Wedding Guest Etiquette

It's wedding season, and if you haven't already gotten an invitation to a ceremony, you can probably expect one soon. Here are ten tips for being an exceptional wedding guest.

1. Always send your reply card.
Even if the bride or groom is your sibling, send the card back or hand it to them in person. When it's time to tally up the headcount, they shouldn't have to make any phone calls to double check that you'll be there.

2. Never wear white. 
Not even cream, ivory, or ecru. The only exception is if the bride and groom specifically requests that their guests wear white (which is becoming a trend). Otherwise, it's actually better to wear black to a wedding than white, lest you receive the death stare from the bride's mother.

3. Don't wear anything too sexy.
This should go without saying, but you'd be surprised. If you're unsure, wear a classic piece, like a sheath dress, and punctuate it with great jewelry.

4. Bring your intended "plus one."
If you have to make a change, notify the bride in advance, as she may be having place cards printed.

5. Stay out of the photographer's way.
You may be tempted to pull out your phone or camera to capture the bride coming down the aisle or the happy couple's first kiss, but you might end up blocking the perfect shot for the photographer. Instead, just be in the moment and look at the pro's pics when the couple gets them back.

6. Always send a gift.
Even if you can't make it to the ceremony, wedding etiquette dictates that you send a gift anyway. 

7. Stick to the registry.
This is kind of a no-brainer, especially for the wedding (not so much for the shower, especially if you're close to the bride and want to get her something meaningful). Do the bride and groom a favor and have the gift shipped rather than bringing it to the ceremony.

8. Sit where you're told at the reception. 
If you've ever planned a wedding or big event, you know what a pain in the butt putting together a seating chart can be. Respect the bride's wishes and sit at whatever table she places you.

9. Don't drink too much.
A wedding is not the place to relive those glory days of college. Have fun, drink champagne, but know your limit.

10. Stay until the cake cutting.
It's always hard to gauge when it's the right time to call it a night, but a good rule of thumb is to wait until after the bride and groom have cut the cake. And when you do leave, make sure you thank the bride and groom, or a member of their immediate family.

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Fight Hunger with Feedie

We've all, at some point, posted a picture of a meal on social media, whether we were bragging about our own culinary triumphs or showing off the avocado toast from our favorite brunch spot. I recently learned of an app called Feedie that will actually feed hungry children when such snaps are posted. All you have to do is download the app, connect it to your social media accounts, and snap a pic of your meal every time you dine at a participating restaurant, then Feedie will make a donation equal to one meal to The Lunchbox Fund. Right now it's only available in a few cities, so if there aren't any participating eateries in your town, go to the Feedie website and request that your favorite restaurants where you live get involved. 

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6 Ways to Reuse Wrapping Paper Scraps

Even if you carefully measure every inch of wrapping paper you will inevitably be left with a pile of scraps when everything is wrapped. Instead of throwing all those precious bits of colorful paper away, use them to make something fabulous. 

1. Tear, cut or shred the scraps even further and mix with glitter and sequins to make confetti. 

2. Use them to decoupage projects. 

3. Fill glass ornaments with the scraps and use to trim next year's tree. 

4. Use them to accent scrapbook pages. 

5. Grab some glue and a blank canvas and create a Matisse-inspired work of art. 

6. If the pieces are big enough, cut into circles or squares, get them laminated, and use as coasters at next year's holiday party. 

Holiday Help

From party hosting tips to fun and creative ways to wrap gifts, these are a few of my favorites things (pun absolutely intended) to make the holiday season even merrier. 

    1. Christmas breakfast can be just as special as Christmas dinner; assemble this breakfast casserole the night before and throw it in the oven while you open gifts, or whip up these super easy scones the morning of and the whole house will smell heavenly.


2. 'Tis the season to pop, fizz, clink! Save space in the fridge by chilling your champagne this way in mere minutes. And don't forget about a signature cocktail. 

3. If you run out of wrapping paper, or just want to mix things up, these gift wrapping ideas are festive and pretty, and you probably already have everything  you need on hand.  

4. Setting up a crafts station at the kids' table is a great way to keep little ones busy while the adults mingle.

5. No time to bake for the holiday cookie exchange? Transform store-bought cookies and present them on a pretty platter. 

    6.  From where to place the food tables to when to get dressed, every detail matters when you're hosting a gathering. And if you need food or decor inspiration, here are 101 festive suggestions.

    7. You can't go wrong with homemade gifts. Make flavored coffee--think cinnamon and cloves for an aromatic Christmas blend--and bag it up to give to family and friends. Or whip up a batch of Holiday Cookie Body Scrub, put it in a jar, and tie a ribbon around it.   

