  I was that child. The one who loved back-to-school shopping. The allure of new pens and pencils, erasers and pencil cases. I didn't much like sharing my new supplies (although I did, because it was the right thing) in fear that someone might (oh, I can barely say it) put a bite mark on my beautiful writing utensil. Oh, the thought of it would send shivers down my spine! And heaven forbid the cap on my glue stick wasn't replaced just-so. Yes, I was a freak (or maybe it was pride in my new belongings, is that a stretch?!), but as the saying goes...live and learn and then get a grip! Now, I am older and wiser, or so I like to think. But I still love shopping for school supplies, well the grown-up version, aka office supplies. Something about the innuendos of a fresh start, ambitious goals and great intentions. If I were a teacher I would love the start of school for this reason. But then reality would set in and I would be left deflated when budgets were presented. As a result, teachers often develop wish lists for their parents because often we like to contribute where we can. Simple things, those often taken for granted, are needed to keep the classroom running and our children learning. So my little man chose the goods for his teacher and then we added a little Garnish. I mean, why not?! I knew that his teacher would be grateful for the necessities but wouldn't it be so much more fun receiving and opening said necessities if they had a little 'Wow!' in the presentation! Well I thought so (and so did little man) so we put all the goods in a large cardboard clamshell box with some bright tissue, ribbon and tag. This also made for easy (and safe) transport to school in his backpack (nice benefit). While his teacher loved the donation to the classroom, she loved even more that it truly felt like a gift in every sense of the word. She felt special, little man beamed, Garnish did it's job! Labels: Garnish, large cardboard clamshell box
 Life is hectic. Our worlds move fast, too fast. I wish at times that I could have that magical remote control portrayed on the silver screen in order to hit pause for a moment to take a deep breath and recharge. Well, that ain't gonna happen my friends! So it's time to put on our big girl panties and take matters into our own hands! The spa is a glorious sanctuary but it's not always a feasible solution. Share a bit of heaven with your girls (or guys) by treating them to a little in-home soak. These clear tubes were filled with a mixture of bath salts, massage oil, and cleansing gel (I'm feeling my muscles relax already!) with instructions on a circle label to add hot water, give it a swish and then add to a bath or foot soak (the tension is leaving my shoulders). With a trip to your favorite handy dandy dollar store a loofah was added to this bit of fabulosity and it's all put together with brown and white twine. A thoughtful, easy and sure-to-be-enjoyed gift for under $3 (ladies and gentleman...my stress has left the building!). This would make for a great hostess gift (after all, she has been on her feet all day for you), shower favor, bridesmaid treat, girl's movie night and don't forget those teachers who are sure to have some tired dogs at the end of the day! Garnish makes it easy to ( capture) package life's moments. This moment of bliss is all yours. Labels: brown and white twine, clear plastic tubes, Garnish, labels
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Blank Plate
  If you've ever doubted that you can't be a minimalist and still create a statement then these photos from a Donna Hay magazine are sure to sway you. Referring back to my love of magazines and my love of pulling bits of inspiration from all around, I give you the beauty of a chic yet simple table setting. While our plates, bowls and cups are slightly different, the concept is still the same. The plate is multi-tasking as both a serving vessel and a name card...how fun! Be known for your unique get-togethers. Be known for your ability to whip together impromptu parties that always have that special touch, yet you enjoy the company too because it's that easy. Be known for your Garnish. I mean really...who wouldn't want to be! Labels: Garnish, paper bowls, paper cups, paper plates
