Thursday, November 27, 2014

Great Christmas Gift Ideas for Girls

Christmas is less than a month away!  With 4 kids and a husband to shop for I've been combing the internet for the best ideas for gift giving this year.

Here are a few of my favorite Christmas gift ideas for girls!  Stay tuned for my favorite Christmas ideas for boys!




 

 

 
 

 

 

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

Craft Fail: When Homemade Goes Horribly Wrong





















It seems like just yesterday that the incredible virtual pin board known as Pinterest hit the web.  In actuality, it's already been 4 years!  In that time, we've all been inspired by awesome pins and perhaps have even dabbled in recreating a few--some with success and many, many that have been disasters (to put it mildly).  Public photos of these Pinterest flops have been far and few between, until now.  With the latest release of the book CraftFail:  When Homemade Goes Horribly Wrong by Heather Mann, you finally have a peek at some horribly hilarious copycat Pinterest attempts. Think of Pinterest, gone awry.  From "mutant Milano sheep" to a "possessed peppermint wreath", the pages of this book will have you laughing hysterically as you recall your own craft mishaps.



Wondering how this book came about? The author, Heather Mann (pictured below), was inspired by her own experiences crafting.  She gathered real-life fails in home décor, fashion, holiday & food prep,  kid crafting , and best of all those "high profile" fails where crafty people attempted to recreate highly viral pins with catastrophic results. The book is filled with over 100 full-color pictures with the side-by-side comparison of the desired outcome and the sad reality (plus captions pointing out what went wrong.)

























I love that despite the humorous photos and commentary, Heather appreciates the learning process and celebrates the attempt!  Your ruffled cake didn't turn out?  That's ok!  You tried!  As Heather says, "you learn more from trying and failing than not trying at all."   And when the cake hits the fan, as it inevitably will-- you can smile and laugh and know you aren't alone!

Purchase a copy of CraftFail for only $9.88 on Amazon for all of your crafty friends and family members and enjoy a good belly laugh together as you relive your own Pinterest flops!

Now take a peek at a few more of the outtakes from this funny book.  Have you tried any of these?
 
 






ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Heather Mann, the founder of CraftFail.com and DollarStoreCrafts.com, has been crafting with middling success all her life, but blogging expertly since 2000. She is also cofounder of The Blueprint Social, a social media consulting company and network of influential bloggers, and co-host of the web show “Get a Little Creative.” She lives and crafts in Salem, Oregon.

Photo credits: CraftFail- Workman Publishing

Thursday, August 28, 2014

Custom Banner Giveaway!



Here at Banner Events  we're all about obsessing over the smallest details to make a party not only a success but unforgettable. That's why we LOVE a new company we came across, BannerEnvy. A New York company, BannerEnvy knows all about transforming occasions into moments with its personalized and custom banners. 
 


 
Whether you're celebrating a birthday or a retirement, BannerEnvy offers more than 100 designs to choose from! Don't see what you're looking for? Just ask! You can speak with one of BannerEnvy's own personal party professionals, and they will be sure to design a banner that fits right in with your theme. We couldn't believe the quality printing, design and workmanship!

Need it in a rush? Don't worry—they can ship your banner within 1-2 business days!

So don't be afraid to be the envy of your neighborhood, throwing a party that EVERYONE is talking about. Check out BannerEnvy.net today, and party on!

Here's the great news-- You can enter to win a free 6' x 3' banner (value of $69) from BannerEnvy. For entries, participants will need to follow Banner Events and BannerEnvy on Facebook and pin 3 of their favorite banners from the BannerEnvy website to Pinterest, from their website. Enter via the Rafflecopter widget below.
 
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Friday, August 8, 2014

Summer Giveaway


Sadly, summer is rapidly coming to a close, but not without some fanfare from Banner Events and 52 of our favorite companies!  We're celebrating with an end of summer giveaway that includes prizes worth over $2500.  There will be 53 winners!

