Belly Feathers :: Handmade Party Ideas by Betsy Pruitt

Making Parties Shine with Creative Ideas & Handmade Details

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 14:05:00 +0000

Belly Feathers offers highly personalized party ideas and beautifully detailed handmade invitations, party favors, party decorations, and more.

Let Belly Feathers add that special touch to your next event!

Kid's birthday parties
Baby showers
Bridal and wedding showers
Weddings
Milestone birthday parties
Various holiday parties
Different types of children's parties
Other special events and occasions

Party Services

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 14:03:00 +0000

Skip to
Custom Designed Party Items
Party Planning Guides
Individual Party Ideas
Party-in-a-Box Shopping Service

Custom Designed Party Items
Starting at $100

Let Belly Feathers develop custom invitations, decorations, party favors, place cards, and anything else you may need to match your special event. My goal is to create items that you'll absolutely love, and I am always happy to make revisions and updates to suit your tastes. I have yet to disappoint a client!

A $100 minimum order is required for most custom designs and can be applied to a varitety of products like invitations, party banners, favors, etc. I do require this amount be paid up-front as a deposit.

Party Planning Guides
Starting at $250

Way more than an inspiration board! Tell me your party theme or colors, and I'll develop a Party Planning Guide full of ideas, details, and products to help you bring your special event to life. To make your party one of a kind, I shop handmade where possible and can even design custom invitations and party items just for you. My Party Planning Guides are ideal for unique themes that don't have commercial party supplies available for purchase.

Your custom Party Planning Guide will include ideas for

* Party invitations
* Party decorations
* Party menu and refreshments
* Party games
* Party favors
* Kid's party dress or outfit
* And more!

In addition to ideas, each Party Planning Guide includes a detailed shopping list for items you might want to purchase for your party, including thumbnail images, vendors (with links to online stores when possible), and price information. I'll do all of the research to find the very best party items, so all you have to do is make the purchases.

Each party plan provides plenty of theme-specific details from start to finish, so you can entertain with style no matter what your creativity level or experience is. If you're a savvy party planner, use my Party Planning Guides as a springboard for your own creative ideas or to maintain your chic reputation when you're strapped for time. Shhh, I promise not to tell!

The price of the party plan is based on the complexity of the event, the amount of planning notice given, and my current party planning schedule. To give you the best results and attention, I limit the number of clients I can work with at one time.

Individual Party Ideas
Starting at $75

Sometimes all you need is a single party idea to round out your event. Whether it's ideas for table centerpieces, favors, or party games, Belly Feathers has creative ideas to help. There is a non-refundable consulting fee, starting at $75 on most projects.

Party-in-a-Box Shopping Service
Shipping plus 35% Convenience Charge

Don't have the time to shop for your party? As your party planner, I'll also be glad to handle all of the running around for you and ship your party items right to your door. This can work especially well for international customers, who want to purchase specific items from US retailers that don't ship outside of the United States. Belly Feathers is glad to ship internationally.

The fee for this service is a 35% convenience charge on all products purchased (including taxes and shipping from the vendor, when applicable). Once all items are received and bundled for delivery, you will be billed for shipping to your home at cost (no convenience charge added) including shipping materials.

Let the party planning begin! Contact me at Betsy@BellyFeathers.com or via my web form today about your next event. Helpful information to share includes your party theme and colors, number of guests, budget (if you know it), and party date.

Handmade Party Products

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 14:02:00 +0000

The following are examples of products that I have made in the past. I will be glad to adjust the colors and content on these items to coordinate with your specific event at no additional cost.

Skip to
Party Banners
Cupcake Toppers
Mini Party Bubbles
Bubble Bath Party Favors
Invitations
Boxed Candy Invitations
Photo Posters
Tin Heart Party Favors
Sparkly Magic Wands
Party Straws
Party Stickers
Party Favor Tags and Treat Bags
Candy Buffet Signs
Lollipop Stand Displays
Tooth Fairy Delivery Pouches

If you need something you don't see here, please see my Custom Party Planning Services. I would be glad to help you!

Pennant Party Banners
$5 per letter
More photos

You choose the colors, text, and design, and I'll create a festive banner to perfectly match your party's theme. Belly Feathers banners are quality constructed, so you can reuse them at celebrations year after year. Each letter is mounted on printed paper (sparkly when possible). When appropriate, the paper edges are ink-distressed for added dimension. The pennants are threaded together with double-sided satin ribbon, which allows you to reconfigure the letters for future parties if desired. The pattered paper pennants are 4 3/8 inches wide at the top and 5 7/8 inches long, and the letter circles are 3 inches in diameter.