  Recently I shared with you how two wedding celebrations were Garnished. I now have some photos to accompany those stories and sometimes pictures speak better than words. Tara's tale of Garnish was mentioned here. Thanks to her friend's blog, I have this picture to share of her bridesmaids' goodie boxes to help them get through the morning preparations. I thought this was a great way to show your girls how much you care. I think the comment posted on the blog says it best. "I thought the goodie bag idea for the girls in the wedding party was awesome. It's usually thought of the bride's day, but she actually thought of the girls' comfort too." Susan's daughter's wedding guests (mentioned here) were treated to a late night snack of french fries served in our paper cone cups adorned with some polka dot paper. Love the idea, love the fries, love the photo! Thanks to Amy Raab Photography for sharing the amazing shot. Keep the feedback and ideas coming! Labels: bridesmaids, Garnish, paper cone cups
 I love magazines. I mean I really love magazines. Their shiny pages, captivating photography and stylish layouts lure me in like a drug. They call to me from the store shelves..."buy me! I know, I cost $12 but you're worth it.". And I listen, time and time again! I draw a tremendous amount of inspiration (it's really the birthplace of Garnish!) from this media so I like to tell myself it's 'research' and deny any addictions. But my 'research' leads to piles, upon piles, and baskets here and baskets there of magazines. As I grew tired of climbing over my woman-made mountains of gloss to get to my desk I decided it was time to sort, scan and share. I've never been a big believer in re-inventing the wheel. However I am a big believer in giving that wheel some kick butt rims! As I was leafing through a Better Home & Gardens wedding magazine I came upon this picture and said "hey, we've got those!". These are just like our 2x2x2 linen embossed favor box and don't they look purty all dressed up for wedding favors. Now, just because this picture came from a wedding magazine don't think this box is just for weddings! If you're looking for a sophisticated and unique bridal shower or baby shower favor box here it is. Do you have a smaller gift item for any occasion? Skip the wrapping and let the beauty of the box stand out. Just a ribbon will do. Garnish is everywhere. If you've always been one to see the idea in a magazine but struggled as to where to buy the product (especially without having to buy hundreds or thousands), then you've come to the right place. Can't wait to see what the rest of the stacks have in store. Labels: Garnish, linen embossed favor box
 This just screams fun, doesn't it?! I came across this picture here and my first thought was, hey I can do that. And quite honestly, I love it when my brain informs me of this. I'm just a simple girl, with simple tastes but love to find ways to add pizazz to it all! I'm not sure what colorful concoction is in these white nut and party cups so I'm going with the assumption that it's Jell-O. Because, seriously, think of the possibilities! I'm talking virgin or spiked Jell-O shots for the adults. It will bring back fond childhood memories (hopefully of the virgin ones!). A unique centerpiece for a dessert table (look at those colors!), perfect decor for children's birthday parties, display them on a tiered tray as in the photo and pass out to your guests. If you're looking for a unique party idea that will have your guests going "wow" and still leave you with enough time to do your nails before everyone arrives...this is it. Bring on the Jell-O folks. Now...what flavors to make?!?! Labels: Garnish, white nut and party cups
 Call it rustic, casual, or simple chic because really, all of these apply when you're adding a little twine to your Garnish. Our red and white twine was initially one of my favorite products (now I just have way too many to list, remember I'm a bit of a packaging geek!). I had this major moment of "see...now that's what I'm talking about!" when I came across this inspiration board from Snippet+Ink through Victoria with Roses. A whole wedding designed around red and white twine, how genius! I mean, it's brilliant!! And don't worry if you're loving the idea but don't have a wedding to plan...think birthday party, wedding shower, baby shower, dinner party or "thank goodness the kids are back to school" party! I mean really, the twine goes with everything and against the white or brown backdrop of all our Garnishes it really makes a statement. And the great thing about Garnish is it's blank slate approach, so that 'statement' can be whatever you choose it to be. Red and white are staple colors of the holidays...I'm just saying...might be time to stock up and be prepared! Labels: Garnish, red and white twine