Enter the contest via the Rafflecopter widget at the end of this post.  The contest will start on Monday, August 11, 2014 at 12:00 a.m. EST end on Friday, August 15, 2014 at 11:59 p.m. EST.  Winners will be announced via the Rafflecopter widget on this post within 24 hours of the conclusion of the contest and will be emailed using the email address associated with your Rafflecopter entry.  Winners have 48 hours to claim their prize once emails have been sent.

Contest sponsors:

Banner Events (that's me!) is donating:  Online event planning services to include an inspiration board based on 1 party theme (winner's choice) with ideas for: decor, food, drink, desserts, favors, entertainment, & activity/games plus a suggested vendor list with contact information & links.  ($75 value).  
Requirements/Restrictions: One month notice required.  Expires one year from contest end date.  (No tangible goods will be sent.)

























Banner Events is an event planning and styling company obsessed with the little details that make an ordinary event extraordinary!  We strive to pair individuality and creativity with well-executed details to bring flair and fun to your event.  We worry about all of the details—big and small—so you can relax and be a guest at your own party. While we offer a variety of services, our specialties are boutique style children’s parties, wedding/bridal showers & dessert tables. 

Frog Prince Cake & Cookie Design is donating:  $36 toward custom cookies/shipping. Requirements/Restrictions:  US only.  Must be used within one year of winning.  Non-transferable.  Please allow 6 weeks notice when placing your order.
 


 
Award winning cake & cookie artist creating custom cookie favors and fondant toppers to transform your events.


SookEe Designs is donating a $40.00 credit for anything in their shop. Requirements/Restrictions:  Open to US/Canada only.


















SookEe Designs adds ruffles, flair and a lot of pizzazz to everyday items for your children!  From skirts and aprons to capes, bags and pillows, SookEE Designs creates a unique style mixing fun fabric and patterns for any personality or occasion.  I love to inspire and love to be inspired!  Check out my ideas or share yours for a custom order--one of my favorite ways to design!


Sweeten Your Day is giving away 2 dozen cupcake toppers of customer's choice (approximately $50 value).  Requirements/Restrictions:  Ship only to US/Canada.  Must redeem toppers by 12/31/14.































Sweeten Your Day specializes in custom hand made edible fondant toppers for cakes, cupcakes, cookies and other treats for every occasion.

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Three Little Monkeys Studio is giving away a $35 shop credit.

























Three Little Monkeys Studio offers unique party printables, DIY tutorials and more


Pretty My Party is donating a $25 shop credit to EtsyRequirements/Restrictions: Ships to U.S. only.  Store credit good for 6 months.
 











Pretty My Party is your invitation to stylish celebrations. Find everything you need for your next party right here. Our blog features tons of wedding and party ideas. Our party shop includes modern and stylish party supplies for any event from wood utensils to stripey straws and pretty favor bags.



Lynlee's is donating a signed copy of Sweet & Unique Cupcake Toppers book (a $22.99 value). Requirements/Restrictions:  Us/Canada shipping only.































Lynlee specializes in providing fondant and party inspiration and tutorials via her blog at www.lynlees.com and is the author of the book Sweet & Unique Cupcake Toppers.


E&S Paper Studio is giving away a $50 credit to their Etsy shop.  (Does not include any shipping.)

























E&S Paper Studio: Party Styling.  Custom Party Décor & Stationery.  Dessert Tables & More. 


Natalee Nelson –Jamberry Nails Independent Consultant is giving away a set of 4 Jamberry Nail Wraps of your choice, plus your choice of Jamberry Application Kit w/out Oil, OR Jamberry Mini Heater! (Retail value up to $90!) Requirements/Restrictions: Ships to your address in US/Canada or Puerto Rico only! Choose your wraps and gift by August 31, 2014. Giveaway Wrap choices exclude licensed collegiate/sorority or NAS.


























Jamberry Nails are non-toxic vinyl nail wraps you put on top of your natural, acrylic, gel or shellac fingernails and toenails for at home nail art manicures and pedicures. There are 300+ designs from classic to crazy. Jams are loved for their no-chip, no-smudging that stay on up to 2 weeks on fingernails and up to 6 weeks on toenails! Gluten free. Latex free. Vegan. Made in the USA.

