The Little Things

Girly Carnival Birthday

Have we mentioned that we love a challenge?  Recently, a customer inquired about a custom Carnival Invitation that she saw on our blog, but she wanted to mix it up a little bit for a girl's first birthday... and we jumped at the chance!  She sent us this inspiration board that she found on Pinterest {originally pinned from the jesykaditri.com blog, which is fantastic, by the way}. Immediately, we were drawn to the fun but slightly muted color tones, and we used this as the color palette for our custom invitation design.

We also added a little bunting, as there are so many cute ways that you can incorporate that into party decor (hanging on the table, icing on the cake, etc.).

What you see here are the invitations, party favor gift tags and custom 8 x 10 signs for the different carnival booths.

Thanks Julissa for letting us do this custom design, it was definitely a fun one!  {And Happy Birthday Elle!}

Gray + Gold Color Trend Watch

We just got back from shopping Dallas Market for new products, and we're pretty excited about some of "pretties" we saw!  It's always amazing to see what new ideas are out there, especially when it comes to popular color palettes.  This Market, it seemed like Gray + Gold was in full force! 

It does make sense, since Driftwood and Solar Power were two of the Pantone Spring 2012 fashion forecast, but seeing the color combo on actual invitations was a real treat.  Most of the time, the invitation/stationery industry is a couple of seasons behind when it comes to what's "in", but this year they're right on target!  The gray + yellow combination makes for a chic, sophisticated color palette... and since we've been back from Market this week, we've had several brides tell us that's what they're doing for their wedding colors {you guys and gals are just so hip}!  If you haven't seen the trend yet, be on the lookout.  In an effort to keep all of our fansin the loop, we thought we'd give you a sneak peek of what we've found.  Whether it's for a baby shower, wedding, or birthday, you can't go wrong this spring with the gray + gold!

(New designs shown from Inviting Co.)

 

Yellow and grey by kristen-344 featuring forever 21 jewelry

Now Available in 3D... Your Birthday Invitations!

Check out these fun designs JUST IN from Lemon Tree Paper.  Your eyes don't deceive you- these invitations are 3D!  Each box comes complete with 3D glasses for your guests to be able to read the party details.  How does it work?  Well, that part's a secret... but these invitations are so unique, they're sure to create a buzz about any party you host!  Stop by and see for yourself how cool these are, you'll want to keep them in mind for your next birthday shin-dig!

Is 3D not really your style but you'd like to see something different?  Maybe these invitations will scratch your itch for something cool and hip- they're scratch off!  Fun huh?  Just think of the possibilites- hide the baby's name (so it's a surprise) on a birth announcement, mask the location of the party (for a big reveal)... so many possibilities!

And you thought invitations were just "paper"...

 

 

Keep that Coffee Cozy!

It might still be 104 degrees outside, but we're doing a little wishful thinking around here (If you wear a sweater, will the cold front come?)!  So we thought we would showcase these chrocheted little beauties today... Each cutesy coffee cozy is adorned with flowers that have rhinestone centers, and they definitely take coffee from being HOT to HAUTE!  It's function for the fashionista.

We also think this is a great gift idea!  Take your favorite co-worker a hot cup of coffee with the cozy on it- what a pleasant surprise!  Or take your kid's teacher a Starbucks gift card inside an empty cup with the cozy on it- that would just be oh-so-thoughtful!  You can even personalize it with her name on the cup, or give out several as party favors to a morning coffee/brunch get-together (can't you just see a tray full of these little guys all lined up and waiting to be taken home by your guests?!).

Are you someone who has a "stash" of gifts to give on a moment's notice(because you just never know)?... Then this idea is perfect for you!  Buy a few cozies to keep on hand, and when you need a super quick gift, just swing by your favorite coffee shop (even on the WAY to the party,perhaps?) get a gift card, an empty cup and lid, and you're good to go! With a cute gift in your hand, nonetheless.

