tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26796255856646529262024-03-21T01:26:11.063-06:00RV Parties || Birthday Party and Event Planning in Beaumont, TexasPrintables, Birthday Party, Baby Shower, Bridal Shower and Event Planning in Beaumont, TX; Port Arthur, TX; Nederland, TX and the Southeast Texas areaRachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04594003430230551114noreply@blogger.comBlogger40125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-5037597043069302962014-10-08T20:31:00.001-06:002014-10-08T20:31:48.297-06:00Sawyer's Little Monster PartyWe love seeing how our items get used--so often we fill orders and hope that people are able to print and assemble, but we never know for sure. It's SO delightful to see the decorations in action--especially when they knock it out of the park like this! The monster theme continues to be one of our best sellers--especially in September and October! I think it's such a sweet theme for a first birthday because those babies really can be the sweetest little monsters.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 2014-09-22_0001.jpeg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/2014-09-22_0001.jpeg" />
<br />
<br />
I'm obsessed with the sugar cookies Jamie had for the party--they are such an amazing match to the monsters used throughout the printables and are such a bright, cheerful addition to the dessert table.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 2014-09-22_0008.jpeg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/2014-09-22_0008.jpeg" />
<br />
<br />
The tissue paper tassels are from Party City (although Jamie had to tear off the pink ones!) I love when you can find party store decor that fits so well.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 2014-09-22_0002.jpeg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/2014-09-22_0002.jpeg" />
<br />
<br />
Water bottle labels are some of our most versatile items. They fit water bottles, mason jars... and can be used as a wrapper for napkins! I love these guys silly faces.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 2014-09-22_0004.jpeg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/2014-09-22_0004.jpeg" />
<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 2014-09-22_0003.jpeg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/2014-09-22_0003.jpeg" />
<br />
<br />
Coloring walls are always a hit--and when you don't have a wall that works, using it as a tablecloth is just as fun.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 2014-09-22_0005.jpeg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/2014-09-22_0005.jpeg" />
<br />
<br />
Sawyer ate his birthday cupcake off our matching melamine plate. It's so fun to get a matching plate for parties--we have a stack in our cabinet that help us remember how quickly the years are flying by!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 2014-09-22_0010.jpeg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/2014-09-22_0010.jpeg" /><br />
<br />
Thanks so much to Jamie for sharing her AMAZING pictures. She did such an outstanding job putting the party together. All monster items are available in <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/RVparties/search?search_query=monster&order=date_desc&view_type=gallery&ref=shop_search">our Etsy shop here</a>.Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04594003430230551114noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-20289427988982456402014-09-24T09:00:00.000-06:002014-09-24T09:00:01.977-06:00Our First ExpoThe R portion (that's me! Rachel!) of RV Parties has recently relocated to Beaumont, TX. I'm diving into the world of planning parties for people other than my own kids--and to kick things off, I put together a booth at the local Baby and Family Expo to meet some potential clients.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140920-1846.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140920-1846.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
You may recognize... just about everything from Victoria's bridal shower from the previous weekend! Two birds, one stone. I'm all about efficiency! You would not believe how much of that circle garland did NOT get used... I sewed probably a mile of it. I was thrilled that I was able to untie the jumbo balloon and refill it for another event! I just love the huge balloons.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140920-1834.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140920-1834.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
I set up two sections on my table--a mini sweets table and an informational section. I tried to put out eye catching things that are unique--the macaron tree, the letter candy dishes, gold cupcake toppers... I had two frames filled with photos from past events, as well as business cards and brochures for people to grab. I gave out almost 100 brochures--and a few people seemed genuinely interested!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140920-1830.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140920-1830.jpg" /><br />
<br />
When RV Parties was strictly Etsy based we never had any confusion about the name. I was SHOCKED how many people asked me what kind of RV we had or how the RV worked... and I had to explain that it's just our initials! After being asked about it so many times, I started to think that I actually do want an RV that can be a mobile party headquarters. I mean, it's actually a pretty good idea! Maybe in a few years. :)Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04594003430230551114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-55880703186300581192014-07-13T22:20:00.000-06:002014-07-13T22:20:24.974-06:00New Look!We're slowly updating all parts of the biz--we rebranded a few months ago and are thrilled with the new look of the blog. Poke around a little bit and see what's new!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04594003430230551114noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-10774439768871883582014-07-07T08:00:00.000-06:002014-07-07T08:00:05.825-06:00RV PhotoshootWe were lucky to snag some time with our favorite KC photographer (Erica of Anecdotally Yours) a few weeks ago when we were both in Kansas. We had some grand plans for some pink balloons to match our logo... but failed to check the weather before we left the house. It was WIN-DY and we lost about half the balloons by the time we got to the shoot.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 063-1.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/063-1.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
We love to plan parties together (obviously!) and had such a great time spending the week planning the ultimate party--Victoria's wedding! Not to me--to Kip.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 076-1.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/076-1.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
Victoria was having engagement pictures taken later in the week, so I made her practice taking a ring picture with me. Sometimes I think I'm probably lucky that I have any friends at all. Erica also humored us by trying to get a picture of our matching R and V necklaces...<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 071.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/071.jpg" />Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04594003430230551114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-30055587345141868172014-05-22T13:10:00.000-06:002014-05-22T13:10:00.446-06:00Budget DIY Gotham City -- for less than $5!No <a href="http://rvparties.blogspot.com/2014/05/batman.html">Batman Party</a> is complete without your very own Gotham City to save! This was a cheap and easy addition to the party and really helped make the dessert table pop!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140424-8850copy_zps70d84b6c.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140424-8850copy_zps70d84b6c.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
To make your skyline you need...<br />
<br />
--boxes<br />
--black plastic table cloths<br />
--tape<br />
--scissors<br />
--yellow paper<br />
<br />
We're Amazon enthusiasts, so it didn't take more than a few weeks to have enough boxes to use for this. This was a CHEAP project--I used two black table cloths and about 5 sheets of yellow paper bringing my total in at under $5!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140423-8802-2copy_zps155abd95.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140423-8802-2copy_zps155abd95.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Here are the quick steps:<br />
<br />
1. Gather your supplies.<br />
2. Cut a rectangle of table cloth and wrap a box--present style.<br />
3. Cut out a variety of yellow rectangles.<br />
4. Tape them on in a random grid fashion.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Voila! Your very own Gotham for your favorite superhero to save!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt=" photo 140424-8846_zpsa573bcc1.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140424-8846_zpsa573bcc1.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></div>
Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04594003430230551114noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-41536880320554175662014-05-19T08:00:00.000-06:002014-05-19T08:00:00.650-06:00Real Party Feature: A Modern Black and White Batman PartyReady for an adorable Batman party? Good because you are about to get a million pictures of one! My oldest son loves Batman--and even though I probably could have talked him into a few other themes, I couldn't resist throwing him a party I knew he'd LOVE. (I forgot to get a good picture of him until after we dismantled the dessert table. Whoops!)<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140424-8867_zpsf2ad21fa.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140424-8867_zpsf2ad21fa.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Finley and his brother are both April babies--so I reused a ton of decorations from Braden's train party. Like, as much as I possibly could. :) I started hoarding black and white objects months before and tried get creative with foods so I wouldn't have too much prep to do!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140424-8844-3_zpse38dd98a.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140424-8844-3_zpse38dd98a.jpg" /><br />