Facebook  Website    

DimplePrints is giving away a $35 shop credit valid on any existing invitation, party package and/or printable in the shop. Excludes: Custom a la carte items.




























PRINTABLE INVITATIONS • PARTY PACKAGES • HOLIDAY • CRAFTS


Charming Touch Parties is giving away a $50 shop credit.  Requirements/Restrictions:  Only ships to the Continental US.
















Charming Touch Parties, Event Planning, Party Styling and custom party decor.  Based just outside of Chicago, IL.

 
Creative Juice is giving away a copy of her books Gourmet French Macarons and Party Food For Girls ($45 value).  Requirements/Restrictions:  Only US shipping.
































Creative Juice is a source of inspiration to entertain your guests and kids with style and creativity! Easy ideas for entertaining in your home - tips, tricks, crafts, recipes, DIY and more! 

Autumn Lynn's Chocolate Sins is giving away a $35 shop credit.  Requirements/Restrictions:  Only US Shipping.


Stay at home mom changing the world one cake pop at a time!

 
Party Box Design is giving away a “Summer cocktail package”, 2 sets of drink flags + 1 set of water bottle or adult beverage labels.  ($55 value) Requirements/Restrictions:  US only.  Must use within 3 months.

Party Box Design was launched in November of 2009 because I could not resist my desire to conquer the event design world any longer, one little cupcake at a time! Just kidding, well kinda… honestly, planning parties, hosting events and party decor is a passion- a true love.
 
 
Twinkle Twinkle Little Party is giving away a $30 coupon toward digital printables available in their Etsy shop or 20% off on a complete custom party package.)  Requirements/Restrictions:   Excludes printing services and custom orders.

 
Twinkle Twinkle Little Party offers party styling services and also party printables for any occasion via our e-commerce website & Etsy shop.
 
 
Anders Ruff Custom Designs is giving away a $50 shop credit to use towards printables.

 
Anders Ruff is the go-to source for unique party ideas and coordinating printables to make your party fabulous!
 
Bella’s Bakery & Bowtique is giving away 1 dozen custom chocolate covered Oreos ($50 value including shipping).  Custom Chocolate Covered Oreos.  Requirements/Restrictions:  Only US/Canada shipping.
 






























Custom sweets for all occasions!
Paper + Pop is giving away a $50 shop credit for party printable printing.  No restrictions.

Paper + Pop offers expert printing, cutting and assembly for all your paper party details.
 
Lillian Hope Designs is giving away one personalized package of choice from her shop and the Christmas, Halloween and Back-to-School themed standard packages.  (A $65 value.) Requirements/Restrictions:  This is only for the items currently in the shop. This is not for any custom design items. Must be used within a year.
 

Lillian Hope Designs creates unique printable decorations for all of your party needs:  birthday party packages, invitations, wedding showers, baby showers and more!  www.LillianHopeDesigns.com
 

Katarina's Paperie is giving away a $30 credit towards their shop.  Requirements/Restrictions:  Printables are open worldwide, but any printed goods can only be shipped to the US.
 




Katarina's Paperie is a paper design shop featuring a range of products for our littlest customers to enjoy.  You'll find a variety of invitations, party décor and other whimsical fun.  We are proud to offer our designs as printables or handcrafted creations to fit all your party's needs. 


Little Retreats is giving away a $50 shop credit with free shipping. 




 
Little Retreats creates your must have party essentials for any event. Rockin’ photo booth props, custom signage, favors, décor and so much more!


Sweet Threads Clothing Co. is giving away a 3 month membership to their Holiday Skirt of the Month Club - 3 months of skirts themed for Halloween/Thanksgiving and Christmas.  Winner will receive skirts in Oct/Nov/Dec. (A $36 value.) Requirements/Restrictions:  US shipping only.  Skirts will ship in Oct/Nov/Dec.



Sweet Threads Clothing Co is an online boutique specializing in children's clothing that's a little sweet, a little modern and always handmade.





