Baking and Craft Party (5)

If you’ve been reading Thoughtfully Simple for the past few years, you’ll remember my oldest daughter Taylor’s past birthday parties. We’ve done a candy party and a zebra party which I shared. Today, I’m sharing her 11th birthday party which was a lot of fun. She completely helped mold the theme of her party which [...]

The Dinner Party Diary, a must-have! (0)

Whether it’s a large formal soiree or a more causal dinner party – the best events are the ones that are put on by cool, calm, and collected hostesses. I talk a lot here about ways to simplify your gatherings and I’m always striving to share tips to keep you organized, stress-free, and excited about your event. Today, I’m sharing a must-have book that completely falls in line with these goals …

Hanging on to summer (4)

If you are like me, then you are in a bit of denial that summer is nearing an end and before we know it fall will be here. My daughter heads back to school (hello 5th grade!) in less than two weeks, which is way to soon if you ask me. It’s still summer! So, [...]

DIY party decorations {Signs} (3)

He turned 18, graduated high school and is heading off to boot camp to become a Marine (how’s THAT for milestones?). We kept the decor simple (he’s a guy after all) and created some DIY party decorations using his high school colors. I used several signs throughout the party to tie in the color scheme — here they are.

Engagement Party {Classy + Whimsy} Part 2 (4)

As I mentioned in Part 1 of this engagement party, the entire concept of this party was created around the Bride-to-be’s mention that she was envisioning a party that was “classy with a touch of whimsical” and “black with a pop of color.”

Here is a reminder to what started it all … the

Engagement Party {Classy + Whimsy} Part 1 (6)

We’ve been super busy gathering all of the fabulous photos from this classy + whimsy engagement party we hosted. A classy cocktail party with plenty of whimsy touches and “pops” of color!

Valentine’s Day Cookie Pops (5)

Looking for something cute and sweet to whip for your little Valentine or to serve at your Valentine’s Day party? We’ve shared several Valentine’s Day cupcakes (and even an adult only version) but today we’re loving these super simple cookie pops!

Holiday Drinks + GIVEAWAY (48)

Earlier this week, I shared two unique holiday cocktails with you that were made with Sierra Mist. For a little refresher you can check out the recipes for Meet Me at the Mist-letoe and Frost Bite here. Today, I have two NEW holiday drinks that I created  while playing bartender with Sierra Mist myself — one cocktail [...]

WIN! A Chinese New Year Celebration with P.F. Chang’s (26)

The Chinese New Year is one of the most important and festive Chinese holidays and 2012 happens to be the year of the Dragon. Why not invite friends over for a festive Chinese New Year celebration, or plan a romantic night in with that special someone? The folks over at P.F. Chang’s are helping us [...]

Naughty or Nice $2,500 Giveaway! (0)

Shopping, baking, decorating, shopping and more shopping — tired yet? Could you use a little help this holiday season? I know I could! Check out this contest from our friends at ForRent.com and Homes.com for a chance to win $2,500 (now THAT would help, right?). They have a simple and fun Facebook contest going on and the [...]

Sweet Designs by Amy Atlas, THE book to have! (1)

If you love sweets, baking, crafting, party styling — or any combination of these things you MUST check out Sweet Designs by Amy Atlas. After pouring her heart into this book for over two years Amy’s labor of love is finally available for pre-order! I am honored to help Amy spread the word, I’ve been [...]

It’s a Sunshine Safari with Operation Shower (2)

How’s your week going friends? Fantastical I hope (yes, that’s a real word — we’ll at least it should be). I’ve been a little quiet this week so I wanted to check in with you all and say “hello” and share what I’ve been working on. I’m super excited to be helping with an amazing baby [...]

It’s all about the COLOR (1)

I get asked a lot, “How do you come up with ideas for your party themes?” Most of the time, the first glimmer of inspiration I get comes from a color or a combination of colors.   My Pinterest board for a Blush Wedding I’m not a big fan of character parties or most novelty [...]

Keep Your Flowers Longer (0)

Here are some simple tips that will help you keep your beautiful flower arrangement perky. Don’t toss your blossoms, revive them!