<br />
The Gotham City Skyline was so fun and easy to put together--not to mention cheap! The tutorial for how to put it together will be live <a href="http://www.rvparties.blogspot.com/2014/05/budget-diy-gotham-city-for-less-than-5.html">HERE</a> later this week! I love how nicely it framed the table and naturally tied in to our color scheme.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140424-8824_zps8ce3e055.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140424-8824_zps8ce3e055.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
We had so many fabulous sweets! I tried my best to find store bought treats or make easy things so that I wouldn't spend too much time baking. I loved the oreo tower under the cupcakes--Trader Joes makes a great cupcake that looks adorable in our cupcake wrappers! Zebra cakes, whoopie pies, chocolate Twizzlers, yellow M&Ms, Lemonheads and popcorn were a few of the treats that I was able to purchase and not make myself!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140424-8873_zps4e236c1e.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140424-8873_zps4e236c1e.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
I love dipping pretzels in chocolate--kids LOVE them and they are pretty hard to mess up. I don't ever want to attempt another cake ball--I always mess them up. But I'm pretty good at dipping pretzels! I think wrapping mini-chocolates in our wrappers is super fun too! And no party is complete without Victoria's sugar cookies! Could they match any more perfectly or be any cuter? Love.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140424-8895_zps6d549ec3.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140424-8895_zps6d549ec3.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
I am not sure I can throw a party without paper garland--I'm just too obsessed with how it looks! The bats were cut out on my Silhouette and I chopped up black and white paper to make the striped garland. I can't stop with the paper garlands.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140424-8879_zps2b29cdba.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140424-8879_zps2b29cdba.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
The kids took home a Batman coloring book, cape and a few Batman trinkets I picked up around town. I loved the way the invites came together--I am not sure I'll be able to send another invite without lining the envelope first! I found some superhero stamps on eBay and loved the way they looked on the black envelopes!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140424-8890_zpsf4e7904c.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140424-8890_zpsf4e7904c.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
Coloring walls are always a hit with the preschool crowd--they had a blast coloring in and adding their own superheroes to the skyline! They ended up coloring on the floor since the trim on the walls made it too bumpy. Not only are they fun--they are inexpensive too! My local printer prints them for $.75 per square foot.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140424-8872_zps5964655c.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140424-8872_zps5964655c.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
I love making dessert tables--but I also love carrying the theme through to the eating area! The paper lantern garland bridged the two rooms and helped to tie them together. After settling on black and white as the main colors--I realized I could make more engineer prints for the walls! The big Finnman print was a few dollars and served as a great backdrop to the table. I bought a few yards of black felt and threw together some capes fairly quickly. They looked cute on the chair backs and the kids loved running around in them!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140424-8946_zps4755e05f.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140424-8946_zps4755e05f.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
I love so much about this table--I love the confetti table runner, the yellow circle placemats and gable boxes. It all came together so nicely! The gable boxes were great for pre-packaging the kids meals--and after the meals were over I filled their boxes with treats from the dessert table--a great way for them to take home sweets for their parents to dole out, rather than being on a huge sugar high!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140424-8916_zpscec60dd2.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140424-8916_zpscec60dd2.jpg" /><br />
<br />
So that's the Batman party! It was a fun one--mostly because my five year old LOVED it!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04594003430230551114noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-50992627568038006852014-05-16T06:50:00.000-06:002014-05-16T06:50:15.977-06:00Friday Finds: A Coffee Bar Party.<img alt=" photo FridayFindsCoffee_zpsfd486918.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/FridayFindsCoffee_zpsfd486918.jpg" />Sometimes when we are scrolling through Pinterest, we find a broken pin. It doesn't link to the source and a google image search doesn't help us either! For this week's Friday Find, we started with a broken pin and put our own spin on it. We assume that the photo was a staged shot from a fancy home remodel, but we also think it could be the backdrop for a fabulous brunch at home with good friends! Here's what we would need. <br />
<br />
1. The ever classic monogram mug from <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/home-glassware-mugs/78404.jsp?cm_sp=Grid-_-78404-_-Regular_25#/">Anthropologie</a> would be perfect for you and your guests, not to mention the sweetest of party favors. (We've also seen them crafted into <a href="http://www.agirlwhomakes.com/2012/04/diy-herb-hostess-gift.html">hostess gifts</a> planted by our pal, Laura. These mugs can do anything!)<br />
<br />
2. We love this <a href="http://tatyanaseverydayfood.com/recipe-items/chocolate-covered-coffee-spoons/">tutorial</a> on coffee mixing spoons. She made hers with instant coffee mixed into the mix - just add milk! You could also just dip vintage spoons in assorted chocolates, drizzle on top, and line them up on the coffee bar for easy use and pretty accessories. Coffee and chocolate just <i>go</i> together. <br />
<br />
3. If you're hosting a coffee bar brunch, then you probably embrace this life <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/106472323/coffee-is-fuel-for-genius-125-inch?ref=shop_home_active_5&ga_search_query=coffee">motto</a>. You can grab the button from our favorite shop selling custom pencils on Etsy, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/thecarboncrusader?ref=l2-shopheader-name">the Carbon Crusader</a>. Maybe guests need a matching pencil and a <a href="http://goo.gl/tOVLKD">coffee to-do lists printable</a> to take home too. They'll probably have tons of good ideas after all that coffee!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo ToDoListPrintableRVParties_zpsb37ce6b2.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/ToDoListPrintableRVParties_zpsb37ce6b2.jpg" />
<br />
Make sure to download your free printable to-do list <a href="http://goo.gl/tOVLKD">here</a>. One sheet will get you through the week (with a little help from the coffee!). Thanks for reading the RV Parties blog! VL - victoriaINkansashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14795396542513173967noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-55638381310324096182014-05-09T06:50:00.000-06:002014-05-09T06:50:00.368-06:00Friday Finds: Black & White with Sprinkles<img alt=" photo TemplateforFridayFinds_zps8c07a92a.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/TemplateforFridayFinds_zps8c07a92a.jpg" /> A couple of weeks ago, we saw a modern bridal shower over on <a href="http://www.100layercake.com/blog/2014/04/16/whimsical-modern-bridal-shower-inspiration-colorful/">100 Layer Cake</a> that we absolutely adored. I sent it to Rachel immediately. It was similar to the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/RVparties/search?search_query=kate+spade&order=date_desc&view_type=gallery&ref=shop_search">Kate Spade party</a> that Rachel threw for our pal Kat, but with an extra dose of black & white class thanks to the stripes. If we were going to throw a party like this one, here are three Friday finds we would absolutely have to have.<br />
<br />
1. Classic black and white stripe cupcake <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/104816892/50-black-wide-stripe-standard-cupcake?ref=shop_home_active_1&ga_search_query=black%2Band%2Bwhite">wrappers</a> from our favorite supply shop on Etsy, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/DKDeleKtables?ref=l2-shopheader-name">DK DeleKTables</a>. (I feel like I've been ordering straws from them every week this spring!)<br />
<br />
2. Homemade <a href="http://passionateperseverance.blogspot.com/2011/12/homemade-oreos-with-peppermint-filling.html">oreos</a> for the black & white striped look in a baked good. The sprinkles really take it to the next level. Though in a pinch, I'm pretty sure double stuff oreos would work just as well here! (I insist on double stuff, but my boyfriend thinks that's the surest way to ruin an oreo. Am I alone?!)<br />
<br />