 Check out all four colors available online

Cheers! 

Locker Lookz

 

Does that locker have a CHANDELIER?  And a SHAG RUG?!  Why yes, it does!

Your kids JUST FINISHED school (we know, we know), but we can't help getting ahead of ourselves just a little bit for this fall... we're simply too excited about these new products!  Our first shipment of LockerLookz will be here in just TWO WEEKS, and we already know that we have a lot of interest, so we want you guys to get the lowdown early.  That's why we're going to offer our customers the option to PRE-ORDER their locker accessories on our website before they actually arrive in the store!

Making your locker your own is as easy as 1-2-3 with these coordinating products- you simply mix and match to make your own colorful locker look!

  Select a locker wallpaper and coordinating (or contrasting) locker rug

Choose your locker lamp (these are really cool- they're magnetic to hang in the locker as well as motion-sensored!)

Accessorize!  Choose dry erase boards, magnetic mirrors, jeweled flowers and organizational "fashion bins" to complete your look.

 

Can't wait to get started?  Check out all of the fun colors and pattern options on our website!

The simple truth is that we WILL sell out of these products.  They're just too adorable and quantities are limited... so we're giving you the chance to beat the rush (Once they're gone, we can't guarantee that the manufacturer will have more of any specific items)! Don't forget, if you're in the Lubbock area, you can always choose "PICK UP IN STORE" for your shipping method and not be charged any shipping on the order.

Have fun creating your own Locker Lookz!

PS- if you're still not getting the concept and want to see how it works, you can "build your own locker" on the Lockerlookz website (even though not all of the new patterns are shown yet- don't worry, that updated feature will be coming to our website in just a few weeks - be patient... this is a SNEAK PEEK, remember?)

Love your Momma

This weekend brings a holiday that all of us should really celebrate - Mother's Day!  Without these women that brought us into the world(and no doubt threatened to take us out of it in our teenage years), where would we be?  It's time to show Mom a little love, and we've got a few great gift ideas for you (don't worry, it's not too late)!

Gift idea for Mom #1:  Luxurious Bubble Bath and Body Products from Lollia  

Let mom pamper herself with a luxurious bubble bath, candle, hand creme or perfume.  Available in 4 fragrances, these are a great way to show mom you care with a something she's sure to enjoy... and feel beautiful using!

Gift idea for Mom #2:  For the Queen of the Kitchen

If your mom is the queen of whipping up great dishes in the kitchen, she deserves the bragging rights.  What about this fun and colorful "super mom" apron?  Being a mom is a lot like being a super hero!

Let your mom show off how much she rocks with one of these fun and whimsical aprons!  It has clever sayings on it like "Getting it all done and looking great at it!"  "Fighting family chaos in a snap!"  "There isn't a pair of shorts that doesn't look good on her" and "Whiners can win- Scram!".  The perfect gift for Mother's Day at only $22.99!

Does Mom have too many aprons?  How about one of our inspiring recipe books or dishtowels?

Gift idea for Mom #3:  Vera Bradley goodness

With so many styles and patterns to choose from, your mom is s ure to like a Vera Bradley tote bag,  beach towel, luggage tag, duffel, or even umbrella.  We also have fun paper products she can use at work- note cubes, highlighters, pens, spiral notebooks and the like.  The best part?  If it's not exactly what she wants, Mom can exchange it for something she does (who doesn't love a low committment gift)? 

Gift idea for Mom #4:  A Book with sentiments you don't have time to think of

The thoughts in the Mom Because of You (by Dan Zadra & Kobi Yamada) are inspiring reminders of all the ways our mothers make a lasting difference in the world. Who gave you life? Who made your house a home? Who held your hand and touched your heart? Beautiful and cheerful, the Mom Because of You book is the perfect way to say, Thank you, Mom, for a lifetime or warmth, laughter, wisdom and strength. 