Circle Party Banners
$5 per letter
More photos

You choose the colors, text, and design, and I'll create a beautiful banner to perfectly match your party's theme. Belly Feathers banners are quality constructed, so you can reuse them at celebrations year after year. Each letter is mounted on printed paper (sparkly when possible). When appropriate, the paper edges are ink-distressed for added dimension. The letters are linked by double-sided satin ribbon. The pattered paper circles are 4 inches in diameter, and the letter circles are 3 inches in diameter.

Scalloped Circle Party Banners

$5 per letter
More photos

You choose the colors, text, and design, and I'll create a beautiful banner to perfectly match your party's theme. Belly Feathers banners are quality constructed, so you can reuse them at celebrations year after year. Each letter is mounted on printed paper (sparkly when possible). When appropriate, the paper edges are ink-distressed for added dimension. The letters are linked by double-sided satin ribbon. The pattered paper circles are 4.5 inches in diameter, and the letter circles are 3 inches in diameter.

Cupcake Toppers

$36 for 12 with personalized text
$30 for 12 with standard text shown in photos
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Cupcake toppers add irresistable charm to dessert tables. Cupcake picks can also be used as cocktail flags to add a bit of whimsy to your refreshments. Belly Feathers' generally have backgrounds of 1.75 inches wide, and the solid circles insie are 1.25 inches in diameter. Double-sided toppers with text (on applicable designs) and patterned paper on both sides are available for an additional fee of $15 per set of 12.

Mini Party Bubbles

$36 for 12 with personalized text
$30 for 12 with standard text shown in photos
More photos

Mini bubbles are fun for kids' parties and wonderful for wedding send offs. These bubbles have a 1-inch tags tied to 0.6 oz mini bubbles. I like to pair sparkly, shear organza ribbon with an opaque accent ribbon of a different texture on the bubbles.They look precious displayed on cake pedestals.

Bubble Bath Party Favors

$5 each (minimum quantity of 10)
More photos

These uniquely shaped bottles of bubble bath are wonderful for children's events and equally elegant for bridal or baby showers. They look impressive displayed en masse, allowing them to serve as beautiful table centerpieces or added decor. Each bottle holds approximately 6 oz, and the tags are 1.75" in diameter. Tags can be custom designed for these, in most cases, at no additional charge. Bubble bath is available in a variety of colors and scents to coordinate with your event.

Invitations

Around $3-4 each or $20 for PDF Printable
More photos

Set the tone for your party with unique invitations. Prices vary based on materials and finishes and include envelopes. For a more affordable option, ask about a PDF Printable version that you can print on you home printer. Photo invitations are also available printed on photo-quality paper in linen, watercolor, and gloss finishes.

Boxed Candy Invitations

$12 each; $14 each with pencil and response envelope
(minimum quantity of 10)
More photos

It just doesn't get any sweeter than these invites! These candy invitations can be customized for a variety of colors and themes. You'll receive the invitations fully assembled inside the boxes with tags for adding the guests' names and twine for tying. They also include a padded shipping envelopes and matching return addressed shipping labels. (You hand write the shipping destinations on the labels.) Invitation box measures 5x7" and weighs approximately 13 oz in padded shipping envelope.

Photo Posters

$10 each or $30 for printable PDFs
More photos

Make your events even more personal with photo posters featuring your guest of honor! These posters are 10x16". For a more affordable option, ask about a PDF Printable version that you can print at a local print center, such as FedEx Office, Staples, Office Depot, etc.

Tin Heart Party Favors
$5 each
More photos

These delicate heart party favors are perfect for Alice in Wonderland parties and can be embellished to fit any party theme. Everything about these favor boxes is incredibly detailed from the embossed lace cover to the hand-distressed paper edges. The 2.5 (at widest) x 2.25" aluminum box opens from the right side with a hinged edge on the left. The boxes are the perfect size to hold mints or candy.

Sparkly Magic Wands

$10 each
More photos

Your birthday girl will light up when she sees this sparkly Happy Birthday magic wand! Glittered, flower-shaped paper appliques proclaim, "It's My Birthday" to all her party guests. Both appliques (front and back) have been ink distressed around the edges. The star is made of key-lime green sequins, and the wand is wrapped in ribbon of the same color. Thinner green ribbon trails down from the star, while white tulle makes a festive tutu-like halo around the base of the star. The wand is 14.25 inches tall. The star itself is 3.5 inches wide x 3 inches tall. This Birthday Wand would make a perfect party decoration or festive gift topper. See photos for alternate design.

Party Straws

$36 for 12
More photos

At your next event highlight your attention to detail with personalized party straws. These are available in a variety of colors to coordinate with your party. The tags on the round design measure 1.5". Sails on the sailboat design are 2.75 x 3.375". Please observe caution with the sailboat design, as the corners of the card stock sails are stiff.