 So there I was...stuck...what do I get my buddy for her 40th birthday? Nothing seemed fitting, nothing seemed quite right. Then, it hit me. That proverbial lighting bolt struck down right beside me and the lights were all a flashing around me. I would make a dvd of her surprise birthday party we were having. It will be the gift that keeps on giving, with each viewing, bringing smiles and laughter (well at least I hope!). I was the photog of the night busily snapping away (but still having a great time!). If you plan on doing something like this, be sure to take tons (and I mean tons) of pictures. You can't do a re-shoot! Also, take pictures of the scenery as well as the guests, it will help set the stage. I chose to use Animoto to put together the DVD because it's a little faster than composing something in imovie. I loved the result and hope she does too! I also included a CD with all the pictures that are in the DVD in case she wants to print any or just to have. Of course, it was Garnished with the metal CD case and a little scrapbook paper for a picture perfect presentation. What a fab and unique idea to give to a bride and groom after their wedding (especially while they are anxiously awaiting their "professional" shots), for the guest of honor of a special celebration or as a thank you gift for your dinner hosts (okay, it will have to be presented after the fact but they'll love it!). Happy 40th! Labels: Garnish, metal cd case
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Summerfest
   Nothing like some summer sunshine to gather the troops and celebrate friendship. Thanks to Alicia for sharing with us her Garnished "Summerfest". She and her husband are alums of Syracuse University and each summer their gang of fellow alums take turns hosting their summer get together. Sounds like a fabulous time, and idea to me! Alicia said she doesn't consider herself a "Martha type" but managed to pull off a "Martha style" event with the help of Garnish. That makes me smile. She used the large plastic deli containers to hold the cutlery and the white paper lunch bags for simple and chic vases. Her kitchen was busy baking goodies for her guests to take home at the end of the day. Homemade devil dogs (hello...yummy!) in the large glassine bags, breads in the paper loaf pans and then wrapped in the large cellophane bags, and brownies and bars in the large cardboard clamshells. I love it all, truly brilliant and the best part is that she didn't think she had it in her! Everyone felt that they were treated to a special Summerfest and can't wait to see what next year brings. Who knew...all it took here...was a little Garnish! Labels: cardboard clamshell box, cellophane bags, deli containers, Garnish, glassine bags, loaf pans, white paper lunch bag
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Simple.
 I sometimes think we fall into the trap of feeling we must add all kinds of bells and whistles to make something "pop". When the reality is, simple is so often better. Case in point, simple flowers, simple vase...anything but simple presentation! I folded down the top of our white paper lunch size bag, placed a cup inside to hold the water, added a selection of white flowers and just like that, a stunning floral table decor for a backyard party. How cute would this idea be if you used the small white (or brown) paper bags and filled them with baby's breath and lined them down the table?! Indoors or out, these simple vases will add quite the finishing touch. The possibilities, the garnishes, the fun! Labels: Garnish, white paper lunch bag
 Baby it's hot outside! And when it's hot like this there is only one thing on my mind...ice cream. But now I'm left with the dilemma of which kind to have. So many choices and I want them all. So I say, have your ice cream and eat it too! An ice cream sampler makes an excellent treat or dessert for any occasion. Scoop (I used a small scoop that you might use for cookie dough) your Chunky Monkey, Blueberry Swirl, or good ol' Vanilla or Chocolate into our white nut & party cups for the perfect 2 bites of cool heavenly delight. No need for a spoon, just squeeze the cup for easy access. If you have a 10 bite limit...that's five cups! You have to love that. I always loved the jingle of the ice cream truck when I was small, and still do. My favorite was the snow cone cup with the gum ball at the bottom. No need to wait for the truck to come to your neighborhood. You can make your own using our white paper cone cup. Just pop the surprise in the bottom and fill with ice cream. Kids young and old will be knocking on your door! This is a great idea for a special end to the family dinner or any party, shower or festivity. I laid mine out on ice but I have a feeling these little goodies won't be around long enough to melt. Can I tell you how excited my children were to delve into this Garnish prop?! Labels: Garnish, ice cream treats, white nut and party cups, white paper cone cups
