Celebrate Arbor Day

Today happens to be Arbor Day - a national holiday in which trees are celebrated, planted and cared for. Arbor Day was first celebrated in 1872, and has since been observed on the last Friday in April.

I encourage you to step outside today and plant a tree of your own - whether it be in your backyard, or planted in a park along with a group of friends. Dedicate your tree to someone you know, or a place you love. Each year on Arbor Day, plan to visit your tree and check on its progress.

FineStationery.com is proud to offer a beautiful selection of tree inspired stationery and invitations.

We also honor Crane & Co. for their use of recovered tree-free fibers to make 100% cotton papers. Since 1801, this stationer has been creating environmentally friendly products.

Pinetrees Flat Card, Shade Tree Invitation, Moss Trees Invitation

and personalized Thin Border Card -- FineStationery.com

Peony and Pewter Wedding

Peonies are such a lovely flower, and come in many beautiful shades of pink. Some of my favorite peonies are pale pink in color, as well as coral pink. For wedding style that is both feminine and chic, pair these fragrant and full blooms with pewter grey and silver accents.

• Choose soft pink table linens and, if available, silver Chiavari chairs for your venue -- JL Designs
  
  
• A stunning cake in grey fondant with a single coral pink peony embellishment will truly make a statement -- Lolliblog
  
  
• Serve cloudy pink concoctions in silver etched martini glasses as your signature cocktail -- Brides
  
  
• This pale pink invitation with a subtle white peony design and pewter colored border is perfect for such an event -- FineStationery.com
  
  
• The bride should carry a vibrant bouquet of blooming coral pink peonies. In addition, decorate the ceremony space with overflowing arrangements of the same flower -- The Knot
  
  
• Walk down the aisle in style and then dance the night away in a pair of dark grey heels adorned with pink blooms -- The Knot
  
  
• Send guests home with pink colored candies in a cellophane bag printed with the newlywed's initials in silver -- Martha Stewart

Festive Fiesta and a Final Farewell

With today as my last post, I wanted to leave you all with a fabulous fiesta party for Cinco de Mayo. Full of bright colors and festive foods, this party is sure to feed your need for fun this spring.

I'll be taking some time off from the blogging world while we prepare and get adjusted to being a family of four, but I'm sure I'll be back as a member of the community as a fellow Finer Things commenter soon. Until then, Adios, mi amigos!

• Serve strawberry margarita cupcakes served in a colorful margarita glass -- FGS Catering

• Set a fruit cup full of mangoes and other tropical fruit at each place setting -- Martha Stewart

• Learn how to make these beautiful paper flowers and use them to decorate your space -- Poca Cosas blog

• What would a Cinco de Mayo party be without frozen margaritas? -- Cooking Tip of the Day

• Hang these flag banners around the room -- Etsy seller Aymujer

• Decorate your table with bright colors and paper flowers -- Southern Living

• Send this margarita invitation to entice guests to your event -- FineStationery.com

Bridal Party Gift Picks

Show your appreciation in style, and honor those who stand by your side on your wedding day. Here are some top picks for groomsmen and bridesmaid's gifts this wedding season:

Groomsmen

• After dancing the night away at your reception, these personalized slippers are perfect for resting tired feet -- Red Envelope

• This personalized leather journal is just right for a friend's travel or wine tasting notes -- FineStationery.com

• Sports enthusiasts will love these cuff links made from actual stadium seating -- Red Envelope

Bridesmaids

• Friends who travel often will adore this chic cosmetics case -- kate spade

• Fashionista gal pals will be delighted when they receive this lovely bracelet with pearl baubles -- Anthropologie

• Girlfriends are sure to keep in touch after wedding festivities are through when they have a set of personalized engraved stationery -- FineStationery.com

Little Peanut Sip and See

A Sip and See is a lovely way to show off your newest addition to family and close friends. The event can be held in your own home for comfort, and the decor should be simple and easy - after all, new parents are sure to be quite busy! For an event that is big on style, consider an elephant theme when introducing your little peanut.