Party Stickers

$5 for Sheet of 12, 2.5" Circles
$8 for Sheet of 48, 1.2" Circles
More photos

Personalize everything for your party with stickers! Look great on party cups, treat bags, favor boxes, and more. Available in 2.5" and 1.2" circles in a white matte finish.

Party Favor Tags and Treat Bags

$36 for 12 or $20 for a PDF Printable of Tags
More photos

Bag your treats in style with personalized party favor tags. Price includes a standard clear cello treat bags, 1.5" tags, and ribbon for tying. For a more affordable option, ask about a PDF Printable version of the party favor tags that you can print on you home printer and cut out yourself - perfect for DIY-ers and crafty mamas. Tags can be created in other shapes and sizes.

Candy Buffet Signs

$4 each
More photos

Candy buffets are such a treat at parties. Having beautifully detailed labels adds even more flair. These signs feature a 4.625 x 3.625" marque background with a delicate stitched border and a 3" circular medallion label. Two 0.25" holes are punched through the sides to allow you thread ribbon through to attach to your candy dishes (ribbon can be included for an additional fee).

Lollipop Stand Displays and Keepsake Boxes

$50 each
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Lollipop Stands can be used to display suckers or other treats on a stick vertically on your refreshment table. Belly Feathers will include a lid to the box and a replacement for the paper medallion, so it can be used after the event as a keepsake box. For example, if the medallion on the display says, "Lollipops" for the party, I will include a new on that says, "Ella's 1st Birthday" that can be attached after the party. The lollipop displays are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. The paper medallion labels are 3" in diameter. With each, you'll receive a decorated aluminum box with lid, foam fitted inside to hold your lollipops, and a replacement label medallion with adhesive to add after the party. All you have to do is add candy, such as plain M&Ms, inside the container to hide the foam (candy not included).

Tooth Fairy Delivery Pouches

$10 each
More photos

Make the Tooth Fairy's money deliveries more official with these magical pouches. The 2 1/8" tags state "Official Visit from the Tooth Fairy" and are delicately water colored. The background patterned paper is glittered when possible. Organza ribbon attaches the tag to an organza draw-string pouch (internal measurements 3x3"). Use the Tooth Fairy Pouches over and over again for deliveries, and after all baby teeth are gone, the pouch makes a treasured keepsake for storing baby teeth. These can be designed in your child's favorite color and make wonderful gifts for parents.

Please contact Belly Feathers at Betsy@BellyFeathers.com to order any of the items shown above. Please note that the prices above do not include shipping. International orders are welcome.

The options for Belly Feathers designs are limitless, so if you don't see what you are looking for above, I would love to custom design invitations, decor, party favors, or anything else you may need to make your next event shine. Please see my Party Services for more details.

About Belly Feathers :: Handmade Party Ideas by Betsy Pruitt

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 14:00:00 +0000

In addition to running Belly Feathers, I work as a marketing communications manager focused on event planning, writing, and graphic design for a software company in high-tech Huntsville, AL. I bring over 10 years experience planning corporate and special events, both large and intimate, to my Belly Feathers friends (aka clients).

I absolutely love tackling all the intricate details about an event, its atmosphere, and flow. It is so fulfilling to be able to help my clients pull off charming events about which friends and family can't stop talking. It makes my day to make yours!

Belly Feathers has been seen on
The Indie Bride
Project Wedding
Wedding Planning Made Easy (Book by Alex & Elizabeth Lluch)
Favor Affair
Lemondrop

Pregnancy Today
Design Dazzle

Connect with Belly Feathers
Belly Feathers Party Blog
Twitter
Facebook

Yea!!! New Website Designs

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 01:23:00 +0000

I'm so excited to announce that the Belly Feathers Website and Party Blog got face lifts! The new coordinating designs definitely fit my style so much better, and I hope it's easier for you to find party ideas and info on my products and party services, too.

For those of you that read these sites via email, RSS, or Facebook, please click through and check out the new looks. I'd love to know what you think!

Also, if you haven't updated your RSS feed to the new Party Blog yet, please do so now. Here's the new feed URL: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BellyFeathersPartyBlog

New Look Created by Tricia Nae Designs

Tricia of Tricia Nae Designs came up with the new website and blog designs and handled the full installation for me. She has been such a joy to work with! Tricia was *fabulously patient* with me as we worked to get the looks exactly the way I wanted them, and I'm so grateful to have found her. If your blog needs a remodel, definitely check her out.

Update Your RSS Feed to New Blog

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 18:07:00 +0000

I've got lots of exciting changes coming to my website, and the first is moving my blog to a new address at BellyFeathersParty.blogspot.com.