   We've gone square, we've gone round, and now...we've gone oval...with our labels that is. Check out our latest selection of white, clear and kraft 4x2 oval labels. My mind is brimming with the numerous ways to Garnish with these. I'll be back later to share but in the meantime wanted to spread the word. I'm thinking personalized ice cream sundaes in the small soup containers... Oh the Garnishes! Labels: Garnish, oval labels, small soup container
  We're excited to announce the arrival of two new items that have been added to our list of Garnishes! The 4x4x4 white box has been such a hit that we decided to add it in the kraft brown as well. This addition was also made in response from all of your requests. For when you have something small you want to Garnish, we now have a 2x2x2 white linen embossed box with lid. These boxes would be adorable for wedding favor packaging. If you're looking for a Garnish that you've seen out there in magazines or shows but can't seem to find anywhere (and aren't willing to purchase 1,000 when you only need 29!), let us know. We're always on the look out for something new. Labels: 2x2x2 white box, 4x4x4 kraft box, 4x4x4 white box, Garnish
When those late night munchies hit, what do you do? For me, I decide if it is something salty or sweet I am craving. Or, I try and be a good girl and close the door on that munchie beast. Sometimes those hunger pangs can occur at the most inconvenient time, for example, when there is no food in sight! If you're having a wedding reception, or any party for that matter that could go into the night, don't forget to keep that food coming for your guests. All the dancing and merriment will have them working up an appetite (even after that lavish meal) in no time at all. Thank you to Garnish gal, Susan, for sharing with us her brilliant idea to satisfy the late night munchies at her daughter's wedding. I can't think of a better snack...french fries (oh, I can smell the know!) and cokes! She used the paper cone cups to serve the fries along with the cocktail forks to help keep her guests' fingers clean. Susan kicked things up a notch by wrapping the cups in pretty pink polka dot paper. For the presentation of all this brilliance, each cone was placed in a votive that was half filled with dried green peas. The votives were then placed in a basket. I can just imagine how cute the pink and green looked together. This wedding took place on the Eastern Shore of Maryland so for further personalization, the fries were seasoned with Old Bay. Susan promised pictures once the photographer has the proofs ready but this idea was just too fantastic to wait! How do you like your fries? Me, a dollop of European mayonnaise on twice fried fries is pure decadence! Labels: cocktail fork, Garnish, paper cone cups
 You never know when you might want to add a little Garnish so stock up and be prepared for all those moments. I was heading out the door the other day to a pool party. I wanted my blueberry bars to look cute (hey, it's what I do!) and thus began my dish debate. Which dish should I use that a) I didn't mind forgetting or b) looked better than an ordinary disposable plate. And then it hit me...'duh!'...I'll add a little Garnish! I chose to use the small cardboard clamshell and used some colored tissue from my wrapping bin but rested the treats on our white FDA tissue paper (can you use regular tissue for food...don't know but I thought I'd be a better friend if I didn't poison them!). I went back to the wrapping bin and pulled out some cheery ribbon for a bow. The result was delightful and my hostess was tickled by it all (personally, I was thrilled at how easy it was). And really, isn't it about making someone smile?! If cupcakes or muffins are your thing cart them along in the square hinged container. There are so many possibilities. Have a look through the bits n' pieces and ideas section of the website and pick out your favorites to have on hand. You never know when your next invite will come along. 'Tis the season of impromptu get-togethers. Stock those shelves...it's time to think Garnish! Labels: cardboard clamshell box, fda waxed tissue, Garnish, square hinge box
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Lobstah?!
