kitty's shindigs & soirees

Nautical Love: More Beach Bashes and Seaside Parties

2011-12-30T22:10:00.000-08:00

When this blog was born three years ago, one of its inaugural posts was about nautical party themes. Despite the original page's photos being desperately out of date, the piece has remained one of our most popular. For the new year, for all you brides and pregnant mothers and graduates and cougars who need piscean-inspired parties, I give you these ideas.
Love,
kitty.

I have a thing for place card holders. These silvery sailboats would be great for showers.

Silver Sailboat Place Card Holders - $1.23
from: Beau-coup.com

A similar option, these cruise ship luggage tags can double as place cards - great for destination weddings.

Nautical Luggage Tag Favors - $6.25
from: Beau-coup.com

All of the fab nautical invitations I'm about to drop on you are from Minted.com. Click the pictures to shop. There are a couple that make me want to plan a Hawaiian destination wedding ... send your groom prospects to me, please. Meow!

3 FREE wedding invitation samples from Minted.com with code 3FREE

In case your Christmas cards and holiday newsletters didn't quite make it to the mail...

2011-12-30T18:39:00.000-08:00

Dearest Kittens,
It's the eve of the Eve, and perhaps you find yourself in these last stretches of the holiday season feeling remiss for not sending your correspondence. Never fear, Kitty is here with some options for late winter and early spring.
I am one to send valentines rather than holiday cards. It gives me a chance to write a personal note to everyone and it's a nice surprise for relatives and friends to get a gorgeously retouched photo of me * and the most angelic child ever born. What a way to chase away the winter drearies!

* In this coming year, let's all make a pact not to take or post any ugly pictures. If you can't use Photoshop or do some creative cropping, then don't post that picture of yourself looking glamkitty meow meow if your BFF has some weird double chin thing going on. Take one for the team, kittens, and practice kindness when playing with photos on the Facebooks.
Love,
Kitty.

If your girls had a Ni Hao, Kai-lan holiday, why not adapt this birthday card to say thank you for all the fun gifts?

Nickelodeon Invitations & Cards from Tiny Prints

I also love this one, ambiguously titled, "Winter Wishes." Use all of your holiday pictures in a collage. These go over well with grandparents and others who can't get enough of your little darlings (please, please let your little darlings be Pugs...).

A little something for those kittens who unwrapped an engagement ring this year and will be in need of Hip, Modern, Exclusive Wedding Invitations!

Movie-Centric Holiday Ideas

2011-12-12T20:54:00.000-08:00

Whether you have movie fanatics on your list, or you just want to bring a touch of theatrical drama to your party this winter, I have inspirational ideas to carry you through the New Year.

I wouldn't dare photograph the inner ~~chaos~~ ahem, sanctum that is my office, but I myself enjoy a life-size cutout of Luke Skywalker as I blog to you. Movie cut-outs are a must for film buffs. Why not have Santa bring one or two?

Are you a Rotster in envy of our script supervisor's set chair while you spread out on the ground or in your car?

Movie & Film Accessories

Meow & Purr, Kittens! Kitty's Back!

2011-12-12T19:58:00.000-08:00

Dearest Kittens,
It has been far too long and I've been missing you. For months I have not been able to access my Google accounts because they were tangled up with the Innerspace OMnimedia Mothership, and I'm in the process of streamlining my many channels.
I've also been making an independent feature film, Chicago Rot. With the holidays in full swing, I come to your newsfeed with all sorts of fresh new ideas for making the season green, bright and downright fantastic. Please check back soon!

Princess Kate's Dress Inspires Wedding Dress Favors

2011-04-29T15:31:00.000-07:00

I loved Princess Kate's dress. So beautiful, so English, so Alexander McQueen (rest his soul). With June weddings right around the corner, it's time to think of bridesmaids and shower favors and little presents tied up with ribbons. Inspired by Kate's gown this morning, here are some wedding dress favors I adore.

Tiny wedding gown candles.

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Coordinating wedding car candles.

Perfect for a rehearsal dinner or shower! Uniquely, these smartly designed napkins can stand up to serve as table décor! Eco-friendly napkins are made of 100% recycled tissue and are printed with FDA-approved food grade inks.

Cupcakes with a dressy trim.

Giant Props

2011-04-17T08:41:00.000-07:00

I'm starting to think about premiere parties and movie shindigs (did you hear your Kitty recently became a film producer?!?). The other day I stumbled upon this website selling giant things. About 20 years ago, Muffy and I were shopping in Soho and found a store called, "Think Big." They sold items like these, but their presentation was more like a gallery. I think this is great; greatbigstuff.com has everything from huge pieces of sushi to enormous guitar pics. Perfect party favors and/or decorations.

Chicago Rot Feature Film

2011-04-14T20:29:00.000-07:00

Hello Hip Cats and Kittens,
In the event you've been wondering why your Kitty hasn't been posting about parties so much lately, it's because I am planning the biggest event of my life. About a year ago, I got the opportunity to realize one of my fondest dreams: to make a movie. Today, the crew of Chicago Rot dropped the teaser trailer. Imagine me cutting a big, red bow and taking a bow. Please watch the trailer below, but be warned it is very gory. This is a dark film with a lot of heart, sure to become a hit with the goth set, science fiction fans, rockers, and those who love the city of Chicago.
The link will lead you to Kickstarter, a forum for independent artists. If you want to get on board with this project, please peruse the offerings and incentives. And watch this space for further details on how to throw a wrap party, or a premiere. It's going to be one hellacious shindig after another this summer. Thank you for your support, and for reading Kitty.

Real Soda in Glass Bottles Great for Parties

2011-04-09T18:32:00.000-07:00

Your Kitty recently discovered Real Soda, a brand which distributes vintage and microbrewed sodas like Frosty, Cheerwine, and my personal favorite, Rat Bastard Root Beer. With over 1400 flavors, there is surely something that will bring the extra pop to your party! These are currently sourced by Real Soda Midwest, and may be found this spring at your local Ace Hardware or Do It Best center.
Real Soda is only available in glass bottles, which is why Kitty loves it so much. As you kittens know, we are very dark on plastic. If a beverage stored in a plastic bottle becomes heated over 78 degrees (certainly probable in a warm car or outside on a hot day), plastic begins to leach into the drink. This not only adulterates the taste, but floods your body with icky chems you don't want to ingest!

Several funny flavors and energy drinks are available.

Unique Valentines

2011-01-25T21:13:00.000-08:00

Although this was originally offered as a holiday card, this snowman could go for Valentine's Day or give a double-dose of happiness as a late New Year/Valentine greeting. Especially if you never got around to sending out Christmas cards or the New Year's cards you planned to use after said holiday correspondence flake-outs!

Attention all Chi-Os and trendsters who heart owls: these two designs are perfect for you.

For the picture-perfect family. Tasteful triptychs.

Love brown, love sepia photos with brown designs. Love pugs. That's why I picked this. If you have a pug or three, this is for you.

Valentine's Day is less than three weeks away, kittens! Get your list together and get on it! Click the designs above for shopping information. XO!

Mad Men themed Party Part 3: All About the Monogram

2011-01-17T20:17:00.000-08:00

Your Kitty has been publishing this blog for over two years, albeit intermittently. Of all the posts, the Mad Men party theme has definitely garnered the most interest. With Awards Season upon us, nothing suits an entertainment occasion quite as nicely as a Mad Men party. This post, part 3 of the series, focuses on the monogram: an essential component of swank for the Draper in all of us! Whether you're looking for party favors, prizes or decor to pull your party together, monogrammed items will give your event the polish and perfection of a Mad Men set.

This dance floor decal can be used to personalize any space at your party. Click the image for more information.

Whether you're having a Mad Men-style wedding or an awards season soiree, this photo backdrop can be personalized with a simple monogram to give your party a true red-carpet vibe. Click the image for more information.

The Martini Bar is a must at any Mad Men-themed shindig. You must use real glassware. Do you think Betty draper drinks out of a paper or plastic cup?

Every swankster should have his or her own monogrammed flask. Click images for more information.

An elegant monogram for the top of your cake, whether your party is for a birthday, wedding or graduation.

Your Mad Men-themed (or inspired event) requires a traditional invitation. It can be vintage or retro, but should have a classic, clean feel. See some examples below and click here for shopping links : Hip, Modern, Exclusive Wedding Invitations!

All invitation designs from Wedding Paper Divas; click above to get free shipping!

Valentine's Day Weddings, Showers and Parties

2011-01-17T19:01:00.000-08:00

I love this idea so much, I'll probably feature it frequently for different party ideas. If you're throwing a shower this spring, it would be a great gift for the bride and groom to use at your party and the wedding.

As an eco-blogger, nothing makes me happier than favors that aren't just going to wind up as more plastic schlock in a landfill somewhere.

Organize your party favors by the entrance so guests can grab their goodies on the way out. Adorable for a Valentine's Day-themed shindig.