SmashCake & Co. is giving away a $50 shop credit.  Requirements/Restrictions:  Only ships within the US.
Boutique Party Supplies for the Oh-So-Stylish Hostess and the home of Party Paper + Gift Wrap

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Swish Printables is giving away a $50 shop credit.  Requirements/Restrictions:  Credit must be used in one transaction.  Not transferable.
 
Swish Printables creates digital invitations and party goods for all of life's parties!


Bloom Designs Online is giving away a $50 store credit.   

 
Bloom Designs Online is a daily party blog and pretty party store serving up ideas and products for making each day and celebration a bit more personal.



Made by a Princess is giving away a set of 12 Clear Sparkle Sticks™ and 12 Glitter Cupcake Toppers (will work with winner on theme and colors).  (A $30 value.)  Requirements/Restrictions:  Free shipping within the US.  International winners will be responsible for shipping.












Made by a Princess Parties in Style specializes in party products for all occasions including baby and bridal showers, weddings, birthday parties and more. I offer a huge selection of shower games as well with many designs and colors to choose from to match your theme. My blog is about sharing my passion with parties with everything from DIYs, recipes, tips, ideas, and photos from my own party collection & http://bit.ly/FrozenBirthdayParty.
 

Comfy Cozy, Inc. is giving away a “Girls Rock” matching glow in the dark pillowcase and nightshirt.  (A $44 value.)  Requirements/Restrictions:  US shipping only.
 










 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Comfy Cozy creates magical glow-in-the-dark pillowcases for all ages!  Our fun and functional line of products includes standard and travel/toddler size pillowcases in everything from whimsical to inspirational designs, plus the best selection of keepsake photo and sticker calendars you'll find anywhere!  We also offer custom printing to coordinate with your party theme, family reunions, business or organizations.

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Sweets from Heaven is giving away one dozen CandyBobs (candy kabobs).  (A $47 value.) Requirements/Restrictions:  US shipping only.

Sweets from Heaven is a bulk candy store located in Orange, CA.  We specialize in all things candy!  We have hundreds of different types of candy to choose from.  This comes in handy when we are designing our candy kabobs also known as CandyBobs.  We also offer catered candy buffets for birthdays, showers, and/or weddings. 



Hoopla Events is giving away a $50.00 gift certificate to their Etsy shop.  Requirements/Restrictions:  US/Canada shipping only.

Hoopla Events is an event planning/party styling company who also sells trendy party supplies. We can help you throw that unforgettable party that you have always dreamed about!


4Kids Cakes is giving away a  $25 gift certificate towards the purchase of fondant toppers, chocolate Covered Oreos or cake pops.  Requirements/Restrictions:  US shipping only.

 
A custom cakery - offering custom cakes, fondant work, custom oreo's, sugar sheets, cake pops, french macarons, and more!




Dime Party Diva is giving away a $30 credit to The Pretty Party Shoppe. Requirements/Restrictions:  US shipping only.


 
Dime Party Diva is blog that features fun parties, crafts, recipes and tutorials. We give tips & tricks on how to throw a party on a budget! You can find our party printables and paper supplies in our online shop, The Pretty Party Shoppe.

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Itsy Belle Studio is giving away a $25 shop credit. Requirements/Restrictions:  Valid on Printable files only, no printed orders. Must be redeemed within 1 year. Winner must remain a fan of Itsy Belle's page(s).
 
 



Itsy Belle's pretty + preppy party Paperie makes life's little celebrations into one of a kind events.  We are a design studio specializing in party paper & home décor.  Everything for the event planner & stylist on a budget:  invitations, signs, banners, toppers, tags, thank you notes & more.
 
 

GreatStitch is giving away a personalized backpack and matching lunch bag.  (A $69 value.)


 

Birthdays became more special after my daughter's successful bout with cancer. My kiddos are grown so while I wait on grandkids of my own I can help others make their day memorable. So far we have been so blessed to be a part of celebrating with more than 5.000 people through our little birthday shirts. Nothing makes me happier than the smiles of kiddos and to hear back from a mom who said her child, "Stands at the dryer waiting on the shirt to be done so he can wear it again." The memories we make matter. We build memories. 