Clambake season is here and whether you are a New Englander, a Canadian East Coaster, or just pull your lobster from the tank at your local grocery store, think Garnish for your next clambake. Here are a few suggestions. I picture clambakes as a casual affair. Folks gathered on a beach or in the backyard...copping a squat where they can. It's a meal that's meant to be eaten with the hands. Use the large cardboard clamshell (hey, what an appropriate name!) to serve all the fixings of the clambake. When it's opened, it works as the perfect lap tray, picnic table tray or lounging on the beach blanket tray. The squat bio-pak box would also be a fine idea and it won't leak. The small soup containers or clear deli containers are a great size for the butter with an opening wide enough to dunk freely and easily. Serve a batch of lemonade, punch or cocktails in the beverage box and use the white cups for serving. Use the labels to mark everyone's cups so there's no confusion. Have some cocktail forks available for pulling out the lobster meat and keep plenty of napkins around as this is one messy meal! I'm guessing that the majority of us don't have a beach in our backyard (and if you do, I'm a teensie bit green with envy right now) so I have done some research and found a recipe for a backyard New England Clambake. This is taken from the Food Network. Here goes: Backyard Clambake You can create a reasonable clambake on the grill, though you have to parboil some of the ingredients. But with the slalty smoke rising, you can take a long pull of your beer and imagine the sea breeze is blowing. 1 pound cherrystone clams 1 pound mussels 4 1-pound lobsters 4 baking potatoes 4 small onions 4 ears of corn Butter Make sure the clams and mussels are all alive. The shells should be tightly closed, and if they are open, they should close when you tap them. If any remain open, discard. Build a fire in your covered grill and soak a couple handfuls of wood chips in water. Put the potatoes and onions in cold, salted water, bring to a boil, and cook for 15 minutes, till potatoes have softened. Drain. Pull the husks back from the corn but leave them attached. Pull off all the silks, then pull the husks back into place and tie around the corn with a strip of husk. Drop the lobsters in boiling water for about 3 minutes till they are bright red. Remove from water. When the coals have burned down to re-hot, spread the wet wood chips across them. Lay the lobsters close together on the grill rack, spread shellfish around them and spread the vegetables ove the top. Put the lid on the grill and open the vents. Cook for about a hal hour, until the mussels and clams have opened. Serve with bowls of melted butter. Nothing fancy, nothing formal...just some down home backyard fun! A New England Clambake, now that's my kind of party! Labels: beverage box, bio-pak container, cardboard clamshell box, cocktail fork, deli containers, Garnish, labels, napkins, paper bowl containers, white cups
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Tea Time
   Looking for an idea for a little girl's birthday party? How about hosting an afternoon tea filled with beads for jewelry, painting, and sweet treats...what could be more girly than that?! That's what one Garnish gal did and the results speak for themselves. I understand that fun was had by all and the birthday girl had a moment she'll never forget. Activity boxes (using the square hinged container) were created for each guest to keep everything neat and organized and also doubled as their goody box to take everything home in. They also turned out to be very handy when an outdoor party suddenly had to be moved indoors when the rain began to fall. Each container had their beads (in the small cellophane bag), a bingo dabber and some cards (who doesn't love a good game of bingo?!), and some stickers and other crafty stuff which was placed inside the small paper soup bowl (fits rather nicely inside the square container). The small white paper lunch bags held some candies, the large paper soup bowl made for a simple vase but a gorgeous arrangement when filled with mini carnations. The table runner was made from the kraft paper sheets (which turned out to be handy as the girls were prepping their bingo dabbers). This party would make any girl, big or small, beam with delight! Think beyond the birthday party too. If you're planning a wedding and want to keep the little ones entertained so their parents can enjoy their meals (and trust me, your thoughtfulness will be sooo appreciated), make an activity box with small coloring books, paper, crayons (no markers folks, the mess would have the opposite effect on the parents!), stickers etc. I have a feeling you'll all be practicing the correct pinkie pose for sipping tea! Labels: children's party, Garnish, kraft paper sheets, paper soup bowl, small paper lunch bag, square hinge box, Weddings
Monday, June 16, 2008
Toot, Toot
I'm not normally one to toot my own horn. This may seem a bit odd because as a business owner, I should be shouting from the roof tops the greatness of Garnish. But two days in a row of positive feedback from our customers leads me to believe it's time to do a little sharing and let you all shout for me! First up is Joy. I mentioned her great ideas here before. Imagine my glee when I saw this post on her blog. Here's a snippet: "Their customer service couldn't be better. I emailed a question about a party favor idea I had, and Suzanne not only wrote back the nicest letter full of ideas, but attached a picture of my idea. She went to the trouble to make one to show me! How many companies do that for their customers?" The second shout out goes to Jyl. Here's what she had to say about her experience with Garnish: "Great Job. I just wanted to thank you for my order and tell you how much I appreciate your great and quick service. I received my order in such a timely manner. Thank you. And your products are wonderful. Can't wait to order more in the near future. One happy customer." We're thrilled that you all are having as much fun with Garnish as we do! A happy customer just makes me smile. Okay, I'm done. This train is now leaving the station! Labels: feedback, Garnish
