lhuillier steered clear of polished fabrics this season and is using lots of the other hot trends, like chiffon, organza and tulle. This loud and experimental dress is definitely made for the adventurous bride. But for those of you wanting to take an artsy risk, you’ll find no better tailor than Lhuillier. The four-tiered skirt is encrusted with beautiful light blue floral accents, mimicking leaves falling to the earth and conjuring images of, literally, an enchanted forest. The beige color is soft and would especially favor brides with warmer skin tones, and the top of the dress is constructed beautifully, with the organza material and blue floral accents tying up gently across a shoulder. If this dress isn’t for you, check out some of Lhuillier’s other pieces from her collection – one is sure to suit your style.
  11. Kirstie Kelly Couture: If you want to keep some semblance of a traditional wedding gown yet still incorporate some in-style elements, this gown from Kirstie Kelly Couture might just be the one for you. It shows its spring 2008 status through the lace V-neckline and the pinkish hue of the eggshell-finish fabric. The cream satin sash is also a telltale sign of its vintage – so many designers are incorporating this look into a variety of gown styles. But the ball gown classification will allow the fairy tale bride to stay in sync with the dreams of her girlhood while also wow her guests with the sleek style of modern times and the girly accents that are so in style this spring season. This dress is definately a very beautifully elegant dress. It is cute and fun and really anything that you need it to be. This dress will not disappoint the bride that chooses it.
  12. Christos Lace: Bring on more lace! Lace is so very beautiful and so very in this spring season. And this wonderful Alencon lace covered gown from Christos uses the material just right. The tiered organza gown is covered in a beautiful light lace that extends from just below the bodice to the floor. The subtle way it’s incorporated into the gown set this lace number apart from other dresses that are constructed to make it the obvious focal point rather than a demure and discreet detail. A truly romantic dress that would flatter many body types.
  13. Reem Acra Sheath: Fans of the Star Wars remake movies will love this gauzy new dress from Reem Acra that incorporates all the elements of hot spring style into a unique, avant-garde look that calls forth the image of a much-chicer Queen Amidala. Over the top of a simple, strapless, floor-length sheath drapes a gauzy, see-through material that wraps all the way around the bride. Worked into the shoulder and left forearm are floral accents that add softness and beauty to the look. And gauzy banding wrapped around the arms further adds texture and style. This dress is perfect for the artsy and adventurous bride – it’s modern while still maintaining a graceful quality.
  14. Romona Keveza: Another short and spunky number, this great dress by Romona Keveza is really a quintessential look for the spring bride looking for a fun and romantic mini-dress. Made from a moveable light-pink fabric, the strapless dress accents the chest and shoulder areas nicely, coming up around the bust in a heart-shape. The bubble hem moves well with the bride, and the folds and draping in the bodice are expertly done. Another major spring element is the large rose accent to the left of the midriff, from which a wide bow hangs. Another fun and flirty dress for a fun and flirty season, complete with breathable fabrics, pastel hues and floral elements.
  15. Reem Acra Fitted: Enough with all this bounce and sway, you say? If you’re looking for something a little more form-fitting, check out this gorgeous floor-length dress from Reem Acra. The body of the gown hangs fairly tight to the frame, and the subtle tiers give a soft texture. The silk satin-faced chiffon is ideal for a spring bride and the ivory color – just slightly off white – is very flattering to most skin tones. But let’s not forget the other spring-perfect details expertly worked into this gown. The V-neck bodice features some very tastefully-done bead work and the narrow satin sash at the waist gives the dress much class. The back of the dress flows to the ground in ripples of satin that move beautifully. You really can’t go wrong in any way by choosing this dress.

How to Add Volume to Flat Hair

natasha Leave a comment

volume

 

Is your hair lacking in the volume department? Here are some tips and some secret techniques that help pump up the volume!
 
Add Some Color: Adding highlights or lowlights gives your hair dimension. Hair that is all the same color appears flatter.  When adding dimension to the hair, you are creating an illusion of thicker hair with more lift. Multi-tonal hair works like an optical illusion on the eyes, they perceive movement, even where it does not exist.
 