Shopbop Friends & Family for Mom and Baby

1. Books With Style This Little Piggy Went To Prada   2. C. Wonder Animal Coaster Set    3. Gift Boutique Rablabs Aro Photo Frame    4. Gift Boutique Crowned Bear Head Container    5. Kate Spade New York Cheetah Ikat 17 Month Agenda   6. Pinch Provisions Minimergency Kit For Moms    7. Lesportsac Ryan Baby Bag

It's the Shopbop Friends & Family Sale time, those precious three days when you can take an extra 25% off your purchase! Now's the time to stock up on winter essentials, or pick up that handbag you've had your eye on. Since I've got a couple of friends who are pregnant or recently had a baby, I'm looking at possible gifts for them. Here are several sweet ideas.

1. A book of nursery rhymes for a tiny fashionista.
2. Adorable animal coasters that are perfect to hang on a wall in the nursery.
3. A frame to house the little angel's first photo.
4. Something whimsical and fairytale-like to hold the wee lamb's treasures.
5. A fabulous way for new mommies to keep track of baby's doctor's appointments and play dates.
6. Emergency provisions for moms on the go.
7. A stylish, practical, and gender-neutral baby bag.  

What's on your shopping list? Hurry, the sale is over tomorrow! And don't forget to use code FAMILY25 at checkout.

10 Ways to Help Out a New Mom

According to statistics, more women give birth in the month of September than any other month of the year. If you happen to know someone who is having a baby this month, or whenever, show her some love by lending a hand with the new baby and around the house. As a mommy of two little ones, I can assure you she will appreciate it. 

1. Mommy may not want to leave her tiny bundle right away, but she may not object to a nap or hot shower. Offer to come and sit with the baby while she catches up on some Zs. And if the baby is napping too, see if the dishwasher needs emptying or bottles need washing.

2. Cook or bake a dish that will keep in the fridge or freezer in case she doesn't get around to eating it right away. Give her a call first to find out if there are any dietary restrictions, especially if she's nursing, and find out a good time to drop it off.

3. When mom is ready, pick her up for a quick mani/pedi or to grab a cup of tea. She'll appreciate the break from her wee lamb, but won't be gone long enough to send her into a panic about leaving the baby.

4. After 40 weeks of anticipation, lots of mommies like to send a birth announcement. Show up at her place ready to stuff and seal envelopes and attach stamps. It's a little gesture that she'll no doubt appreciate. And if she's not sending birth announcements, she's likely sending thank you cards for all the gifts she's received for baby; take care of those for her.

5. Bring mom some reading material to peruse as she recovers from giving birth, especially if she's had a C-section. Nothing too long or intense, as she'll likely not have time for it; think fashion or gossip mags.

6. Offer to do baby's laundry for the first few weeks. It's a big commitment, but one that will be greatly appreciated by any new mommy. 

7. When you're out running errands, text mom to see if there are any errands you can take care of for her. 

8. If there are older siblings in the house, let mom know you can pick them up from school or get them on the weekend for some time at the park or somewhere else really fun. Mom will appreciate the bonding time with the baby, and the kids will have a chance to get out and run around--something they may not have had a chance to do since baby's arrival. 

9. Offer your assistance when baby is a few weeks old. During the first week or two, new moms get bombarded with help, but things die down shortly thereafter, so show up ready to help when the new momma may need it most.

10. Whether she's gushing over her sweet little lamb or ranting about sore nipples and lack of sleep, listen. And do so without judging or forcing your unsolicited opinion on her. New moms go through a ton of physical, emotional, and hormonal changes, so having a good friend to lean on is always a comfort.

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7 Super Sweet Thank You Cards

I'm a big believer in giving thank you cards as opposed to sending texts or emails (see here for tips on writing the perfect thank you note), and I like to keep a variety of sweet cards on hand at all times so I can give them as needed. These cards are just so cute and colorful, I want to add each one to my collection.

Ever So Grateful

Merci Beaucoup

Not a Cell Phone

Cat-Eye Glasses

Mahalo

Multilingual

So Sweet of You

Father's Day Gift Guide

1. Kiehl's "Ultimate Man" Body Scrub Soap-on-a-Rope  2. H&M Pajama Pants   3. Chillsner 2-pack  4. Daddy Lotto Tickets  5. Leather-Strapped Canteen & Lunchbox Set  6. Filmography of Cars Poster  7. DIY Furniture 2: A step-by-step guide   8. J. Crew Abingdon Travel Kit  9. Grill Scout by Mouth  10. Spicebomb by Viktor & Rolf 

Perhaps because it's lumped together with graduation (you know, the whole "dads and grads" thing), but for some reason Father's Day never gets quite as much love as Mother's Day. Still, dads deserve a great gift too, so whether he's your dad or your husband, your brother or your boyfriend, let the father in your life know he means the world to you with a cool gift made especially for him.