With this wedding wish and prayer box, you'll have more than just memories of your special day. Guests' sweet wishes and solemn prayers can be preserved forever in this wonderful keepsake. Simply leave note cards next to the box and invite guests to slip a special message inside.

Adorable tea party favor boxes that double as place card holders.

The Sexiest Alice in Wonderland Halloween Ever!

2010-09-28T19:19:00.000-07:00

Kittens, I wasn't in the celebratory mood this summer. My life was a litterbox. But with my favorite holiday just around the corner, and romance in the air once more, I'm feeling rather frisky! Here are some great sexy costumes for your party this fall, whether yours will be private or not! Meow! These pictures are clickable, so you can get right to the shopping.... and don't tarry! You wouldn't want to be late for this very important date!

With my penchant for screaming, "Off with his head!" I've already decided to go as

the Queen of Hearts this year... now to choose which hot option!

I love the Harajuku stylings of this Mad Hatter!

This one is reversible: perfect if you have more than one party to attend!

A nice touch of remembrance for a wedding

2010-04-26T19:46:00.000-07:00

Kittens, it's been too long! I've been remiss in posting on this blog, as I haven't been in a celebratory mood for the last few months. My sister-in-law got engaged recently, and charged me with the task of finding a very special bit of embroidery for her gown. We lost her father a few years ago, and she wanted a private remembrance of him during the ceremony. Because his totem animal was the owl, she wants an elegantly embroidered owl for the inside of her dress. How sweet is that - and she isn't even a Chi-O (but I am)! I found several great options on Etsy. Here are some other things I am posting for her - and for him, may he rest in peace!

Had to include this one; the groom is Thai.

And this one, since it's in her initials. You kittens know I'm gaga for monograms!

Seriously, how cute are these little soaps?!?

This eight-inch tall chocolate owl will be an amazing centerpiece at a shower or elsewhere!

Happy New Year Kittens

2010-02-15T07:52:00.000-08:00

Hello from frozen Indiana, kittens. It seems my dispatches from the tundra are getting fewer and farther between these days; I'm not in a partying mood and can't bear to even think of wedding topics right now given my separation from Hubbs. Instead, I'm posting one of my favorite photos of the man in my life, my farting, snorting and chortling Valentine, the Emperor Tubba Bubba. Fat Boy sports a cloak which arrived all the way from China via a Fed Ex envelope I couldn't even decipher. This photo was taken about 4 years ago, and he has since outgrown this coat and given it to his rather svelte matching wife/tormentor. If I had a spare $150K sitting around, (damn you, recession!) I would clone him so as not to ever be without him. If I had one wish, I'd wish for a time machine so I could go back to the day I picked him up from some crazy hillbilly "breeder" and take all of his brothers and sisters home with me. Happy New Year!

Alice's Winter Wonderland Party Ideas

2010-01-13T17:24:00.000-08:00

Perfect for your winter extravaganza, no matter the occasion. A Winter Wonderland wedding is such a great theme, but this idea really lends itself to any elegant, whimsical occasion from December through February. I'd even consider it for a children's charity function! Of course, I'm always looking for the perfect way to squeeze in an Alice party!

I realize I've shown these to you before, but I just love them. Imagine the way the light will bounce off of them!

Form and Function. Every kittytastic shindig has a seating chart. I know, it's very Red Queen of me, but I want everyone to be perfectly matched for ultimate enjoyment at my tables.

Big fan of the monogram. If you are as well, take a look at Cathe Holden's website, Just Something I Made. Holden fashions typography you just can't believe!

Excellent, inexpensive Winter Wonderland favors or prizes.

Beaded Snowflake Ornament

Another cute, inexpensive option!

I've never met a cookie I didn't like!

Perfect for a shower; under $6.00, you can give each guest an adorable little gift. Put a little note inside. Very Alice!

I can't help being a little preoccupied with table topiaries! We had them at our own wedding about a bagillion years ago. Sometimes I'll be at an Auntie's or a friends, and see one of them tucked into a china cabinet or hoarded in a little drawer. Your florist should be able to point you in the right direction for renting large, or in our case, giant topiaries should you take this one all the way.

Inviting Alice to Christmas

2009-12-01T16:55:00.000-08:00

As promised, I'm posting my newly redesigned Alice in Wonderland Christmas Trees. For the last several years, I've done an Alice tree with glass hearts, golden keys, little mushrooms and a collection of resin ornaments (of indeterminate provenience). This year, however, I discovered the wonderland that is Ebay, and scored some delightful Polonaise pieces.

The new ornaments include Alice herself (who is very pretty but arrived broken-curses!), the Mad Hatter, White Rabbit and Red Queen. Once they arrived, I knew they needed their own place without their resinous counterparts (which are cute but not nearly as interesting). They were given pride of place on my tallest spiral topiary, and the old collection was moved to a smaller bush across the room with blue and silver pieces. Now there are two Alice trees to complete my Winter Wonderland! I'm actually working on a third as well! My newest quest is for the perfect fabric roses.

Unlike so many of my blog friends, I'm not much of a photographer so I know you'll forgive my less than perfect pictures. I haven't finished the dining room completely, but I'll be displaying little vignettes containing other pieces from my Alice collection to create a whimsical holiday scene sure to enchant all the children in my family from now until January. Please feel free to throw in your ideas, or tell everyone about how yooouuu roll at Christmastime! Oodles of Toodles, Your Kitty.

My brother and my nephew think these ornaments, especially the Hatter are "creepy."

I had to tuck Alice and her flamingo into the tree strategically; the bottom of her dress broke in transit. Apparently, I'll just have to deal with it and spend the rest of my life looking to replace this lone piece of the set. Bollocks!

The Red Queen of Hearts is my favorite; this old girl is bigger than my palm.

The blue and silver Alice tree with my old resin ornaments.

These Alices feature a tiny, glittery red bottle. I love the way she falls off the branch with her dress billowing as if she's headed down the rabbit hole!

I haven't found a perfect Cheshire Cat yet, so I'll leave you with this mysterious grin for now. Meow!

See the complete collection of Alice party ideas and other Wonderland topics on my new blog, Cabbages and Kings!

Pear Tree Eco-Friendly Holiday Cards

2009-11-30T19:29:00.000-08:00

Please know that 75% of our ad commissions from the sale of these cards will benefit our Seva Project 09 for St. Mary's Child Center in Indianapolis. Learn more. Pear Tree Greetings is not directly affiliated with this initiative to provide art supplies for at-risk preschoolers in our community. Thank You So Much! Love, kitty.

Hanukkah Ideas Part 2: Chinoiserie and Modern Menorahs

2009-11-19T13:06:00.000-08:00

A Chinoiserie Menorah and another titled, "Silver Dove." Both from the Art Institute of Chicago's Museum Shop (please note: we have no relationship with the shop, so should you decide to get one from their website your purchase will not raise funds for the Seva Project 09). They have lots of other interesting options for your Festival of Lights, so why don't you shake a tail and have a look?

Thanksgiving Costumes - Really?

2009-11-18T13:04:00.000-08:00

These fabulous finds are for Averill's amusement, but I hope everyone thinks they're as weird as I do. She hates Thanksgiving decorations! Pilgrim costumes? Really? Really?!? Please write in if you have seen this done at Thanksgiving dinner! Or tell us about your favorite Thanksgiving moment gone wrong!

"Coming up on Stage Number 4, it's Hester Prynne!"

I don't have any clever taglines for these coupla hot messes. Do you?

Curiouser and Curiouser!

2009-11-14T19:53:00.000-08:00

Dear Kittens,

Through a cursory analysis, I noticed my most popular posts on Shindigs are the Alice in Wonderland features. They're certainly the most fun to construct! I've decided to organize them and expand them on this new blog, Of Cabbages & Kings. I hope you enjoy reading the posts as much as I enjoy writing them. I've had a penchant for Alice since early childhood, and I've been collecting ever since.

I've never been much of a fan of princess crap, preferring instead to live in a Wonderland of sorts, gawking at the absurdity of life the way Alice herself learned about reality. Alice in Wonderland is as existential as Camus or any dharma book I've ever read. In fact, if there is one work of literature that has run like a sutra thread through my life, it is Alice in Wonderland. I just love it. And from the looks of it, so do you!

Here you'll find reprints of Shindigs & Soirees party planning posts, my Alice collection, special features and shopping links. In fact, from November 1, 2009 to January 1, 2010 we will donate 75% of our advertising revenue for the Innerspace Yoga Seva Project 09. Please click here for more information. Meanwhile, please tumble down this rabbit hole with me...and do drop a line. I want to see your Alice stuff, too! Oodles of Toodles,

Your Kitty, the Duchess of Bucquette.

Hanukkah Ideas

2009-11-13T17:30:00.000-08:00

Each photo above is clickable for your convenience. Should you decide to purchase anything from these sites, a portion of our revenue will be donated to the Innerspace Seva Project 09. Please allow your browser to accept cookies from these sites so sales can be tracked and we can earn our commission for the cause. Thanks! Love, kitty.