For those who prefer a little more sentiment (and have a little more time) we suggest the book For My Mother.  Many mothers make baby books for their children, filling these tokens of love with photographs, reminiscences, and memorabilia. But how often do children return the favor? Now, adult children can look back and share their own memories of growing up with that most important person-Mom. Like a baby book in reverse, this keepsake album inspires adults to express all the reasons their mother is appreciated, and all the ways she has positively influenced their lives. Ready to be personalized with favorite stories, pictures, mementos, and more, the book includes 50 ideas to prompt the giver's thoughts, organized into three sections: Memories and Reflections, Favorite Things, and Gratitude and Lessons Learned. The artfully designed album also features special pages for personal messages and photographs and a ribbon page marker. When given by one or more children as a gift to their mother, this book is the ultimate expression of love and gratitude.

Gift idea for Mom #5: For moms who would appreciate an actual SCENT-iment

Candles.  Everyone loves to receive them, especially Mom.  In-store, choose from over a dozen scents of Voluspa or Aspen Bay Candles - both a fantastic  choice for home or office and some of the best on the market.  If you get Mom a candle, it's a given that her gratitude will "linger" in the air for long, long time. 

 

No matter what you give Mom, make sure you tell her you love her this weekend.  Moms like that kind of thing, and to some that's the best gift of all! Happy Mother's Day to all of our Moms out there!

Happy Earth Day

Today is Earth Day 2011, and to celebrate, we're giving away a set of 2 decorative, reusable drug store tote bags on our facebook page.

Check it out here to post a comment and enter to win!

Want to know how you can get involved and help the planet?  There are so many ways, and no, they don't all have to be exreme.  We think that the planet appreciates even small acts of kindness, so here are a few simple ideas to get you started.  (Don't worry, these steps won't classify you as a "tree-huggin' hippie"-if you don't want to be.)

1.  Buy a few recycling bins.  We know buying them doesn't actually help the planet, but once you have them, you're more likely to use them (and that does).  There are so many kinds available now, you're sure to be able to find one that will be a good fit your space and lifestyle- whether it's a large set for the garage or a small set for the pantry.  Stackable recycling bins are a great option if you're trying to conserve space.  These slim, stackable bins are widely available at Lowe's.  They also have a little dial so you can indicate whether the bin is for paper, plastic, aluminum or glass.

2.  Ditch bottled water (or just reduce the amount of bottles your family consumes):  Filtered water is a much more planet-friendly option.  Brita makes a great pitcher filter, as well as individual water bottles with filters too.  Encourage family members to keep a water bottle with them and refill as necessary throughout the day instead of purchasing from a drink vending machine or convenience store.  To make it more fun for the kiddos, try getting personalized water bottles for each child so they feel a little ownership in their part to help the planet!

3.  Re-use household papergoods to make a personal and unique gift wrap:  
Children's art, shopping bags, magazine and phone book pages and more! (Martha Stewart has a few great ideas here)

4.  Turn off the water when you brush your teeth.  You've probably heard this before, but it bears repeating because it's such a simple way to save water.  According to 50waystohelp.com, you'll conserve up to 5 gallons of water a day, just by shutting it off while you brush.  "Daily savings in the U.S. alone could add up to 1.5 billion gallons--more water than folks use in the Big Apple."

5.  Shop with a canvas or reusable bag.  Whether it's a trip to the grocery store, shopping for clothes or at the drug store, try bringing in your own bag.  Not only does it reduce the amount of plastic and paper bag waste, but many stores offer a discount for providing your own means of carting your goodies home.  For larger items like groceries, just keep reusable totes (like the ones we're giving away today) in your car and carry them in with you.  Too bulky?   Why not try something like this from BAGGU?  Nylon reusable bags that fold up (and even have a tidy bag to store them in).

See?  Those are easy things... We encourage you to make the committment to try at least one of them (if you're not already), then take a nice long walk and admire the natural beauty outdoors... and give yourself a little pat on the back for making a step in the right direction.