1.  He's probably not thinking about how rough his elbows and feet are, so help him out with this body scrub.
2.  Every man should own a nice pair of pajama pants.
3.  Because sometimes a cold beer is essential to his happiness.
4.  A major hookup that includes get-out-of-chores-free tickets and more.
5.  A hard-working papa deserves an extra special lunch box.
6.  All the coolest cars from film and television (including a time-traveling DeLorean) on one poster.
7.  For the DIY guy in your life.
8.  Whether he knows it or not, every man needs a good toiletry/travel bag.
9.  For the gourmand father: grilling sauces, marinades, rubs, and even a bacon-infused mayo.
10.Spicy and slightly sweet, every man should smell this good.

Cool (and Affordable) Gifts for Mom

1. Backwards in High Heels    2. Garance Dore for Rifle Paper Co. Oui Pocket Notebooks    3. Caudalie Divine Oil    4. Floral Eye Mask    5. Capwell + Co. Seven Stone Metalized Necklace    6. Drogas Chocolates Money on Honey    7. Stripes & Bars Chiffon Scarf    8. IKEA Fyllig Vase    9. Royal Botanicals Bath Soak    10. West Elm Mirrored Tray  

Mother's Day is less than five weeks away, which means now is the time to start thinking about a gift...like, today. Here are a few gift ideas that will surely make you mom's favorite. Plus, they're cool enough to give to all your girlfriends who are mommas too. 

1. Reading material to remind her why being a woman is so awesome.
2. Sweet notebooks that she can take anywhere.
3. The most amazing smelling body/face/hair oil ever.
4. An adorable sleep mask that'll ensure sweet dreams.
5. A statement necklace is always a good idea.
6. A delightful combination of wildflower honey caramel plus dark chocolate plus fleur de sel--possibly the best gift ever.
7. A gorgeous scarf that you can borrow.
8. A sleek and modern vase to house the flowers Mom will undoubtedly get on May 11. 
9. A beautiful bottle filled with a heavenly bath soak. 
10. A functional mirrored tray upon which Mom can display her jewelry or serve mimosas.

Must Have: Celebration Pencils from Miss Poppy Design

How adorable are these pencils from Miss Poppy Design? I've just got to have a set of my own, but I'm thinking they'll be perfect gifts for girlfriends too.

Lovely and Affordable Gifts for the Host

1. Forged Metal Cheese Knife Set  2. Jo Malone Pine & Eucalyptus Candle  3. Gift Boutique Princess Bottle Stopper  4. Bubbly Decanter   
5. Winter Cocktails: Mulled Ciders, Hot Toddies, Punches, Pitchers, and Cocktail Party Snacks  6. Dean & Deluca Acacia Black Truffle Honey  7. Rifle Paper Company Polka Dot Recipe Box  8. Harrington Pillar Holder  9. Personalized Leather Wine Bag  10. Mistletoe Print  11. Belvoir's Elderflower Pressé  12. Faux Croc Aqua Tray  13. Heart Cutting Board  14. Godiva Ultimate Dessert Truffles  15. Zebra Bar Tool Set

Your party host has no doubt dedicated countless hours to cleaning up, prepping and plating food, creating the perfect playlist, and finding a festive ensemble to wear, all so that you can have a fabulous evening. Say thank you by spoiling your gracious host with a gift that is as affordable (hello!--a cheese knife set or leather wine bag for around $25 each!) as it is chic.

Sweet Gifts for Baby

Shopping for loved ones at Christmastime is already a joy in itself, but shopping for babies at Christmastime, or any time really, is even sweeter. Everything is so tiny and soft, and just so yummy! Here, nine utterly adorable gifts to make your baby gurgle and coo this holiday season.

This teddy bear bank is as chic as it is practical.  
A sweet print with a lovely message for your little one.
Baby will be comfy and cozy on this cushy nap mat.
Onesies in fun colors will keep baby merry and bright all year long. 
Chunky knits to keep little one toasty and warm. 
The most adorable little leggings for little hipsters.
Colorful moccasins to make toddling around stylish and fun. 
A precious book to teach your beloved about friendship.
Something soft and cuddly for long car trips, nap time, doctor visits...