My Alice in Wonderland Tree

2009-11-09T19:03:00.000-08:00

I just can't wait to put up my Alice tree. Forgive my photos from last year. These pictures don't do it much justice; it's adorned with red glass hearts from around the world (mainly compliments of Bebe) weird keys, smaller topiaries from my wedding 13 years ago, glass mushrooms, and very intricate Alice ornaments. It's also the place where I hang MIL's lone surviving antique ornament from her own childhood. Because of the red hearts, I stack red, white and green gifts under this tree. I can't put them under the main tree, obviously because that room is brown and tiger striped and neutral. Christmas morning is always a little treasure hunt through the house for all of us!
Update: I just scored the sweetest glass Alice ornaments on Ebay! They're from my favorite year, 1996, and each is palm sized. I'll be receiving Alice, the Hatter, the Queen of Hearts and the White Rabbit. Although Radko made Alice in Wonderland ornaments that are somewhat rare and very cute, these are waaaayyy better and I can't wait to get them and put them up!
Update 2: Attention Alice fans: I've created a new blog, Cabbages and Kings. It's all Alice all the time. I hope you'll all join me there and on the other kitty: channels: Organic Orgy and Zen of Homekeeping. Toodles, kitty.

Your Corporate Holiday Parties

2009-11-08T18:32:00.000-08:00

   I've mentioned most of my event planning experience comes from several years of directing corporate Christmas at our family business. I learned quickly in our industry that there is no such thing as "Christmas" per se in the professional world.
   There are "The Holidays" and there is "The New Year," and there is a "Season" which must be greeted, but it's not called Christmas. Now, our parties certainly reflected the Christmas spirit (one of the season's parties was a no-holds barred Santa extravaganza), but in secular industries, not being more sensitive to and aware of others' cultural diversities will come back to bite you in the arse. If you have Jewish clients and employees, take the time to learn about Hanukkah. Non-Christian Asians tend to put more emphasis on the New Year.
   When I took over the job, Harry & David hams were traditionally sent to clients. People of the Jewish and Muslim faiths don't eat pork, and neither do I. But we live in the Bible Belt, and this had not occurred to my predecessor. We switched to smoked turkeys, which some clients really liked. If I knew they had always enjoyed our meat in the mail, I'd send the bird. Otherwise, it was gift-towers for all. Eventually I settled on sending organic Fruit of the Month. I was never disappointed. They all loved it. Each individual piece always looked like something from a food styling photo shoot. If you have the budget and you're looking to impress, Harry & David is a great option. Their customer service reps are really great, too.
   Whatever you do and whomever you use during the season, start early. Be ready to ship December 1st. Sure, most vendors will handle ultra-last-minute pleas but shipping and schlepping will cost you dearly. I once had to phone our order in 3 days early from Cabo San Lucas. It arrived on Christmas Eve at clients' homes, but the charges were staggering. And the roaming. The roaming from my cell phone was a king's ransom. I thought I'd never hear the end of it.
   If you care enough to spend the money to send gourmet foods or something really cool, you obviously want to make an impression. If your items don't arrive until the day or two before the holiday begins, your big mucky-muck probably won't see it. Either it will get lost in the avalanche of gifts that pile into the office, or it will arrive after your executive has jetted off a day early on vacation. Then all your butt-kissing will be for naught. Get it there early!
   Conversely, you must take note of what's coming into your office as well. Do your thank you notes as time allows during this busy time of the year, but write your thank you letters as you receive the gifts. Make sure you acknowledge the gifts, however small or mundane - and even if your company won't be reciprocating. My boss insisted upon a running inventory of who sent what. (continues below)

I'll right, I'm pretty sure I will catch hell for this, but I'm just going to say it: I. Hate. Secret Santa. It's the worst thing ever. If you're in charge of office cheer, don't foist this upon people. For one thing, an office isn't a sorority house. I'm not grinchy, really I'm not, but it's really awkward. Really, really awkward. I felt weird receiving presents from people I hardly knew. A sweet high school girl who worked about 5 minutes a week for minimum wage drew my name. I felt like a total ass accepting her cute little bag of Bath & Body Works (which, of course I refuse to use because of paraben and SLS and fake perfume content). I am old enough to be her mother. I secreted cash into her little felt stocking in the front of the building. That's what Secret Santa should be about!
In this awful economic climate, please don't press people into playing reindeer games. These are the sorts of things that add to rampant holiday stress. If you must spread some office cheer, why don't you take some of the delectable fruit baskets nuts and sausages (oh yes, there were loads and loads of sausages - more than any family could or should eat) down to the local police station or fire house? Or food pantry, or shelter or whatever. Give your coworkers the opportunity to do passive service. I think that's what the corporate world, or at least Michael Scott, calls a "win-win"situation.

Fancy Folded Napkins

2009-11-03T16:57:00.000-08:00

When I was an undergraduate, I worked in the catering department of a large, old hotel. We had to do ornamental napkin presentations practically every day. Given I spent most of my breaks on the back loading dock, er, hanging out with a bunch of townies, I don't remember how to do any of the fancy folds other than sticking a napkin in a wine glass like this:

It's not a bad technique in a pinch, but if you really want to set a table to impress, it's easy to learn the more intricate folds. I found this simple tutorial when I was looking for odd-sized table linens. I can never seem to find a tablecloth that's wide enough to fit my dining room table. I dread having to drag out the Singer to make one myself; how I hate sewing curved hems!

Natural Halloween Outdoor Decorating

2009-10-30T17:37:00.000-07:00

Photo by Matthew Benson for Country Living

Plastic wrappers, flammable streamers and polyester spider webs: all the traditional trappings of outdoor Halloween decor. Couple these with off-gassing PVC masks and costumes and fog machines, and you've got one horrible mess of toxicity melting down. Consider the All Hallow's Eve hangover of a trashpile on November 1st. The items that frightened and delighted your trick or treaters will haunt us forever in the landfill! That's pretty scary!

The photo above from Country Living showcases the most perfect, eco-friendly vignette I've ever seen. By using natural materials that can be composted (or heaped for next year's crops of pumpkins, gourds and squashes), you will avoid rampant consumerism and have a more tasteful display.

I particularly like the candles in Kerr jars with candy corn to stabilize. After Halloween, you can take the spooky bits out of your decorations to have something to tide you over till after Thanksgiving when the big guns come out!

Tips for Holiday Invitations: You'd Better Get Busy Now!

2009-10-21T17:36:00.000-07:00

I've been griping about the merchants foisting Christmas upon us before the leaves have dropped here in Indiana. It is such an anti-Zen way to live, shifting our consciousness ahead two and three months at a time. But if you read Shindigs & Soirees, I can only assume you are a doer and a planner, and there are, after all, numerous events creeping up on your calendar. That said, I know you'll forgive me for instilling holiday panic before you've even picked up your Halloween candy!

I was the party planner for our family business until Hubbs retired. At that time, my father in law (may he rest in peace) was still the CEO and our holiday extravaganzas included an employee party, a separate formal dinner dance for employees and clients/associates, a Santa party for our employees' children (complete with wish lists granted for 25-35 kids), client gifting, correspondence, and our personal family gatherings. Needless to say, my holiday planning began with our annual Halloween rager at my house and ended with me horizontal in a fuge state on a sofa by the fire by 3 pm on Christmas Day.

I abdicated my duties about 5 years ago, but inherited all of the Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve cooking. Not a bad trade, considering all the work that went into the season. In those days, internet commerce wasn't as prolific, and I had yet to discover the blogosphere. I'm not entirely sure there was much content yet, anyway. That meant the week before Halloween, I had to scour all of the stationery shops, spending hours pouring over catalogs and invitation samples. The schlepping alone drove me nuts.

Despite the options and convenience of the web, etiquette time tables still apply. Formal invitations for Christmas and New Year's Eve really must go out 6 weeks prior: people should be receiving theirs right after Thanksgiving. Anything later, and you're really pushing it because of the rush and rigmarole of the season!

Start by thinking backwards. Figure out the date of your event, subtract 6 weeks plus 10-14 days for processing and shipping, and you'll know when to get started. Whether you order from your local shop or online, you can do your address labels while you are waiting for your products to arrive. One advantage to having your invitations printed locally is the occasional opportunity to take your envelopes with you while the cards are being made. If you choose to print your addresses on labels, choose clear for colored envelopes. In my case, my boss insisted all invitations be addressed by hand. This usually took me every bit of a week to accomplish, but the results were very personal.

Your invitation should set the tone of your party. Often, I would come up with the theme by finding a super cool invitation. We celebrate Christmas, but not everyone does. That's why I usually crafted my text to read something like "Celebrate the Season With (Our Company Name)." The corporate tradition was to send a Harry & David ham to our clients, but when I took over we began ordering turkeys instead. Not everyone appreciates pork - including myself. Definitely something to consider in a culturally heterogeneous business world!