• While admiring your little peanut, party-goers can munch on yummy peanut butter sandwich cookies -- Martha Stewart
  
  
• Dress the bouncing baby for the occasion in this adorable elephant onesie -- Gymboree
  
  
• This elephant shaped teapot is perfect for serving warm beverages and will look lovely on your table -- Heliotrope
  
  
• Invite guests to join in the fun by sending this blue striped elephant invitation -- FineStationery.com
  
  
• Keep the decor simple by hanging striped and polka-dotted pennants, reminiscent of the circus, in your party space -- Restoration Hardware
  
  
• This carved wooden teether is a great gift for the baby. Although, I have to admit that when I first saw it, I thought it would make a perfect napkin ring! -- Etsy seller littlesaplingtoys
  

Blessings & Wishes for the Newlyweds

As a unique addition to your wedding reception or in lieu of the traditional guest book, consider a bowl or jar for blessings and wishes. Guests can write sweet notes to the bride and groom on small slips of paper and place them in the bowl during the event. These memorable memos can be read later by the couple, and will remain a lasting treasure to them. Keep in mind that this idea could also be applied to baby showers, bridal showers, birthdays or graduation parties!

Before my hubby and I were married last September, we received a Blessing Bowl as a bridal shower gift. Our bowl was hand thrown from clay and hand painted with a scene of the beach and lighthouse in Cape May, NJ where we were married. By the end of our reception, the bowl was full of well wishes and advice from close friends and family. The bowl now sits on our kitchen table as a special reminder of our wedding day.

The Blessing Bowl shown above was hand thrown and hand painted
by the talented artists at Heather Lane Pottery

First image via Martha Stewart

An Earth Day Treat

Happy Earth Day! I found these flower pot ice cream cakes on Restyled Home and thought they would make the perfect Earth Day treat-- complete with gummy worms and oreo dirt! For a full tutorial on how to make these potted pleasures, visit The Pioneer Woman blog.

Stationery in Bloom

Spring has certainly sprung here in Delaware, and flowers are popping up everywhere. The green buds are such a wonderful sight after the snowy winter we had! With warmer weather and roads free of ice and snow, it's a great time to be outside the home and reconnect with old friends. These charming stationery pieces are just right for inviting friends to meet for lunch. They are just as fresh as the spring time blooms they are inspired by.

Pink Tulips Note Card, Oriental Poppies Note Card,
Peony Note Card & Dahlia Stem Note Card -- FineStationery.com

All flower images via Better Homes and Gardens

Stylish Graduation Parties

Graduation party decor doesn't have to be all about school colors or the cap and gown. If you're planning a party to celebrate your son or daughter's grand achievement, be sure that the party details reflect the style and personality of the graduate!

My little sister is graduating from high school this year and she is well known for her love of all things country. In fact, it took a lot of convincing to get this homecoming queen nominee to wear heels to the dance instead of her cowboy boots. Her reasoning: "If Taylor Swift can pull off boots with a dress, why can't I?"

So, in the spirit of her fun and unique style, my mother and I are planning a country styled graduation party. Here's a sneak peek at the party inspiration board:

• We'd like to keep things casual and country with a twine tied invitation -- FineStationery.com

• Instead of a normal drink station, set up a lemonade stand -- One Love Photo via BonaFide Bride

• Use twine, tweed and bandannas as decor accents -- Country Living

• Accent each table with a mason jar full of wildflowers -- Elizabeth Anne Designs and Country Living

• Instead of cake or cupcakes, set up a homemade pie buffet -- Once Wed

Kids in the Kitchen

Host your child's next birthday party in your own kitchen, and let the little cooks create their dessert! Invite other parents to keep an eye on the bakers and lend a hand when it comes to putting the cake in the oven. While the birthday cake is baking, kids will have fun learning about different cooking tools and techniques.

• Outfit each child in a personalized apron and pint-sized chef's hat for the occasion -- Williams-Sonoma and Growing Cooks

• Provide lots of brightly colored mixing bowls in varying sizes -- Crate&Barrel

• Little chefs will love working with these unique kid-friendly cooking utensils -- cheftools.com

• Sending a cooking-inspired invitation is the first step in a recipe for fun -- FineStationery.com

• A yummy recipe for a classic birthday cake is sure to please party-goers -- Williams-Sonoma

Let Me Introduce Myself...