 




 


Jen T. by Design is giving away a $50 shop credit.  Requirements/Restrictions:  Must be used by Sept. 1, 2015






Jen T. by Design is a paper boutique specializing in stylish invitations and printable party décor.  We know that finding the perfect invitation is just the first step in planning an amazing celebration, so we provide you with the accessories and inspiration to help you transform life's special moments into magical memories. 






 

D & P Celebrations is giving away one customized printable collection (A $50 value.)


D & P Celebrations is all about bringing your party together just the way you imagined!  We have all different types of digital party supplies available in our Etsy shop and are always up for the challenge of a custom design.
 
Oh My Cake! Bakeshop is giving away1 dozen 'Little Layers' (cake push pops), chocolate OR vanilla. (A $54 value.)  Requirements/Restrictions:  US shipping only. 
 
Oh My Cake! Bakeshop specializes in custom cakes, cake pops, cupcakes, cookies, chocolate dipped strawberries, gourmet apples and more! 
 
Fancy & Fold is giving away 1 6 ft. Christmas Circle Garland made from Christmas paper in traditional colors.  (A $22 value.) Requirements/Restrictions:  US/Canada shipping only.


 
Fancy & Fold offers handmade paper party supplies, giant flowers, calligraphy and personalized cake toppers.
 

Scarlet Harlow Design is giving away 1 sweet handmade woodland fairy crown or frozen crown.  (A $22 value.) Requirements/Restrictions:  US shipping only.


I'm an artist/designer and do most everything from illustration, graphic and fashion design to party styling and decor. I've worked professionally as a designer for 14 years, and am newly online with my website and blog and Etsy store
 
 
Printmy (printmypictureonline.com) is giving away a $50 credit toward party printables.  Requirements/Restrictions:  US shipping only.


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PrintMy was started after Erica, the owner, was seeking a source to print her own photography pictures from family trips, special events and the world around.  Being an amateur photographer she did not have access to the “pro printing labs” but felt strongly that her work (and yours) deserved better than a pharmacy quality print. Now the business has grown, and they are your printing partner in the process from selecting the perfect print substrate to selecting the ideal size. Regardless of whether you are looking for 1 print or 100, you can trust their family with yours!
 
 
BellaGrey Designs is giving away a $50 shop Credit to be used on printables only. 
 




Your source for both fabulous customized PRINTABLE and FULLY ASSEMBLED party designs! Where imagination, inspiration and celebration come together to create Birthday and Party Invitations, Cupcake Toppers, Banners, Food Labels, Welcome Signs, Favor Tags, Party Circles and more.  We have everything you need to make your party special!
 
 

Libby Lane Press  is giving away one 5.5" x 8.5" “From the Mom of” Notepad with personalization.  (A $17 value + shipping.)  Requirements/Restrictions:  US shipping only.No more than 5 children can be listed per pad.
 

Libby Lane Press creates paper + products that celebrate the adventure of being a child... and the art of being a parent. The original designer of the popular "From the Mom of..." notepads is thrilled to offer a chance to WIN a FREE personalized notepad to one lucky winner!
 
 
Princesses & Tiaras is giving away a $50 shop gift certificate.  Requirements/Restrictions:  Shop ships only to USA & Puerto Rico.  Not redeemable for cash.  Certificate valid for one year.
 

Princesses & Tiaras is an enchanting party and event resource that combines the real world of parties, events and style with the magical world of princesses, dreams and fairy tales. The Royal Celebration Zone! Girly Party Ideas and lots of glitter for your princess party or event! 
 
Painting Paris Pink is giving away a $40 shop credit for digital items only & 1 dozen Shimmer Sticks (A $52 total value.) Requirements/Restrictions:  Shipping of Shimmer Sticks to US & Canada only.

Because there's always a party to plan. We make party printables, partyware & gifts for all of your party needs.

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Michelle's Party Plan-It is giving away a $50 shop credit for product and shipping costs.  Requirements/Restrictions:  US shipping only.
 