Here are some ideas to get you started. There is nothing I love more than poring over stationery, and though I consume far, far less of it these days I am happy to daydream of the parties that might be as well as the soirees that have been. Feel free to drop me an email (kitty@innerspaceyogas.com) or a comment if you want to pick my brain while planning your own winter wonderlands!

I don't normally send Thanksgiving cards because everyone I want to greet is usually at my house eating free range turkey and organic cranberry chutney, but if your business is food oriented, you'll make a big impression on your clients before the deluge of December mail rains upon them!

Note: The designs below were handpicked and captioned for you by Kitty. They are posted in a "shop" format for your browsing/my posting convenience. The links are clickable if you need more information or you want to order anything. In that case, you will leave the Kitty website.

While browsing invitations all afternoon, I was inspired to begin planning my own holiday social schedule. Among the pending get togethers, I'm penciling in an afternoon tea for some yoga friends to kick off this season's Innerspace Yoga Seva project, a wild girls' night out, Thanksgiving for 3-23 people, an intimate cocktail party at home, Christmas Eve White Elephant, and of course Christmas Day. Whew! I've worn myself out just thinking of it. More on these projects as they develop - Please check back!

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Best Halloween Treat Ever

2009-10-20T18:35:00.000-07:00

A friend asked, "Do you ever wonder about candy from China?" I try to minimize my consumption of Chinese products (it's really, really hard) because I try to maximize my American purchases. My mother-in-law is very strict about candy and toys not being from China because of lead content and the pet food scare a few years ago. Fine by me. That means my Easter baskets and Christmas stockings are loaded with domestic chocolate.

Behind in my blogging, I just found this adorable Halloween banner this evening. You totally have time to have some of these delivered in time for your favorite trick-or-treaters. They're fun to make and fun to give. I am actually going to click over and get some for my nephews as well as some of the NFL varieties to give to my son's football coaches as a thank you. Go Jets!

*Note: (Wed) I don't know what happened to the super cute orange and black banner I had posted; here yesterday and gone today. If you click on the ad, it will take you over to M&Ms, and you can see the Halloween variety there. Thanks, Kitty.*

FTC Compliance

2009-10-09T18:44:00.000-07:00

This morning, Liberty Post pointed me to a new FTC rule. Because I care about lawful compliance (although, I like to think I can discern for myself what is and is not malarkey in the media, and likewise I strive to be honest in everything I publish), I am posting the Advertising Policies for the entire domain.

"Innerspace OMnimedia publishes a variety of blogs and electronic magazines celebrating and supporting conscious lifestyle choices." That's the mission. Here are the facts: We are a privately funded corporation. We want to bring sustainable culture to people in many ways, from traditional news features to essays and yes, advertising. We like to think we are uniting cool people with cool stuff when indeed our editorial content is appropriate for "stuff." The companies featured throughout the domain demonstrate an aspect of sustainability, whether they are purveyors of organic clothing, natural cosmetics, or yoga products. Whatever.

Innerspace OMnimedia chooses our advertising partners with discernment; sometimes a brand is featured because we ourselves use and endorse the products, and sometimes we feature ad banners from the aforementioned partners simply because we like the graphic effect. We pretty much do what we want when we want and we believe our readers are astute enough to know media is supported by advertising.

When a customer clicks on these visual elements, she might or might not be taken to a place with further product information or the ability to purchase said item. If she buys the item, Innerspace OMnimedia is given a commission. It's called "affiliate marketing." It's an aspect of media in the digital age.

During the holiday season, we sometimes run Seva Projects which take those commissions and distribute them to Indiana children's charities. During the rest of the year, those revenues keep the Mothership up and running. When readers' buying sprees go to charity, we are very explicit about run dates for the project, as well as who will receive portions of our revenues. In other words, you'll know about all the love you are about to spread by buying cool stuff!

As for consumer reviews (particularly on Kitty channels), your Kitty personally buys the products in question with her own funds, tests the products on herself, and gives a "transparent" and honest review. We do not review swag or samples. Your Kitty does not review anything she has not paid for herself; products posted in clickable links may or may not generate revenue, and exist mainly for the readers' convenience. Now you know. Thanks.
Update 11-16-09: If you're a blogger and you want to learn more about the FTC's Endorsement guidelines, you might find this montage of videos helpful.

Candy for the Cure

2009-10-08T16:13:00.000-07:00

Send a bag of these special candies to your favorite survivor today! Personalized M&Ms are a huge hit. I've been pleased with the bags I have ordered, and these are especially cool because they raise money and awareness for breast cancer. Now through October 31st, M&Ms will donate 10% of your purchase of "Promise Blend" pink and white candies to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. You can even personalize your bag with your own text. When I use personalized M&Ms, I buy in bulk and have them individually wrapped in smaller cellophane bags at a local candy boutique. A huge hit with peeps of all ages! A nice touch for any ladies' luncheons you may be planning this month.

You Totally Have Time to Plan a Halloween Party

2009-10-04T18:26:00.000-07:00

You Totally Have Time to Plan a Halloween Party!

10 tips for a successful soiree:

1. Find some invitations & get them in the mail ASAP (preferably by the 10th to 13th-ish).

I love tiny*prints; their quality is amazing, and the selection is enormous. Many of their choices are eco-friendly, and they recently began selling a "studio" line which is less expensive. Whereas they used to make you order a minimum of 25, you can now get just a few if need be.

2. Determine a budget and stick to it. Party expenses, like hamsters, tend to multiply when left unchecked. Don't go to the party store with vague ideas; you'll end up getting a bunch of crap you won't end up using and that's just a big fat waste of time and money.

3. Make a list (and check it three times every day until the day after the event) of food and activities, then figure out how many and which serving pieces you'll need. Please see my previous posts regarding biodegradable/sustainable plates, cups and flatware.

4. Unless small children are going to be present, consider serving drinks in actual glassware. Brown bottled root beers are soooo autumnal! Rather than offering multitudinous beverage choices, consider one or two types of communal witches brews, served in creepy cauldrons or a spooky punch bowl. You'll save yourself the work of sorting and hauling all the recyclables afterwards!

5. One trick I use when entertaining at home is to actually lay the table the night before, as well as the serving area. I note which food will go into which dishes, so I'm not faced with any unpleasant surprises. I put candlesticks in the freezer overnight; this stops them from dripping all over the place.

6. Designate recycling tubs and put the trash nearby. Make it easy for guests to party sustainably.

7. Leave a few rolls of recycled paper towels on the counter in your kitchen. That way, guests can clean up their own minor disasters without bothering you and feeling embarrassed.

You might include a liter of club soda nearby for spills.

8. Heap some old costumes, props and masks somewhere in case guests arrive without festive attire. They can help themselves to the pile.

9. Polaroids or instant digital photos always, especially on Halloween!

10. The day before is also a great day to round up ice. I prefer to make my own, since my freezer water is filtered. If I start bagging it a day or two in advance, I have plenty.

Halloween Horror Movie Screening

2009-09-30T20:16:00.000-07:00

Finally! Fall is here on October 1st and I can jaw about Halloween ad infinitum without fear of reprisal from all the short-wearing hangers-on, trying to squeeze the last smidgen of summer out of the year when all I can do is dream of November when my natural pallor returns and I can get out my galoshes and gear up for a blustery season of gloomy weather in Indiana. Sweet!

So there I was today, picking up some tights and a table cloth at a local department store (oh yes, and several packages of socks for the boys - a little something I like to call Clean Laundry Day). I thought I'd have a glance over near the decorative items when I rounded the corner smack into an island of Christmas trees. That's how it begins on September 30th: with two or three inconspicuous trees and some low-level holiday music. They'll add to it day by day until it creeps over the back half of the store like an invasive species with flashing lights and plastic noise making thingys.... I haven't even re-Ugged my UGGs yet, and these bastards are bugging with the holiday crap. It makes me feel rushed. I just want to enjoy Halloween first, and so we shall!

So I'm thinking of screening horror movies at my Halloween party. Horror movies and perhaps Weird Science. Please write in and tell me what you think would be cool projected onto a large wall (interior or exterior)! My favorites would be Children of the Corn and Nightmare on Elm Street, but I was terrified by The Birds when I was little, and I think it would be perfectly creepy outside!

1970s Halloween Gear

2009-09-26T15:42:00.000-07:00

Just in case you're invited to or are throwing a 70s Halloween party:

Why buy costume pieces when you can have the real thing? Save money and the environment by shopping at a vintage clothing store or your local thrift outlet. Groovy!

An unexpected sort of cat costume

2009-09-22T16:48:00.000-07:00

"I've found my Halloween 2009 Get-up!

Princess Leia can now officially retire. I'll just be myself! I'll probably replace the top with something in plain pink, but the boots really epitomize this kooky look!