Pretty Gift Wrapping Ideas

'Tis the season for giving presents, and one of my favorite things about the holidays is wrapping gifts in lovely paper and ribbon and making them look all pretty and festive. Here are four ideas for wrapping prezzies, should you find yourself without proper gift wrap, or you just want people to think you're terribly clever and inventive. And none of them really scream "Christmas!" so they'll work for any holiday or occasion.   

Magazine pages: The fun part about wrapping a gift with magazine pages is feeling all arts'n'craftsy. Tear pages with a common color or theme. For example, rip out pages that have any shade of purple, or only pages that have lipstick ads, etc. Since you have to tape the pages together before you start wrapping, I recommend you only do this for smaller gift boxes.

Brown paper: There's a reason the song says "brown paper packages tied up with string, these are a few of my favorite things." Brown paper packages look really nice when tied up with pretty ribbon or even striped baker's twine. And since it's like a blank canvas you can write a special note to the recipient, or decorate it with glitter or festive scrapbook appliques. The options really are endless.

Newspaper: Newspaper is surprisingly pretty when it's dressed up with shiny bows. Black and white pages always look chic, but you can also make it more playful and use the colorful comic pages. Another option is to use a page with some sort of picture that fits the giftee's personality or hobbies, like this football pic for the sports enthusiast.  

Foil: Because it's shiny and silver (which makes it perfect for holiday gift giving, no?), foil, along with any pretty colored or patterned ribbon, makes for a fancy-looking prezzy. I recommend heavy duty foil as it's thicker and more like metallic wrapping paper than the thinner, flimsier regular foil.

photos by Angelica Golden

Must Have: Give It to Me Tags from Typo

How cute are these gift tags from Typo? So pretty and grown-up; far more chic than the jolly Santa and snowman, 50-to-a-pack sticky labels I usually buy this time of year. These are pricier--they're around $7 for 10 tags--so I'll be reserving these beauties for special family and friends.

10 Super Pretty Mother's Day Cards

I just love these cards for Mother's Day; they're so pretty and nothing at all like what you'd find at Target or a drugstore. 

Night Owl Paper Goods

Rifle Paper Co.

Sugar Paper Los Angeles

Daisy from Luxe Paperie

Smock Paper

www.treat.com

Paper Source

Rock Scissor Paper

Rifle Paper Co.

Sugar Paper Los Angeles

Cool Gifts for Guys

My husband's birthday is at the end of the month and I've yet to even look at a potential gift. Last year I bought him a brand new set of fancy golf clubs, which will be hard to top, but fortunately, my guy is pretty low maintenance and won't expect anything too grand.  Still, it's nice to spoil the people you love with nice prezzies, so I've rounded up a few things I think any guy would love.

For the style savvy dude, The Mr. Porter Paperback will be much appreciated.
Not just any headphones, wireless TV headphones so prince charming doesn't disturb his sleeping beauty.
Facial scrubs and hand creams can be intimidating for men, but this hygiene kit is totally guy-friendly.
If he's trying to improve his swing, a talking golf caddy might do the trick. 
Coasters that a guy will not only like, but actually use.
A bow tie in a classic color combo is must for every man.
A little encouragement in the form of a paperweight.  
An electric meat smoker that's a little less expensive than a traditional smoker. Plus this one also roasts meat.
The big game will be even better with home-brewed beers on hand. 

DIY Sugar Scrub Bon-Bons

The idea of sugar scrub in a convenient, single-use form is already extremely brilliant (no messy, sticky globs of sugar and oil to clean up and no shower water dripping into the jar) but when it looks like colorful little candy, it's even more appealing. With several birthdays, bridal showers, and countless other celebrations happening in the next few months, I’m thinking these sugar scrub bon-bons will be the perfect sweet little something to give to girlfriends. I’ll dye them different colors, then put them in candy boxes and tie a pretty ribbon them.

DIY Sugar Scrub Bon-Bons
1 tbsp oil (I used olive, but other oils, such as grapeseed or coconut, will work as well)
2 tbsp soap shreds (a steak knife works well to create the soap shreds)
4 tbsp sugar
essential oil (optional)

Heat oil and soap in microwave for 15 seconds, then stir. Repeat this step until the soap is melted. Slowly stir in the sugar and mix to create a crumbly, dough-like consistency. Add food coloring of your choice, or leave it white. If you're using essential oil, add it now, two drops at a time until you have the desired fragrance. I used a bar of Dove soap, which smells divine on its own so I didn't need essential oil. Now use a melon baller to shape into cute little bon-bons.  This recipe yielded 14 bon-bons, so you can double or triple as needed. 

photography by Angelica Golden