Layer it Up: Hair styles that have short layers will add volume to the hair, especially those that have shorter layers in the crown. The shorter the layers go, the more lift you will have, but keep in mind if you go really short it will create a punkish pixie look. Also keep in mind that the layers should go with the hairstyle. Some styles do not work well with short layers, so you may have to opt for longer ones or a different style. 

Tease it Up: Don’t get scared, we do not mean 80’s style teasing! If you have an area that just needs a little more volume, take that section and tease the under side of the hair strand, then spray with hair spray, let the hair spray dry for a minute, and then smooth out the top side of the hair strand. This technique will add a little more volume to those trouble areas.
 
Use Do Dads: Do Dads, are simple hair combs with hair extensions attached. You choose the color to match your own or a contrasting color for an edgier look. To get the lift, you fasten it on just as you would a traditional hair comb by combing it in against the grain of your hair.
 
Use a Volumizer: Volumizers are designed to add lift and body to the hair. They are available in gels, mousses, and spray versions. These products are applied to the roots of towel dried-hair, lifting hair with your fingers as you apply.  Our favorite is the spray mousses. These products make it easier to apply because you simply spray it on. This comes in handy in those hard to see spots in the back of your head.  

Use a Curling Iron: If used properly, a curling iron will give a great lift. This is because of the intense heat generated. The correct way to use a curling iron is to start at the crown of the head, take hold of one-inch sections of hair and lift vertically, wrapping hair around the iron, as close to your scalp as you can. Then spray with a firm hairspray, for a firm but still flexible hold.
 
Hot/Cold Blow-Dry: Blow-drying will give you a good lift if used with a medium to large round brush. The trick is to place the brush as close to your scalp as you can, then pull your hair straight up from the base of your head, following the brush with a blow dryer on high heat, and then follow with a blast of cool air which “sets” the style.
 
Use Velcro Rollers: A few strategically placed Velcro rollers will give your hair terrific volume. After hair is washed and blow-dried, curve one-inch sections of the hair you want lifted around the roller (small rollers for a slight lift and large for a higher lift). Three or four rollers should do the trick. Leave rollers in for about five minutes, remove and arrange newly lifted hair with your fingers. It’s recommended you don’t brush at this point, as brushing could “deflate” the set.

 

Mood Lighting

natasha Leave a comment

mood lighting

Give the decorations at your wedding reception the romantic look of lace. The intricate patterns shining through these luminarias (paper-bag lanterns illuminated by votive candles) are courtesy of doilies glued inside. Place a grouping of the lanterns in different sizes on the guest-book table or dinner tables for a beautiful, glowing display. We chose ivory paper bags for an understated look, but you can use thin paper bags in any light color. Set the candles in heavy-glass votive holders to help anchor the bags.

Tools and Materials
Light-colored paper lunch bags in various sizes
Ruler
Scalloped rotary cutter
12-inch gold-colored doilies (white ones won’t show through as well)
Utility knife
Scissors
Glue stick or Xyron sticker-making machine
Votive candles in glass holders
Utility lighter

Luminarias How-To
1. Lay each bag flat; use a ruler to guide the scalloped rotary cutter as you cut a new top edge 1 inch below the bag’s original edge.

2. To cut doilies to fit the bag, lay a bag flat on the work surface. Lay a doily on the bag, and determine where to cut in order to create a pleasing design. Cut straight lines with a ruler and a utility knife; use scissors to snip along curves. The final size of the doily should be 1/8 inch narrower than the width of the bag so the doily will lay flat inside.

3. Coat the gold side of the doily generously with glue from the glue stick, or coat it with self-adhesive using the Xyron machine. Attach doily to the inside of the front of the bag, positioning it as desired. After gluing, close the bag, and run your hand firmly over the design to seal. Open the bag, and let dry at least 1 hour.

4. Set the bag in desired location, and then put the votive candle, in its holder, inside. Light the wick once the candle holder has been securely placed; do not carry the lit luminaria.