What are youuuuuuu going to be this year?" Oodles of Toodles, Kitty

~various sizes, prices and vendors available on Ebay.~

Alice in Wonderland Party Part 4

2009-09-19T13:30:00.001-07:00

I'm amazed by the amount of interest garnered in Shindigs & Soirees' coverage of Alice in Wonderland entertaining. Queries come in from all over the place, and I am heartened to know imagination lives on in gagillions of other girls who favor adventure to princess parties and riddles to rhinestones! Whether you want to create a Wonderland for children or adults, Kitty has you covered! Don't lose your head!

What is an Alice in Wonderland Party without an Alice? With Wonderland popularity on the rise, it's getting easier and easier to create Carroll's characters (see the Alice shop below for numerous options and costume links).

If you have a Wonderland wedding in mind, how adorable would a flower girl be in a handmade, elaborate Alice dress?!?

The Victorian-era illustration at the top of this post depicts everyone with head adornments. Even the little knave wears some sort of heart-shaped headband, and Alice's giant bow is so haute this season! Why use regular party hats when you can provide an array of fabulousness for boys and girls alike! Throw in some daisy chain headbands, bunny ears and jaunty tophats and you've got one curious, curious tea party!

Recently, I was jawing with a dear friend who ground-scored some giant lawn-sized chess pieces for a medieval knight's party she's setting off over the holidays. I thought they would be equally amazing at a Wonderland party. As we brainstormed our imaginary Alice party for you, she said she would make each table's centerpiece different in some way to add vibrant color to the room. When she ran out of chess pieces, we thought of the Queen's croquet Flamingoes, a giant pocketwatch, a mushroom, a tea cup, roses and topiaries... the list went on and on. The gigantic Kings and Queens would be awesome on the lawn of your venue or beside the party's entry!

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Mad Men themed Party Part 2

2009-09-15T22:00:00.000-07:00

As promised, more ideas for you who are gaga over Mad Men! Within a few minutes of any episode of the hip drama, the viewer realizes mad Manhattan in the early sixties was rather gin-soaked and swirling in a haze of cigarette smoke. Ah the good old days... drinking alcohol was much more ritualized. One could smoke openly with coworkers and in-laws. It's bizarre to see social norms so strikingly different, and yet nostalgic at the same time. Forget about the plot line; I'm focused first on the set design and second on the anthropology of it all!

I found this amazing autumnal recipe for cocktails to tide you over while I continue the hunt for my grandmother's vintage, vintage, vintage cookbooks! Cheers, compliments of Dumbwit Tellher!

Cranberry Cranium Martinis:

Regional Favors, Cake and Centerpiece Ideas

2009-09-15T07:48:00.000-07:00

While I'm scouring the web for exciting new party favors and ideas for you, I sometimes think of what modern products I might use today in place of what I had at my own wedding 13 years ago. Enter the cake bags:

You see, kittens, I was not the sort of girl who dreamed of expressing herself through the medium of wedding planning. I had not particularly thought about the necessary elements, nor did Hubbs and I have vast amounts of capital to invest in a lavish party, and my main concern was getting to California for a totally bitchen' honeymoon.

My grandmother, however, had different ideas. There were certain touches I must have, such as custom printed napkins and cake bags. The bags are used to package up leftover wedding cake for people who want to take some home. Or whatever. I probably still have 250 left, and I'll just have to save them for our 20th anniversary.

If I were getting married today, I'm not sure I would have such a large cake that I would end up with so much leftover. In fact, I would recycle the best centerpiece idea I've ever had (used at my brother-in-law's wedding several years ago): Centerpieces = Small (6-8 servings) Wedding Cake Replicas. The bride and groom cut the largest cake, which is for themselves and the wedding party, then they come around to each table to chat and cut cake for all the guests. If I did that, there would be no need for leftover bags. That said, however, such bags might be handy if my party favors were cookies.

Of course, if I were getting married today, my grandma would still be coming to the party (86 and still rockin'), and she'd be disappointed not to have the sacks (in the Region the word is "bag;" about 50 miles south of Lake County it morphs into "sack"). That being the case, I would definitely use the recycled paper option pictured above.

Seeing said cake bags on the web is testament to the fact I am not the only bride who had to have these, but I have yet to see this Calumet Region practice done in Indianapolis -- and we're only about 200 miles away. An anthropologist at heart, I'm always interested to see what other small touches are incorporated into weddings across America. Please write in and tell me what you've seen, and whether or not cake bags are big in your neck of the woods!

Another recycled paper option: boxes. Oh, how I love little present boxes at a place setting! If you are excited by beautiful ribbons and papers, be sure to visit A Gift Wrapped Life to see the most gorgeous gifts ever wrapped.

Roaring 20s Party

2009-09-14T18:34:00.000-07:00

If you've read my Mad Men post, you already know I love period parties. Among my favorite eras are the 50s, 70s, and 80s, but the ultimate in kittytastic alternate celebratory/hedonistic universes would have to be the Roaring 20s. I'm already daydreaming of about 5 dresses and headpieces I could pull out from my closets right now! Go read The Great Gatsby or watch Chicago. I've embedded some sweet Flapper footage to get you started!

A 20s theme lends itself to any occasion involving liquor and dancing. I also like specific period parties for Halloween because of the dressing up that is invariably involved. In my experience, many guests like to be given costume parameters (I am, of course, never one of those people, since my costume collection takes up way too much space).

Your 20s party can take place on a vast lawn beneath striped tents, as Gatsby himself would have thrown in West Egg. Perhaps you prefer the allure of a clandestine speakeasy, or a ballroom with Art Deco flair. Another version of a 20s party (more near and dear to my heart) is a Chicago theme. Whether you're thinking of the movie and stage productions, or you're envisioning your own little Windy City jazz club, it will be a night to remember!

The photo above actually advertises a monogrammed runner (click it if you want details), but the locale could easily be West Egg! Very East Coast indeed! I love the vignette, sans the tulle of course. I personally feel tulle is completely played, and it only schmutzes up this beautiful view. Love the runner, though! As in other swanky environments, all fabric items should display one's initials.

I've mentioned these blingy tealight holders before, but they're perfect for a 20s-style wedding. Shiny and sparkly is always en vogue!

If I were invited to attend one of Jay Gatsby's soirees, I would have the good manners to present him with these cufflinks before drinking his contraband champagne and showing everyone my bloomers!

How amazing would these mini brownie pops look on your desert table?!? The white one is beaded to represent a wedding gown, but I think it looks like a Flapper's headpiece. Gorgeous touch for the Gatsby wedding!

Hold onto your headbands, kittens. I have the most sublime Gatsbyesque invitation for your very elegant 20s party... I couldn't get all of the shots on here, so please do click the pic so you can see this masterpiece of haute paperie when it's assembled!

Some Flapper Accessories to Rock Your Look:

To see more Flapper fashions, head over to Unique Vintage to see their entire incredible collection of period dresses! Off the chain, yet totally affordable!

Perfect Fall Wedding Invitations

2009-09-12T17:07:00.000-07:00

Perfect Stationery for Fall Weddings and Events

Never before has treehugging been so elegant!

A good matching invitation for the rehearsal dinner

And, of course, a few little fra fras for the party:

I might repackage or at least replace the tag with something more personal, but I think these openers are an elegant little favor for a fall affair or wine tasting.

Biodegradable Barware

2009-09-08T18:18:00.000-07:00

How cool is this?!? Compostable plastic barware - use as many damn cups as you want because they will break down and truly be disposed! American bon vivants and mothers of toddlers everywhere, rejoice and be absolved of your plastic guilt. Made from eco-friendly, odorless and tasteless corn plastic.

Modern Baby Shower Planning

2009-09-07T08:49:00.000-07:00

There is nothing I love more than a baby shower; it's my favorite kind of party. Though most of my girlfriends are just beyond this stage, there was a time a few years ago when I got invited to baby showers at least once a month. Shopping for baby clothes (especially the really tiny ones) trumps handbags any day in my opinion! Below, I've gathered a few things to inspire you in case you're lucky enough to be throwing a baby shower soon! Some of these items are new takes on old ideas; perhaps my favorite thing is the Spudware.

As always, think sustainably. No one needs a bunch of plastic crap. I actually saw umbrella-shaped tape measures, alluding to that horrible game where a mean mother-in-law actually measures the mother-to-be's belly then has the guests guess the circumference. Don't even think about it! Instead, provide favors that will be eaten, planted, or lit on a special day (personally, I feel no shower is complete without baby powder-scented candles). I have captioned these items just for you!

Personalized Pop Bottles for Parties

2009-09-04T20:37:00.000-07:00

You don’t have to get the leader of the Free World on your pop. You can get your dog, or your kid, or your band or your kitty or your prizewinning drawing - whatever you want on your personalized Jones Soda labels!