3. And with whatever kind of cookies and cupcakes we decide on, I think this <a href="http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/martha-stewart-collection-black-glass-optic-cake-stand?ID=1074786&CategoryID=7923&LinkType=#fn=PAGEINDEX%3D2%26sp%3D2%26spc%3D72%26kws%3Dblack%20cake%20stand%26slotId%3D60">black cake plate</a> from Martha Stewart's collection is the perfect addition to the dessert table. It's classic but edgy. <br />
<br />
Happy Friday friends! Hope you have a weekend full of sunshine and sprinkles. VL - victoriaINkansashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14795396542513173967noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-19402806732549375522014-05-01T09:59:00.001-06:002014-05-01T09:59:54.240-06:00Throwback: Strawberry Baby Shower<img alt=" photo Blog_0363_zps2f817071.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0363_zps2f817071.jpg" /> It's safe to say that Rachel and I both squealed when we found out that our strawberry baby shower was featured yesterday on <a href="http://blog.hwtm.com/2014/04/berry-sweet-strawberry-baby-shower/">Hostess with the Mostess</a>. When I checked this morning, over 1500 people had liked the facebook post. This is just really like sweet buttercream on the fresh strawberry cupcakes because we were already obsessed with this shower. We're so glad more friends get to see it! <img alt=" photo Blog_0482_zps8e855b2c.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0482_zps8e855b2c.jpg" /> Everything was sweet, pink, red and plenty of splashes of pool/aqua from Paper Source. <img alt=" photo Blog_0481_zps2a9731ba.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0481_zps2a9731ba.jpg" /> It was our pleasure to work with Kami from Orange Peel Photography. She
captured all the darling details beautifully! (And there were kind of a lot...)<img alt=" photo Blog_0360_zps028b23fa.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0360_zps028b23fa.jpg" /> <br />
The party was loaded with pretty flowers and
strawberry treats — fresh strawberries featured in spinach salad and in
all the sweets. We filled jars with strawberry candy, licorice wheels,
hard candy and gummy bears from Nuts.com. It’s so easy to search
for strawberry candy there!<br />
<br />
After lunch, guests could choose from
many strawberry desserts on the buffet! We customized the table with
pinwheels hanging behind it, and a small display box repurposed for
desserts. The strawberry lemonade, iced tea and water bottles were all
available on our vintage red drink cart. Fresh macarons from a local
sweet store, Andre’s, fresh strawberry cupcakes from Boxer Lady Bakery,
and homemade sugar cookies rounded out the strawberry options for our
guests. The printables from our shop allowed us to personalize the
dessert table, drink options, and label all the food with a touch of
strawberry and more pink!<br />
<img alt=" photo Blog_0479_zps30c7d0d0.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0479_zps30c7d0d0.jpg" /> We work with the BEST vendors. Check out this great group!<br />
– Photography: <a href="http://www.orangepeelphoto.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Orange Peel Photography</strong></a><br /> – Ruffled Tablecloth: <strong><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/CandyCrushEvents" target="_blank">Candy Crush Events<br /> </a></strong>– Hershey Kisses & Nuggets Labels: <strong><a href="http://icustomlabel.com/" target="_blank">iCustom Labels<br /> </a></strong>– Berry Basket, Strawberry Cupcake Toppers & Red & White Checked Paper: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BonFortune" target="_blank"><strong>BonFortune</strong></a><br /> – Vintage Berry Stamps: <strong><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/VerdeStudio" target="_blank">Verde Studio<br /> </a></strong>– Cupcakes: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/BoxerLadyBakery" target="_blank"><strong>Boxer Lady Bakery</strong></a> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/BoxerLadyBakery" target="_blank"><br /> </a>– Red Candy: <a href="http://www.nuts.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Nuts.com</strong></a> <a href="http://www.nuts.com/" target="_blank"><br /> </a>– Macarons: <strong><a href="http://andreschocolates.com/" target="_blank">Andre’s Confiserie Suisse, Kansas City</a></strong>VL - victoriaINkansashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14795396542513173967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-58161719300731532632014-04-29T08:00:00.000-06:002014-04-29T08:00:05.216-06:00Tutorial: How to Make a Banner<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<img alt="TUTORIAL: How to make a DIY Party Banner from RV Parties www.rvparties.blogspot.com/2014/04/tutorial-how-to-make-banner.html" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140404-7886copy_zps63ab3ef3.jpg" title="TUTORIAL: How to make a DIY Party Banner from RV Parties www.rvparties.blogspot.com/2014/04/tutorial-how-to-make-banner.html" />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Banners are a staple at our parties--but we get a lot of questions on how to assemble them! Here's our favorite way! Not pictured is the (relatively) easy part--cut out your banner pieces and hole punch the corners. I love this <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000MAPHXS/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000MAPHXS&linkCode=as2&tag=soland-20">rectangle punch</a>--it works well with ribbon. And here's a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000XAPLKQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000XAPLKQ&linkCode=as2&tag=soland-20">link to our favorite scissors</a>.</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt=" photo 140404-7899copy_zpsa23665a0.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140404-7899copy_zpsa23665a0.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
1. Take two cut out, hole punched banner pieces and slide ribbon through the closest sides.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
2. Make the type of knot you'd make to tie your shoes.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
3. Double knot it! If you don't like the way it looks, try again. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
4. Trim ribbon edges.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
5. Admire your handiwork!</div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<img alt=" photo Blog-8819_zpsbed50510.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/Blog-8819_zpsbed50510.jpg" />Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04594003430230551114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-15118856441103830432014-04-24T07:00:00.000-06:002014-04-24T07:00:05.807-06:00Throwback: Vintage Hot Air Ballon Shower!Rachel is busy hosting a party for her 5-year-old (impossible! he can't be 5!) today, so I'm stopping by with another throwback for you. It's one of our favorites, perfect for bridal and baby showers and first birthdays! Parents love to say, "She's growing up up up!" and use this invitation and party pack. While we do receive some requests to change the colors, most people love it as is. I think you will see why below!
<img alt=" photo Blog_0551_zps295924a8.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0551_zps295924a8.jpg" /> The invitation included both stripes and polka dots to make it extremely versatile and playful throughout the entire party pack. Everything matched chartreuse and papaya from <a href="https://www.paper-source.com/cgi-bin/paper/index.html">Paper Source</a>.<img alt=" photo Blog_0555_zpsd372205a.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0555_zpsd372205a.jpg" /> Printing on <a href="https://search.paper-source.com/index/_/N-/Ntt-luxe">luxe</a> paper gave everything a watercolor look. We can't afford to print on luxe all the time, but there are some cases where it is just perfect. Like this party.<img alt=" photo Blog_0554_zpsb59218d6.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0554_zpsb59218d6.jpg" /> We had a pretty impressive spread of food and favors. It was very much a family and local Kansas City affair - the cashews, almond granola and wild plum jelly are family recipes while the macarons and carrot cake were handcrafted with love in KC.<img alt=" photo Blog_0552_zps04e6e3d5.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0552_zps04e6e3d5.jpg" /> Hand folded pinwheels gave the bride-to-be an extra bit of pizzazz. (See the <a href="http://rvparties.blogspot.com/2013/02/tutorial-how-to-make-paper-medallion.html">tutorial</a> here!) There were customized place mats and alphabet lists too!<img alt=" photo Blog_0553_zpsd66480bc.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0553_zpsd66480bc.jpg" />While the bride opened gifts, the guests tried to guess the answers to a honeymoon trivia quiz and had so much fun we included it in the party pack. We love to give thank you notes to the guest of honor!<br />
<br />
Everything is available <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/104112970/hot-air-balloon-bridal-baby-shower-party?ref=shop_home_active_2&ga_search_query=balloon">here in the RV Parties shop</a>. Check out our great vendors as well - we work with the best of the best!<br />
<br />
