Design Dazzle

England Lovelies – May 2027 (Trip 2)

2026-06-30T18:31:50Z

Back by popular demand our girls trip to England!

8 Days / 7 Nights – May 1 – May 8, 2027

Jen Springer (Classy by Jen) and Toni Roberts (Design Dazzle) are so excited to host this trip and invite you on another unforgettable girls’ getaway to England! We’d love for you to join us for an adventure through England, seeing amazing buildings, visiting iconic landmarks, and experiencing beautiful landscapes, and charming villages.

image from The Churchill Arms

We’ll be making new friendships and creating unforgettable memories. Don’t miss out on exploring England together!

Our tour begins in London and Windsor. We’ll begin our journey exploring the beautiful English countryside, Windsor, Bath, and the charming villages of the Cotswolds, before spending several unforgettable days discovering the highlights of London.

SATURDAY, MAY 1 (first day of arrival)

GARDENS + WINDSOR

After arriving at Heathrow Airport, we’ll enjoy a private coach ride into the city, visit beautiful gardens, and then continue on to Windsor. There, you’ll have free time to browse the charming shops, wander the historic streets, and perhaps find a few special treasures to take home from England.

Later that evening, we’ll gather for our first dinner together in England—a wonderful opportunity to get to know one another, share our excitement for the adventure ahead, and begin making memories!

SUNDAY, MAY 2ND

WINDSOR CASTLE, HARRY POTTER TOUR,

We’ll visit Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world and an official residence of the King. This iconic royal landmark is rich in history and grandeur. It’s stunning!

Travel by private coach to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, where much of the Harry Potter film series was brought to life. Explore the Great Hall, authentic sets, costumes, props, and behind-the-scenes magic from the beloved movies.

MONDAY, MAY 3RD

WHITCHURCH SILK MILL, HIGHCLERE CASTLE, STONEHENGE & BATH

Whitchurch Silk Mill (entrance included)
Whitchurch Silk Mill is a 19th-century water mill that weaves British silk fabrics using Victorian machinery. With a rich history of silk weaving, the mill has been preserved as a working museum where we will see traditional silk winding and weaving techniques demonstrated on historic equipment during the guided tour.

Highclere Castle (entrance included)
While in the countryside we will visit Highclere Castle, the stunning home of Downton Abbey. This magical estate offers the chance to stroll the beautiful grounds, explore the elegant rooms, and experience the grandeur of the iconic staircase and settings made famous by the series. (**** SEE BELOW)

Stonehenge (entrance included)
We’ll stop to view and walk around one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments. Dating back more than 4,500 years, Stonehenge continues to captivate visitors with its mystery, history, and impressive stone circle.

Bath, England
We’ll enjoy some free time in Bath to shop, wander, and take in the charm of the city before returning later for our guided tour and visit to the Roman Baths.

Later that evening, we’ll arrive at our charming countryside Airbnb in the Bath/Gloucestershire area, where we’ll settle in and enjoy the beauty and tranquility of rural England.

**** Please note that Highclere Castle releases its opening dates and tickets only a few months in advance, as it is a private residence. We have been in contact with their office regarding our tour date, and based on the information they have shared, we expect the castle to be open during our visit. While we cannot guarantee that Highclere Castle will be open on our specific date, we were able to visit successfully last year and are optimistic that it will be available again. If Highclere Castle is unable to accommodate our visit, the Highclere Castle admission portion of your tour price will be refunded.

TUESDAY, MAY 4, 2027

ENGLISH COUNTRYSIDE – COTSWOLDS

Today is all about the Cotswolds! Think… Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and more. We’ll wander through storybook villages, admire honey-colored cottages, cross charming bridges, and enjoy breathtaking countryside views in one of England’s most picturesque regions.

We’ll also have free time to explore some of the Cotswolds’ delightful boutiques and specialty shops—perfect for finding unique treasures you won’t find anywhere else.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 5TH

ROMAN BATHS, JANE AUSTEN, COVENT GARDEN, WEST END SHOW

We will then spend the morning exploring the beautiful city of Bath. Our guide will lead us on a walking tour through the city’s historic streets, including iconic landmarks such as Pulteney Bridge and the magnificent Bath Abbey. Our morning continues with a visit to the famous Roman Baths.

Jane Austen’s House Museum (entrance included)
Visit the charming cottage where Jane Austen lived and wrote some of her most beloved novels, including Pride and Prejudice, Emma, and Sense and Sensibility. This beautifully preserved home offers a unique look into the life of one of England’s most celebrated authors.

Chawton House (drive-by)
Known as “The Great House,” Chawton House was once owned by Jane Austen’s brother, Edward Austen.

We will then head to London and drop-off our luggage the hotel.

Covent Garden is one of London’s most charming districts, known for its historic market, lively atmosphere, street performers, unique shops, and inviting cafés. You’ll have free time to browse the boutiques and enjoy a meal before we attend a world-class West End performance that evening. It’s sure to be a spectacular show!

VICTORIA & ALBERT MUSEUM, GARDEN TOUR, FREE TIME, HIGH TEA

THURSDAY, MAY 6TH

We will visit the Victoria and Albert Museum, one of London’s museums, home to an extraordinary collection of design, fashion, jewelry, furniture, and decorative arts from around the world.

Kensington Gardens will be our next stop. We’ll enjoy a stroll through this beautiful royal park while visiting highlights such as the Princess Diana Memorial, the Italian Gardens, the Peter Pan Statue, and more!

St. James’s is one of London’s most elegant and historic neighborhoods, known for its architecture, charming streets, boutiques, and iconic British shops. It’s the perfect place to have free time to browse, shop, and soak in the timeless charm of London.

We will then enjoy high tea at Fortnum & Mason’s Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, which is sure to be a highlight of the trip! After tea, we will take a short walk to Buckingham Palace. While the palace will not be open for tours, we’ll have the opportunity to admire its grandeur and beauty from the outside.

Tower Bridge at night.

FRIDAY, MAY 7TH

COACH + WALKING TOUR WITH GUIDE + PUB DINNER

A professional local tour guide will accompany us throughout the day, sharing fascinating history and stories as we explore London by both private coach and on foot.

Highlights of our London sightseeing tour include:

Big Ben
Westminster Abbey (entrance included)
Changing of the Guard
Tower Bridge
Tower of London (entrance included)
St. Paul’s Cathedral (entrance included)

Please note that some sites will be viewed from the outside, while others include admission as noted above

We’ll gather for a farewell dinner at a charming English pub, where we’ll reminisce about our adventures, celebrate new friendships, and enjoy one another’s company one last time before heading home.

SATURDAY, MAY 8TH

We leave the London hotel early morning to arrive at the Heathrow Airport.

OUR TRIP PACKED WITH ENGLISH CHARM

If you love seeing as much as possible when you travel, this trip is for you! We have an exciting itinerary filled with iconic sights, charming villages, historic landmarks, and unique experiences. This is an active, sightseeing-focused tour rather than a leisurely getaway. There will be plenty of walking, exploring, and adventure as we make the most of our time in London and the Cotswolds.

This trip is all about experiencing England in the best of ways, making new friends, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

BE WATCHING OUR INSTAGRAM ACCOUNTS/STORIES FOR LINKS FOR PAYMENT FOR THIS TRIP.

@DESIGNDAZZLE AND @CLASSYBYJEN

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

Six breakfasts
Two lunches
Four dinners
Five nights of hotel accommodations (shared room; each guest will have their own bed)
Two nights in a countryside Airbnb**** (shared rooms; each guest will have their own bed)
One group airport transfer will be provided upon arrival and one group airport transfer will be provided upon departure. If your flight times do not work with the group’s scheduled transfer times, you will be responsible for arranging your own transportation. We will be happy to help guide you through the process.
Most transportation throughout England will be by private coach
Admission is included for the sites and tours listed in the itinerary where noted. While we will enter many attractions, some locations will be enjoyed as part of a guided walking tour and viewed from the outside.

****For two nights during our stay in the Bath/Cotswolds area, we’ll be staying together in a charming farmhouse Airbnb. We did this last year, and the ladies really enjoyed it! It gave everyone extra time to visit, laugh, share stories, and get to know each other in a fun group setting!

Everyone will have their own bed, but some rooms will be shared—think “girls camp” with comfortable accommodations. Some rooms may have 4–7 ladies, while other rooms may have 2. There are five bathrooms, and last year everything worked out very smoothly.

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:

Airfare. You will fly from your local airport on Friday, April 30, arriving at Heathrow Airport on Saturday, May 1, 2027, preferably before 10:00 a.m. So we can begin our fun day!!
London Underground (Tube) Transportation – We will use the London Underground (Tube) to travel to several locations throughout our stay in London. The estimated total cost is approximately $25–$30 per person for the entire trip.
Each guest will need their own contactless credit card, debit card, or mobile wallet (Apple Pay or Google Pay) to ride the Tube.
Some meals. Please refer to the “What’s Included” section for meals that are covered.
Spending money for shopping, souvenirs, and personal purchases.
Travel insurance (required).
Gratuities.
Personal items, including snacks, beverages, and other incidental expenses.