If you subscribe to posts via RSS, please update your subscription to http://feeds.feedburner.com/BellyFeathersPartyBlog. Thanks in advance for your help! I truly appreciate your loyalty.

I've got a special party feature coming up next week on the new Belly Feathers Party Blog that you won't want to miss!

Fix Crumbly Desserts with Cupcake Papers

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 02:07:00 +0000

It seems like I've made quite a few messy and crumbly desserts over the last few months, including these Hello Dolly's I made over the weekend.

I find that cupcake paper liners are a great fix when I need to take the desserts somewhere to share. They make the desserts look a lot more presentable and are perfect mini plates for my messy treats. If careful, the papers catch most of the crumbles as you eat.

I really like using Reynolds foil baking cups like these for making cupcakes. They come with little white papers in between them (I guess to keep the foils from sticking to each other), which you're not supposed to use for baking. I save the white liners specifically for fixing my problem desserts. It makes me feel good to recycle!

Can anyone recommend a good Hello Dolly recipe? I think I'd like to try a different one next time.

The Belly Feathers Party Blog has moved! Visit the new location at BellyFeathersParty.blogspot.com for more handmade party ideas.

How to Write Thank You Notes: Keep them Simple and Sweet

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 02:12:00 +0000

A kindly written note of thanks is such a joy to receive by mail. As as a result, I think it's so important that we keep thank you notes from slipping any further toward becoming a lost art.

If you absolutely hate writing thank yous, see the bottom of this post for a fresh tip just for you. I will admit that the thought of handwriting notes really gets my procrastination juices flowing and suddenly even cleaning sounds fun. But at the same time, I don't know where that feeling comes from considering writing thank yous is never that bad once I get started. The key is to keep them simple and sweet.

My Tips for Writing a Simple and Sweet Thank You Note:

Keep it short.
This works out great in both the reader's and your own favor, especially when you have many to write, so stick to keeping your note very brief. I like to choose small thank you cards for this very purpose because having less space to work with forces you to be concise.
Handwriting your thank you note is a must.
Typed notes are so impersonal. Your handwriting is an expression of you and immediately establishes a meaningful connection with the person you are thanking. This means you'll have to send your handwritten note by snail mail, which is another way to show you took the extra time to properly acknowledge their thoughtfulness.
Be honest.
Even if the gift isn't something you like, find a way to express how thoughtful it is. Never lie and say that something you hate will be treasured forever and will be prominently displayed on you mantle for all to see. Remember to keep it simple by acknowledging the person's generosity and kind intent.
Tailor the note to your reader's interests or personality if possible.
You probably won't see this tip anywhere else, but it's such a great way to make a deeper connection with the person you are thanking if you can. Remember to be truthful here, as well.

Let me illustrate with an example. My grandma loves to decorate her house for holidays throughout the year. She sends me a flower paper punch for my birthday because I like crafts. I can tell her how the flower punch has inspired me to decorate the mat of framed photo of my husband and me in bright springy colors, which will make an especially festive decoration during the Easter season.

Structure for Simple and Sweet Thank You Notes
(4-5 lines max):

Address the person by name, and thank them for the specific gift. (Never list the dollar value of a monetary present or gift card; refer to it instead as "generous".)
Add a line or two about how you intend to use the gift.
Thank the reader again, and close with your signature.

Sample Thank You Note Wording:

Aunt Lillian,

Thank you for the generous birthday gift you sent. With it I was able to purchase a beautiful flowered serving dish that I've had my eye on for months. It looks so perfect on a shelf in my kitchen and really completes the room. I also can't wait to use it at an upcoming baby shower I'm hosting for a friend, since it coordinates perfectly with its floral theme. Thank you again for thinking of me on my birthday.

Love,
Betsy

For Those Who Hate Thank You Writing - Establish a Truce
I only recommend this for your closest friends and family members, who you talk to on a regular basis. It really seems to go against my whole philosophy of doing things, but I wouldn't tell you about it if it wasn't so liberating.

Establish a no "thank you note" truce. My mother-in-law and I established this one year after the holidays, and it has been great!!! We simply agreed that neither of us were obligated to write the other a thank you note, since we can acknowledge the gift when it's received or next time we see each other. I did send her a written thank you note for the wedding presents she gave my husband and me, since that was a special situation, even though it occurred post-truce.

My friend Jessica and I have known each other for so long (before we were old enough to think about thank you notes), so we have an informal truce against thank you notes, too. We talk almost every day over email, so we'll acknowledge each other that way or when we talk to each other by phone on our birthdays.