 I was perusing the birthday card section in Barnes & Noble and this card caught my eye. Why you ask?! Because life is all about moments...moments in time, moments that make memories, moments you'll never forget. Life is crazy these days. Gas is over $4/gallon (or $1.47/litre for our friends north of the border), our grocery bills leave us scratching our heads and let's not even talk about heating/cooling our homes. But life goes on, and we all still want to make it special. It doesn't take much to add some panache to a gift or party or favor to make it unique and all your own. There is a certain beauty in a homemade gift (besides the gift itself of course). It's about the care and the thought. I guess that goes for anything really, homemade or not. My point is that when you add a little Garnish all of the sudden your original thought is amplified into something that makes folks go "wow!". Who wouldn't like that?! As we head to our backyard BBQ's, as our school years wind down, or as we go to the chapel to get hitched, consider creating your moment with Garnish. An inexpensive way to turn the simple into the "hot dang!". I'm thinking that all my pies (who am I kidding...not all but the pies I make) shall be presented in our large cardboard clamshell box, with some brown and white or red and white (hey that would be cool for a 4th of July party). You can write on these boxes too so maybe a personal note of thanks or some handprints...whatever suits the mood and the timing. So many choices, so many ideas, so many possibilities! Moments...snippets in time. It's so true, we all need those moments in our lives. It's what makes us who we are. It's what makes Garnish what it is. So go ahead, in the midst of this crazy world...package life's moments. Because your moment matters! Labels: Garnish, large cardboard clamshell box
 Received an email from Joy who is planning her son's 6th birthday. She had a great theme, a camp out, the pretend kind... where you're not required to serve breakfast the next day. The little ones would be roasting hot dogs and marshmallows, catching fireflies and playing games. True little kid stuff, I love that. For the favor she was thinking of filling the clear candy tubes with Golden Graham cereal, mini marshmallows and chocolate chips and was wondering if it would fit. So I whipped it up for her to test it out and low and behold it is just the cutest thing! I added some brown and white twine (36 inches) for a little added fun. We also thought the chipboard tray would be great for holding the hot dogs and other dinner items or to use the dinner box from the children's party table idea. Children tend to love anything with their name on it! And for those of you who might be interested in a little something sweet, the indoor s'more recipe on the back of the Golden Graham cereal box is delish! They are quite sticky (sort of like a Rice Krispie square) so think about placing each square in a petite loaf liner to help keep those fingers clean. You know me, I believe in sharing brilliance so here is another fantastic idea for you all to think about when thinking of how to add a little Garnish. Labels: birthday party favor, brown and white twine, children's party, clear plastic tubes, Garnish, paper chipboard tray
 Imagine receiving a package like this one for a birthday favor?! The large white gable box was filled with all sorts of fun finds from the dollar store or sale racks. This party was garden themed so the children were treated to a terracotta pot, paints and brushes, seeds, and little gardening gloves. But seriously, the box is a favor in itself! What will you all think of next?! Be sure to keep letting us know! Labels: birthday party favor, Garnish, large white gable box
 There I was, standing in the checkout line at the grocery store trying to pacify my littlest one who was none too happy with me for peeling away from him the yogurt container that he was happily trying to get his little teeth into. While trying to ignore his wails I grabbed the latest issue of Martha Stewart Everyday Food. As I flipped through the little magazine this picture caught my eye and miraculously all screaming ceased. We are inspired by so many things in our lives...a song, a quote, a picture. Be inspired by Martha and re-create the look using a Garnish Bio-Pak container. Not only are they attractive but they're environmentally friendly too. I'm thinking a perfect presentation (and gift) for the end of the year teacher thank-you's. I can't imagine anything better...except for a non-hissy-fit-throwing child at the check out! Labels: bio-pak container, Garnish
 Step aside my little candies, there's a new sweetness in town! It's not that I don't love you, because oh how I do. It's just that summer is here and months of shorts and bathing suits is requiring me to satisfy my sweet tooth with a new group of friends. You have been so good to me and I'll be back...let's consider this 'until later' and not 'goodbye'. How can one resist the abundance of sweet, juicy summer fruit?! And, it is even more resistible when presented in such a fun way. Using our knotted picks, skewer your favorite fruit (3 balls of fruit fit perfectly on each pick). Just be sure to make a tray full...they won't last long! P.S....to my little candies, I might just leave the side door open...just in case! Labels: Garnish, knotted pick
Friday, May 30, 2008
Sweet!