– Paper Designs: Victoria of <a href="http://www.rvparties.etsy.com/"><strong>RV Parties</strong><br /> </a>– Navy Straws, Nut Cups, Orange Sprinkles: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/DKDeleKtables"><strong>DKDeleKtables</strong><br /> </a>– Macarons: <a href="http://www.aubonmacaron.com/"><strong>Au Bon Macaron</strong><br /> </a>– Mini Carrot Cakes: <a href="http://3womendesserts.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Three Women and an Oven</strong><br /> </a>– Homemade Wild Plum Jelly: Co-host’s dad made themVL - victoriaINkansashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14795396542513173967noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-26779358253969299222014-04-22T07:00:00.000-06:002014-04-22T07:00:08.955-06:00Tutorial: Bone Folder and Paper Folding.<img alt=" photo Blog_0544_zps24b24b06.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0544_zps24b24b06.jpg" /> This barely counts as a tutorial, but it does count as one of our favorite tools of ALL TIME. Rachel told me at least three times to buy the Martha Stewart Scoring Board and Envelope Tool before I finally listened and purchased my own. Now I find myself reaching for it over and over again. <img alt=" photo Blog_0545_zps94ba4d02.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0545_zps94ba4d02.jpg" /> By sliding a food label or favor tag into the right angle of the scoring board, I can easily line up the cardstock and find the middle. As you can see in the top photo, there are many lines across the board so it's easy to find the center of any tag. One swipe of the bone folder and the tag is perfectly scored for an easy fold. <br />
<br />
I haven't used it to make an envelope yet even though the instructions are included from Martha. You could get totally crazy and <a href="http://rvparties.blogspot.com/2014/04/tutorial-how-to-line-envelope.html">make your own envelope and then line it too</a>. (Or you could eat a cupcake instead. That's more likely around here!)<img alt=" photo Blog_0543_zpsa0baf0ce.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0543_zpsa0baf0ce.jpg" />Cardstock can be tricky to fold neatly. It can break or crack across the top of the fold, so this actually is an inexpensive tool to make assembly faster and cleaner. Line up, score, fold, and attach to your perfect party favors.<br />
<br />
PS. Should we list this party in the shop? It's one of our absolute favorites from this spring. We love custom orders like this! VL - victoriaINkansashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14795396542513173967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-79327206436806827522014-04-17T07:25:00.000-06:002014-04-17T07:25:18.725-06:00Throwback: Bright and Girly Pinwheel Party!This <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/RVparties/search?search_query=pinwhee">pinwheel party</a> was one of my favorites--and slipped through the cracks here because, well, it was two days before I went into labor with baby boy #3. Whoops! I was so excited to help style this party for Miss Margaret and help her celebrate turning FOUR!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo Pinwheel_web-7669_zpsfccaa40f.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/Pinwheel_web-7669_zpsfccaa40f.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
The backdrop medallions were so fun to make and are still some of my favorite ways to fill up space behind a dessert table. I could not handle how much I loved the fondant and sugar cookie pinwheels. It's really amazing what people can do with delicious desserts!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo Pinwheel_web-7659_zps1ddf3b44.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/Pinwheel_web-7659_zps1ddf3b44.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
Using paper to decorate is always my favorite thing--I loved using the circle garland as a table runner! And we couldn't help but stick pinwheels on anything that we could! Straws, napkin rolls... they were just so easy and darling.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo Pinwheel_web-7635_zps5557236c.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/Pinwheel_web-7635_zps5557236c.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
I am not sure why I ever threw a kids party without <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/167777642/bright-pinwheel-party-coloring-wall">a coloring wall</a>--it's always a hit and such a fun and cheap decoration! And obviously, we stuck pinwheels on the corners.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo Pinwheel_web-7717copy2_zpsa0bf3dea.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/Pinwheel_web-7717copy2_zpsa0bf3dea.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Almost a year later, I'm still smitten by this party! Probably because I have three boys and will never plan a pink party... Love so much! Check out <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/RVparties/search?search_query=pinwhee">all the printables here!</a><br />
<br />
VENDOR CREDITS:<br />
– Printables, Costumes, Sugar Cookies and Party Styling: <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/RVparties/search?search_query=pinwheel&order=date_desc&view_type=list&ref=shop_search" style="border: none; color: #1bc4f0; outline: none; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">RV Parties</a><br />
– Photography: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PBJennyPhotography?ref=ts&fref=ts" style="border: none; color: #1bc4f0; outline: none; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Peanut Butter and Jenny Photography</a><br />
– Fondant Pinwheels: <strong style="border: none; color: #1bc4f0; outline: none; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/FondantFantasy" style="border: none; color: #1bc4f0; outline: none; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Fondant Fantasy</a></strong><br />
– Rock Candy: <strong style="border: none; color: #1bc4f0; outline: none; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/CandyCrushEvents" style="border: none; color: #1bc4f0; outline: none; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Candy Crush Events</a></strong><br />
– Pinwheel Hair Clips: <strong style="border: none; color: #1bc4f0; outline: none; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/Princessgumdrop" style="border: none; color: #1bc4f0; outline: none; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Princess Gumdrop</a></strong><br />
– Scallop Polka Dot Chocolates: <strong style="border: none; color: #1bc4f0; outline: none; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/sweetiesbykim" style="border: none; color: #1bc4f0; outline: none; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Sweeties by Kim</a></strong><br />
– Sugar Cookies: <strong><a href="http://www.jjbakeshop.com/" style="border: none; color: #1bc4f0; outline: none; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">J&J Bakeshop</a></strong><br />
<br />
And in case you are interested in throwing your own party--we have a <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/186362471/pinwheel-decorations-straws-napkin-rolls">set of extra decorations</a> available in the shop for a limited time!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/186362471/pinwheel-decorations-straws-napkin-rolls"><img alt=" photo 140415-8185_zpsdb770fd8.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140415-8185_zpsdb770fd8.jpg" /></a>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04594003430230551114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-66084402356178231172014-04-15T06:00:00.001-06:002014-04-15T06:05:44.099-06:00Free Easter Printable from RV Parties. <img alt=" photo Blog_0549_zps1df04cb4.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0549_zps1df04cb4.jpg" />
We're just hopping by with a free Easter printable for you! These sweet little tags are perfect for Easter treats for you and all your bunny friends. You can download them <a href="https://www.hightail.com/download/elNLWUhwbWcwVW05TE1UQw">here</a> and use them to celebrate. Twelve simple tags with water color backgrounds, and the friendliest bunny we ever saw.<br />
<img alt=" photo Blog_0547_zps32f9b1cb.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0547_zps32f9b1cb.jpg" /> We loved that the pastel colors in the Easter M&Ms matched the tags so perfectly. The cookies are <a href="http://www.mybakingaddiction.com/giant-mm-cookies/">giant M&M</a>
chocolate chip gems we found a couple weeks ago and couldn't wait to
try for ourselves. (They are so good and definitely worth making giant!)<img alt=" photo Blog_0548_zps0d4b0e16.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0548_zps0d4b0e16.jpg" /> The <a href="https://www.hightail.com/download/elNLWUhwbWcwVW05TE1UQw">download</a> is free for you to use. We just ask that you follow us on <a href="http://instagram.com/rvparties#">Instagram</a> or like us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RVparties">Facebook</a>. If you're already doing those kind things, consider these tags our thank you. Happy Easter! <br />
<br />
<i>PS. All of our tags we punch with this <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001EDVOF2/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001EDVOF2&linkCode=as2&tag=soland-20">2" EK Success punch from Amazon</a>. Literally thousands of punches, and ours are both going strong still! We have the "old package" style, but that new style sure looks nifty too!</i>VL - victoriaINkansashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14795396542513173967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-83271481450771316922014-04-10T07:50:00.000-06:002014-04-11T13:09:19.080-06:00Throwback Thursday: Mustache Bash!The year was 2012. My second baby was turning one, which made him officially... a little man. It was the height of mustache party popularity, and it was so fun to plan this party. Mustaches continue to be an adorable theme, and its even easier to find matching goodies to go with them. This continues to be one our <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/RVparties/search?search_query=mustache">best sellers</a>, and its easy to see why!<br />
<br />
Highlights include:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>many many mustaches and bow ties cut out on the silhouette machine</li>
<li>one of my favorite color schemes--navy, chartruese and aqua</li>
<li>adorable bowties printed with the pattern from the decor</li>
<li>my favorite Anthropologie inspired backdrop (t<a href="http://www.solandrachel.com/2012/09/papergarland.html">utorial here!)</a></li>