There are definitely situations where a truce can work, but I'd be very careful about implementing one. The last thing you want to do is seem ungrateful. The best time to approach a truce is when the other person mentions dreading thank you note writing after a big occasion or the holidays, when it will really feel like a blessing to them and not necessarily to you at the time.

Do you have any thank you note-writing tips?
What do you think about having a no "thank you note" truce?

The Belly Feathers Party Blog has moved! Visit the new location at BellyFeathersParty.blogspot.com for more handmade party ideas.

Happy Valentine's Day

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 04:14:00 +0000

Here's the Valentine that I made for my sweetie this year. He's a real stinker, so this little skunk that I water colored was perfect for him.

The Belly Feathers Party Blog has moved! Visit the new location at BellyFeathersParty.blogspot.com for more handmade party ideas.

Great Party Buys: Better Homes & Gardens Summer Partyware at Walmart

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 04:43:00 +0000

I'm not a big fan of plastic serving pieces or vinyl tablecloths, but I absolutely love the new Better Homes & Gardens summer partyware collection in the seasonal section at Walmart. The acrylic drink dispenser is especially fabulous at only $6!

Tumblers starting at $2
Tablecloths at $4
Serving tray at $6
Drink Dispenser at $6
Visit the store for many other cute serving bowls, platters, plates, and more.

I already snatched up this tray and tablecloth for a Cinco de Mayo party I'm planning. The palette is so perfect!

The Belly Feathers Party Blog has moved! Visit the new location at BellyFeathersParty.blogspot.com for more handmade party ideas.

Monkey Happy Birthday Card

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 01:14:00 +0000

Today is a little friend's birthday, and I was so happy with how his card turned out with the little monkey jumping out of a red wagon. I just had to share it with you guys!

The Belly Feathers Party Blog has moved! Visit the new location at BellyFeathersParty.blogspot.com for more handmade party ideas.

Sailboat & Nautical First Birthday Party for Joshua

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 05:36:00 +0000

Joshua's fun sailboat party makes me long for the summer! The days are already starting to get longer, so I thought I would share this beach theme party for all you mommas ready for warmer days.

It was so much fun helping Joshua's mommy, Katie, brainstorm for decorating ideas for this fabulous event in sunny Boca Raton, Florida. Katie wanted to incorporate Joshua's age and initial as key elements in the party's sailboat theme. These are the invites that I came up with. I love the little "J" on the sailboat.

What an adorable nautical tablescape with the anchor garland, nets, bucket, and whale centerpiece!

These cupcake toppers were designed to perfectly coordinate with the invitations. Some are polka-dotted and others are stripped, and both patterns alternate between "1" or "J" medallions in the center. Joshua's smash cake featured a larger version of the cupcake toppers.

Doesn't Joshua look sweet in his little crown?!

I just think the balloon centerpieces at the party were to die for! They were designed by Enchanted Balloon and featured various nautical items, such as an anchors, lifesavers, sailboats, and whales.

Katie found these perfect nautical tablecloths at Publix of all places. One of my number one party planning tips is to keep your eyes open for unexpected things in rarely visited isles of your favorite stores and to visit stores that seem out of your comfort zone. You can find some of the most unique and perfect things where you would least expect them, especially items you won't see at anyone else's events.

Katie reserved a pavilion at a local park for Joshua's party, but one thing really bothered her about the space: a large concrete wall. I love her solution! She purchased a large beach scene to use as a wall covering and hung a birthday banner on top of it. I designed large sailboats with adhesive on the back to match all of Joshua's other party items. As kids arrived, they were invited to decorate the wall covering with the sticky sailboats and had a blast doing so.

Here's a close up of Joshua's sailboat birthday cake. Why don't they have smash cakes for adults?

As part of Joshua's sailboat party set, I also created these cute sailboat straws. They would be perfect for sipping blue punch on a warm beachy day.

This is such a sweet picture of the birthday boy that I just had to include it. Thanks for letting me be part of Joshua's first birthday, Katie! It was a true joy. Between creating the designs and seeing all these fun pictures, I feel like I was there celebrating with you guys.

Let Belly Feathers Help with Your Beach Birthday Party

If you're planning a kid's beach party or need help coming up with beach theme party ideas, I'd love to help. My affordable party planning guides are great for custom events, or if you just need a few items to tie everything together, I can do that, too. I look forward to talking with you soon.

The Belly Feathers Party Blog has moved! Visit the new location at BellyFeathersParty.blogspot.com for more handmade party ideas.