Tour Price: $3999 per person, based on shared accommodations

Monthly Payment Plan

Deposit: $1,000
October 2, 2026: $750
November 2, 2026: $750
January 2, 2027: $750
February 2, 2027: $749

Total Tour Cost: $3,999

Deposit & Cancellation Policy

A $1,000 deposit is required to reserve your spot. Deposits will be accepted until September 30, 2026, unless the trip sells out sooner. If the trip does not reach the required number of participants by September 30, all deposits will be refunded in full.

You may cancel within 14 days of booking for a full refund. After the 14-day grace period, the deposit and all subsequent payments are non-refundable unless we cancel the trip due to not reaching the required number of participants.

Double Occupancy

Our pricing and accommodations are based on double occupancy, and we encourage guests to travel with a roommate whenever possible. After all, it’s always more fun to share the adventure with a travel buddy! Single-occupancy accommodations are limited and subject to availability. Additional charges will apply. Please contact us for current single-occupancy rates and availability.

Trip Activity Level

This is an active sightseeing tour with lots of walking each day. Some of the streets are cobblestone, and some attractions include stairs and uneven surfaces. Please be sure you are comfortable walking long distances and spending extended periods on your feet.

FLIGHT INFORMATION

Depart from the USA. Fly into Heathrow (LHR), arriving by 10:00 AM on Saturday, May 1, 2027

If your flight is delayed and you miss the scheduled group transfer, we will stay in contact with you and help you get to the hotel or where the group is. However, any transportation costs incurred to join the group will be the responsibility of the guest.

Return Home: Depart from Heathrow Airport (LHR) on Saturday, May 8, 2027, (returning back to the United States that day). Our group coach will arrive at Heathrow by 8:00 AM (depending on the majority of the groups needs). If your flight requires you to arrive at the airport at a different time, you will need to arrange your own transportation. We are happy to help guide you with that if needed.

The post England Lovelies – May 2027 (Trip 2) appeared first on Design Dazzle.

English Lovelies 2027

2026-07-14T01:40:53Z

Back by popular demand! The girls are going to England again!

9 Days / 8 Nights

We’ll be making new friendships and creating unforgettable memories. Don’t miss out on exploring England together!

Our tour begins in the heart of London. We’ll have several days to explore London, followed by several days discovering the English countryside, Bath, and the charming villages of The Cotswolds.

FRIDAY, APRIL 23rd (first day of arrival)

BOROUGH MARKET & WALKING TOUR

We arrive in London on Friday, April 23rd. After a coach ride into the city, we will drop off our luggage at the Hilton DoubleTree Kensington (or similar). We will then visit Borough Market, or a similar market, one of London’s oldest and most famous food markets, with a history spanning more than 1,000 years. The market is renowned for its high-quality ingredients, cheeses, baked goods, and specialty foods. It is also well known for its delicious street food offerings.

After Borough Market, we will enjoy a walking tour with a tour guide of some of London’s iconic sights. We will return to the hotel to check in and settle in for the evening.

SATURDAY, APRIL 24TH

HARRY POTTER TOUR, COVENT GARDEN, WEST END LONDON SHOW

Covent Garden is one of London’s most charming districts, known for its historic market, lively atmosphere, street performers, unique shops, and inviting cafés. You’ll have free time to shop local boutiques, and enjoy a sit-down dinner before watching a world-class West End performance that evening! It will be a spectacular show!

SUNDAY, APRIL 25TH

VICTORIA & ALBERT MUSEUM, GARDEN TOUR, FREE TIME, HIGH TEA

We will visit the Victoria and Albert Museum, one of London’s museums, home to an extraordinary collection of design, fashion, jewelry, furniture, and decorative arts from around the world.

We will then enjoy High Tea at Fortnum & Mason’s Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, which is sure to be one of the highlights of the trip! After tea, we will take a short walk to Buckingham Palace. While the palace will not be open for tours, we’ll have the opportunity to admire its grandeur and beauty from the outside.

image from The Churchill Arms

Tower Bridge at night.

Westminster Abbey

MONDAY, APRIL 26TH

COACH + WALKING TOUR WITH GUIDE

A professional local tour guide will accompany us throughout the day, sharing fascinating history and stories as we explore London by both private coach and on foot.

Highlights of our London sightseeing tour include:

Big Ben
Westminster Abbey (entrance included)
Changing of the Guard
Tower Bridge
Tower of London (entrance included)
St. Paul’s Cathedral (entrance included)

Please note that some sites will be viewed from the outside, while others include admission as noted above

Village of Castle Combe

Jane Austen Home

TUESDAY, APRIL 27, 2027

ENGLISH COUNTRYSIDE – WHITCHURCH SILK MILL, JANE AUSTEN’S HOUSE, STONEHENGE

Today we leave London behind and travel by private coach into the beautiful English countryside, where charming villages, historic homes, and centuries of history await.

Chawton House (drive-by)
Known as “The Great House,” Chawton House was once owned by Jane Austen’s brother, Edward Austen.

Later that evening, we’ll arrive at our charming countryside Airbnb in the Bath/Gloucestershire area, where we’ll settle in and enjoy the beauty and tranquility of rural England.

The Cotswolds

Cornish Pasty

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28TH

CASTLE COMBE, WALKING TOUR OF BATH, BAKING CLASS, ROMAN BATHS, FREE TIME

We will begin our day with a visit to the charming Cotswold village of Castle Combe, often considered one of the prettiest villages in England. With its picturesque setting, it’s the perfect morning to the English countryside.

We will then spend most of our day exploring the beautiful city of Bath. Our private tour guide will lead us on a walking tour through the city’s historic streets, including iconic landmarks such as Pulteney Bridge and the magnificent Bath Abbey.

One of the highlights of the day will be a hands-on 2-hour baking class with a professional celebrity baker. We’ll learn how to make traditional English scones and Cornish pasties (if you know, you know—they’re delicious!), then enjoy eating our creations.

Afterward, we’ll visit the Roman Baths, one of England’s most remarkable historic sites. You’ll then have free time to explore Bath at your own pace, shop, or simply enjoy the city’s beautiful atmosphere before we gather for dinner in Bath.

COTWSOLDS – COACH + WALKING, FREE TIME FOR BROWSING

THURSDAY, APRIL 29TH

We’ll also have free time to explore some of the Cotswolds’ delightful boutiques and specialty shops—perfect for finding unique treasures you won’t find anywhere else. A charming pub with yummy food is on the itinerary for dinner.

We will end our day by staying in a charming Cotswold hotel, where we can relax and enjoy the beauty of this village

THE HIGHCLERE CASTLE IN HAMPSHIRE, ENGLAND

FRIDAY, APRIL 30TH

HIGHCLERE CASTLE, WINDSOR CASTLE, FREE TIME, FAREWELL DINNER

Our last day in the countryside will be spent visiting Highclere Castle, the stunning home of Downton Abbey. This magical estate offers the chance to stroll the beautiful grounds, explore the elegant rooms, and experience the grandeur of the iconic staircase and settings made famous by the series. (**** SEE BELOW)

After our visit to Highclere Castle, we’ll head to Windsor, where you’ll have free time to browse the shops, explore the historic streets, and perhaps pick up a few last treasures from England.

We’ll then visit Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world and an official residence of the King. This iconic royal landmark is rich in history and grandeur.

Later that evening, we’ll gather for our farewell dinner, reminiscing about our adventures, celebrating new friendships, and savoring our final evening together in England. After dinner, we’ll make our way to the Heathrow Airport area, where we’ll spend our final night before heading home

**** Please note that Highclere Castle releases its opening dates and tickets only a few months in advance, as it is a private residence. We have been in contact with their office regarding our tour date, and based on the information they have shared, we expect the castle to be open during our visit. While we cannot guarantee that Highclere Castle will be open on our specific date, we were able to visit successfully last year and are optimistic that it will be available again. If Highclere Castle is unable to accommodate our visit, the Highclere Castle admission portion of your tour price will be refunded.

SATURDAY, MAY 1st

We leave the Heathrow hotel early morning to arrive at the Heathrow Airport.

OUR TRIP PACKED WITH ENGLISH CHARM

This trip is all about experiencing England in the best of ways, making new friends, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

BE WATCHING OUR INSTAGRAM ACCOUNTS/STORIES FOR LINKS FOR PAYMENT FOR THIS TRIP.

@DESIGNDAZZLE AND @CLASSYBYJEN

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

Seven breakfasts
Three lunches
Five dinners
Five nights of hotel accommodations (shared room; each guest will have their own bed)
Two nights in a countryside Airbnb**** (shared rooms; each guest will have their own bed)
One night in a charming Cotswold hotel (shared room with a shared queen or king bed)
One group airport transfer will be provided upon arrival and one group airport transfer will be provided upon departure. If your flight times do not work with the group’s scheduled transfer times, you will be responsible for arranging your own transportation. We will be happy to help guide you through the process.
Most transportation throughout England will be by private coach
Admission is included for the sites and tours listed in the itinerary where noted. While we will enter many attractions, some locations will be enjoyed as part of a guided walking tour and viewed from the outside.