Happy Earth Day!

Get... Sprung!

Aside from the outrageous wind here in West Texas, we're all starting to get a little excited about the warmer weather... and the abundance of colorful products flooding in our doors the past few weeks has also helped us get in the mood!

Here are our top 10 favorite items to get into the "Spring" of things (in no particular order):

1.  Adorable song bird bud vases- perfect on a kitchen window sill or to cheer up a bathroom sink.  

2.  Bright and colorful dishtowels for the kitchen like these fun fruit 
and vegetable designs... we think the patterned trim and bold artwork really gives them a vintage feel!

3.  It's almost time for a party on the patio, so we're loving this gorgeous wrought iron and glass bowl drink stand! 

 

Add a touch of elegance to your next outdoor soiree with one of these beauties!

4.  Whether it's an actual party on the patio or if you're just a fan of eating outdoors to enjoy a lovely spring day, you might enjoy the Sunny Days & Easy Living cookbook.  It's got beautiful recipes for eating outdoors, and delicious and refreshing drink recipes too! 

 

5.  Speaking of a refreshing drink, what could be more festive than mixing up a batch of margaritas and serving them in these handpainted glasses?  They say "Why can't life give us limes... so we can make MARGARITAS!"

 

 6.  If you're having a shindig with "mixed" company (alcohol drinkers and non), you could whip out these snazzy tumblers (designed by Jonathan Adler) bearing the words "Spiked" on one side and "Virgin" on the other.  No matter what they contain, these cups are sure to be a conversation starter! 

7.  Ready to make your grocery shopping a little brighter?  How about a colorful, reusable drug store bag?  It's got the right kind of punch to make a trip to the grocery especially cheerful.

 

8.  As the weather warms up, the delightful sound of the ice cream truck brings the kids a running to grab a frosty treat.  You can have that same little feeling of pure joy by creating your own ice cream experience at home with these bright and playful ice cream cups and spoons.  (The packaging will make you want to smile too!) 

9.  Planning a picnic?  These little ladybug spreaders would be a delightful addition!  Each set includes 4 spreaders. These would also be a great addition to a little hostess gift - tied to a great wedge of cheese or jar of gourmet jam!

10. With warmer weather, it's always a good idea to stay hydrated!  Drinking water is fun (and eco-friendly) with a Vapur anti-bottle.  They fold down when empty, so they're perfect for a plane trip or to keep in your purse or backpack.  They're also top-rack, dishwasher safe, which makes cleaning a cinch!

Isn't spring such a rush?  Get inspired!  Get sprung!

 

 

 

Personalized Valentines

We are LOVING these personalized Valentines!   There are over 60 styles to choose from, so finding the perfect sentiment is easy... and reasonably priced!  A set of 20 cards and matching stickers is only $18... A small price to pay to insure that your kid's valentines will be a homerun in the classroom.

See styles online or visit us in the store for more details!

Vera Bradley Spring Launch Tomorrow!

If you haven't heard the news yet, we are thrilled to announce that Calligraphy Etc. has got some GREAT new lines in our store this year- including Vera Bradley!

Tomorrow marks the first launch of their new Spring Collection in our store, and we couldn't be more excited.  The new color palettes are beautiful and cheerful- perfect for spring- Blue Lagoon, Boysenberry, Folkloric, and Lemon Parfait.  There are also several new sizes and styles that are SO fun- we especially love the E-Reader Sleeves.  Now you can store that new Kindle you got for Christmas in style!  Look how sharp the new colors are (top to bottom:  Folkloric, Lemon Parfait, Boysenberry, and Blue Lagoon)!

Tonight we stocked our shelves full of the new goodies for tomorrow's launch, and we'll be ready for you to check them out in person tomorrow.  If you're in the neighborhood, stop by!  We think these new designs will be going quickly, and you won't want to miss your chance!