<li>lots and lots of mustaches!</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo MustacheBash-37_zps50842c0b.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/MustacheBash-37_zps50842c0b.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
These family pictures make me smile! The boys were so little.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo MustacheBash-7_zpsf00d412c.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/MustacheBash-7_zpsf00d412c.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
It wouldn't be a party without Victoria's famous sugar cookies--these still go down in history as some of my favorites!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo MustacheBash-20_zps6d54c90d.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/MustacheBash-20_zps6d54c90d.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
Basically, I slapped a mustache on everything. It was too fun not to!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo BirthdayBoy-1_zps6df61b58.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/BirthdayBoy-1_zps6df61b58.jpg" /><br />
<br />
For a more in depth look at the decorations, go <a href="http://rvparties.blogspot.com/2012/08/little-man-mustache-bash-decorations.html">here</a>!<br />
<br />
And for more on the food, go <a href="http://rvparties.blogspot.com/2012/08/little-man-mustache-bash-food-and-menu.html">here</a>!<br />
<br />
And to buy the decor, go <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/RVparties/search?search_query=mustache">here</a>!<br />
<br />Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04594003430230551114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-66921777390480507462014-04-08T07:31:00.000-06:002014-04-10T18:39:26.930-06:00Tutorial: How to Line an EnvelopeMost of our party packs come with coordinating patterned paper--and there are tons of uses for it! We love using it to line trays, wrap around napkins and most recently--to line envelopes!<br />
<br />
<img alt="Tutorial: How to Line an Envelope rvparties.blogspot.com/2014/04/tutorial-how-to-line-envelope.html" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/HowtoLineanEnvelope_zps8de4d832.jpg" title="Tutorial: How to Line an Envelope rvparties.blogspot.com/2014/04/tutorial-how-to-line-envelope.html" />
<br />
<br />
I'm not sure what took me so long to hop on the envelope lining bandwagon--but I'm so glad I did! I'm obsessed with how these turned out. It's a quick and easy way to brighten the inside of your invitations and make them feel even more custom. And you probably have everything you need in your house! We love <a href="http://www.paper-source.com/cgi-bin/paper/envelopes/envelopes.html">Paper Source envelopes</a> and use them whenever we can!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140403-7861_zps7dc1dc92.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140403-7861_zps7dc1dc92.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
Here's what you'll need!<br />
<u><br /></u>
<u>Supplies...</u><br />
--envelopes<br />
--patterned paper<br />
--pencil<br />
--scissors<br />
--glue (or another adhesive)<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140403-7864copy_zps37efd029.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140403-7864copy_zps37efd029.jpg" /><br />
<br />
1. Flip your paper over and trace your envelope. You'll want to make it about a quarter inch narrower than the envelope so it will slide easily in.<br />
<br />
2. Cut out your liner. Chop off an inch or so of the bottom--you won't see that part, and that way you can slide it down so it won't cover up the lick-y part of the envelope. (Does that part have a name?) I was able to cut out a stack of four at the same time without making a disaster.<br />
<br />
3. Cover the back of the liner in glue (or double sided tape). I preferred glue because I thought it would hold up best after someone sliced it open--you want your hard work to be appreciated upon arrival!<br />
<br />
4. Slide the liner into the envelope! This part might be kind of messy and tricky--I found that it worked best to bend the liner towards me so it wouldn't touch the envelope until I had slid it down.<br />
<br />
You can seal your envelopes the lick-y way--or use washi tape or a sticker to seal them, that way they'll open easier and the liner stands a better chance of not getting mangled. Here's to envelopes that are too pretty to throw away!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04594003430230551114noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-10681866939418340992014-04-03T05:20:00.000-06:002014-04-03T05:20:00.098-06:00Throwback Thursday: Bumble Bee Baby Shower<img alt=" photo Blog_0533670_zpsbbd830d0.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0533670_zpsbbd830d0.jpg" /> Some of our favorite parties have been featured on our own blogs (or elsewhere on the internet!), but we wanted to feature some Thursday "throwbacks" as well over here! <br />
<div class="yj6qo ajU">
<div class="ajR" data-tooltip="Show trimmed content" id=":865" role="button" tabindex="0">
<img class="ajT" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/images/cleardot.gif" /></div>
</div>
<img alt=" photo Blog_0536670_zps31c905d5.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0536670_zps31c905d5.jpg" />Here are the party details! <br />
<ul>
<li>The party was for a dear friend and sorority sister. The first baby in our Kansas City group of friends. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>But it could also be for a first bee-day. We've had several people order it for the "bride to bee" as well! Occasionally it is used for gender reveal parties with a "what will it bee?" theme. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>We loved the soft gray and yellow, the simple bee graphic and the use of the font Nelly. Lots of swirls everywhere. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Our favorite little detail was totally the honey stick favor. These are one of the most popular <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/58894737/instant-download-bumble-bee-baby-shower?ref=shop_home_active_2&ga_search_query=bee">items</a> in our shop, available as an instant download and printed <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/58894341/bumble-bee-baby-shower-honey-labels?ref=shop_home_active_4&ga_search_query=bee">double sided labels.</a> </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>We STILL love this party because it's so perfect for gender neutral showers. The baby bee theme is a clean classic. Available <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/RVparties/search?search_query=bee&order=date_desc&view_type=gallery&ref=shop_search">here</a> in the RV Parties shop!</li>
</ul>
VL - victoriaINkansashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14795396542513173967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-10935139656889493392014-04-01T06:39:00.000-06:002014-04-01T06:39:26.105-06:00A Double Giveaway!Hello RV friends!<br />
<br />
You may have noticed we spruced up the branding--and we also took the plunge and joined <a href="http://instagram.com/rvparties">Instagram</a>! We're both big IGers on our personal accounts, so we aren't sure why it took us so long to hop on board for RV!<br />
<br />
We've officially decided that Facebook is unreliable about sharing information--and that Instagram is a much easier way to share and interact with our customers. We're still posting on Facebook, but we're definitely catching more people over on Insta-G! We're really excited to be able to share what we're working on--and have an easy way for YOU to share with us when you use our goodies! We just love seeing how it all comes together.<br />
<br />
To celebrate and encourage people to follow us... we're hosting a <a href="http://instagram.com/p/mP0fmiMpuf/">giveaway</a>! (This is not an April Fool's Day Prank...)<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://instagram.com/p/mP0fmiMpuf/"><img alt=" photo unnamed_zpsd1835510.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/unnamed_zpsd1835510.jpg" /></a>
</div>
<br />
There will be two winners--one for a plate and one for a complete party pack from the shop. You <b><i>must</i></b> follow <a href="http://instagram.com/rvparties">@rvparties</a> to win. You can enter TWICE! <u><b>One</b></u> entry for tagging two people in the comments of our giveaway post on instagram and <u><b>one</b></u> entry for regramming and tagging us. (We love the <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/repost-for-instagram/id570315854?mt=8">Repost app</a> for regramming!)<br />
<br />
So head over to <a href="http://instagram.com/p/mP0fmiMpuf/">Instagram and enter!</a> We'll be picking a winner Friday.Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04594003430230551114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-50771037133346399392014-03-12T13:53:00.001-06:002015-03-10T06:46:18.295-06:00St. Patrick's Day Brunch -- with FREE Decorations!Happy St. Patrick's Day! Even though its a somewhat silly holiday--St. Patrick's Day has always been one of my faves. I had so much fun setting up this Top of the Morning brunch--I felt like it was a fitting theme for St. Patrick's Day!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo RVTopoftheMorning-7348_zps323a74fa.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/RVTopoftheMorning-7348_zps323a74fa.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
I had a blast trying to pick out foods that were green and gold--and also fit the brunch theme. I tried to use ingredients that were naturally green or yellow, because no one wants to eat something with a bottle of food coloring in it! The pancakes were fabulous--colored with spinach and layered with some cream cheese frosting. The recipe is available <a href="http://rvparties.blogspot.com/2014/03/recipe-for-natural-green-st-patricks.html" target="_blank">here</a>. The scrambled eggs cooked up to a lovely golden color. One of my favorite touches were the bell pepper shamrocks--just slice a pepper, pour in some eggs and cook over low! And there were quite a few green and yellow fruits to choose from--kiwi, pineapple and grapes.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo RVTopoftheMorning-7360_zpsea3a0bf9.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/RVTopoftheMorning-7360_zpsea3a0bf9.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