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:

Airfare. You will fly from your local airport on Thursday, April 22, arriving at Heathrow Airport on Friday, April 23, preferably before 10:00 a.m.
London Underground (Tube) transportation. We will use the Tube to reach some locations in London. Estimated cost: approximately $25–$30 for the entire trip. Sometimes it is much quicker to take the Tube rather than private coach.
Some meals. Please refer to the “What’s Included” section for meals that are covered.
Spending money for shopping, souvenirs, and personal purchases.
Travel insurance (required).
Gratuities.
Personal items, including snacks, beverages, and other incidental expenses.

Tour Price: $4,695 per person, based on shared accommodations

Monthly Payment Plan

Deposit (due at registration): $1,000
August 5, 2026: $739
September 5, 2026: $739
October 5, 2026: $739
November 5, 2026: $739
January 5, 2027: $739

Total Tour Cost: $4,695

Deposit & Cancellation Policy

A $1,000 deposit is required to reserve your spot. You may cancel within 14 days of booking for a full refund. After the 14-day grace period, the deposit and all subsequent payments are non-refundable.

Payments may be made ahead of schedule, or the remaining balance may be paid in full at any time.

FLIGHT INFORMATION

Depart from the USA. Fly into Heathrow (LHR), arriving by 10:00 AM on Friday, April 23, 2027

If your plane is delayed, we will be in contact to assist you with getting to the hotel.

Return Home: Depart from Heathrow (LHR) on Saturday, May 1, 2027. Our group will arrive at Heathrow (LHR) before or by 8:00 AM by coach, 3 hours before our flight leaves.

The post English Lovelies 2027 appeared first on Design Dazzle.

Grinch Party Ideas

2025-11-29T18:03:20Z

Dr. Seuss’s “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” is a classic tale of the power of holiday cheer to heal even the grumpiest hearts. A Grinch-themed Christmas party provides a great opportunity to stretch the imagination in re-creating the town of Who-ville while sharing the heart-warming tale of the Grinch’s holiday transformation.

Turn your home into a Seuss-inspired party and draw your guests into a version of the story with these whimsical Grinch Party Ideas.

Decorations Are So Much Fun and Great Grinch Party Ideas

Set the stage for your Grinch party with a Grinch wreath on the front door and Grinch window decorations. Incorporate green fur and feather boas, along with red table runners and tablecloths. Use red ornaments and candy canes to add pops of color. For an extra touch, make your own DIY Grinch ornaments with clear ornaments, green paint, and green paper. Ornaments are great Grinch Party Ideas.

Who-ville goes all out for the holidays. Use lots of brightly colored garlands, ribbons, Christmas lights, wreaths, and wrapped presents throughout the house. The gaudier and more outlandish the better. A decorated Christmas tree should be the centerpiece of the party decor. Hang a miniature stocking over the mantle as a goody bag for each guest. You’ll also need to set the table for a Who feast. Lay out a festive red tablecloth and place cards for each guest.

We are sharing costume ideas, activities, and fun party games. Check out all of this at the bottom of the post. We have an amazing lineup of food and the best Grinch ideas. Keep reading for more fun!

Food And The Best Grinch Party Ideas

The Who feast is a major part of the Christmas festivities in “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Whos celebrates with “Who-pudding” and” Who-roast-beast.” At the end of the tale, after the Grinch’s heart is warmed by the Whos’ unbreakable holiday spirit, he himself carves the roast beast.

Whip up some yummy Grinch treats and healthy Grinch snacks to delight your guests. Try making Grinch cupcakes with green candy melts, Grinch cake with a Grinch face, and Grinch-themed pudding cups. For drinks, serve Grinch punch made with ginger ale and green food coloring. Don’t forget to include green grapes and green M&M’s on your dessert table for an extra touch of green.

If you have a Grinch character in your party events, make sure he gamely carves the meat for the guests. Make your own Who-roast-beast with a ham and Who-Hash can be a potato casserole. Among your side dishes, be sure to include at least a fruit-studded Who pudding. Here are some other fun ideas and options that you should have for your party guests for a Grinch theme party:

A Grinch Party for Christmas! From Pizzazzerie

Recreate Who-ville and celebrate Christmas like it’s Who-ville with a Grinch Party featuring all your Whos! Be sure to get recipe ideas as well.

Calling all GRINCH fans! My family loves The Grinch so much that every Christmas we dress up as him, watch him over and over, and set our table for an epic Grinch party… Come take a peek!

Gather up the garland and call on all your Whos – it’s time to host an ultimate Grinchy party! I set my table up as a formal sit-down dinner, but you could easily adjust things so as to create more of an informal buffet-style setting if desired – the concept remains the same… all those delightful Grinch Party Ideas!

Christmas Grinch Fudge From Three Olives Branch

An easy microwave Christmas Grinch Fudge recipe made with white chocolate. Vegetarian. Green fudge with red heart sprinkles as a fast and simple dessert option.

Church Christmas Grinch Party on a Budget From Design Dazzle

My best tips for entertaining a crowd on a tight budget – including how we turned our church basketball court into Whoville! This party was the ideal Christmas celebration. I hope that all these delightful activities make your celebration extra enjoyable!

Crinkle Grinch Cookies From xoxoBella

Crinkle Grinch cookies make an excellent addition to your festive baking list, especially if you’re searching for green Christmas treats! Munch on them while watching holiday films.

My go-to Grinch heart cookies, but you can customize these any way you’d like! Add pink with red hearts (a nod to Valentine’s Day), or customize with any topping or embellishment imaginable.

A vanilla or white cake mix of your choosing paired with oil, eggs, and green food coloring make up an essential recipe. In addition, some icing sugar (sometimes known as powdered or confectioner’s sugar) for dusting purposes as well as large heart sprinkles is required.

Easy Green Goddess Hummus Recipe From Gimme From Scratch

This Green Goddess Hummus Recipe is creamy, herbaceous, and delectable – you’re sure to impress any crowd-pleasing guests! Create this appetizer quickly.

Add some red bell peppers to create a heart and this makes for a great Grinch savory appetizer.

Easy Grinch Fudge From Far From Normal

Grinch Fudge – the Perfect Holiday Treats are the best Grinch Party Ideas! When planning an annual movie night or Christmas gathering, this delicious dessert makes the ideal treat! Don’t hesitate to whip a batch for all of your holiday festivities – whether that means movie night or gatherings! This easy fudge makes an easy addition!

Grinch Fudge boasts an irresistibly creamy white chocolate taste as written, but you can add any number of different flavors if desired. Vanilla extract makes an amazing vanilla-y addition or you could try using ½ a teaspoon of peppermint extract – anything goes! Use whatever extracts suit your palate for the best result!

Festive Holiday Hot Chocolate – Grinch Green From xoxoBella

Green hot cocoa with red candy hearts is just what’s needed to bring the holiday cheer. Enjoy this festive holiday season hot chocolate recipe which will put a smile on everyone’s face this Christmas.

Grinch may not be in a festive spirit, but I know you are! One of the best drinks you can create this Christmas is this fun holiday hot chocolate which is warm, adorable, and delectable!

Make adjustments as desired when selecting ingredients for this hot cocoa dish, from whole, half-fat or skim milks to plant-based alternatives.

Green Grinch Sugar Cookies With Buttercream Frosting From Buttercream Parties

These delicious Grinch sugar cookies feature green buttercream hair and a red buttercream heart – the ideal Christmas cookie treat.

These decorated cookies feature The Grinch’s iconic green hair and his expanding red heart, as well as his growing heart. After doing some research into whether or not he had fur, the consensus seems to favor his having had hair. Since this makes more sense to me, that’s what I went with.

Sugar cookie decorating needn’t be complicated; these Grinch cookies can be completed easily with younger kids participating and make for an exciting baking day!

Grinch Candy Buttons for Christmas From Tikkido.com

Have a movie night featuring The Grinch coming up, and want some festive snacks to serve while watching? Create these Grinch candy buttons! They take their inspiration from traditional, old-fashioned candy buttons but add an interesting Christmas flair!

How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss and its 1966 cartoon adaptation are two timeless Christmas stories I enjoy reading and watching, so when I heard that today’s Festive Christmas Ideas blog hop theme would be Movies, I knew exactly what I would make: something fun and Grinch-related!

Grinch Cheesecake Fluff Dip From My Family Dinner Ideas

Easy, no-Bake Dessert Recipe This no-bake Grinch cheesecake fluff dip requires just minutes to create and serves up delicious festive charm!

Grinch would surely love this no-bake Grinch cheesecake fluff dip! It only takes minutes to prepare and is sure to satisfy holiday sweet tooth cravings – serve with graham crackers, gingerbread cookies or fruit for an enjoyable and festive snack!

Grinch Christmas Ornament Craft From Design Dazzle

If you’re searching for an easy holiday ornament craft, this adorable Grinch Christmas ornament may just be what you’re after. Not only is it fun and simple to make but the kids will definitely have a blast doing this activity together!