Good morning, readers! I've so enjoyed getting to know The Finer Things. Some of you may remember my guest posts during the past holiday season and as of late {personal favorites can be found here and here}. Now, I am honored that Jess has asked me to take her spot as the head blogger for FineStationery.com. I've got some pretty stylish shoes to fill, but I promise to share with you some enchanting entertaining ideas, fabulous fashion tid-bits and of course, all the best in the world of fine stationery. First, I'd like to share a little bit about myself with you:

I am a designer at heart, and am constantly finding new ways to express my creativity. I enjoy classic and preppy fashion, and could never turn down a great pair of shoes. I met my husband during our kindergarten days, and recently married him in a sweet seaside ceremony. I have a new passion for cooking and have enjoyed decorating the home my hubby and I share with our loveable pup. Fine art, crafting, reading and coffee are some of the things I love. I’ve always wanted to learn how to sail. The beach is my absolute favorite place to be, and I am inspired by its sheer beauty. My family and friends mean the world to me, and I am amazed by them every day.

I'll be back on Monday with a fun idea for a children's birthday party. Have a wonderful weekend!

A Bittersweet Announcement

Dear Readers:

The time has almost come to welcome my second little one into the world. The last few months have flown by and I’ve been very busy making preparations for our gal’s arrival.

Being a mother of two promises to be a wonderful adventure and I am so excited for this next chapter of my life. That being said, I do feel that I’ll need to carve out more room in my schedule (afterall, two children means twice the snuggling)! And, to accommodate the extra Eskimo kisses and story times, I’ve decided to step down as the head writer of The Finer Things.

I am delighted to announce that I’ll be handing the reigns of the FineStationery.com blog over to Jen, one of our super creative and stylish graphic production specialists. You have had the opportunity to see a lot of Jen’s creative forces at work over the last month as she has filled in for me on a regular basis. You can see a few of her posts here, here and here.

I am confident that you will adore Jen’s sweet personality and fabulous party ideas. She has great things in store for The Finer Things and I am excited to watch it flourish and grow under her guidance.

While I’ll be popping in with posts until the end of the month, Jen will become head blogger starting next week. It has been such a pleasure being able to share ideas with and getting to know you all, and I look forward to keeping in touch as a fellow reader of The Finer Things (and all of your wonderful blogs) in the future.

With warm regards,
Jess

Stylish Starfish

A summer decor staple, starfish come in all different colors and sizes. Whether you prefer to coat them in metallics, bleach them white or simply use them in their natural state, this seaside stunner is a wonderful accent for parties, tablescapes, stationery and more.

• Dress up a place setting with this nautical starfish napkin ring -- Brides

• A navy and white starfish pillow will accent a neutral sofa perfectly -- BytheSeaDecor.com

• Add some seaside flair to your mail with this starfish address label -- FineStationery.com

• So maybe they aren't "starfish" but these star fruit garnishes sure look the part! They'd be the perfect accent for a starfish themed party -- BizBash

• Try these pretty golden earrings for sparkling starfish style -- kate spade

Mint Julep Derby Party

{Hello, readers! My name is Jen, and I work as a Graphics Production Specialist for FineStationery.com. Jess asked me to fill in for her with a guest post, so I'd like to share some party inspiration for the upcoming derbys. Enjoy!}

Find yourself in the winner's circle by hosting a derby party inspired by none other than the Mint Julep. Since 1938, this cool concoction of mint, bourbon, sugar and water has been regarded as the official drink of the Kentucky Derby.