And no party is complete without sweets! Rice Krispies, shamrock macarons, homemade marshmallows and chocolate covered pretzels were a few of the goodies we enjoyed. The pretzels were so fun and easy to make--tutorial available <a href="http://rvparties.blogspot.com/2014/03/stpatrickpretzel.html" target="_blank">here</a>!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo RVTopoftheMorning-7364_zpsf1e294dd.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/RVTopoftheMorning-7364_zpsf1e294dd.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
To decorate the table, I grabbed as many green and gold things I could find around the house and played around with the table until I was happy. The background cost me less than $10 to put together and was fairly quick too! I love the way it filled in the wall and mimicked the stripes in our printables. All of the printables are available for free download below. The cute treat bag toppers are a fun gift for friends and the banner is a fun way to spruce up your mantle!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo RVTopoftheMorning-7352_zps67c42a71.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/RVTopoftheMorning-7352_zps67c42a71.jpg" />
<img alt=" photo RVTopoftheMorning-7430_zps028fabbe.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/RVTopoftheMorning-7430_zps028fabbe.jpg" /><br />
<span style="background-color: #edf4ff; color: #888888; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">All of the decorations are </span><a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UlRRYUp4SU9rWStybHNUQw" style="background-color: white; color: #ec008c; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">available for download here</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">! (Free until March 24th, 2015, then available for purchase on Etsy.) To say thanks, we'd love it if you'd </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/RVparties" style="background-color: white; color: #ec008c; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">like us on Facebook</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;"> or pin an image to share the love (or luck!) with your friends.</span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04594003430230551114noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-1527123314827944722014-03-10T20:51:00.002-06:002014-03-13T08:21:35.382-06:00Simple St. Patrick Day Pretzels -- Two Ways!<img alt="Recipe for St Patrick Day Pretzels -- Shamrock and Pot O' Gold http://rvparties.blogspot.com/2014/03/stpatrickpretzel.html" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/RVTopoftheMorning-7081_zps67e653fc.jpg" title="" /><br />
<br />
I'm terrible at dipping things in chocolate. It's a fact. I can never melt it to the right consistency and I make a mess and I'm impatient. BUT--these chocolate pretzels? They are adorable, simple and pretty much impossible to screw up. And easy enough you could make them with kids!<br />
<br />
<img alt="Recipe for St Patrick Day Pretzels -- Shamrock and Pot O' Gold http://rvparties.blogspot.com/2014/03/stpatrickpretzel.html" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/RVTopoftheMorning-7089-2_zpsf0aa590b.jpg" title="" />
<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>St. Patrick Day Chocolate and M&M Pretzels</b><br />
Pretzel Snaps<br />
Hershey Kisses or Wilton Candy Melts<br />
M&Ms (green and gold!)<br />
<br />
<b><i>Pot of Gold Pretzels</i></b><br />
For these, I used dark chocolate kisses for the pots and peanut butter M&Ms for the gold so that the pots would be a little darker and there'd be a little more gold in the pot.<br />
<br />
1. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 200 degrees.<br />
2. Unwrap kisses and put them in the center of the pretzels.<br />
3. Bake at 200 degrees for about 7 minutes--you can test an M&M and see if they are soft all the way through or if they need a few more.<br />
4. Press a yellow M&M into the center (M side down!)<br />
5. Wait to cool and enjoy!<br />
<br />
<b><i>Lucky Shamrock Pretzels</i></b><br />
For these, I used yellow candy melts and green M&Ms--although they'd be just as cute with kisses!<br />
<br />
1. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 200 degrees.<br />
2. Unwrap kisses (or don't, if you are using candy melts) and put them in the center of the pretzels.<br />
3. Bake at 200 degrees for about 7 minutes--you can test an M&M and see if they are soft all the way through or if they need a few more.<br />
4. Press four green M&Ms into the center (M side down!)<br />
5. Wait to cool and enjoy!<br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<br />
<img alt="Recipe for St Patrick Day Pretzels -- Shamrock and Pot O' Gold http://rvparties.blogspot.com/2014/03/stpatrickpretzel.html" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/RVTopoftheMorning-7096_zpsb140470f.jpg" title="" /><br />
<br />
All of the decorations are <a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/elNMaUNIT2JkMnRsQXNUQw" target="_blank">available for download here</a>! To say thanks, we'd love it if you'd <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RVparties" target="_blank">like us on Facebook</a> or pin an image to share the love (or luck!) with your friends.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo RVTopoftheMorning-7352_zps67c42a71.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/RVTopoftheMorning-7352_zps67c42a71.jpg" />Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04594003430230551114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-9924546550378487072014-03-08T08:59:00.001-06:002014-03-13T08:21:52.465-06:00Recipe for Natural GREEN St. Patrick's Day Pancakes<br />
For our St. Patrick's Day brunch, we HAD to have green pancakes. And I wasn't crazy about dumping a bottle of green food coloring in the batter, so I did what any reasonable mother would do--I threw in a bunch of spinach! (Cue evil laughter.)<br />
<br />
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEg5NyMjcm4jTPNcs45U9HnL_k_m94W114NgxTuV1MwrjIKYCDl5bxS49h2tPSIEQBx3FwxcBiFBdZZvLKWjoLktmabj5hvEWEG0_CFsFTRUIotJpsuAa4wGNmprybVY7WB2UgC-8m3JY04UuluFw_2QoEwNEJUPV5w8ACfe4iFXfGiK60omhjVKN_IRW05piBDWwUPyBZkBHQ7jYmII8FYO2LQ_Sjt0UhsnmU1s=" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Naturally Green St. Patrick's Day Pancakes from RV Parties (with FREE Decorations!) http://rvparties.blogspot.com/2014/03/recipe-for-natural-green-st-patricks.html" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/RVTopoftheMorning-7360copy_zps9262dc7e.jpg" title="Naturally Green St. Patrick's Day Pancakes" /></a>My sweet two year old who won't eat a vegetable that's green GOBBLED these up. They are delicious and I promise, you can't taste the spinach!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEgIteN6xLtIo_L0oUfbDY4Qws8yhEB9LnPq2GhFknXIJWhZgum2UwKWhON_Lhlk9zj6JIU3gCEJO_OQMM5wwHTCu_5gvk3b_-a2JDzlpe7hu5xi-kst6Gscqi8DPC0LAKWv6oKcPACfVmhyphenhyphenEYQNCMjg5svL6jtDSlFGMWu984GASHZBL1xBN7sQEP8PI5u8HT3cSk10ScPvNaazS6F4g30_C08I9jNiRRo=" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="St. Patrick's Day Brunch (with FREE Decorations!) http://rvparties.blogspot.com/2014/03/recipe-for-natural-green-st-patricks.html" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/RVTopoftheMorning-7348_zps12214a24.jpg" title="St. Patrick's Day Brunch" /></a>Here's the recipe:<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Natural Green St. Patrick's Day Pancakes</b><br />
<i>(Adapted from AllRecipes)</i><br />
<i><br /></i></div>
1 1/2 cup milk<br />
1/4 cup vinegar<br />
2 cup flour<br />
1/4 cup sugar<br />
2 tsp baking powder<br />
1 tsp baking soda<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
2 eggs<br />
1/4 cup butter, melted<br />
handful of spinach<br />
chocolate chips (optional)<br />
cooking spray<br />
<br />
1. Combine milk and vinegar. Let rest 5 minutes. This is essentially making buttermilk.<br />
2. Blend milk & vinegar mixture with spinach--adding spinach until you get the desired shade of green.<br />
3. Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a large bowl.<br />
4. Whisk buttermilk, eggs and melted butter in a separate bowl. Once whisked, combine with the dry mixture and mix until all lumps are gone.<br />
5. Use cooking spray to coat griddle or pan on medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup batter onto griddle and cook until top starts to bubble. If adding chocolate chips, sprinkle them on before flipping.<br />
6. Flip and cook on the other side until done. (If you want to avoid browning the top, cook on a lower temperature for longer without flipping.)<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEiT17Zyz1M8Ost7q1f0ZyBHCk8lv1z_Bpx6fOrdvg7c1haw4_D8O995JY5kUebiehCTF_tOTuNig3subNtmeNkUP5-weP0dm8SadsjW-Lh23SMhXiUX-1oH0zeNobAZmh2PMiwCSuhPs1tzOGpx-O-lqT4jyzrVpPJeyZgdYs8ozmTFUA5DExPwMe9s4lcB5oe482_1rW36Nqv_9bgJZ06kfgINw5ZuLDE=" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Top of the Morning St. Patrick's Day Brunch (with FREE Decorations!) http://rvparties.blogspot.com/2014/03/recipe-for-natural-green-st-patricks.html" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/RVTopoftheMorning-7429_zpsbfb421c8.jpg" title="Top of the Morning St. Patrick's Day Brunch" /></a><br />
Since we were eating a reasonable amount of spinach, I felt like we earned some frosting, so I layered in some cream cheese frosting and did not feel bad about it at all. Not. At. All.