Source

I Scream, You Scream, We all Scream for Ice Cream

natasha Leave a comment

sundae

If you are having an outside wedding in the summer, things can get really hot. Allow your guests to cool down with a sundae bar. Serve a couple different flavors of hand dipped ice cream. You can go with traditional flavors such as vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate or really mix it up and serve mocha chip, mango, or pineapple ice cream. Another option is to rent a soft served ice cream machine or serve sorbet instead of ice cream. No matter what you choose, toppings are a must. Display bowls of toppings for your guests to sprinkle or drizzle on. You can even coordinate the toppings with your wedding colors. Check out your local ice cream shops. There are a lot that will cater your event and bring everything you need; even handmade waffle cones. Yum! Your guests are sure to love this idea and will it will bring out the kid in everyone! Besides what goes better with cake than ice cream?

Guest Book Option~Origami Rolls

natasha Leave a comment

orgomi

Set up a lively guest-book table with patterned paper in bright hues. Guests pen notes on origami paper, then seal them with a sticker. The banners above are also made from origami squares — no fancy folding required.

Origami squares come precut, so this guest book couldn’t be easier. Set out stacks of paper (we mixed solids with patterns in shades of red and orange), as well as dot stickers and coordinating pens. Guests write a message to the newlyweds on the back of a sheet, roll it up, seal it with a dot, and drop it into glass hurricanes (place a few samples inside beforehand so guests will take the cue). Each container is embellished with a strip of card stock trimmed with scalloping shears; secure to outside of glass with double-sided tape.
Decide how long you want the banner to be, and cut a piece of double-face satin ribbon to length. For the large banner, we used origami paper roughly 6 inches square; for the smaller ones, we used 3-inch origami squares. For each panel, fold top third of paper over the ribbon and secure with a glue stick; leave 1/2-inch spaces between the panels. Tie 6-inch lengths of matching ribbon between panels; trim away the excess, cutting ends at an angle. Source and more pictures!

15 Tips to Supercharge Your Spring Cleaning

natasha 1 Comment

With flowers blooming, the sun shining, and the birds chirping, there’s no better time to take stock and get control of your life than the spring. Spring cleaning symbolizes a time of renewal and new beginnings – out with the old, in with the new file cabinets and recipe card holders. Here are 15 tips that will help you eliminate clutter and live a simpler, cleaner life!