Start making Grinch holiday crafts using a few materials!

Grinch Christmas Tree Ideas From Design Dazzle

An ornament-laden Grinch Christmas tree is an effective way to bring the Whoville spirit into your holiday decor. Your guests are sure to love this tree and see their favorite theme come to life! With options from both classic Dr. Seuss stories and animated movies available today, these festive trees will delight all generations.

Grinch Cookies with Fur Frosting From Finding Zest

Celebrate Dr. Seuss’ beloved Grinch character during the holiday season with these delightful Grinch Cookies! Each sugar cookie features green frosting to mimic his fur, three sizes of fondant hearts to represent how his heart expanded over one fateful day. Everyone will adore these fun Grinch-inspired treats!

Grinch Crinkle Cookies From ZEN AND HONEY

Grinch Crinkle Cookies – the ultimate Christmas treat! Red and green holiday treats are sure to spread joy throughout the room!

Grinch Hot Chocolate Bombs From Design Dazzle

These cute balls (typically sphere-shaped) filled with hot chocolate mix can be placed into a mug and then when hot milk is added over it, its outer layer starts melting off while simultaneously releasing marshmallows and cocoa into its interior! A perfect Grinch party treat!

Grinch Kabobs From Recipes From A Pantry

Fans of Dr Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas will adore these delightful Grinch Fruit Kabobs.

These Grinch Kabobs are an easy and delicious Christmas dessert or appetizer made with only three ingredients that the entire family will adore! Plus, children can make these Grinch Party Ideas! Ideal for gluten-free and vegetarian diets.

Grinch Oreo Pops From Pass Me a Spoon

Be the hero this holiday season with our adorable Grinch-themed Oreo Pops! These delightful treats combine everyone’s beloved Christmas villain and classic Oreo cookie in one irresistibly adorable treat.

Biting into these Oreo Pops is pure enjoyment! From their satisfying crunch of chocolate cookie, to the silky sweetness of candy coating, each bite will leave you feeling as if they’ve just unwrapped a Christmas present!

Grinch Peanut Marshmallow Clusters From The First Year

Grinch peanut marshmallow candy clusters are an easy holiday tradition! Create this no bake treat while watching The Grinch!

Candy clusters are an easy and straightforward dessert recipe if you need something quickly for a party. These peanut marshmallow clusters feature the classic Christmas character GRINCH!

Grinch Themed Christmas Breakfast From Design Dazzle

Are you drawn to the idea of creating a Dr Seuss-inspired menu with the Grinch as its focus? I made this theme for my family’s Christmas breakfast one year.

Everything about it says Grinch! From its colors and decorations to food and even decor! Check the blog post for free printables.

Grinch Thumbprint Cookies From Far From Normal

Grinch Thumbprint Cookies are delectable buttery treats filled with sweet vanilla frosting – ideal for family movie night, holiday parties and cookie exchanges!

These delicious cookies are wonderful because they’re not too sweet. Their base is a buttery, tender shortbread-style cookie filled with an indulgent frosting for an irresistibly delightful taste and texture combination. And to represent The Grinch himself, each cookie features a red heart sprinkle to complete its festive look!

Grinch-Inspired Paper Cone Tree From Design Dazzle

One of my favorites is this Grinch-inspired paper cone Christmas tree made with tomato wire cages and paper cones, making for one of the easiest larger props to create. It is budget-friendly too!

Quick & Easy Grinch Treats From Design Dazzle

Do you love watching The Grinch each Christmas? Now there is the perfect treat that is not only quick and easy but completely adorable: Grinch Treats!! These treats can easily become the highlight of your viewing party!!

As an added convenience, use pre-made Rice Krispies Treats for this project. This made the entire process faster and simpler!

But you could always make your own Rice Krispies Treats! Not only will kids love making and devouring these treats, but adults will too!

The Grinch Christmas Party Favors From Finding Zest

Discover The Grinch-themed party favors in three easy steps! Create ornaments using candy or party bags.

The Grinch party favors are the ideal way to spread holiday cheer this season! Choose one of these three Christmas party favor ideas featuring Dr. Seuss’ beloved character as you spread some holiday cheer! With some green candy ornaments or more traditional bags and cups as gifts for guests.

Vegan Matcha Ice Cream From The Picky Eater

Vegan Matcha Ice Cream Is Even Dairy Lovers’ Delight! – Even dairy lovers cannot resist this rich and creamy vegan matcha ice cream made of green tea powder which tastes divine in this dessert!

If this is your first experience with vegan ice cream, be prepared for an incredible treat. Coconut milk provides all of the fat needed to create a creamy texture without dairy ingredients. Add some red hearts to make it a fab Grinch ice cream!

Costumes And The Best Grinch Christmas Party Ideas

Invite your guests to sport “Who”-inspired costumes as they visit your Who-ville Christmas celebration. Classic storybook Who’s sport tall, flower-adorned hair, big floppy bows, ruffled collars, and boldly striped or polka-dotted outfits. Encourage guests to dress as outrageously as possible and use their imagination.

If you want to reenact parts of the story, you’ll also need to enlist a Grinch. Go all out with a head-to-toe green furry costume if you have a dedicated Grinch. Check local party stores for costumes year-round or grab a Grinch costume at a Halloween store around the holiday if you’re planning far enough ahead. For a more subdued representation, have your Grinch dress in an all-green outfit and a bit of sinister green face paint.

Stock up on Grinch party printables and supplies from hobby stores like Hobby Lobby or online retailers like Amazon. You can find everything from Grinch balloons,signs, and Grinch decor.

Activities And Fun Party Games

For a Grinch-themed party, find an entertaining way to share the classic story with your guests and give them a bit of a refresher as to the whole theme of the party. Read the story aloud, show the television version of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” or host a screening of the Jim Carrey film.

For a more interactive rendition, print out simple scripts and enlist guests to re-enact the tale. Other Grinch Party Ideas may include a “Who-Christmas-Sing along.” Children can play pin-the-antlers-on-Max with a poster of the Grinch’s canine sidekick. If you’re artistic, sketch the Grinch’s dog sidekick yourself onto a poster board or create some Grinch signage.

In the spirit of the Grinch’s transformation, encourage your guests to perform good deeds during the party. Provide a “Good Deeds Jar” and have everyone write down acts of kindness, then read them aloud.

A few more Grinch ideas:

How to Make Grinch Nutter Butter Cookies

Grinch Bark

Grinch Movie Themed Gift Ideas

Grinch Party Ideas

With these party ideas, you’ll be well on your way to creating a magical and memorable Grinchmas celebration. From Grinch crafts and decorations to delicious treats and fun activities, your guests will be filled with the joy of the Christmas season. So, get ready to host your own Grinch party and make this holiday season a festive and unforgettable one!

The post Grinch Party Ideas appeared first on Design Dazzle.

Christmas Tree Decorating Tips & Hacks

2025-11-29T18:02:21Z

I am sharing part 2 of the Michaels Dream Tree Challenge. If you haven’t seen my Christmas Dream Tree check out this years theme “Santa’s In The Woods Christmas Tree“.

If Santa and Mrs. Claus had a cabin in the woods, what would their Christmas tree look like?

Well, it would be filled with all their favorite things—cozy sweater knits, birch logs, snow, reindeer, plaid, and even Santa’s favorite red tricycle from his childhood.

I have been decorating trees for a very long time and have learned what works best for me. So, I am sharing some of my Christmas Tree Decorating Tips & Hacks with you!

Christmas Tree Decorating Tips & Hacks

1. Fluffing the Christmas Tree

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Pulling the artificial tree out of the box – you will have a completely flattened out tree. The tree that Michaels sent us has three sections to put together. So it is EASY PEASY. Starting with the base of the tree which has the stand attached.

Fluff out all the individual branches by bending and twisting to get it just right. Find the light plugs before adding the next section (just so you will know where they are when you need to plug-in the lights).

Add the next section of the tree and do the same fluffing.

The last step is to add the top portion of the tree. I love how easy it is to set up an artificial tree with only 3 sections that stack on top of each other. It takes all of about 10 – 15 minutes to fluff the tree.

2. Elevate Your Christmas Tree

I always add a base for my Christmas tree to sit on – even if it is only 8-10 inches high. It really makes a difference! The tree has a bigger presence in my home since we have high ceilings. And larger presents sit directly under the tree instead of only around the tree. I use boxes (shown above) that have cans in them – so they are heavy duty and very sturdy. You could also build a simple base out of wood.

3. How To Keep Your Tree From Tipping Over!

First, I want to say that this artificial tree has a very wide, sturdy stand that’s much easier to use than a real tree. Unless I’m putting the tree in my front window, I only decorate about three-quarters of it—the other quarter sits against a corner or wall, so you can’t see it anyway.

I also love using tree toppers, and sometimes they can be a bit heavy. That means my trees tend to lean or feel heavier on one side, and I definitely don’t want to risk them tipping over.