Graceful Hostess Tips: Make Special Plans for Guests on Diets

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 03:28:00 +0000

Ideas for hosting with style and elegance

I have company coming to visit this weekend, and I know ahead of time that my guest is on a low-carb diet. As a graceful hostess (or at least someone trying to be one), I'm trying to plan meals that fit her diet, so my she will feel welcome but not tempted to splurge on my account. Taking that little extra effort shows your guests how special they truly are, and that should always your #1 priority as a host.

I've been going through my binder of tested and approved recipes to see what dishes in my repritoire might work. My husband and I particularly love this easy, oven-baked Denver omelet, so I'm excited to add it to my list.

Do you have any good low-carb recipes I could borrow?

The Belly Feathers Party Blog has moved! Visit the new location at BellyFeathersParty.blogspot.com for more handmade party ideas.

Beautiful Homemade Birthday Cookies

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 03:27:00 +0000

This weekend was my birthday, and my sweet mother-in-law, Beth, went all out and made these super cute birthday party cookies in light pink and lime green.

This picture really doesn't do the birthday cookies justice because you can't see all the sparkly sugar and precious details. They looked so cute in person displayed on a cookie sheet with doily on top. (Have I ever told you how much I LOVE paper doilies?) There was just enough frosting on the little hearts in the center to hold birthday candles for wishing, too.

Best of all the homemade cookies were so delicious and were a special birthday gift themselves. The next day, I literally ate them for breakfast, lunch, and snacks in between. Over the last few weeks, our family has had a lot of cake, so these birthday cookies were a wonderful change of pace.

If you've got an intimate party planned for any occasion, consider spelling out a special greeting in cookies like these. I've been reading on a lot of websites lately that you can make and freeze your party cookies weeks ahead, and then frost them the night before your event. (Let me know if you've tried that before.) The more you can get done in advance the better!

The Belly Feathers Party Blog has moved! Visit the new location at BellyFeathersParty.blogspot.com for more handmade party ideas.

Belly Feathers Is Now on Facebook

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Sat, 16 Jan 2010 20:05:00 +0000

Belly Feathers now has a fan page on Facebook! Today is my birthday, so please help me celebrate by becoming a fan today!

The Belly Feathers Party Blog has moved! Visit the new location at BellyFeathersParty.blogspot.com for more handmade party ideas.

Circus Birthday Party Planning Guide Now For Sale

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 04:21:00 +0000

"The Circus Party Plan I bought from Belly Feathers was my best investment yet!"
-Gabrielle in Cromer, Australia

You can get my circus party ideas at a discount with my new Circus Birthday Party Planning Guide. I normally charge $250+ for my party planning services, so this guide is a steal at only $75!

It's full of circus theme ideas for:
- Party invitations
- Party decorations
- Party menu and refreshments
- Party games
- Party favors
- Kid's party dress or outfit
- Birthday gift ideas for the guest of honor
- And more!

*What's Inside*
The 36-page Circus Birthday Party Planning Guide includes
4 pages of ideas and 29 pages of recommended party items for sale by big-box retail chains, reputable online stores, and Etsy.com crafters.

The detailed shopping lists of almost 200 items includes pictures, vendors, and prices with plenty of options and choices, so you can make the party uniquely yours. These are broken down into categories for easy browsing, including a Must Haves list with my top picks.

*Save Time*
The party plan is great for busy moms, who don't have time to shop around for the cutest party supplies, as well as crafty mamas who simply need a jump start.

Circus parties are great for boys or girls and, especially, for multiple kids. You can easily scale them up or down depending on your resources and number of guests. My party planning customer Lindsey did just that for her son and daughter's circus party.

*Order Now for Only $75!*

*Downloading Circus Birthday Party Planning Guide*
After payment is received via PayPal, you'll receive an email (usually within 24 hours) with download instructions for a PDF of the Party Planning Guide. Once the email is sent, you'll have 48 hours to download and save the PDF to your computer.

UPDATE: I have a new line of Circus/Carnival party products!

Related Circus/Carnival Party Posts
Circus Party Theme: Joshua's Two Ring Circus Birthday Party
Big-Top Circus Birthday Party for Marley & Kelsey
Handmade Circus Birthday Party: Let Your Birthday Boy Be the Ringleader
Caden's 2nd Birthday Party Carnival

The Belly Feathers Party Blog has moved! Visit the new location at BellyFeathersParty.blogspot.com for more handmade party ideas.

Belly Feathers Featured in New Wedding Book: Wedding Planning Made Easy

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 22:30:00 +0000

I am so thrilled to announce that a Belly Feathers' project will be featured in the new book by Wedding Solutions called Wedding Planning Made Easy, which is currently available for pre-order on Amazon since it won't be out until late February.

Inside the book, you'll find DIY instructions for making my birds' nest place card holders. I can't wait to receive my advance copy of the book to see all of the other wedding projects and ideas inside.