We like the Jones because it’s in a glass bottle (fun, recyclable, non-leaching container) and it’s not made with sheisty corn syrup (instead, pure cane sugar, baby) and the flavors are apparently “sick” and “bangin,” according to some 10 year old boys I recently polled.

Surprise your favorite person with his/her own custom sodas at your next party! Perfect favors for your graduation party next spring! A huge hit with the ‘tweeners! We guzzle Jones soda by the case at my house since I'll never quit drinking pop, but my new mantra is “No plastic or aluminum cans EVER!” - Kitty Dearest.

All Hallow's Eve Wedding Ideas

2009-09-03T22:11:00.000-07:00

Ideas:

You could screen snippets of Bram Stoker's Dracula mixed in with photography montages of the bride and groom.
Hire Zombies to reenact Michael Jackson's Thriller. Or just splice it in to the aforementioned visual presentation
Lighting is key. I think an elegant Gothic, sensual, environment would be fabulous at an All Hallow's Eve wedding.Go watch a few episodes of The Osbournes; think of Ozzy and Sharon's parlour and entryway. Things should be volumnuous, velvety, and lit dramatically.
Centerpieces can be monogrammed jack-o-lanterns juxtaposed with gilded leaves (just go visit Martha Stewart's every text on the subject). Make larger versions for the creepy cemetery urns that will dot the room at eye level.

Have a Halloween wedding, but don't be married to an orange and black color scheme. I saw these banners below and started thinking how marvelous...

Alice in Wonderland Part 3: 21st Birthday Party Ideas

2009-08-30T19:25:00.000-07:00

I have a cool widget on this blog that not only tells me the location of readers, but what they might have searched for to land on my little blurbs. Earlier this month, I posted a couple of Alice in Wonderland party ideas (see August 09 posts). Some hip cat from Australia recently searched for "Alice in Wonderland 21st Birthday Tea Party Ideas." Anonymous kitten, I thank you. Now I get to dream up an Alice party with a mischievous, cheeky edge. Me-ow!

These red and white fabric rose light strings bring the Red Queen's garden into your Alice party. Whether your event takes place outside or indoors, interesting lighting will set the mood. I wouldn't go too crazy with these, though. Just a few strings in a strategic place such as a banister. This isn't going to be your grandmother's kind of Alice party!

I hate balloons. I think they're totally played, allergenic for some people, a problem in the landfill and a general party nuisance. They invariably fall down, then some fool starts popping them. But I love the idea of things hanging from the ceiling. The problem is solved: an array of paper and/or silk Chinese lanterns! Grouped en masse in your color scheme, these will be Mad indeed!

This lantern reminds me of Alice's blue dress!

If you can pull this off (costume below), you definitely should! Love her flamingo croquet mallet! I would love to have cocktails served by cheeky versions of the story's characters! I've seen these get-ups representing the Mad Hatter, White Rabbit and Alice herself. You could position the characters strategically at check-in, guest book, and coat stations.

If there are doors leading into your event space, you could decorate them to look larger and smaller, and include large and small doors alongside the real entrance. Let Mad Hatters lead them into the party, pressing small bottles (you know, like airplane sized) into their hands. Label them "Drink Me."

I think this breathalyzer is a good thing for a host to have at a 21st birthday bash. You might need to prove to someone just how much fun he or she had, and prevent them from driving anywhere. Especially with young, inexperienced drinkers who may not be aware of their own limits!

Fancy cookies are a must at all Alice parties. These are my choice -- "Where my hippies at?!" Am I wrong to assume those who choose a Mad Tea Party for a 21st birthday may be amused by psychedelia and other 60's iconography? Anyway, these are from one of my favorite vendors, Organic Bouquet.

You should have some cookies or petit fours proclaiming "Eat Me." Recently, I saw chronicles of a fantastic Alice Party on Lark and Lola. At her party, she expressed this idea in take away boxes with tiny cakes and Chessmen cookies available at practically any store.

What is a Kitty style event without flowers? No Alice in Wonderland party is complete without roses - red and white. Roses are one of my favorite flowers to work with at events because of their staying power. They're easy to work with and can be revived by recutting the stems and soaking them in water. Cut the stems off and float them in water, group them in tiny vases, and use petals wherever you like.

Only music trumps my love of fresh flowers at parties. At my own wedding 100 years ago, I gave the DJ a specific playlist and instructed him to take no requests because I am so serious about music that I would have ditched my own reception if I had to listen to the Macarena or some similar such foolishness. Maybe you're not such a stickler, but an Alice party has to have some staple songs.

iTunes (the greatest invention on the planet, in my opinion second only to the wheel, without which we would have to click slowly through our playlists) has the soundtrack to Disney's Alice in Wonderland. If you have a great mixmaster (DJ AM, rest in peace), you can work these soundbytes into your party playlist to lend authenticity to the evening's long strange trip. Another song you must have include: Jefferson Airplane's classic, "Go Ask Alice." If you're a Jazz person, there are tons of options on iTunes; just type "Alice in Wonderland" into the search box and you'll get some great songs.

I've mentioned my loathing for party games, but Dizzy Bats is more fun than a barrel of monkeys. For an Alice party, adapt the game to croquet. For those who didn't have quite as much of a ball in college as Hubbs and I, Dizzy Bats is a game in which a baseball bat (croquet mallet) is held upright on the ground. Players touch their foreheads to the top of the bat, then turn themselves in circles (usually wearing large floppy shoes or flippers or bear slippers- whathaveyou) then try to race down to the end of the playing field, chug a drink, then race back. Dizzy and falling down. The running part can be omitted; instead, try to guide the players through a croquet course. It's hilarious and apropos for a 21st birthday, but by no means does your Kitty condone binge drinking. Please drink responsibly and have plenty of sober drivers/taxi cabs available for your guests.

Great Halloween Invitations

2009-08-29T21:56:00.000-07:00

I think this year, I'll use the "Houses" invitation with the "Elegant labels." With Halloween being on a Saturday, we'll have trick-or-treaters and lots of neighbors around. With owls being so trendy lately, there are plenty of options below for Chi-Os and other fans!

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Halloween Party Ideas 2

2009-08-26T13:12:00.000-07:00

Halloween parties are not for stuffiness. Children and Hubbs could care less whether your party is Stewartized. If your guests are particularly young, standing cut-outs are easy, recyclable/reusable decor options. For children, Halloween is a character party, and as such, they love to see their favorite Jedi, princess, robot guys. Stand-ups are always a hit, providing decoration and props for photos. My favorite shots of my friends always are taken on Halloween (or in Vegas), and stand-up characters help to bring otherwise shy people into action. It's hilarious.

Herewith, some good ones I have found.

Great for the really little kids

There's nothing 6-10 year old boys like better than a Jedi

Mad Men Themed Event

2009-08-24T19:00:00.000-07:00

Mad Men is AMC's runaway hit now in its 3rd season. The undertone is 60's swank. As Style Redux suggested (BIG thank you for the suggestion, Air kiss, Air kiss!) a Mad Men party would be awesome as a fund raiser or a screening marathon at your home. For the hipster who wants an old school cocktail party, just watch even one episode and you'll know what to do!
You'll want to concentrate on your cocktails and canapes. Long before the chips and salsa appetizer, housewives toiled on their hors d'oeuvres. A great source for recipes might be your mother/grandmothers' cookbooks. I'll post more Mad Men specifics later regarding food and drinks.

Meanwhile, find those spiral-bound ladies auxiliary compilations to get authentic period choices. No "ants on a log" here. Mad Men cuisine connotes dishes a woman has toiled over all afternoon, or entrees from a Manhattan restaurant with crisp white tablecloths. Think shrimp cocktails and little beef wellingtons. A cheese ball is mandatory. Don't you dare plop it on a plate. Garnish with grapes.

Get out the good silver; beg, borrow or buy vintage serving pieces that haven't seen the light of day since '71, when glamour went to hell in a macrame handbag. You know, totally superfluous cheese domes and pastry forks and small tiered platters. My mother's are still stored in their original boxes, circa '70.
As for your drinks, visit the official Mad Men website to check out 1960s cocktails. Even if your party is small, consider hiring a professional bartender so the drinks look fantastic while they do the job! Of course, said bartender should be in proper attire (Aside: have you seen the episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm where Larry destroys yet another lovely evening at Ted Danson's house by demanding to know why Ted made the bartender wear a tux - hilarious!)

Some Visual Cues Evocative of the Mad Men World:

You're going to need plenty of proper barware, so if you don't have full sets of the glasses needed for a Mad Men cocktail party you might want to consider renting. I love a proper cocktail party because plastic cups and (kack!) acrylic champagne glasses (kack! pardon me - hairball)... give way to old fashioned glass or crystal, which gets washed and put back into the cupboard (ostensibly). Less post-party garbage goes to the landfill! Hooray!