• For the main event, serve pork chops and snow peas covered in a sweet mint julep glaze -- Epicurious
  
  
• A cool mint julep in its signature silver vessel is to be held around the top or bottom rim only -- Epicurious
  
  
• Mint julep sorbet is the perfect palette cleanser between dinner and dessert -- Food Network
  
  
• Place pretty white roses in mini silver cups around your venue -- The Knot
  
  
• These sweet treats are topped with fresh spearmint and inspired by the signature cocktail -- Hostess with the Mostess
  
  
• Purchase official mint julep glasses for your event, engraved with derby icons -- Kentucky Derby
  
  
• Send guests off with mint colored boxes of candy, tied together with a horseshoe imprinted tag -- Martha Stewart
  
  
• Invite guests to your soiree with an invitation showing off the cocktail of choice -- FineStationery.com

A New Favorite

I was just recently introduced to William Arthur's blog which was started in early March. From trend forecasting to informative posts on stationery and its many uses, this site seems so promising that I'll be adding it to my list of daily reads! I encourage you to take a moment to check it out. You won't be sorry!



To see a variety of William Arthur products, including the Vera Wang line, be sure to visit FineStationery.com!

Walk on the Wild Side: A Baby Shower

{Good morning! My name is Jen, and I work in the Graphics Production group at FineStationery.com. Today, Jess asked me to fill in for her with a guest post. I hope this entertaining inspiration brings some fun to your Monday morning!}
Instead of baby blues or soft pinks as inspiration, honor the mama-to-be with one wild baby shower! Bold animal prints and jungle décor make for a walk on the wild side that the new mom will not soon forget.

• Present the mama-to-be with a posh giraffe print diaper bag -- Wayfair
• These zebra print invitations are perfect for inviting guests to take a walk on the wild side -- FineStationery.com
• Serve appetizers on this personalized melamine plate, and later send it home with the new mom as a keepsake -- FineStationery.com
• Hang several animal printed paper lanterns at varying lengths in the party space -- World Market
• Decorate tables with lush tropical floral arrangements for a fresh jungle feel -- The Knot
• This dessert definitely isn't tame! This layered cake is decorated with zebra, leopard and giraffe prints and is sure to stand out -- Tasty Layers
• Graze on grilled pineapple and banana skewers with a lemonade glaze while the guest of honor opens gifts -- Epicurious
• These itty bitty leopard inspired shoes are perfect for the little wild one -- Etsy seller sewingsparklz

Mother's Day Gift Ideas

Mother's day is just a month away! Whether you're buying for a hip new mom or your old-fashioned grandmother, these pretty gifts are sure to please.

Personalized stationery is always a hit. Try note cards in a punchy orange polka dot pattern for an extra stylish spring look -- FineStationery.com

I don't know which is prettier-- this bow necklace or the gift box it comes in -- kate spade

Great for labeling goodies or recipe cards, this stamp is perfect for the culinary connoisseur -- FineStationery.com

A Cherry Blossom Wedding

{Hello, readers! My name is Jen, and I am a Graphics Production Specialist at FineStationery.com. I am here today to fill in for Jess with a guest post. Enjoy!}

With the National Cherry Blossom Festival in full swing, I got to thinking about how lovely this flowering tree would be as wedding day inspiration. Particularly, the soft pink and mossy green hues budding from the long branches - such a gorgeous color combination!

• Recite your vows outdoors on fresh green grass and decorate simply with tall cherry blossom branch arrangements -- The Knot
  
  
• This ivory invitation is adorned with a beautiful pink cherry blossom tree and comes with mossy green envelopes -- FineStationery.com
  
  
• Attach pink blossom-shaped place cards to long branches extending from a simple vase -- Martha Stewart
  
  
• Serve cherry blossom inspired and infused cocktails to guests -- Martha Stewart
  
  
• Ask your florist to place tall slender cherry blossom tree arrangements on each table. Your reception venue will smell so sweet with the abundance of blossoms! -- The Knot
  
  
• A pale pink cake embellished with moss green ribbon and tiny sugar blossoms shows off your theme beautifully -- The Knot
  
  
• If you choose not to wear a veil, let a headband with silk blossoms complete your bridal ensemble -- Etsy seller ButterscotchKisses
  
  
• Bridesmaids will look lovely in simple moss green dresses -- JCrew

Pretty in Paisley

We are still debating baby names for our little girl, but had an unique and interesting suggestion come in over the weekend: Paisley.