Currently, the publisher Wedding Solutions has four books in the top 50 bestselling wedding books on Amazon by Elizabeth and Alex Lluch, including the #2 slot. It is such an honor to be chosen by them, and I truly hope this book is equally successful!

The Belly Feathers Party Blog has moved! Visit the new location at BellyFeathersParty.blogspot.com for more handmade party ideas.

Big-Top Circus Birthday Party for Marley & Kelsey

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 05:15:00 +0000

Get the Circus Party Planning Guide used for this party!

These fantastic circus party pictures and ideas come all the way from England. My customer Lindsey graciously shared these from her four-year-old son Marley and one-year-old daughter Kelsey's circus birthday party for your enjoyment and inspiration.

With balloons galore and over-the-top decor, Lindsey did an excellent job of creating an instant wow factor and transforming an ordinary meeting space into a festive big-top circus tent.

While Lindsey already had an absolutely stunning event planned, she used both my Party Planning and Party-in-a-Box Shopping Services to supplement her ideas with even more unique circus party supplies and decorations to ensure no detail would be overlooked.

She was also able to take ideas from my original circus theme post by having Marley dress as a circus ringmaster. Too cute!!

Kelsey looks absolutely adorable in this clown outfit that we had handmade just for her. I love having the guests of honor dress to match their party theme.

In addition to a variety of fun carnival games with prizes, Lindsey created an eye-catching concession area at the party with a popcorn cart, slush puppie machine, hot dogs, and an old-timey candy stall. My mouth is watering just thinking about it!

As Lindsey shows, circus parties are great for both boys or girls and, especially, for joint parties for multiple children. This theme can be scaled up or down depending on the size of your guest list, too, making it one of my favorite party themes.

It was a such a joy helping with Marley and Kelsey's circus party. Thanks so much, Lindsey! Can't wait until next year!

UPDATE: I have a new line of Circus/Carnival party products!

More Circus Party Ideas
Circus Party Theme: Joshua's Two Ring Circus Birthday Party
Handmade Circus Birthday Party: Let Your Birthday Boy Be the Ringleader
Caden's 2nd Birthday Party Carnival

The Belly Feathers Party Blog has moved! Visit the new location at BellyFeathersParty.blogspot.com for more handmade party ideas.

Happy New Year

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 01:25:00 +0000

I hope 2010 is a wonderful year for all of us! May our resolutions, hopes, and dreams come to fruition in this brand new year!

I've been caught up in the holiday season with fun gatherings and merry making galore, but I have missed sharing party ideas and tips with you. I'll be back soon and can't wait to hear about all of the party plans you have in store this year.

All the best in 2010,
Betsy

Belly Feathers Highlighted on Lemondrop.com

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 16:31:00 +0000

Belly Feathers was mentioned on AOL's Lemondrop.com this week in an article titled "How to Plan a Cheap Wedding (and a Cheap Reception") by Lauren Fritsy.

I just love weddings! Let me know if I can help you.

The Belly Feathers Party Blog has moved! Visit the new location at BellyFeathersParty.blogspot.com for more handmade party ideas.

Fun 40th Birthday Ideas and Gag Gifts: Forties for 40 Sense

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 02:13:00 +0000

My husband turned 40 last week, and I know this was a hard one for him. Forty must be the guys' equavalent to 30 for women.

I thought some over-the-top gag gifts might lighten the mood and make 40 a little easier for him to swallow.

While I was brainstorming for ideas, I thought of 40 oz beers and how that might be fun. Then some how I came up with the idea of 40 Sense as a play on the rapper 50 Cent's name. Forty is a wise age after all, so I thought it was appropriate.

I designed a little graffiti logo to put on an over-the-top hat that my husband would normally never wear. I tried using an iron-on, but after several failed attempts, I just taped the logo onto the hat. Thank goodness the hat had a very forgiving pattern that didn't show my mess-ups! Every successful rapper has some bling, so I also made a sparkly 40 necklace with some metallic paper and plastic bead necklaces from Hobby Lobby, too.

I think he had a great time wearing his 40 Sense get-up, and his family certainly got a big kick out of it. We all sampled small glasses of the 40 oz Miller High Life to join in the fun. In case you don't know, it's the self-proclaimed "Champagne of Beers", so it was perfect for a 40th birthday celebration.

Free 40 Sense Templates:
If you're looking for ideas for a 40th birthday party, I highly recommend going 40 Sense. Here are some templates for the necklace and logos for your 40th birthday party gag gifts. Turning 40 has never been so fun!

The Belly Feathers Party Blog has moved! Visit the new location at BellyFeathersParty.blogspot.com for more handmade party ideas.