 Every now and then a little sweet indulgence is divine (and needed!). Everything in moderation I always say. So why not get the gals together for a girls night? Your gal pals, chocolate, laughter...really what could be better?! Well, actually, more sweets to be enjoyed later! Send everyone home with a special treat to be enjoyed the next day (or let's face it, on the car ride home, midnight raid to the fridge...) as they reminisce about their fabulous evening. That's what one of our customers did and I think I just might do the same! If you can move your eyes beyond those delectable looking brownies on a stick, check out the display of cute boxes in the background. You'll see our 4x4x4 white boxes that were decorated with some fun ribbon and our square kraft labels. The adorable graphic says it all, a delightful cupcake was placed inside. You folks are so creative...it's so sweet of you to share with us! Labels: 4x4x4 white box, Garnish, square kraft labels
 There is something magical about a child's first birthday. The emergence from babyhood to the discovery of being a toddler. Alison threw her daughter a party to remember, and I can only imagine what the future birthdays will be like. Check out her blog for all the glorious details. Thanks Alison for sharing your daughter's special day with us. Everything looked beautiful and the country fair theme really came through. I was happy to brainstorm the ideas with you and we're honored that Garnish was part of your daughter's big milestone! Congratulations Norah! Labels: birthday party favor, black oval dip cups, Garnish, red and white twine, small cellophane bags
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Smooches
 Long has been the tradition at weddings that when you want the bride and groom to share in a kiss, the guest clink their glasses. When I got married I decided to buck tradition and incorporated something I love, quotes. We placed a card at each place setting with a quote. If folks wanted us to smooch, they had to share their quote with everyone. It was really lovely and no noisy clinking. It's funny, as I pulled all the cards out of their memory box...I thought to myself 'eww'...how I would of done things differently (like the font). Brides today are so fortunate to have a plethora of resources at your fingertips! Not so much almost 10 years ago! So, I am done rambling and shall get to the point. Quotes about love and marriage. The perfect garnish for your Garnish. I have around 100 and don't want you to be scrolling forever through this post. If you are interested in more let me know and I'll send you the file. Love is like playing the piano. First you must learn to play by the rules, then you must forget the rules and play from the heart. - Unknown Never tell a woman you are unworthy of her love - she know it. - Anonymous To love means to embrace and at the same time to withstand many many endings, and many many beginnings - all in the same relationship. - Clarissa Pinkola Estes Experience teaches us that love does not consist of two people looking at each other, but of looking together in the same direction. - Antoine de Saint-Exupery Truly loving another means letting go of all expectations. It means full acceptance, even celebration of another's personhood. - Karen Casey Only choose in marriage a woman whom you would choose as a friend if she were a man. - Joseph Joubert All the world loves a lover, except those who are waiting to use the phone. - Anonymous If you want to read about love and marriage you've go to buy two separate books. - Alan King When one has once fully entered the realm of love, the world, no matter how imperfect, becomes rich and beautiful, for it consists solely of opportunities of love. - Soren Kierkegaard It is not a lack of love, but a lack of friendship that makes unhappy marriages. - Friedrich Nietzsche Married couples who love each other tell each other a thousand things without talking. - Chinese Proverb The ultimate test of a relationship is to disagree but to hold hands. - Alexandra Penney A loving heart is the truest wisdom. - Charles Dickens Without humor, marriage fails. - Lewis H. Lapham Love is a beautiful dream. - William Sharpe I'll end here. Remember, love and Garnish go hand in hand! Labels: Garnish, love quotes, Weddings
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Cop a Squat