  1. Make a Mess: Ever heard the saying, “Before things get better, they get worse”? Never did they ring more true than to a person trying to organize their life. In order to clean things up, you’re going to have to make a big, stinking mess. Go ahead – rip open your closet doors, pull everything off the shelves and dump it into a pile. Then start sorting. Whether you are cleaning a closet, a cabinet, or an entire room, centralizing the clutter is an effective way to both empty the space so you can visualize how you want to put things back into it and weed through the chaff. Start thinking about some things you might need to get things ship shape, such as plastic bins, hangers, or shelves.
  2. Take Inventory: Commercial and retail organizations often take inventory of their stock at least once a year so they can maintain accurate financial records. The same method can be helpful in organizing your house. So you found out you have 4 pairs of black capri pants? Well, maybe it’s time for one or two to go. Often when we let our living spaces get out of control, we forget we have things that we already own. Are you the kind of person that runs to the store for a replacement every time you can’t find something? Well, then chances are you have a tremendous amount of clutter in your house. Taking inventory will also allow you to eliminate the stress of throwing things out or giving them away, because you will know what you have and what you need.
  3. Pull Out the Weeds: After you have made a mess of your belongings and taken inventory of your stock, it’s time to figure out what goes and what stays. Again, repeat items are a shoe-in for elimination, as are belongings that are worn out, cheaply made, or rendered useless. A sock drawer is a great example of the latter category. Go through and pick out all of the socks who have lost their mates. Who needs them?! Also, throw out all the old T-shirt remnants you’ve been using as dust clothes. Chances are you will have new pieces of cloth to cut up when you are done weeding. Still hanging on to that blazer from high school? Guess what? It’s totally out of style. Get rid of it! Throwing things out can be a difficult and emotional process for many people who form unnecessary attachments to their stuff. Be tough. You’ll thank yourself for it later.
  4. Contain to Maintain: People typically get into a state of disorganization because they start out that way. Once you have whittled down you belongings to represent only your favorites, don’t just throw everything back in your closet or living room in the same miserable piles. Organize your stuff with the help of some attractive containers or shelves. It’s a simple concept that will help you maintain your sanity throughout the rest of the year. Consider the following kinds of containers: file cabinets, plastic tubs, and free-standing drawers. For example, one thing that will help free your house of clutter is putting away items you hardly use. Measure the distance from the bottom of your bed to the floor and invest in some long, narrow storage containers that will fit underneath perfectly. In your living room, hide the fact that it’s storage by buying some free standing drawers.
  5. Categorize: Now that you have everything in containers, let’s get out the label maker! Maybe you won’t need one, but if you organize your belongings into sensible categories you will find life to be much easier. Gone are the days of the “junk drawer”, these are the days of the “baking supplies drawer”, the “record cabinet”, and the “tax document file”. According to blogger David Allen, “naming things give us power over them.” Categorizing your belongings will ultimately bring you freedom.
  6. Green Dimes: Another reason that homes get too cluttered is that we are constantly getting useless things in the mail that we for some reason or another feel we must hang on to. Examples of this might be that package of coupons you get every month that you swear you’ll use but don’t, or those catalogs that you convince yourself you’re going to buy something from but never even get around to reading. Eliminate junk mail from your life and save some trees by signing up for Green Dimes, a service that removes your name and address from mass mailing lists and eliminates catalogs and magazines you don’t want. This is a great way to kill two birds with one stone – reduce clutter and your carbon footprint with a few simple clicks of your mouse.
  7. Green Clean: Clearly, while embarking on a spring cleaning mission, you are going to need some cleaning products to disinfect and sterilize your home. Continue your work of reducing your impact on the earth by investing in some environmentally friendly cleaning products, such as those from companies like Simple Green, Seventh Generation and Mrs. Meyers. These products are non-toxic, biodegradable, and free of dyes and fragrances. Replacing just a few of your regular cleaning products with these safe products would have a huge impact on the earth. According to Seventh Generation, if everyone replaced a 100 oz. bottle of petroleum-based laundry detergent with a bottle of vegetable-oil based detergent, we’d save enough energy to heat and cool 27,000 homes a year.
  8. Clean What Hangs: So, you know those things that hang on your windows? Those blinds, drapes and valances that have been collecting odors and dust for the better part of the year? Well, they need to be cleaned, too. So do those ceiling fans that you’ve probably never touched with a dust cloth and those once-sleek lamp shades that look a little fuzzy. Often in routine house cleanings, most of us neglect to clean things that aren’t as obviously dirty as our spaghetti-sauce-stained kitchen counters. Take stock of the things in your home that have been ignored and attack. Begin by taking a hand-held duster to your blinds or drapes and see how much grime you can get off. If it’s a fair amount, you can probably complete the job by hand, using a fabric cleaner and cloth or all-purpose cleaner (for blinds). If you need something more heavy-duty, ask at your hardware store for a small, mini-blind attachment for your vacuum and suck the dirt off!
