Star Power

I love the idea of decorating from the ceiling down.

Check out these paper star lanterns from asianideas.com that make a major statement without taking up any table space and without costing much money.

The same concept can be applied to any shape of lantern, including those with lights. For your next event, start with the ceiling first and you'll amaze yourself and your guests with your "star power."

Jingle Bell Rock

These centerpieces literally Rocked! A music teacher requested low height arrangements that could be placed in the center of the dinner tables she had set up to serve a holiday meal and thank you party to her favorite students and their parents.

Inspired by the music, I filled clear round vases with jingle bells and found beautiful gold ribbon with music notes to tie bows around the silk flowers. I kept all the tones in the neutral family and let the jingle bells "ring and sing."

Thankful Gifts

I am so pleased at the way these "Thank you" arrangements turned out for an upcoming Christmas party. The gentleman is thanking all of the people who have helped him throughout the year, and requested 10 table arrangements and two tower arrangements.

I wanted to ensure the table arrangements looked great from all views of the round table and I tied them together with the tower arrangements by incorporating cinnamon scented pine cones. The scent also helps to bring the silk arrangements "to life."

The plan is for 10 lucky people to take home the arrangements. I wish I could go just to keep one for my own home!

And while we're being thankful, thank you to everyone who made this year such a success. Here's to an even more prosperous 2010!

Friday the 13th AND Turning 40

My latest event was a surprise 40th birthday party, that was happening on Friday the 13th. The birthday girl is also a HUGE Purdue fan, and it was the night of their opener for basketball. What to do?

Utilize some of those Halloween decorations, put a fun twist on the "over the hill" concept and do it all in black and gold.

Here it is, black and gold glittery skulls with bones to match. I also added levels throughout the table and made a glittery runner to cover. I arranged the skeletons I glittered with the bones and balloon bouquets for a look that was equal parts fun and festive.

The best part is the party was a complete surprise. Happy 40th Birthday, Marina!

Personal Touch

When I'm designing a party, I always like to throw in a personal touch, something that will make this event different from any other party people will attend. That's why I'm crazy about this personalized cupcake tree my friend Katie did for an NYC engagement party.

She took a few different photos of the couple and created little logos in their color scheme. Then she adhered the photos and logos together around toothpicks and created fancy little toppers. It had the guests talking all night and was the perfect personal touch! Congrats Lindsey & Aaron!

Crafty & Cute

I just finished my first craft show. What an adventure! Someone should make a movie about the personalities of crafters. I experienced first hand how territorial they can be!

In my spare time? I make Carrier Cushions. They are wraps for the handles of the infant car seats that look fun and save the forearms of whomever is holding the baby. Practical & sassy, I just love it! Enjoy these photos of the craft show and display. And shoot me an e-mail if you'd like to order one for your own bundle of fun or for upcoming baby showers or push presents. lauren.stiglich@gmail.com

Before You Pop

I am in love with these containers and can not wait to introduce them at the next baby shower I throw. Cute and modern and totally fun, these are perfect for even the most discerning mom-to-be, and who doesn't love a good tub of popcorn?