I might leave out the little boxes, but these mini martini candles (below) are cute! A caveat about candles on tables, learned the hard way: people will light them and try to burn down the centerpiece. I've seen it done scores of times, in groups who are old enough to know better (like 40). If your Mad Men event is large scale, you might position these stacked attractively by the coat check or near exits.

All of my shin-digs, large and small, include plenty of chocolate for my guests. I leave elegant chocolates in the guest room, pile shallow dishes full of mini candy bars, and scatter them on tables at seated events. Nothing connotes Mad Men elegance like some vintage monograms. I channel my grandmother, and her raspy, waspy voice tells me to make sure things are gleaming silver in unexpected places like fancy chocolate labels:

Perfect for your arty couple or 21st birthday celebrant! Perhaps your Mad Men themed party celebrates an engagement or an anniversary. If so, consider this chic cake topper (below). Again, think monograms.

The bottle stopper above makes a perfect little gift for your hipster host or hostess!

I think the locket below is a sleek accessory that would fit the theme and make your bridesmaids/groomsmen/posse/peeps very happy.

A Mad Men party invitation possibility

How cool: a Mad Men New Year's Eve Party!

That's all for now. Watch this space for Pauline and Gloria's best cocktail and dinner party fare from the 60s. Thanks, Grammies! Update: 1-17-11 please click here to see the newest post in the Mad Men-theme series!

Please Visit Kitty's "Zen of Homekeeping"

2009-08-24T12:39:00.000-07:00

I just can't control myself from branching out to spread the word about greenwashing and natural home products! At kitty's "Zen of Homekeeping" I'll be telling you everything I have learned and experienced in the world of green cleaning! You know how I do it! Brutal honesty about what we're inhaling, bioaccumulating and washing down the drain. Goodbye migraines and allergies, hello healthy cleaning! Peace and Love, Your kitty.

Have You Thought About Halloween Yet?!?

2009-08-22T15:09:00.000-07:00

Finally: something to wear with last season's gladiator shoes:

Just kidding!

Of course, this is my kitten outfit that I wear whilst writing up these posts:

Our Halloween parties are family friendly, but I might be able to get away with this without fishnets plus tights and a black wig ... maybe.

Alright, enough with the costumes. Now, I have mentioned my loathing for party games; I absolutely abhor them. Children, however, aren't too keen on conversation so they have to be kept busy at a party. You'll want to give them plenty of active choices unless you want them running amok. Bobbing for apples? Are you kidding me? Hellz no. That's just an invitation for all kinds of germy grossness! Not interested in Swine Flu or Meningitis or cold sores.

Instead, how about a treasure hunt? Little pumpkin containers can be stuffed with pennies, stickers, spider rings and fangs. Hide them like you would Easter Eggs, or perhaps allow all of the children to hunt for their own labelled favor bags. This will kill plenty of time. Then you can have a little costume parade.

Although I have my niece and nephews over to carve pumpkins, it's a hot mess (see our creations at the top). Instead of carving when we have a Halloween party, we paint and glitter small pumpkins and gourds at the beginning of the event, and they are dry by the end of the party.

Halloween is my favorite holiday, so I will be posting little bits for the next 6 weeks or so to get you ready. Meanwhile, I have to find matching Star Trek costumes for myself and my son; we've been everything from ninjas, to Star Wars characters to Peter Pan & Tinkerbell. What are you going to be this year?

How to Host a Fashion Swap Party

2009-08-18T13:28:00.000-07:00

This week, football practice began in earnest and Momma Kitty is roasting on the field like a hot dog in a solar cooker at the 4H Fair! All of our summer house guests have gone on to their next destinations and school began last week. I still haven't settled into a routine, so I have decided to recycle this Feb 09 post from kitty:magazine for you to enjoy! Maybe you can bring it up at your next club or PTO meeting. I'm actually going to do it at home this fall with formal dresses so I can get my paws on something for a special Bar Mitzvah and a black tie coming up this winter! Meow!

Whether you’re working on reigning in your clothing budget, finally organizing your closet, or trying to save the environment by consuming less (or maybe you just have damn stylish friends and you’ve been oogling their cashmere for years), a fashion swap party is a perfect opportunity to get together to beat winter blahs and procure new cruise wear for Spring Break and summer vacations!

Why buy a new Bebe dress for your cousin’s wedding this spring when you can wear the one your BFF wore to her cousin’s reception last year? A fashion swap party is also a great way to trade maternity clothes and kids’ stuff that only gets worn once (like piano recital suits and pinchy shoes)!

Organize: You’ll need everything you’d want for a little afternoon shin-dig food & drink-wise. You’ll also need a garment rack or two, hangers, table space and some full-length mirrors. You might want to get some changing screens as well. Ask guests to bring shopping bags, but be prepared to provide a few. Group guests’ items by type, rather than size.
Decorate: This could really run the gamut from a full-on fashion show to no decorations at all. You'll see some ideas below this post.
Invite: Of course you’ll invite your BFFs, but cast a wider net to include lots of people. Get some coworkers, neighbors and friends of friends. You’ll need to consider different body types. Try to provide enough guests for each size category equally, and suggest accessories and shoes as well. In other words, make sure each guest has something to trade for/someone to trade with. The larger the group, the better the swap.
Recycle: All articles leftover at the end of the swap go to Goodwill. Driver gets the tax receipt. If you have leftover piles of textiles no one is going to ever wear (holes and baby spew stains) and you’re local to Indy, there are fabric recycling containers outside some Marsh supermarkets by the large recycling dumpsters. You can mail old athletic shoes to Nike (or drop them off at their retail stores, including outlets) and they will recycle them for you. Another great cause that will take your business suits is Dress for Success.
Mandate: All clothing must be clean, without damages and truly up for grabs. No take-backs once an item has gone onto the rack. Settle disputes with rock-paper-scissors, or begin a bidding war with proceeds going to a predetermined charity.

Provide tickets for each guest. If a friend puts 5 things on the rack, give her 5 tickets. She can make 5 swaps. You might even consider allowing guests to purchase extra tickets or making some items worth more than others. For example, a guest shouldn't bring a pair of shorts and expect to swap for a Chanel bag evenly. I might even make a Golden Ticket for one lucky swapper to get a bonus swap or the power of taking a coveted item!

Host the swap as a fundraiser by charging admission, selling snacks & party favors, and allowing vendor booths for those who make or sell goods. Many people with home-based businesses like to set up at events. Swaps are a great idea for schools, girls’ teams & clubs, or for sorority community benefit projects!

Below, I have gathered some products you might be able to use, and captioned them accordingly. I would love to get feedback on the logistics of this event so I can make mine even more fabulous. Natch, my party will include a catwalk!

UPDATE: Elizabeth at Peacock feathers recently held a fashion party that necessitated changing rooms. Click here for photos from her fete!

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Pink Ribbon Parties for Breast Cancer Awareness and Survivor Celebrations

2009-08-13T10:54:00.000-07:00

In Indiana, our Race for the Cure is held in the spring. The Indianapolis event is huge and growing. October is the month for Breast Cancer Awareness, but regardless of the season we can always take the time to honor the survivors in our lives (who among us has not been touched in some way by this disease?). Perhaps you'll consider putting together your own event this fall to honor a sister, friend, or mother. Last spring during the race, I ate at a restaurant owned by a breast cancer survivor. The entire pub was bedecked in pink to honor her fight. It was amazing!

These nesting bowls (above) help raise funds for breast cancer, and would make a fabulous door prize at your event, and the pink ribbon fondue pot will be a welcome sight in any crowd of ladies -- bring on the chocolate!

Above, how about customized pink bowling shirts?!? If you and your girls are on a Race for the Cure team, these would be a fantastic show of support!

If your pink party involves pampering, this invitation (below) from tiny*prints can be reworded to be appropriate for your event:

If your pink party is in honor of a woman you and your guests love, what better way to express well-wishes than with this platter! Usually used at weddings, this would be an awesome way to show support while doubling as a guest book/keepsake!

These glass vases can be personalized with a message (other than "Daddy's Little Girl") and would make beautiful centerpieces if you have more than one table for your Pink Ribbon party. You can raffle them off to raise funds, and fill them with your favorite pink flowers!

I use these individual tea sachets all the time. They're really cool, and the tea is nice. They'll look super cute at your place-settings! A luxe touch for your luncheon.

Beer Pong Party: I'm thinking Hubb's Birthday

2009-08-12T15:41:00.000-07:00

Not only do I park on the driveway to accomodate Hubb's ping pong arena, but I actually had to be home the day his World Championship table tennis table was specially drop-shipped from China. A few years ago, he and his friends began attending Beer Pong tournaments, enjoying themselves thoroughly. Because our home table is his baby (might as well be for as much as he has invested in it & the requisite high tech paddles), he would never dream of hosting beer pong here at the house. Now I know what to get him for his next birthday, and how to theme the party: Beer Pongpalloza! He'll be so stoked!