 I speak from experience...this latest idea will be the easiest party you have ever thrown! A few years ago I had a bunch of people over and served up dinner in a box. The work was done ahead of time so when our friends arrived I had nothing to do but to kick back, relax and enjoy. And isn't that what entertaining should be?! Decorate the large gable box, in white or kraft, to suit your style or theme. Remember that simplicity is the ultimate sophistication so these boxes look great in the buff too! Fill with your meal, that's already been made. Think of your sandwiches as a great pair of heels (not your flip flops) and sides that are worthy of a funky wrist cuff bracelet. In other words...go beyond the pb&j (at least for the grown ups). For the little ones, this is where you can bring in the pb&J, veggies and dip and a little dessert. Just accept the fact that the dessert will be eaten first. Trust me, roll with it. Your life will be so much easier! Don't forget to include a little toy (think dollar store!) in their box. After all...do you really think that kids crave those fast food meals because of the food. It's all about the toy (and the fun box!). Marketing 101 folks! The daylight now lingers longer and the outdoors is beckoning us all. Memorial Day is right around the corner! Go on, get the gang together and cop a squat! Labels: dinner parties, Garnish
Continuing in my series of quotes/sayings (the perfect garnish for your Garnish), today we're laughing. Who can't use a an excuse to laugh, or more importantly, a reminder to take the time to do so! My world is crazy (who's isn't?!) so I'm reminding us all (including me!) it's time to smell the roses...and laugh! Laugh, because it's a law of attraction. Laugh because babies think it's a toy. Laugh because it contains no calories. Laugh because it hides wrinkles. Laugh because it might heal the world. Laugh because it lengthens your life. Laugh because dogs wish they could. Laugh because it flattens your stomach. Laugh because drama queens are boring. Laugh because it probably makes plants grow. Laugh because it puts politics in perspective. Laugh because no batteries are required. Laugh out loud so you can share it. Go ahead, laugh! Labels: Garnish, laughter quotes
I love quotes. Other people seem to capture, with such eloquence I might add, moments so much better than me. I also love how simple words are the perfect garnish to any Garnish! This is where your printer and all those fun fonts come in handy. Whether you choose to use the quotes as a tag, print out labels and attach to the packaging, or print on some fun (or just plain white...which against the white packaging makes it look like you printed directly on the product) paper affixed to the packaging, it will be the perfect finishing touch. You'll be sure to make someone smile, reflect, or laugh. As much as sayings and quotes are fun to use, the amount of time spent Googling and searching for them isn't. Thus, I thought I would give you all the gift of time and gather some of my favorites for you. Today's quotes/sayings are all about babies. Ideal to create a unique baby shower favor. So if you're planning one, this is for you. If not, stay tuned, more are on the way! Happy reading! BABIES IN GENERAL Babies are such a nice way to start people. - Don HerroldA new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities. - Eda J. Le ShanA baby is God's opinion that the world should go on. - Carl Sandburg A baby is an angel whose wings decrease as his legs increase. - Author Unknown Every child begins the world again. - Henry David Thoreau A baby has a special way of adding joy in every single day. - Author Unknown A baby is cuddles and tickles on toes, the sweet scent of powder, a kiss on the nose! Tiny yawns, and sleepy sighs, nursery rhymes and lullabies. A bit of talcum is always walcum. - Ogden Nash FOR GIRLS Courage, determination, pride...that's what little girls are made of. - Author Unknown Little girls are the nicest things that happen to people. - Allen Beck Like star dust glistening on fairies' wings, little girls dreams are of magical things - Sherry Larson Little girls are precious gifts, wrapped in love serene. Their dresses tied with sashes and futures tied with dreams. - Author Unknown A girl is innoc |
I was that child. The one who loved back-to-school shopping. The allure of new pens and pencils, erasers and pencil cases. I didn't much like sharing my new supplies (although I did, because it was the right thing) in fear that someone might (oh, I can barely say it) put a bite mark on my beautiful writing utensil. Oh, the thought of it would send shivers down my spine! And heaven forbid the cap on my glue stick wasn't replaced just-so. Yes, I was a freak (or maybe it was pride in my new belongings, is that a stretch?!), but as the saying goes...live and learn and then get a grip!
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