<br />
<br />
All of the decorations are <a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/elNMaUNIT2JkMnRsQXNUQw" target="_blank">available for download here</a>! To say thanks, we'd love it if you'd <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RVparties" target="_blank">like us on Facebook</a> or pin an image to share the love (or luck!) with your friends.
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2Fi736.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fxx4%2Frvblogdesigns%2FSolAndRachel%2FRVTopoftheMorning-7360copy_zps9262dc7e.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEg5NyMjcm4jTPNcs45U9HnL_k_m94W114NgxTuV1MwrjIKYCDl5bxS49h2tPSIEQBx3FwxcBiFBdZZvLKWjoLktmabj5hvEWEG0_CFsFTRUIotJpsuAa4wGNmprybVY7WB2UgC-8m3JY04UuluFw_2QoEwNEJUPV5w8ACfe4iFXfGiK60omhjVKN_IRW05piBDWwUPyBZkBHQ7jYmII8FYO2LQ_Sjt0UhsnmU1s=" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2Fi736.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fxx4%2Frvblogdesigns%2FSolAndRachel%2FRVTopoftheMorning-7348_zps12214a24.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEgIteN6xLtIo_L0oUfbDY4Qws8yhEB9LnPq2GhFknXIJWhZgum2UwKWhON_Lhlk9zj6JIU3gCEJO_OQMM5wwHTCu_5gvk3b_-a2JDzlpe7hu5xi-kst6Gscqi8DPC0LAKWv6oKcPACfVmhyphenhyphenEYQNCMjg5svL6jtDSlFGMWu984GASHZBL1xBN7sQEP8PI5u8HT3cSk10ScPvNaazS6F4g30_C08I9jNiRRo=" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2Fi736.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fxx4%2Frvblogdesigns%2FSolAndRachel%2FRVTopoftheMorning-7429_zpsbfb421c8.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEiT17Zyz1M8Ost7q1f0ZyBHCk8lv1z_Bpx6fOrdvg7c1haw4_D8O995JY5kUebiehCTF_tOTuNig3subNtmeNkUP5-weP0dm8SadsjW-Lh23SMhXiUX-1oH0zeNobAZmh2PMiwCSuhPs1tzOGpx-O-lqT4jyzrVpPJeyZgdYs8ozmTFUA5DExPwMe9s4lcB5oe482_1rW36Nqv_9bgJZ06kfgINw5ZuLDE=" -->Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04594003430230551114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-53367209265742532452014-02-10T08:47:00.000-06:002014-02-10T08:47:07.914-06:00Bright Chevron and Heart Valentine PrintablesAnd another set of Valentine goodies! I actually made these for a bachelorette party last year but loved the colors so much that I had to adapt them for Valentine's Day. So bright and fun!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/elNMZGVXcWYwVW1LRmNUQw" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140208-6365copy_zps62cc8568.jpg" title="FREE Valentine Printables from RV Parties - Bright Hearts and Chevron" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The pack includes cupcake wrappers and toppers, mini candy wrappers, a banner, matching patterned paper, three coordinating signs and treat bag toppers. I think Valentine's Day is even more fun than Halloween in terms of sweets--I was pretty excited to go buy candy and cupcakes to dress up in the printables! I'm just so happy that celebrating holidays always comes with SUGAR.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140208-6384_zps08e1e1f5.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140208-6384_zps08e1e1f5.jpg" title="FREE Valentine Printables from RV Parties - Bright Hearts and Chevron" />
<br />
<br />
I found these cupcake stands on Amazon and obviously needed them. Aren't they the cutest? I keep thinking of fun things I want to do with them!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140208-6373_zpsc321e8a3.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140208-6373_zpsc321e8a3.jpg" title="FREE Valentine Printables from RV Parties - Bright Hearts and Chevron" />
<br />
<br />
And in case you are still looking for a design for classroom treats--these treat bag toppers would be a cute and easy way to go! You could fill them with just about anything you wanted and you'd probably have the cutest treats on the block.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt=" photo 140208-6366_zps9c98c9fe.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140208-6366_zps9c98c9fe.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
These are free to download (just like <a href="http://rvparties.blogspot.com/2014/02/free-valentines-day-printable-treats.html" target="_blank">the set from last week!</a>) by <a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/elNMZGVXcWYwVW1LRmNUQw" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
You can thank us and show us some Valentine LOVE by liking us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RVparties" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, pinning this post, checking out <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/RVparties" target="_blank">our shop</a> or joining our <a href="http://etsy.us6.list-manage2.com/subscribe?u=32f0382cd7ccf693d66c76b4d&id=402376bedd" target="_blank">mailing list</a>. Or all of the above! But mostly--we want to help your Valentine's Day be bright and fun--so <a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/elNMZGVXcWYwVW1LRmNUQw" target="_blank">download these</a> and enjoy.</div>
Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04594003430230551114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-38101862438047973682014-02-07T10:03:00.003-06:002014-02-07T10:25:34.819-06:00Free Valentine's Day Printable Treats!This is my first year having kids in preschool--and as I've now realized, the stakes are very high for bringing Valentines to school! I took a bunch of our already <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/RVparties">existing designs</a> and tweaked them for Valentine's Day--and love the result!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.hightail.com/download/elNKM25CbEFqV0FFSzhUQw" target="_blank"><img alt="Free Treat Bag Toppers from RV Parties" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140207-6321copy_zps65139a73.jpg" title="Valentine's Treat Bag Toppers--Free Printables!" /></a>
<br />
<br />
These little foldover toppers are great for birthday favors and Valentines too--you can fill little four inch wide bags from a craft store with anything you'd like! I love that you can fill them with random snacks you have in the house... or you can go Super-Pinterest-Mom and fill them with something homemade.<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140207-6360_zps27ca08c2.jpg" title="FREE Valentine Printables from RV Parties - Robot" />
<br />
<br />
The seasonal cherry M&Ms might be my favorite flavor and look adorable with the tags! Finley and I dipped some pretzels as a Valentine craft--so I threw those in a bag too. Or if you'd like to go the healthier route, I'm sure parents would appreciate their kids bringing pretzels and goldfish home more than a bag of sugar!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo 140207-6325_zpsf2baa285.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/140207-6325_zpsf2baa285.jpg" />
<br />
<br />
There's a little space on the back for you (or your little one!) to fill out for their special pal. Want to print some for yourself? Get the <a href="http://www.hightail.com/download/elNKM25CbEFqV0FFSzhUQw" target="_blank">free printables here!</a><span id="goog_120501470"></span><span id="goog_120501471"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a> Included is a page of each design, and one page with one of each if you just can't decide which you like best. They print best on plain white card stock either at home, or your local print shop. Make sure you do NOT shrink to fit when you print. Even though I told the FedEx lady not to, she still did and mine ended up a bit too narrow.<br />
<br />
Happy Valentine's Day from RV Parties!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04594003430230551114noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-12255712811363778152013-06-07T09:00:00.000-06:002013-06-07T09:00:04.414-06:00Vintage Train PartyChoo choo! Who doesn't love a train party? This was the perfect theme for my two year old who is beyond obsessed with trains. There are more pictures and details on <a href="http://blog.hwtm.com/2013/06/vintage-red-and-blue-train-party/">Hostess with the Mostess</a> if you are interested in specific details!<br />
<br />