Alice in Wonderland Party Part 2

2009-08-03T17:40:00.000-07:00

There is so much in the way of Alice-esque stuff. Recently, I was perusing Urban Outfitters and I saw some crazy Wonderland glassware. Naturally, I ordered it. Enjoy this sequel to my first post on a Wonderland party. Hopefully, you'll find some ideas here that will prompt you to bring your next afternoon gathering into the garden for tea!

I can't decide which place card holder I love more: the tiny chairs or the little teapot. At a truly mad tea party, I suppose I could use them both! And then I saw this wacky little set, looking rather Hatter indeed:

I've posted these favor bags already (see Hippy Chic), but if your party is more brightly colored (a la the Disney version), these would be perfect - so much nicer than cellophane or plastic. A Wonderland party is great for little girls who like stories but aren't into the whole princess thing!

Alice had a locket, and so should your guest(s) of honor! At under $37, this sterling silver locket is a perfect, memorable party gift that will be even more special if you have it inscribed. It even holds 2 pictures (I'm not ashamed to admit I have my two beloved Bostons inside my favorite locket). Below, more of a splurge version (just under $3000) of a Victorian locket:

If your party is only inspired by Alice, and your brainstorms morph into an afternoon garden tea, the card below is subtle, feminine and timelessly classic.

I love huge teacups. They lend a surreal bit of kookiness to your tea party!

I am NOT a collector of figurines, but how cute would this be on top of your little Alice's cake?

*Just wanted to add, after I put this post together, I clicked on one of the cakes in my original post's collage. It took me to this blog, specifically devoted to Alice in Wonderland weddings. she's got some beautiful pictures of Mad Hatter cakes. What Wonderland soiree is complete without petit fours and fancy cookies proclaiming, "Eat Me!"

Alice in Wonderland Party

2009-08-02T20:55:00.000-07:00

Go Ask Kitty by kittymagazine featuring Gucci bags

*please note, this is only the first Alice post; please browse Aug and Sept. 09 posts for more coverage of this very popular topic!*

Alice in Wonderland is the first book I ever remember reading. A child of the 70s, I was naturally acquainted with the psychedelic Disney version of the classic Victorian Age tome. I became intimately more enchanted with the film much later, in college, ahem... but my favorite rendition to this day remains the stage production I saw sometime before 1980 in some Chicago theatre (possibly THE Chicago theatre).

Alice has inspired so many things I've created, from derivative skits, to my own wedding, and even a collection of ornaments and porcelain doodads and such. She shows up in my dreams, on my Christmas tree, and on my pages. She has certainly made many appearances at parties! It is her absurd and fanciful journey through the looking glass that fuels my love of Victorian gardens, red heart motifs, and tea parties. Herewith, I present you with inspiration for your own Wonderland. Click on my rad Polyvore collage above, or peruse the party favors below!

First, I'll delineate several icons of Alice's world that can serve as inspirational jumping points to get you brainstorming. Think gardens. English gardens: topiaries and formalities such as roses. Daisies, yes, but mainly red and white roses ("We're painting the roses red/Who's been painting my roses red"). This setting lends itself to girly tea parties, showers, rush parties, and that sort of thing. Croquet and crumpets, perhaps a nice ladylike game of cards.

Now red hearts and black spades for the Pack of Cards that tends the Queen's garden. There are wonderful illustrations in the free domain since this story is so old. A simple Google will pull up Victorian Mad Hatters, frantic rabbits, and menacing caterpillars you can use as clip art or whatever. Sub-icons may include doors & keyholes, pocket watches, and mushrooms. Bottles labeled, "Drink Me" and cookies proclaiming, "Eat me."

Although an Alice in Wonderland birthday tea party (or Un-birthday party) would be beautiful in the garden for a little girl, I know this isn't a theme tangible or beloved by all. Of course with Tim Burton's version coming out in 2010, I'm sure a whole new generation of dreamers and daydreamers will get hip to this classic tale.

Pret-a-Partayy!

2009-07-30T10:44:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Averill on Ode... I discovered Polyvore. OMG, OMG, OMG! Remember Fashion Plates, the ultimate 70s toy that allowed you to design your own outfits? Well, I have found the digital equivalent, Polyvore! Behold below, my clickable collage of things one might currently find in my closet along with things I hope to add soon. With my Libran birthday approaching, I so hope Husband sees the totally sick diamond safety pin earrings! Meow!

The first look, Pret-a-Porter Punk is for a night out on the town with friends. The middle look, Business Class, is a sweet Anna Sui long-sleeved number and the set on the right is entitled Glamour in the Afternoon: perfect for an evening event under the setting sun and rising stars. The Gibson guitar, is of course my favorite accessory and always in style! If you make a collage or an inspiration board, I totally want to see it!

Recycled Glass Centerpieces

2009-07-26T16:42:00.000-07:00

Recently, I noticed a fellow blogger's idea to reuse wine bottles as table centerpieces at her wedding (which I believe is slated to take place at a vineyard). A few days later, I saw light fixtures made from green bottles in the Fall 09 Pottery Barn catalog. Then I happened upon these adorable little candles made to look like corks and the whole Bacchanalian thing kind of came together. Thanks, Eco-Yogini!

Light fixture by Pottery Barn, here.

Fabulous Fifties Theme

2009-07-23T21:47:00.000-07:00

I actually own this entire get up, and I have to say it has gotten tremendous use over the last few years. I wear it for school sock hops, Halloween, and I am planning a relative's 60th (shhhh) so I think I'll break it out then, too. Friends have even borrowed it for their costuming needs, and once I wore the shirt to go bowling. Now for the hipster party ideas!

Whenever I do a themed costume party, I like to leave some wardrobe props around for those who come as they are. Sometimes, more introverted cats like to be coaxed out once they arrive. At less than $5 a pop, these fun and funky cat's eye glasses will bring out the cougars in your guests, who will now fit in and look great in pictures! These would also be cute at each placesetting. I love to watch tables deconstruct as my guests interact with party favors, props and flowers.

Cutouts of the King are obligatory at Fabulous Fifties parties. Actually, I think cutouts are hilarious at any party. Luke Skywalker has made appearances at many of my son's parties, and Bono was floating around at my cousin's wedding. Photo-Ops are a great activity, and you can either take instant pictures, or save them to include with post-party correspondence (if gifts were given or donations were made).

Hippie Chick Chic Party Ideas

2009-07-20T19:33:00.000-07:00

Love these colorful felt favor bags!

Hippies love yoga. I just hope my girlfriends aren't disappointed I didn't have these monogrammed yoga mat bags for them at my wedding! I guess there's always Bebe's future fete! I do think, however, I will get a few of these to give to my favorite yoga friends for the holidays!

One for the Deadheads: little terrapins for your tables!

Cute little butterfly & lotus placecards impregnated with seeds can be planted for wildflowers rather than discarded!

These lucky bamboo plants are natural, eco-friendly and so Zen!

Why not just put a photo of yourself on a bottle of Jones Soda?!? They're affordable, colorful and sure to be used and recycled or kept forever! A truly useful party favor!

Hip, modern, and slightly psychedelic!

Like so many of Pear Tree's invitations, this photo card below is printed on recycled paper!

Colorful placecard holders can display a photo after the party!

Chinoiserie Party Accents Part Two

2009-07-20T19:28:00.000-07:00

The cute red guy (above) is not the "historic" Buddha, and therefore might not be necessarily suitable for a religious event. Buddhist baby shower yes. Rehearsal dinner, sure. Formal dinner: I wouldn't. Ho-Tei is more of a mythic monk who reminds of us of future happiness. That's why he is rubbed for luck.

Below, my very own Hotei, who migrates from room to room in our home. At Christmas, he stands beneath the tree. Sometimes, he is a high centerpiece decked with daisies or candied fruit, or a gazing prop in my yoga class. Right now, he hangs out at the top of the stairs, waiting to be of service.

My friend Bebe grew up in Hong Kong. She still returns from time to time, bringing back suitcases full of fabulous things. The sandalwood folding fan (above) reminds me of such loot; there are scads of them lying around her house. With each cooling flick of the wrist, one gets a waft of subtle sandalwood: an elegant form of aromatherapy if I do say so myself!

Sanity Fair mentioned fans are necessary in outdoor events, especially in the South. For my kittens in sweltering climes, I submit these elegant authenticators of Asian contexts. These would bring a cool touch to any affair, and they're substantial enough to serve as party favors. I might consider changing out the skimpy tassel for something more substantial, or even remove it altogether.

I hope you can discern the bamboo links subtly printed in the colored band of this invitation. Perfect for the lover of Chinoiserie who wants an understated effect without the usual cherry blossoms! Then there's this unexpected totally hip little number below:

Perfect for a house-warming party in a Zen-like environment! More masculine Chinoiserie than bright toile or heavily embroidered brocade, let this Sushi invitation set the tone for a totally hip party! Now would be a good time to break out your golden Hotei!