My husband became instantly attached to the name, and while I'm still not 100% sold, I can't help but think of how cute it would be to dress her in preppy paisley prints. I just adore the paisley pattern when used with bright cheery colors like aqua, kelly green and pink-- especially for the summer time!

The paisley pattern has been used to symbolize life, love, royalty and eternity throughout the generations and has also been used as a symbol of holiness and aesthetic beauty-- how is that for a name meaning?

• Paisley note card -- FineStationery.com
• Pink and aqua pillows -- Making it Lovely Blog
• Pink paisley headband -- Etsy seller SugarChicBaby
• Nina tunic top by Lilly Pulitzer -- Splash of Pink
• Paisley rug by Pottery Barn Kids -- Ebay
• Smocked paisley dress in aqua and green -- Cookies Kids
• Paisley lamp -- Posh Tots
• I love the embossed paisley pattern fabric in this super soft baby blanket -- Blankee Couture
• A paisley print frame for the nursery wall -- Target
  

April Showers

{How are you this morning, readers? My name is Jen, and I work in the Graphics Production group at FineStationery.com. Jess has asked me to fill in for her today with a post. Enjoy your day!}

Staying dry during an April shower doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style. This spring, add a few bold weather-resistant pieces to your wardrobe. The bright, cheery colors are sure to bring the sun back out from its hiding place behind grey clouds!



• A pink umbrella with yellow polka dots adds a pop of color to a gloomy day --Totes

• Note cards with Wellies are perfect for springtime correspondence --FineStationery.com

• A key lime trench coat keeps pretty spring frocks dry during a rainstorm -- Nordstrom

• These turquoise rain boots are just right for puddle jumping -- Zappos

Dreamy Cottage Playhouse

When I was a little girl I read a wonderful book written by Julie Andrews (yes, Ms. Mary Poppins) entitled "Mandy." This enchanting story follows a 10-year-old orphan who discovers a tiny deserted cottage in the woods behind her orphanage, and works tirelessly over the spring and summer months fixing up her new secret place and the small flower garden that surrounds it. Doesn't that just sound like every little girl's dream? A tiny cottage to call her very own!

I couldn't help but think of that book when I came across this amazing, pint-sized playhouse on Poshtots.com. Isn't it dreamy?






Of course, this playhouse owner would also need to stock her beautiful white kitchen with plates for entertaining, and why not make them personalized? These Boatman Geller plates from FineStationery.com would be perfect!

Last-Minute Easter Entertaining

Looking for some last-minute Easter inspiration? Southern Living magazine has some egg-cellent table settings and buffet ideas:

Try a table runner made of moss:

Tea sandwiches always look so dainty:

This butterfly theme is a refreshing alternative to bunny and egg tables:

Finally, consider taking your table to the great outdoors (it's where the kids will be for the egg hunt anyway!) Don't you just love the arrangement of vintage glass bottles and fresh flowers in the wooden crate?

English Garden Wedding

{Goodmorning readers! My name is Jen, and I work in the Graphics Production group here at FineStationery.com. Jess asked me to fill in for her today with a guest post, so I'd like to share some wedding inspiration! Enjoy the day!}

Inspired by an old-fashioned English cottage garden, this wedding is overflowing with lush botanicals, sweet blooms and antique finery.

• Dress tables with soft linens and top with brightly colored floral arrangements -- Country Living


• Have plenty of sweet-smelling rose petals on hand for the newlywed's send-off -- The Brit Pack


• Garden benches with beautifully worn pillows are perfect for guests to lounge on -- Shabby Chic


• This floral inspired gown is just as beautiful as the garden itself -- Jim Hjelm


• The wedding cake should be overflowing with fresh cut flowers from the garden -- Martha Stewart


• This invitation is sophisticated and sweet, and certainly reminiscent of an English garden -- FineStationery.com


• Serve cocktails in antique glassware adorned with silk petals or ribbon -- Country Living


• Consider an outdoor venue, rich with fragrant blooms -- Brooklyn Botanical Gardens


• String fabric bunting from a gazebo or garden trellis for simple decor -- Unique Wedding Favours


• Small seed packets tied with raffia bows make for lovely favors -- Craftster