  9. Sit on Something Clean: Just like your drapes, it’s probably true that you haven’t given your sofa and chair covers a thorough cleaning in some time either. Spotting spills with fabric cleaners and Febreezing will only take you so far. During your spring cleaning, consider stripping off your couch and chair covers and taking them to see a professional. If that proves too expensive, as upholstery cleaning often can, do it yourself! By the way, this applies to rugs and carpets too. Look into local steam cleaners or businesses who rent the equipment out. If you want to do it yourself, you’ll need a vacuum, a rug shampooer and possibly a steam cleaner. Start by vacuuming off all the loose dirt from the fabric, under the cushions, the arm rests and the back of the couch. Then, with the appropriate shampoo, use the rug shampooer to clean the entire couch. Then let it dry. Depending on the type of fabric you have on your sofa, you may need a steam cleaner. Check with the manufacturer before moving forward.
  10. Prioritize: An important part of spring cleaning is packing away the stuff you’re not going to need for awhile. This means Christmas decorations, winter sweaters, and ice skates. Before you start restocking your rooms, figure out what sorts of things you want handy and what sorts of things are OK left unseen for awhile. Putting your seasonal belongings out of sight is a good tactic to simplify your home and control clutter. Previously, we talked about storage containers. These are essential items in helping you prioritize, as they will allow you to store long-term the items, like your Christmas tree, that you rarely use. Also, think about the types of places within your home that you would like to reserve for this kind of storage, like your attic or a faraway corner in your basement. Wherever you end up remember, out of your sight, out of your way!
  11. Dump Some Weight: One thing most people tend to hold on to for too long is their book collection. Let’s face it, if you haven’t read Catcher in the Rye since high school, it’s probably not going to happen again. Sort through your bookcases and pick out the volumes you haven’t lifted in years. You have several options with disposing of them, none of which should be the trash! Lots of organizations accept book donations, whether it’s for soldiers, inmates, or people in impoverished countries. Spread the gift of knowledge and simplify your life at the same time!
  12. Excavate the Fridge and Pantry: Your refrigerator and pantry are probably storing some things they shouldn’t be. While this is something that should most certainly be done more than once a year, cleaning out your fridge and pantry should definitely be part of your spring cleaning regiment. Check the dates on the stuff in your pantry that you once thought were imperishable. You may be surprised. How long can a box of Hamburger Helper really last after all? The fridge may be a little more self-explanatory. If it’s moldy, expired or just plain been around awhile, ditch it. Even for so-called non-perishable items you’ve got to have a limit. If you’ve been holding onto that box of pasta for two years, chances are it’s not going to get eaten, nor should it. Be liberal and throw out the sketchy stuff.
  13. Clean Your Grout: Know that stuff in between your tiling that looks rough and dingy? It’s called grout and it’s what is holding your beautiful tiles to the floor or the wall. For the most part, it’s supposed to be white. Typically, worn-in grout falls somewhere on the beige to dark gray scale. This is a special cleaning job into itself and, while tedious, is necessary to avoid getting gross build-up – the result of ignoring the problem year after year after year. And while you’re in the bathroom, check out your tub. It may be time to recaulk the sealant around the tub. Keeping up with this task reduces the risk that water will get behind your tiles and cause them to fall off.
  14. Remember the Garage!: So, you have your house pretty well situated, but what about that mess in the garage? Think how nice it would be to actually park your car in the space that was devised for that purpose. This is a task that may require some help. Go at it by dividing things up into what you want to keep and what you want to throw out. For the keepers, organize them into categories. Check out what can be hung on walls and hammer in some nails. The more stuff you can get off the ground, the better. Invest in a tool bench and some sturdy containers and your vehicle will be off the street in no time. While you’re at it, take the time to clean up those ugly oil spills or paint splatters from the floor. Depending on how large your garage is, you may consider building some separating walls and using a portion for long-term storage if that kind of space is limited within your home.
  15. Yard Sale or Donate: So, you’ve successfully cleaned and organized your home. What to do with all the stuff you’ve purged from your now-sparkling abode? Well, if you’re in the market for some extra income, and you have a good temperament and a few free weekends, then hold a yard sale and see how much your vintage items will fetch on the free market. This will be something of a chore that you may not want to undertake so soon after overhauling your house, as it will involve inventory and pricing. If so, then find a good charity to donate your stuff. Either way it’s a win-win. Donating your items to a nonprofit is a good financial opportunity as well, since all donations are tax write offs. Just make sure you research the charity so you know your stuff is going to a good place. And ask for receipts! You can’t claim it on your tax return without the proper documentation.

Photo Table Number

natasha Leave a comment

photo tables

Help guests find their seats with whimsical tented cards featuring photos of the bride and groom. They’re great for an informal wedding, rehearsal dinner, or shower. Take photographs of the two of you holding signs with table numbers; you can use different poses for each number. Have them made into 4-by-6-inch matte prints (you can use black-and-white film so the photos wouldn’t clash with the flowers or table setting). Glue each photo onto 4 1/8-by-6 1/8-inch paper. To make the “tent,” start with a piece of 11-by-17-inch card stock and cut a strip that is 17 by 4 3/8 inches (each piece of card stock can make two); fold strip in half widthwise. Score, and make a fold 2 1/8 inches from each end to form flaps for base. Glue photograph to one panel of the tent. Overlap base flaps by about 1 inch; use double-sided tape to secure.

Source