My secret to making the tree extra secure? A bag of rice. Yep! I buy a 10-pound bag of rice and place it inside a pillowcase. Then I set it on top of the tree stand brackets in the very back. The rice bag lays flat and hides perfectly under the tree skirt—you’d never know it’s there. And of course, I use the rice after Christmas, so nothing goes to waste!

4. Lights, lights, lights!

I’m so HAPPY the Michaels tree comes pre-lit! It is easy to find the light cords on the inner part of the tree and plug-in. Lighting on the tree is very important. I really despise putting lights on the tree. With that said, I always add extra lights.

Only one extra strand of lights was added to this 7 foot tree. Because the tree already has lights wrapped very nicely on it, I just PLACE a set of lights on the tree. It takes about 5 minutes to do it this way. I also don’t wrap the lights around the tree I wrap in sections so it is easy to remove.

TIP: I purchase larger bulbs than what is on the tree. It makes a difference with how the tree shines and just looks great!

Now on to some of my decorating tips:

1. Ribbon is my FAVORITE to decorate with!

I like to decorate with wide ribbon and sometimes it is tricky to find. And if you do find it – it’s very expensive! This ribbon looks like a high-end designer look and the entire roll cost about $12.

I happen to go to Michaels on their Labor Day Weekend sale in September and purchase my ribbon at that time. It’s 60% off. So each roll of ribbon cost about $4 each. For the details on how to make this designer high-end look ribbon.

2. Add the unexpected to your Christmas Tree!

Various textures on a tree are important. On this tree I have: beaded snowballs, birch branches, knit sweater ornaments, “snow” branches, pine cones, twigs, etc. I like to add the unexpected items to my Christmas Trees. This year it is birch logs/branches.

Birch logs go perfectly with my Santa’s Cabin in the Woods Tree. Now one thing I know about birch logs/branches is they are heavy. Adding them to the tree would be very difficult due to the weight. So I created FAUX BIRCH LOGS using wood dowels for the smaller branches and pool noodles for the larger branches. I’ve shared the step-by-step tutorial how to make faux birch logs.

3. Create Ornaments With Items You Have At Home!

I love the red wool sweater knit ornaments on the tree. Do you have a favorite sweater that somehow got snagged and isn’t wearable anymore but would make a great repurposed craft?

What about turning the sweater into ornament balls or even a gift sack? You can use Styrofoam balls or clear plastic ornaments to cover the sweater around. It is simple and you only need scissors and a glue gun. Look here for the tutorial repurpose sweaters into ornaments.

4. Make a Beautiful Tree Topper

I love this tree topper and especially how the reindeer head and plaid antlers turned out. For this type of tree topper I use foam to attach the deer head and all the floral Christmas picks to.

In the past, I’ve used a birdcage, an elf, snowman and lots of unusual tree toppers. Check here for the tutorial on the large deer head tree topper.

5. Beautiful Gifts Under The Tree

When your gifts are wrapped beautifully and match your tree decor it makes for a stunning Christmas look. I enjoy having presents wrapped early and placed under the tree – it makes my home seem to have a little more Christmas cheer!

Check out my past two years of Michaels Dream Tree’s. Out of the three trees which one is your favorite?

My Shabby Chic Vintage Dream Christmas Tree!

My Emerald & Jeweled Forest Christmas Tree.

I really enjoy decorating my home for Christmas. Check out the link to see DIY ideas for Christmas.

Have you checked out my Christmas eBook, Making Christmas Magical? It’s 134 pages of Chrsitmas traditions, recipes, and tips just like the information in this post!

Thank you to Michaels for the gift card and Christmas tree. All opinions and ideas are my own.

The post Christmas Tree Decorating Tips & Hacks appeared first on Design Dazzle.

Home Gym Accent Wall

2025-06-05T20:32:09Z

From Boring to Stunning: Transforming Our Home Gym with Chevron Wood Panels

When we first built our home gym, the room checked all the practical boxes: a small room (yet it works) and clean white walls. But after using it for a while, I realized I couldn’t handle this ugly white room forever. The space was missing something—personality and the wow factor. That’s where Barron Designs’ Chevron Wood Faux Panels come into play, and let me tell you, they completely transformed the look and feel of the room. These panels are not real wood but look like it. This home gym accent wall is now the IT factor of the room.

The plain white wall that once felt uninspiring is now the bold focal point of our gym, thanks to these beautifully crafted panels. The Chevron design instantly added a touch of modern sophistication that our space was desperately lacking. It’s amazing how a single accent wall can elevate an entire room!

Home Gym Accent Wall

Why We Chose Chevron Wood Faux Panels

Chevron is a classic pattern that’s made a major comeback, and it’s easy to see why. Unlike a herringbone design, which alternates direction and can feel busier, Chevron creates a clean and continuous “V” pattern. And look how much it looks like real wood! It adds a lot of texture to the wall. The look is sleek, symmetrical, and full of dimension—perfect for creating that wow factor for a home gym accent wall. The color we used is the Graphite Lead design.

Another reason we chose this product is its versatility. The panels can be installed vertically or horizontally, depending on your vision. We opted for vertical placement to emphasize the room’s height and give it that polished, modern touch. Whether you’re remodeling an entire space or just want to make a bold statement like we did, Barron Designs offers several color options to suit your style.

They have a “natural wood color” that I kept going back and forth on—should I use the “wood color” or the gray? Our room leading into the gym is a man cave with wood walls, so I decided to take a bit of a break from the wood look.

Plan Your Installation

It’s important to plan your installation. Start by measuring the width and height of your wall This will help you determine how many panels to purchase.

Since each panel is 24″ wide, divide the total width of your wall by 24 to find out how many full panels you’ll need. If there’s a remainder, you’ll use partial panels at each end to center the design. Barron Designs actually helped us figure out how many panels were needed.

The image above shows the panels lined up against the wall. We were visualizing placement.

We did receive a few broken panels, but the company sent out replacements – no problem. A couple of broken ones we were able to use anyway, since we needed to trim some pieces. The damaged sections ended up being the parts we cut off.

Easy DIY Installation (Yes, We Did It Ourselves!)

One of the best parts about these Chevron Wood panels is how easy they are to install. My husband took the lead on this project, and with a few essential tools—like a wood-cutting saw with a finish blade, laser level, screw gun, and tape measure—we were good to go.

The panels are designed to fit together like puzzle pieces, so lining them up and achieving a seamless look was a breeze. Before installation, we let the panels acclimate by storing them flat in the gym for a couple of days. This step helps the material adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity for the best results.

Take a few minutes to plan ahead to ensure a balanced, professional-looking installation and avoid any awkward edges or uneven spacing. Start by trimming all the panels that will be used for the bottom row—be meticulous with this cut so the planks line up perfectly.

Install the panels in vertical ‘columns,’ beginning at the bottom left. Work from the bottom to the top in this order:

Start with the trimmed panel (with the pointy ends removed so it’s flat on the bottom).

Place a full panel directly above it (just like fitting a puzzle piece)

Then, install the tail side of the next panel on top of the full one.

Each panel was lined up and straightened using a level. Then, each piece was screwed into the wall. The sides have edges that make it easy to secure the panels with screws. When the next panel is placed side by side, it covers the screws, resulting in a clean, seamless look.

Built to Last

Beyond the beauty and ease of installation, we were impressed by how real these “wood” panels look. These faux wood panels are also made for exteriors – so they won’t crack, peel, or break down, even in harsh conditions. It is important to choose a material that can work well in a home gym (e.g. sweaty workouts/extra moisture).

A Worthwhile Upgrade for a Home Gym Accent Wall

What I love most about this project is how something so simple made such a big impact. The accent wall makes our home gym look amazing and it now has the WOW factor! It looks custom —not just another white box. It motivates us to spend more time in the space, and honestly, it’s kind of fun to work out in a room that looks this good. TRULY!!! I love walking into our home gym. You did see the before and afters? Right?

Whether you’re designing a new space or upgrading an existing one, I highly recommend checking out Barron Designs’ Chevron Wood Faux Panels. Stylish and DIY-friendly, they’re a game-changer for any room in your home.

Wall Colors for Home Gym

The side wall colors for our home gym were painted Sherwin Williams Iron Ore. Because it is such a dark paint color we painted two walls and left the third wall (entry wall) plain white. Then of course, upon entering the focal wall are Chevron Wall panels from Barron Designs.

We added some much-needed wall mirrors to our home gym, and they’ve made a huge difference in both the look and functionality of the space. Not only do they make the room feel larger and brighter, but they also help us monitor our form during workouts.

Other Home Projects

Some other home projects we’ve worked on is our home exterior remodel and fixing up an old cottage.

The post Home Gym Accent Wall appeared first on Design Dazzle.

The Best Things to Do at Schilthorn Switzerland

2025-10-24T20:52:20Z

The Schilthorn is one of the tallest peaks in the Bernese Alps (2,970 meters or 9,744 feet) and offers some of the most stunning views of the Monch, Eiger, Jungfrau, and more. The best things to do at Schilthorn Switzerland in my opinion are the jaw-dropping views and the fun adventure of getting there.

Why Go to the Schilthorn?

