Happy Chrismukkah

Our friends' annual party always makes me miss watching Seth Cohen and the OC! Anyone else remember that show?

Mad Men Affair

I attended a beautiful Christmas party tonight that took place in a converted bank in downtown Providence. The ornate venue could not have been more appropriate for the 50s Mad Men theme. I'm finally starting to feel some holiday spirit!

Birthday Girl

Happy Birthday to my beautiful momma! I wish I could be home to celebrate with you and the girls. (Notice her arm party-so fashionable!).

Cookie Exchange

After reading about Joanna's old fashioned cookie swap, I haven't been able to get the idea out of my mind! It seems like such a fun, relaxed way to get together with a group of friends. Plus, as a hostess, you really only need to provide some cold milk (or wine) and a batch of your favorite type of cookie. That's a pretty simple party in my book (if you like baking, that is). I think this would be the perfect pre-holiday fete so that you'd have lots of new recipes to try once December arrived! I'd probably whip up one of the goodies below, or these amazing sweet potato whoopie pies from Sprinkles Bakes (a favorite baking site of mine). I think whoopie pies might just be the next big trend once macarons and cupcakes fizzle out. I've been seeing more and more variations of them popping up in magazines and blogs. What do you think?

images via tumblr, beauty in everything, and we heart it

Patriotic Perfection

I love these (seemingly) simple last-minute party ideas from the craft queen herself, Martha Stewart. The garland is so festive and that blueberry-topped sundae looks pretty tasty, too!

Hope you all have a fun and festive Independence Day!

Little Swimmers

I attended a first birthday party yesterday and was having trouble coming up with a fun gift. Luckily, my friend Heather pointed me in the right direction and I went straight to Baby Gap in search of a swimsuit. Once I arrived, I thought I'd never leave! There were soooo many cute little suits and beach accessories. It was more fun than shopping for myself!

I ended up purchasing the shark bite trunks and matching flip flops with a tiny rash guard shirt (for when Mini Justin learns to surf)! I could have scooped up loads more, but I don't have any babies to outfit right now. These are just some of my favorites (how cute is the giraffe print?!). Click here to see the full collection. And be prepared to awwwwww!

Wedding Contender

I find myself going back to this dress when thinking about what to wear to my cousin's wedding later this summer. It's bright, simple, and I love the sweetheart neckline. The only problem is that it might be a little excessive for their casual Vermont nuptials. It would still make a great party dress!

Lauren's Baby Shower

The shower yesterday was beautiful! We had a great day filled with silly games, yummy snacks, and lots of baby gear! Here are some shots from the party.

Pretty blue hydrangeas


I love miniature calla lillies


Little boy clothesline-so tiny!


The mom & dad in training


All the ladies & baby Carter


Sisters with the mommy



Congratulations Lauren & Ryan! We can't wait to meet the little rockstar.

There's No Place Like Home

I'm having a blast at home so far. The weather is perfect, the puppy is adorable, and it's been great to catch up with friends and family. Hope you're having a fun weekend too! I can't wait for the baby shower this afternoon. My mom has been working so hard on decorations, finger foods, and flower arrangements. I know Lauren is going to love it! Photos to come...

Owl-Themed Birthday

Didn't I tell you owls were all the rage?! This birthday party is too cute! The owl pinata is my favorite! I just love theme parties, where everything from the invites to the sweets share a common thread. Check out the little owl slippers on the guest of honor!

Have you ever attended a great theme party?
taylor