Homemade Valentine's Gifts

Ah, Friday...a whole weekend lies ahead.  Whatever your plans are, don't forget about Valentine's Day coming up.  Personally, I love celebrating all 'Hallmark' Holidays; they're a great reason to have fun for a day.  I try not to go overboard and keep my spending limits to a fair minimum.  So, in the interest of having fun while being creatively thrifty, here are few homemade gifts to give to your sweetie this Valentine's Day:

I love the classic Coupon Book.  I remember making these for my parents when I was a kid.

Last year, I took a handful of conversation hearts, arranged them in sentences and glued them to construction paper for a silly valentine's card.  Cute idea, right?  I think my boyfriend still has it ;)

I'm thinking about making him these for his gift this year.  I'd use nautical maps because he's a big boater.

What man wouldn't want a toy of some kind?  I know it's not homemade but it's under $12 and he could put it together himself.  Or maybe he'd prefer a car or boat.

Even if gifts aren't your thing, you could make this gorgeous flower arrangement.  And the base is filled with Red Hots, to spice things up!


Tell me, Appleshiners, what are your favorite homemade gifts?

Have Cupcakes, Will Travel

Hope you enjoyed your Superbowl Sunday as much as I did.  We spent the day lounging at my friends' three-story townhouse in Jersey City; what a luxury to us cramped New Yorkers.  She prepared a savory spread for us to nibble on while we awaited the big game.  And then we had dinner.  And then dessert.  Whew!

A few of the guests brought their own culinary goodies.  Which got me thinking- aren't there cute, practical ways to transport a homemade dish to the party?  I did a little searching and came up with these good options:

A collapsible mixing bowl that you can use for chips or popcorn.

I love how this cheese platter is self-contained making it easy to carry and store.

Bright prints give a modern twist to the casserole carrier that I remember from my mom's kitchen.

And this vintage-inspired cupcake carrier is just one more reason why you should ALWAYS bring cupcakes to a party.

I also found these great small plates that hold both your appetizers and wine glass.  Problem solved!

Tell me, Appleshiners, how do you take your treats to the party?

Party Seating Solutions

Football, friends...and Madonna.  That just about sums up this coming Sunday.  I'm going to Jersey City for a Superbowl party but if you're hosting your own, here are a few ideas for extra seating when the couch gets full:

The bright color and soft fabric makes this a comfy seat to settle into.

I've always liked the versatility of rattan furniture. It's the right amount of rustic for any space.

A print is fun, especially when you pick a light, neutral color like this shadow gray.

Foldable and iconic, a director's chair is easy to add to any party space.  

Or maybe you want a natural, organic look that doubles great as a side table.

Of course you could always throw a couple large pillows on the floor or pull up a fancy moroccan pouf.  However you do it, make sure you have enough spots for everyone to enjoy the game and the food.  

PS- Since I'm not hostessing this year, I've picked my favorite party dish to bring: buffalo chicken dip.  Delicious, especially with homemade potato chips and celery sticks!

Tell me, Appleshiners, what are your seating solutions?