The panorama of over 200 mountain peaks and ranges of the Swiss Alps is spectacular. It seems like you are on top of the world with the incredible mountains and views.

It certainly is an adventure just to get to Schilthorn. The views just to get to the top are fabulous and the experience of it all is amazing.

How to Get to Schilthorn

Cable cars are the easiest and most accessible way to travel to Schilthorn from Lauterbrunnen or Stechelberg. Although, you can officially hike there (long hike). I prefer the cable car. You cannot drive to Schilthorn. There is no parking lot. You have to take a few cable cars and possibly a train, depending on what location you are starting from.

From Lauterbrunnen Option #1 – Grutschalp to Murren to Birg to Schilthorn (approx 50 mins total)

From Lauterbrunnen, take the cable car up to Grutschalp. Transition to the train to Murren. We rode the classic old mountain railway train (built sometime in the 1900’s). I sat behind the conductor and took this picture.

Once in Murren, we walked about 10 minutes through town to the cable car station. Take the cable car to Birg and then to Schilthorn. We were staying in Lauterbrunnen and the cable car was a one-minute walk from our hotel. This is the route we took.

From Lauterbrunnen Option #2 – Stechelberg to Gimmelwald to Murren to Birg to Schilthorn (45 mins total)

From Lauterbrunnen, board the city bus #141 at the train station to Stechelberg or drive 3.5 miles to Stechelberg and park in the lot. Take the cable car up to Gimmelwald, At Gimmelwald, transfer to the cable car to Murren. In Murren, take the cable car to Birg and then transfer to the Schilthorn cable car.

From Interlaken

Take the 20-minute train ride to Lauterbrunnen. Follow option #1 directions.

Swiss Travel Pass

Traveling up to Murren with the Swiss Travel Pass is free. From Murren to Schilthorn the discount is 50%.

Schilthorn Boarding Pass

You may purchase a guaranteed boarding pass departure time for your leg from Murren to Schilthorn for an extra 5 CHF. They can be purchased online or at the ticket counter. If traveling mid-day, wait times can be 30-60 minutes or longer. Reserved boarding passes are highly recommended during peak times. NOTE: check for boarding pass info for Schilthorn

The Best Things to Do at Schilthorn

Skyline View Platform

You’ve come for the views and you will not be disappointed. The Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau in all their splendor are waiting for you. You can easily spend quite a while gazing at the mountain peaks from all the different vantages.

007 Walk of Fame

Below the Skyline View Platform is the 007 Walk of Fame. The walk is a tribute to all the actors that starred in the movie.

Piz Gloria View

Another stunning viewing area of the snowcapped Swiss Alps.

Eat at the Piz Gloria Restaurant

It is a 360-degree revolving restaurant that serves a James Bond brunch each day until 2 pm. Always check their website for updated information.

Other menu items are available for order. You can have a lunch or snack while gazing out the 360-degree windows as the restaurant rotates in a complete circle every 45 minutes. We weren’t that hungry but decided to order some fries and hot chocolate. Good choice – yummy and it warmed us up a bit.

Bond World

Downstairs you’ll find the Bond World dedicated to the movie. There you’ll find movie memorabilia, posters, interactive displays, and other curiosities. Don’t forget to visit the James Bond themed bathroom. Even if you don’t have to go at least walk in and wash your hands. It’s a clever design.

Bond Cinema

Here you can watch highlights from the James Bond movie.

How Much Time Does it Take to Explore Schilthorn?

Once you have arrived, plan for 2-3 hours especially if you intend to dine and want to take everything in.

Take the Cable Back to Birg and Explore

It’s a quick cable ride back to Birg where there is adventure waiting.

Birg Thrill Walk

It’s a 200-meter metal walking platform attached to the cliff’s side. There are different thrills along the way including a metal cable tightrope walk, a crawl through a metal mesh tube, and a glass walking platform that stands over the abyss.

That is my foot walking on the glass. I don’t particularly like heights (your walking on the side of a cliff) but this was fun to do!

Back to Murren and then Gimmelwald

Take the time to explore both Murren and Gimmelwald on your journey back into the Lauterbrunnen Valley. These are quintessential high Alpine Swiss Villages. If you didn’t have lunch at Schilthorn there are lots of choices for food in both villages.

Or, stop at one of the Honesty Stores for a bit of cheese or other snacks. They’re fun!

Cable Car Down to Stechelberg

Once you’ve finished your exploring, board the cable car in Gimmelwald and head back down to the valley floor. If possible, try to queue at the front of the line. As you board, head straight to the window on the downside of the cable car.

The views and ride are great! Take lots of pictures and don’t forget video. The image above is a picture I took of a map showing the various villages, cable rides, and the top at Schilthorn. It shows how far we traveled from Stechelberg.

Trummelbach Falls

Either drive 1.8 miles to the Trummelbach Falls parking lot or board bus #141 at Stechelberg to the falls.

The falls are a rare natural wonder and a Unesco World Heritage site. You stand among the 10 subterranean falls as they cascade past you over 1,300 feet to the valley floor at 20,000 liters of water per second.

The falls are generally open from April to November from 9 am to 5 pm and July to August from 8:30 am to 6 pm. You’ll need about 1.5 hours to view all the falls. See our post on “The How to for the Trummelbach Falls in Lauterbrunnen Switzerland”.

Back to Lauterbrunnen or Your Homebase

Board city bus #141 at the falls and return to the train station in Lauterbrunnen. From the train station travel back to your point of origin or if staying in Lauterbrunnen, you’re home!

Final Thoughts for The Best Things to Do at Schilthorn

This is a fun-filled and full day of amazing activities. Especially if you explore Birg, Murren, Gimmelwald, and Trummlebach Falls. You won’t be disappointed. But don’t rush. Ensure you take the time to see everything you want at each stop and if time permits, do more. This will be one of your most memorable days in Switzerland. It is a special with jaw-dropping scenery.

Pro Tips for Schilthorn Switzerland

Early Arrival at Schilthorn

Get to Schilthorn by 9 am. You will avoid crowds and have time to do the full itinerary.

Purchase Schilthorn Boarding Pass

The boarding pass guarantees a seat and time for your ride up to Schilthorn. If you intend to arrive at 9 am, you could probably bypass the reservation. But if you are traveling later in the day, definitely purchase the boarding pass for 5 CHF.

Wear Layers

It will be much colder at Schilthorn than on the valley floor. Check online for weather temperatures at Schilthorn. We wore winter jackets, warm sweaters, and beanies in early October. On our latest trip in September, my husband wore a t-shirt in Gimmelwald and Murren and a jacket in the higher elevations.

Footwear

Wear comfortable walking sneakers or shoes that have traction. There is a lot of walking, stairs, escalators, and walking in the snow. Things can be slick.

Weather

We were there on the off-season so we purchased tickets when we arrived in the Lauterbrunnen area. We checked the weather for the best day to go. Luckily for us, it was a fabulous day. Hopefully, there will be very little clouds for a more joyous experience. Grey clouds did come in for a few minutes but went away quickly.

MORE TIPS ON THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN SWITZERLAND:

IF YOU ARE PLANNING A TRIP TO SWITZERLAND, VISIT OUR TOP THINGS TO DO IN LAUTERBRUNNEN SWITZERLAND FOR MORE IDEAS.

OUR POST ON WHICH TOUR COMPANY WE USED FOR A GUIDED BIKE TOUR IN INTERLAKEN IS A GOOD ONE!

ONE OF OUR FAVORITE BIKE RIDES EVER. RIDING IN THE CABLE CAR UP TO THE MOUNTAINS WITH JAW-DROPPING VIEWS.

The post The Best Things to Do at Schilthorn Switzerland appeared first on Design Dazzle.

Ultimate Ideas For an Adult Harry Potter Party

2025-06-05T20:38:40Z

If you’re a die-hard Harry Potter fan, there’s nothing more magical than hosting an adult Harry Potter-themed party. Imagine transforming your space into the Great Hall, complete with floating candles and house colors that bring Hogwarts to life. I’m sharing Adult Harry Potter Party Ideas – the ultimate party!

I was invited to the most magical Harry Potter event by my friend Jordan Page. This was a networking event for bloggers/influencers and the decor is over-the-top amazing. I’m sharing lots of pictures! If you want ideas, stick around because there are tons of awesome Harry Potter party ideas in this post.

How about these beautiful brass candlesticks? These can be purchased on Amazon for a very reasonable price.

Transforming Your Space into the Great Hall

This event was held at the most perfect location at Wadley Farms in Utah. This place is a castle with a great hall. It’s the perfect venue! Now if you don’t have a great hall, your living room can do. Hanging the school banners from Hogwarts is a great way to add pizzazz to a large room. Small Hogwarts banners are also available for a party held in your home. A fishing line is the key to hanging decor from your ceiling.

Sending Out Magical Hogwarts Letters

When sending out invitations think outside the box! Hogwarts acceptance letters would be the ultimate in a party invitation or how about sending a wand in the mail with an invitation attached? If this is an adult party, think sophistication! The invitation is no small detail – this sets the mood for the entire party. I would love to receive a Hogwarts letter in the mail.