Party Planning Help: Creative Ideas Starting at $75

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 04:06:00 +0000

Thanks to all of you who have contacted me about my new Party Planning Guides! I'm thrilled to know there's so much interest and excitement about this new service from Belly Feathers.

Many of you have asked if I can help come up with ideas for a single party project instead of a full party planning guide. Absolutely!!!

Contact me to tell what you need, and I'll give you a consulting estimate. For most single party projects, I'll charge a $75 consulting fee. I think you'll definitely be pleased with the results and find it's well worth it. Once we find an idea you like, I'll give you enough info to execute the project yourself, or I can do it for you.

I want you to have a special and unique party, so I'm offering this budget party planning option to help you do just that. Let's create something wonderful together!

The Belly Feathers Party Blog has moved! Visit the new location at BellyFeathersParty.blogspot.com for more handmade party ideas.

Easy Halloween Party Projects

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 02:06:00 +0000

If you're planning a Halloween party, I have two simple projects from the blogosphere that will add a personal, homemade touch to your event.

Candy Corn Cookie Bark
from Your Homebased Mom

This candy corn cookie bark was even more delicious than I anticipated! It's a wonderful sweet treat with a little salty and looks oh so cute. Best of all, it's super easy with minimal clean-up. I couldn't find any orange jimmies, as shown on this blog, so I got some black and orange nonpareils at Michael's to sprinkle on top. You can serve this on your refreshments table or bag some up for cute party favors.

Your Homebased Mom has lots of yummy-looking recipes. You'll get some great ideas for food presentation from her beautiful pictures, too.

Printable Witch's Brew Water Bottle Labels
from Blonde Designs

These bewitching water bottles are a project you can get ready now and cross it off your party to-do list right away. In addition to the free printable labels, you'll find some great advice for keeping the bottles from sweating off the printed design in this post.

Blonde Designs has so many wonderful party and everyday celebration ideas. Both bloggers on this site are former art directors for Martha Stewart publications and have Martha's signature crisp, clean style.

What are your favorite simple Halloween projects?

The Belly Feathers Party Blog has moved! Visit the new location at BellyFeathersParty.blogspot.com for more handmade party ideas.

New Service Available: Party Planning Ideas & Guides

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 01:33:00 +0000

"Plan my party!" You've asked for it, and now, I'm offering a party planning service! Whether you are planning a birthday party, wedding, baby shower, or any other event, Belly Feathers can help you create a personalized event to remember.

Custom Party Planning Guides
Starting at $250

Tell me your party theme or colors, and I'll develop a Party Planning Guide full of ideas, details, and products to help you execute your special event. To make your party one of a kind, I shop handmade where possible and can even design custom invitations and party items just for you.

Your custom Party Planning Guide will include ideas for
* Party invitations
* Party decorations
* Party menu and refreshments
* Party games
* Party favors
* Kid's party dress or outfit
* And more!

In addition to ideas, each Party Planning Guide includes a detailed shopping list for items you might want to purchase for your party, including thumbnail images, vendors, and price information. I'll do all of the research to find the very best party items, so all you have to do is make the purchases.

Each party plan provides plenty of theme-specific details from start to finish, so you can entertain with style no matter what your creativity level or experience is. If you're a savvy party planner, use my Party Planning Guides as a springboard for your own creative ideas or to maintain your chic reputation when you're strapped for time. Shhh, I promise not to tell!

Party-in-a-Box Shopping Service
Shipping plus 35% Convenience Charge

Don't have the time to shop for your party? As your party planner, I'll also be glad to handle all of the running around for you and ship your party items right to your door.

Let the party planning begin! Contact me today about your next event. Helpful information to share includes your party theme and colors, number of guests, budget (if you know it), and party date.

The Belly Feathers Party Blog has moved! Visit the new location at BellyFeathersParty.blogspot.com for more handmade party ideas.

Great Party Buys: Bright Whisks and Spatulas for a Kids' Baking Party

noreply@blogger.com (Belly Feathers) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 14:15:00 +0000

Wouldn't these be perfect party favors for baking birthday parties?! Just tie on a personalized tag with ribbon. So simple and so cute!

Michael's for $0.50 each (Clearance)

Spatulas and Whisks available in pink, green, and blue
Measuring cups and recipe boxes also available

I love the idea of a baking party for a little one who loves to help in the kitchen, and you absolutely can't beat these brightly colored utensils for $0.50 each, available in colors for girls and boys.

Need help coming up with ideas for a kids' baking party? Contact Belly Feathers. I now offer an affordable remote party-planning service...details to be announced soon.

The Belly Feathers Party Blog has moved! Visit the new location at BellyFeathersParty.blogspot.com for more handmade party ideas.