Cupcakes & Confetti

Dahlias

While many flowers have bloomed its' last bloom, dahlias continue to thrive through the first frost, so September is a perfect time to incorporate dahlias into a centerpiece. Whether a centerpiece for your home or a party, the dahlias large and colorful blooms are always gorgeous and delightful. We love the rich tones that they come in, which are perfect for fall.

BHG//Ruffled
Martha Stewart//Amy Merrick Flowers & Styling
Waterwaif

Gift Ideas for New Parents

When a baby is born, usually the first thought is to get a gift for the baby. The gift is usually an adorable outfit or a hat and booties, but don't forget about celebrating the new parents too. Shouldn't they receive a gift for what they have accomplished and for what they are about to embark on? It's unexpected and we're sure the parents will appreciate it. Here are some gift ideas for new parents that we came up with.

newborn baby boy photography Brienne Michelle

Via Baby Lifestyles//Photography by Brienne Michelle

1. Meals
    When you are a new parent, you barely can find the time to grab a snack, let
    alone prepare a nice meal. Whether you make a meal for the new parents or
    buy one for them. We know that filling their tummies will fill their hearts
    too.
2. Parenting Books + Journals
    We think books are great gifts for any occasion. A book on children's health
    is a great option, because parents always have questions about that.  We
    also love this modern trio of baby journals (pictured below) from Big &
    Mighty. There is so much to keep track of when having a baby including
    feeding schedules and well visits to the pediatrician. You also want to
    document those precious moments of the first smile and steps too and that's
    why journals make a wonderful gift.
3. Photo Session
    Find an amazing local photographer and purchase a gift certificate for a
    photo session. The photo session could be used for a family photo shoot or
    just for the new baby. Whatever they choose, we are sure this gift will be
    something that is treasured for years to come.
4. Sleep
    Every new parent will tell you that sleep is a much valued commodity. Offer
    to come over for an hour or two to watch the new baby so that the new Mom
    and Dad can simply take a nap. Trust me as a Mom of two this is a much
    needed and desired gift.
5. Spa Day
    Many Moms find it difficult to carve out a little time to focus on themselves.
    Giving a gift certificate to a local spa will allow Mommy to take a some time
    to pamper herself with a massage, mani, pedi or whatever she chooses.

Wedding Weekend

Dara is headed for her second weekend in a row of weddings. I'm sure she will be dancing the night away with friends. After the wedding, she and her man are headed to his home state of Illinois to see the sights of Chicago. It's such a great city and I know that they will have a fabulous time there.

As for me, I am planning to just head to a local craft show. Hopefully I will find some treasures there to gift or to keep. How is your weekend shaping up?

Green Wedding Shoes

{Fall Party Palette} Brown + Red

Fall is on its' way and I can hardly wait. It's my favorite time of year and the season is filled with so much inspiration for me. The sights, sounds and smells of fall warms my soul. I was married in the fall and my first child was born in the fall, so yes, fall holds a special place in my heart. Red + brown is the first of several fall party palettes that we will be sharing.

HWTM//Sugar Crafters
Romwe//Sugar and Cloth
La Garconne//Wit & Whistle

Bar Carts

Since we love to entertain, we are obsessed with bar carts right now. It's the perfect movable space to mix and store all your favorite drinks, glasses and mixing tools. If my dining room wasn't currently being used as a play room, I would put a chic bar cart in that room. These stylish and fun bar carts from Society Social caught our eyes. Aren't the illustrations and the product names just fabulous? The Hostess drink cart comes in a variety of vibrant colors including purple, indigo and yellow. Which bar cart is your fave?