Creative Wizarding World Ideas

Diagon Alley is a bustling, magical shopping area that was included in this event and it did not disappoint. Vignettes of several of the unique shops in Diagon Alley which cater to witches and wizards were decorated with many different things in the theme of the “shop”. Faux brick and rock were the best backgrounds for many of these “shops”.

. For this party, they had a wand shop, sweet shop, wizarding bank, owl post, and wizarding wares. They didn’t use any trademarked names for this event.

If you are into Harry Potter, you most likely know about, Olivanders, the famous wand shop where Harry gets his first wand. It’s known as “Makers of Fine Wands since 382 B.C”. The wand shop held many boxes of wands and a wall display of wizard wands. It was a cool set-up using many magic wands and lots of empty boxes.

Enchanting Harry Potter-Themed Food and Drinks

The sweets shop which is commonly known as Honeydukes, held many candy jars full of lollipops. Now technically, Honeydukes is located in Hogsmeade but who cares! It was right next to the wand shop which is located in Diagon Alley ; ) If you are into the books or Harry Potter movies, this is a big difference but with this event, no one will care. The sweet shop becomes center stage with guests! Having small bags to help yourself to some candy or chocolate frogs is ideal!

Display various desserts such as cauldron cakes, gold chocolate coins, and all sorts of ideas for a Honeydukes-type dessert table of sweets. I held a Harry Potter themed bridal shower where I had a fabulous display of all types of candy for our Honeydukes shop filled with sweets such as sugar quills, chocolate frogs, and butterfly wings.

An herbology table for this party was adorned with potted magical plants like Mandrakes, Flutterby Bushes, and Devil’s Snare, crafted from realistic faux greenery and earthy pots. The table featured an arch with lots of greenery, touches of brass crates for risers, and sweets, pots, and the labeled mandrake pots were so cute.

This table evoked Professor Sprout’s greenhouse. To enhance the magical atmosphere, battery-operated candles were placed around the plants, mandrakes, and desserts such as mandrake cupcakes, and herbology cookies.

Of course, you can’t have a Harry Potter party without butter beer! I share a free butter beer printable and the recipe for butter beer. You could also create a drink of pumpkin juice.

What about creating a potions class for some mocktails or cocktails? Such fun ideas for an adult party. Diy potion bottles to create mixed drinks would be a fun activity for many. So many different recipes to try.

Dressing the Part: Costumes and House Colors

Encourage guests to dress in their favorite house colors or as their favorite characters. Some of the Harry Potter party guests dressed up as magical creatures, a fortune teller, He Who Must Not Be Named, Snape, Hagrid, Dolores Umbridge, Dobby, a dragon, and many Hogwarts students.

My friend even dressed up as part cat to represent Hermione in the disastrous polyjuice potion that got a cat hair in it so the spell caused Hermione to partially turn into a cat. Such a fabulous idea.

I dressed up as a student in the Gryffindor colors which is my house ; )

My friend, Jordan’s dragon costume in front of the Wizarding bank. Perfect costume for a fun costume for a Harry Potter party.

Spellbinding Party Activities and Games

Interactive games like trivia, potion-making stations, Quidditch, a Horcrux scavenger hunt, or a charms class are great for a Harry Potter adult party.

At our event, there was music and dancing, a quidditch area set up, and a large-sized chess game to play. Of course, the sorting hat is a must at any Harry Potter theme party. It’s a fun activity to find out what house you belong to.

The perfect photo op poster – “Have You Seen This Wizard?”

What do you think of all these fabulous pictures at this event? I hope you get to plan an amazing adult Harry Potter party. From sending out Hogwarts letters as invitations to serving chocolate frogs as a sweet treat, these ultimate ideas will help you create an unforgettable celebration. Whether you’re planning a casual gathering or an elaborate event, these great ideas will be a great addition to any Potterhead party planning.

PROFESSIONAL PHOTOS taken by @britaneejeanphotography and @kelaniFilms

Some of the party images were taken by me Toni, Design Dazzle

For more Harry Potter ideas

Quidditch Bridal Shower Centerpiece

Harry Potter Christmas Tree

Harry Potter Wizard Activities

DIY Harry Potter Soap

The post Ultimate Ideas For an Adult Harry Potter Party appeared first on Design Dazzle.

Host a Christmas Cookie Decorating Party for Kids

2025-06-05T20:40:12Z

Hi! I’m Jennifer from The Party Teacher and I’m excited to be back as a guest blogger at Design Dazzle! I’m sharing all my best tips for hosting a Christmas Cookie Decorating Party for kids. We have hosted this party each holiday for years now and have definitely uncovered the secrets to pulling off this party!

I will admit: it gets easier as your kids get older and can contribute more to the party prep! But, I’d encourage you to try a Christmas Cookie Decorating party even with little ones.

Take inventory of supplies like piping bags, parchment paper, etc. — everything you’ll need for baking and decorating. Shop for what you need.

Do your grocery shopping early or let a grocery delivery service handle that for you.

Make your cookies and frosting in advance. We use this recipe for gingerbread, this recipe for sugar cookies, and this recipe for chocolate cookies. These cookies do not spread and they are yummy!

For royal icing, I prefer using a recipe featuring meringue powder.

Don’t try to do all the baking and icing making on the day of your party or you’ll wear yourself out!

Set your table with a tablecloth for protection, then add a Christmas wrapping paper runner. It makes for easy clean up!

You’ll want plates for eating, decorating and resting piping bags. I like using a Christmasy hand towel instead of a paper napkin. This is a messy party!

Add a centerpiece of flowers or a bowl of Christmas ornaments — or both!

Provide aprons for guests so they don’t have to worry about messing up their outfits.

Sounds strange, but I always pick up party decoration inspiration from a roll of wrapping paper. I’ve found out the easiest way to make this party festive and to make for fast cleanup is to choose a roll of wide, thick wrapping paper. My first choice is always the brand Brothers & Sisters because it’s high-quality and they have such cute patterns. They also have a handy grid on the back that makes it easy to cut the paper straight.

I use the wrapping paper as a table runner down the middle of my table and also on my sideboard. This year’s wrapping paper has red and green holly berries that made it easy to choose red and green accents for the rest of the party.

I like to create a centerpiece that is low and doesn’t take up a lot of room.

These are all grocery store flowers, and definitely an arrangement that you could re-create at home. Look at this post and this one for tips on creating party centerpieces. Our flowers included red, green and white roses, pompons, Hypericum, Astors, carnations and mums and cost just $46.

In the ceramic Santa on our sideboard, I added a smaller, similar floral arrangement in his Santa sack.

I serve a light lunch for this party — something that’s easy for us to eat while we decorate our cookies. To make things extra easy, I just ordered Grilled Chicken and Strawberry Salads from a local restaurant then decanted them into my trifle bowl. I served the salad with a hardy bread.

I had a cake made at our Publix bakery. They call it the Candy Bark Dream Cake.

For drinks we had water, Shirley Temples soda and hot cocoa bombs. All I had to do was warm milk as guests were ready for a cup of cocoa.

This Year’s Party Improvements

Each year, we make improvements to this party:

Thick cardboard trays, that were perfect for decorating on.

We also invested in squeeze bottles, which made our flood icing a lot easier to deal with.

The thicker icing we kept in icing bags. Make sure you invest in a good quality icing bag, so you don’t have any explosions while you’re decorating.

I also always keep my sprinkles in mini mason jars (4 oz size), because they’re easier to store that way since they stack.

Provide demitasse spoons, to get the sprinkles out of the jars. We share the sprinkle jars and the icing around the table.

As each person finishes a tray of cookies, we offload the trays to the kitchen and set down a new disposable tray for their next batch of cookies.

It’s also nice to provide your guests a handy way to take their cookies home. The dollar store is a good source of cookie tins or you can use gable boxes tied closed with red baker’s twine. Separate the layers of cookies with parchment paper.

Party images by Barefeet Imagery

For a non-Christmas take on a cookie decorating party, join the Party Plan Club. I’ve got a really cute pink-styled cookie decorating party for you there.

If you want a guide by your side as you plan, pick up my Christmas Cookie Decorating Party Plan. At just $9.99, it’s got even more detail, checklists, and day-by-day planning advice than I can squeeze into a blog post.

Even More Christmas Party Fun!

[You can see my past Christmas ideas featured here on Design Dazzle: Christmas Movie Night for Kids, Christmas Tree Party Backdrop, Grinch Nutter Butter Cookies, Christmas Tree Tissue Tassel Garland, and Four Ways To Decorate Christmas Chairs.

Free Party Planning Gift for You!

Over at my blog, The Party Teacher, I’d love to have you grab my Free Party Planning Cheat Sheets. These are the 14 worksheets I use to plan all my parties and I’m sure they will help you plan your next event!

Thanks for having me, Toni!

And don’t forget to grab your Free Party Planning Cheat Sheets; over at The Party Teacher!

The post Host a Christmas Cookie Decorating Party for Kids appeared first on Design Dazzle.