 
Michelle's Party Plan-It is a blog and shop specializing in fun party essentials and inspiration for all occasions!
 
 
Skylar Raine is giving away a $30 shop gift certificate.

If you LOVE fun, one-of-a-kind, handmade accessories, then you will LOVE Skylar Raine! This stylish shop specializes in one-of-a-kind, stylish accessories and is dedicated to creating unique, trendy, accessory designs for YOU & your home! You will find all kinds of hair accessories for girls of all ages, bow ties for the boys and pins to accessorize with in the current inventory.  With the recent addition of the HOME decor line, you will also find stylish fun for your home as well. Stop on by and browse the current creations or contact Laura with a custom design request! https://www.etsy.com/shop/skylarraine
Eye Candy Creative Studio is giving away a $50 shop gift certificate.
 

Eye Candy Creative Studio specializes in graphic design, paper product designs, logos, hand lettering, illustrations and more. You will find loads of ‘eye candy’ on her blog that feature DIY home projects & crafts, latest designs for the shop, easy to follow recipes and lots of freebies from Laura and her team! She loves to show you how easy it is to entertain, design, craft and create the latest “eye candy” of your own. Make sure to stop by and check out the latest at www.eyecandycreativestudio.com
 
Petite Party Studio is giving away a $50 shop credit.  Requirements/Restrictions:  Shipping not included.


From darling printables to colorful party decor, we have all of the supplies to make your next occasion fabulous!

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Ten23 Designs is giving away a $20 shop credit.  Requirements/Restrictions:  Credit does not apply towards shipping costs.
 
 
Ten23 Designs creates custom event decor elements to coordinate with your theme or style. Custom cake toppers, backdrop signs, vinyl decals and centerpiece props are just some of the popular and stylish items we can provide.
 
Soiree Event Design is giving away a copy of Soiree Event Design’s Guide to MY Party Planning Biz! Ebook.  (A $67 value.)
Do you want to start your own small Party Planning business but need some help getting started? Well, this new Ebook is just what you need.  Tonya is sharing DETAILS on her party planning business including all the insider secrets to how her business remained profitable.  This book is full of info most party planners won't tell you.  
 
Dimply Sweet is giving away their stunning Snow White banner or a birthday banner of choice.  (A $41 value.) Requirements/Restrictions:  US Shipping only. 

 
 
Dimply Sweet offers event styling services for our local clients.  For those out of town clients, our studio "Dimply Sweet Studio" offers "Designer Pretties", shipped to your doorstep.
 
 
 
A Fresh Take Photography is giving away a $20 Target gift card.
 

















We are a boutique photography company that specializes in styled portrait sessions.   We love to photograph events, weddings, parties, commercial products and most of all children!

 
 
Ella and Annie Magazine is giving away 1- 6 ft. white ruffled table runner.  (A $50.05 value.)  Requirements/Restricts:  US shipping only via a flat rate envelope.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ella and Annie Magazine:  Parties-Food-Style:  This unique publication will invite you into the world of parties, food and style one issue at a time.  It was named after my beautiful daughters, Ella and Annie.  It was very important for us to create a "useful" magazine; complete with craft tutorials, trendy, yet affordable style and comfort food recipes you can use for years to come. 
 
Rachel Krugh Rodan + Fields Independent Consultant is giving away 4- $20 gift certificates + 4 mini-facial packets ($100 total value).
 
Rodan + Fields: Changing Skin, Changing Lives. Rodan + Fields® Dermatologists is changing skin and changing lives by partnering with independent business owners across the United States to redefine the future of aging. Founded by world-renowned dermatologists Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields, the creators of Proactiv® Solution, Rodan + Fields' patent-pending MACRO Exfoliator™ and AMP MD™ System make real results possible at home without injections or other invasive procedures.
Named the 2010 Rising Star by the Direct Selling Association (DSA) for its dedication to achieving a high standard of excellence in business operations, and awarded numerous awards for business campaigns and products, Rodan + Fields is the anti-aging company to watch.
 
 


 
 
 
 

 
 
a Rafflecopter giveaway