It was a fairly low key party--held in our backyard with a few sweets and friends. I'm a little smitten with burlap... I seem to think it goes with everything. I tried my hand at sewing crepe paper... and think I may leave it to the professionals next time! I pined after the red paper suitcases for weeks until I finally caved and bought them. I just love them. It was fun to incorporate red bandannas throughout the party--wrapped around a B, as a little satchel for party favors and as a bunting behind the kids' table.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo Train-8882_zps2e4d6670.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/Train-8882_zps2e4d6670.jpg" /><br />
<br />
The party was a lot lower key some of our parties--which was a lot of fun. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CandiedCake?fref=ts">Train lollipops</a>, cupcakes, Vic's famous sugar cookies, cake pops and chocolate dipped pretzels and oreos--nothing too fancy. But everything was delicious. I can not say enough great things about <a href="https://www.facebook.com/misslulustreats">Miss Lulu's Sweet Treats</a>--everything she makes is delicious! I stretched myself and used a lot of our printables in creative ways--extra cupcake toppers got glued to burlap ribbon and the treat bag toppers served as a little sign for the favors.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo Train-8886_zpsdc642652.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/Train-8886_zpsdc642652.jpg" /><br />
<br />
It's easy to set a super cute table with items you can get at any party store. Plates, napkins and flatware in matching colors can be easily coordinated in place settings. I wrapped the flatware and tied it with some twine. The glass Frappucino bottles get used at every single party--treat yourself to a few and save the bottles! My favorite part of the table was the table runner--the party favors were a last minute addition to the table and really brought it all together. All the kiddos got a little bandanna full of train goodies and an engineer hat! I used the extra bandannas and hats as a bunting behind the table--another last minute idea that I loved.<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo Train-8849_zps0994593e.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/SolAndRachel/Train-8849_zps0994593e.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Credits...<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #8b643f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.1875px;">– Printables, Costumes, Sugar Cookies and Party Styling: </span><strong style="background-color: white; color: #8b643f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.1875px;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/RVparties" style="border: none; color: #1bc4f0; outline: none; text-decoration: none;">RV Parties</a></strong><br style="background-color: white; color: #8b643f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.1875px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #8b643f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.1875px;">– Photography and Cupcakes: </span><strong style="background-color: white; color: #8b643f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.1875px;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/PBJennyPhotography?ref=ts&fref=ts" style="border: none; color: #1bc4f0; outline: none; text-decoration: none;">Peanut Butter and Jenny Photography</a> </strong><br style="background-color: white; color: #8b643f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.1875px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #8b643f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.1875px;">– Burlap Ribbon: </span><strong style="background-color: white; color: #8b643f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.1875px;"><a href="http://www.wecanpackage.com/" style="border: none; color: #1bc4f0; outline: none; text-decoration: none;">We Can Package</a></strong><br style="background-color: white; color: #8b643f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.1875px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #8b643f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.1875px;">– Cake Pops, Oreos and Pretzels: </span><strong style="background-color: white; color: #8b643f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.1875px;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/misslulustreats?ref=ts&fref=ts" style="border: none; color: #1bc4f0; outline: none; text-decoration: none;">Miss Lulu’s Sweet Treats</a> </strong><br style="background-color: white; color: #8b643f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.1875px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #8b643f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.1875px;">– Train Lollipops: </span><strong style="background-color: white; color: #8b643f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.1875px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/CandiedCakes" style="border: none; color: #1bc4f0; outline: none; text-decoration: none;">Candied Cakes</a></strong>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04594003430230551114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2679625585664652926.post-73600042956712256292013-06-03T08:06:00.000-06:002013-09-24T14:01:27.428-06:00Barnyard Playdate!<img alt=" photo Blog_0038_zps6731b9a0.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0038_zps6731b9a0.jpg" /><br />
<br />
In May, we hosted a barnyard playdate to celebrate our favorite local
Kansas City kids' location, the Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead. Spring
has been playing tricks on us, so even though it was very cold a few
families ventured out to explore the petting zoo before gathering
indoors for snacks, a dessert spread, a story and lots of playtime!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo Blog_0039_zps24dac7b2.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0039_zps24dac7b2.jpg" /><br />
You can read all about the party over on <a href="http://pizzazzerie.com/parties/childrens-parties/old-mcdonald-barnyard-playdate-party/">Pizzazzerie</a> - and see even more photos of all the details! We're pretty much in love with the classic primary colors in baked goods, snacks and decorations.<br />
<br />
All of the dessert goodness was gathered on a table covered with denim
and burlap - so very country! Little hay bales held the very best cake
pops donated by Miss Lulu's Sweet Treats. Cupcakes from Boxer Lady
Bakery, chick cookies made by RV Parties, and farm candies (gummy eggs
and cow tails) rounded out the sweets. There were also kid size bags of
fresh popcorn - easy for little hands to grab and enjoy!<br />
<br />
<img alt=" photo Blog_0047_zpsaf161bf3.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0047_zpsaf161bf3.jpg" /><br />
Pretty much every big city has a farm like ours where you can visit and learn about animals and feed baby goats. And if you live in a little city, then you can probably visit a real farm!<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/RVparties/search?search_query=barnyard&order=date_desc&view_type=gallery&ref=shop_search"><br /></a>
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/RVparties/search?search_query=barnyard&order=date_desc&view_type=gallery&ref=shop_search">We have all the files available for you - even the coloring wall - in the shop!</a><br />
<img alt=" photo Blog_0046_zpsb1fb69a5.jpg" border="0" src="http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx4/rvblogdesigns/2013%20Photos%20Victoria/Blog_0046_zpsb1fb69a5.jpg" /><br />
<u>Vendors</u><br />
<div>
Printables and Party Design: <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/RVparties/search?search_query=barnyard&order=date_desc&view_type=gallery&ref=shop_search" target="_blank">RV PARTIES</a></div>
<div>
Cupcakes: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BoxerLadyBakery" target="_blank">Boxer Lady Bakery</a></div>
<div>
Cake Pops and Cake Balls: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/misslulustreats/" target="_blank">Miss Lulu's Sweet Treats</a></div>
<div>
Burlap Ribbon: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/wecanpackage" target="_blank">We Can Package</a> and <a href="http://www.wecanpackage.com/" target="_blank">here</a> too!</div>
Cow Tails and Gummy Eggs: Amazon<br />
Mini Paper Bags: Hobby LobbyVL - victoriaINkansashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14795396542513173967noreply@blogger.com2