17 Impressive Fall Cake Recipes

2024-12-17T03:45:55Z

From the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg to the rich sweetness of pumpkin and apple, these 17 Impressive Fall Cake Recipes promise to elevate your baking game and bring a touch of seasonal magic to your kitchen. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a symphony of autumnal flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Cinnamon Streusel Pumpkin Cake by The Cookin Chicks

Cinnamon, pumpkin, and maple syrup all combined into one amazing Cinnamon Streusel Pumpkin Cake! What more could you want for a Fall treat, right??

Amish Apple Cake by Two Pink Peonies

This Amish Apple Cake is a must make fall cake recipe! It is loaded with delicious cinnamon spice and juicy apple pieces.

Old Fashioned Gingerbread Bundt Cake by Life Around The Table

This Old Fashioned Gingerbread Bundt Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect festive dessert for the holiday season. Fill your home with the old-fashioned fragrance of Christmas- ginger, cinnamon and cloves. The beautiful addition of frosted cranberries on top makes this cake an elegant addition to your holiday table.

Honey Pear Cake by Christina Scucina

This impressive honey pear cake is as delicious as it looks! Easy to make and will be requested often!

Pumpkin Pound Cake by A Farm Girls Kitchen

Pumpkin Bread is moist, great pumpkin flavor, makes two loaves and ready in 60-minutes. Made in one bowl with simple ingredients.

Easy Pumpkin Bundt Cake by Gift of Hospitality

Cream cheese frosting is the perfect complement to this Pumpkin Bundt Cake. It’s made with a whole can of pumpkin, plus plenty of warm fall spices.

Chai Cake by The Simple, Sweet Life

Wrap your senses in sugar, spice and everything nice with this delicious chai layer cake. Featuring three melt-in-your-mouth layers of cardamom, cinnamon, allspice and black pepper spiced cake wrapped in a chai tea-infused boiled milk frosting hug, this cake hits the cozy vibes just right.

Amish Chai Spice Cake by Amish Heritage

This Amish chai spice cake has a moist, tender crumb and incredible flavor! Every bite explodes with those warm autumn spices that we all love so well.

Cinnamon Vanilla Cake by Baking Beauty

Moist cinnamon vanilla cake topped with fluffy cinnamon buttercream. Tastes just like cinnamon toast crunch!

Pumpkin Bundt Cake by Tasty Treats And Eats

An Easy Pumpkin Bundt Cake Recipe anyone can make! This Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake is moist and filled with warm fall spices!

Apple Rum Spice Cake by Desserts With Stephanie

This Apple Rum Spice cake is loaded with an abundance of apples nestled in a soft, buttery cake. It is a cake that is as simple in its look as it is in the process to create it – but there is nothing simple about the flavor!

Apple Streusel Cake by A Latin Flair

This Apple Streusel Cake with Dulce de Leche combines a tender, buttery cake, spiced crumbly Streusel adorned with tart apple slices, and a melt-in-your-mouth dulce de leche drizzle. Comforting and delicious!

Caramel Apple Angel Food Cake by Live To Sweet

This Caramel Apple Angel Food Cake is a light, fluffy apple angel food cake drizzled with a caramel glaze and homemade salted caramel sauce, then topped with cinnamon apple chips!

Skillet Apple Fritter Cake by Successful Homemakers

This apple fritter cake is perfect for potlucks or a family dessert! Equal parts cake, pie, and doughnut all rolled into one easy to prepare dessert.

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Cake by Mommy Evolution

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Cake – an incredibly moist and flavorful pumpkin cake is perfectly complemented by the rich and decadent caramel sauce, making for a dessert that is sure to impress. Have you ever thought about making slow cooker cake? Think you can handle it?

Carmel Pumpkin Spice Cake by Mommy Evolution

Caramel Pumpkin Spice Cake – an ultimate fall dessert – is filled with caramel sauce, topped with a fluffy cream cheese frosting and drizzled with even more caramel sauce. Moist and fluffy pumpkin cake layers are paired with rich and buttery caramel drizzle, creating a decadent dessert that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Easy Apple Cake by Mommy Evolution

This delicious Easy Apple Cake Recipe highlights the crisp fruit but also the cinnamon sugar-flavored pastry. It’s luscious but doesn’t overdo the sweetness with just the right mix of flavors. The apples are gooey, baked in a cinnamon sugar coating, making them a sweet and light complement to the perfectly baked cake recipe.

Pumpkin Coffee Cake by The Slow Roasted Italian

Savor the cozy autumn flavors with this moist pumpkin coffee cake, topped with a crumbly cinnamon streusel. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, it’s a delightful way to embrace the season!

Each of these recipes offer a unique way to celebrate the rich and comforting tastes of fall, from spiced pumpkin to tart apple. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or simply treating yourself to a seasonal delight, these cakes are sure to bring warmth and cheer to your home. Here’s to delicious moments and sweet memories that make this time of year truly special!

The post 17 Impressive Fall Cake Recipes appeared first on Design Dazzle.

Chocolate Dipped Apples + Caramel

2024-09-03T20:00:04Z

There’s something irresistibly satisfying about biting into a crisp apple that’s been dipped in something sweet and indulgent. Whether you’re looking for a fun and festive treat or just a new way to enjoy your favorite fruit, we’ve got you covered.

From classic caramel and chocolate coatings to creative flavor twists, our roundup of 12 chocolate and caramel dipped apple recipes will inspire you to get a little creative in the kitchen. So grab your apples and get ready to dip, drizzle, and delight in these delectable treats!

Caramel and White Chocolate Dipped Apples by Rose Bakes

This gourmet dipped apple recipe brings sweet caramel and creamy white chocolate together for a fantastic fall treat. You can add sprinkles, nuts, crushed candy, or whatever you like to this easy recipe to make it even more appealing.

Disney Caramel Apples by I Heart Nap Time

Make these caramel apples to bring the fun and unforgettable flavor of Disney to your fall parties. This recipe looks amazing, but it tastes even better! You won’t believe how easy it is to make this Disney dupe at home with simple ingredients.

Carved Caramel Apples by Bits And Giggles

This might be the most fun and hands on idea for caramel apples yet. This recipe uses cookie cutters to make an impression and you carve around it for the most fantastic apples. Dip them into a container of caramel and enjoy this easy yet extra sweet fall snack.

Maple Caramel Apples by Salt In My Coffee

This twist on caramel apples uses maple syrup and honey to make the sweetest coating. Roll these apples in crushed nuts for a sweet and crunchy snack that is made of wholesome ingredients for a fresh fall flavor.

Poison Apples by An Edible Mosaic

Do you dare to make these deep, dark apples for Halloween? They look creepy, like a poisoned apple in a fairytale, but they are so delicious that you won’t be able to resist munching on one. You might deem the risk worth the reward after you see these!

Cinnamon Maple Nut Caramel Apples by Raias Recipes

Cinnamon maple nut caramel apples make such a wonderful treat for an autumn afternoon. They have a cozy flavor that is downright craveable, plus they are different from the average candy and caramel apples.

Turtle Apples by The Slow Roasted Italian

This turtle apple recipe is so good. It is made with caramel, chocolate and pecans coating sliced apples for an easier to eat sweet that is so delicious, you might want to grab two. Make a tray of these for a party, or to share as a seasonal afterschool snack for the kids.

Easy Candy Apples by XOXO Bella

This blood red candy apple recipe looks like it came from a trendy specialty shop, but the recipe is so easy you can make them at home for Halloween. This classic sweet makes the perfect snack for a party, or package them and share with friends.

M&M Caramel Apples by I Heart Eating

This caramel apple recipe is coated with m&m candies for the best snack! Make them to share but set a few aside for your own enjoyment. This recipe is so easy you can have the kids help!

Pumpkin Face Candy Apples by The Instant Pot Table

Make these pumpkin face candy apples for your Halloween party. They are so cute that no one can resist them, and they are easy to prepare and decorate. The combination of candy coating and crisp apples is perfect for fall.

Candied Mummy Apples by Mamas on a Budget

Wrap up your candy apples to look like mummies for a sweet treat for Halloween that everyone will love. While these look amazing they are actually so easy to make. Kids and grown ups will be clamoring for a mummy of their own!

You can make this sugar free caramel apple recipe for fall, and no one will expect it is the healthiest version of a favorite fall snack. Dip the apples into a tasty peanut topping for a crispy, sweet treat that is perfect for parties or dessert at home.

Sugar Free Caramel Apples by Whole New Mom

There you have it—12 delectable chocolate and caramel dipped apple recipes that are sure to elevate your snacking game and impress your family and friends. Whether you’re drawn to the rich allure of caramel, the creamy sweetness of chocolate, or the tangy surprise of unique toppings, these recipes offer something for every taste.

The next time you find yourself with a basket of crisp apples, don’t hesitate to give these Air Fryer Apple Chips, this Apple Pear Salad, or these other Delightful Apple Inspired Treats a try. Happy dipping, and here’s to enjoying the perfect blend of fresh fruit and sweet treats!

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