Flowers on a Budget

Last weekend I was in Boothbay Harbor, Maine with fun folks to celebrate a milestone birthday for one of my dearest friends. She asked me to make a centerpiece for the birthday dinner table and that the color scheme was pink and orange. 

I went to WILSON FARM, but you can go to Whole Foods to get a huge assortment of fresh cut flowers to make your own party arrangements. It is SO affordable and the end result is stunning. Be sure to mix textures to add interest to the arrangement.

The base is a milk glass compote that I got at a tag sale for $7. I found a similar one (below) for $14 HERE. I then take a piece of floral foam, cut it to size, soak it in water and get to work.

Beach Birthday for Lily

Lily

I was introduced to Shira through one of my Boston pals. She has become a devoted follower of my blog and emailed me looking for some fun ideas for her daughter's birthday. Since Shira and her family live in Florida, she is planning a party by the pool in October. (Ummm....jealous here in Boston where we are thinking about fleece!)

The evite from COCODOT

The fabric from CALICO CORNERS as a runner over a simple blue tablecloth.

NAPKIN RINGS that are so fun and give me flash backs to the 80's on Cape Cod.

These napkins from PREPPY PRINCESS

These cute MINI LANTERNS  in white for votives on the table.

For place cards, menus and other fun details I love this downloadable set from PLUM PARTY.

MASON JARS for the flowers with a mix of blue and white hydrangeas.

Personalized BEACH THEME cookies in wrapped in cello bags with a blue ribbon for each guest as a party favor. I would monogram with Lily's initials.

Lily loves dolphins and the color blue, so I thought this PINATA would be perfect for her. 

To fill the pinata, how about these SILLY BANDS

And assorted ocean themed CANDY

Some cute stuffed DOLPHIN toys

Rather than one large cake, I would create a cupcake tower with fish inspired cupcakes. I am sure your local bakery can come up with something similar to these from COCO CAKE CUPCAKES.

Shira - I hope this provides some fun ideas and Happy Birthday Lily!

Images: Eddie Ross, Wedding Bee

Outdoor Decor

What out Martha, BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS has some creative ways to use pumpkins for outdoor decor. I love the idea of incorporating a few of these ideas and hosting a cozy fall fete for your friends. Go to their website for all of the "how tos".

Local Scoop: Block Island

My dear friend, Erika, and her sister, Ellen (along with the rest of their family) have been going to Block Island for over thirty years. They were kind enough to share their favorite spots. September through mid-October is a perfect time to go for the weekend - so book a trip!

Erika (on Block Island)

Ellen

Best Spot for Lunch:

The porch on the historic NATIONAL HOTEL has beautiful views, good food and is right in the center of town. 

Heading to the beach? Grab your sun block and a sandwich from THREE SISTERS. 

Best Spot for Cocktails:

Sitting on the veranda at the ATLANTIC INN

or the SPRING HOUSE

Best Spot for Dinner (With the Kids):

SHARKY'S is a hit with the kids and the adults. 

Or the BEACHEAD

Best Spot for Dinner (When You Have a Sitter):

Enjoy a gourmet meal and take in the scenic views at HOTEL MANISSES.

Best Spot for Ice Cream:

Who doesn't love ice cream? A day on Block Island is not complete without a trip to ALDO'S BAKERY. They have a huge selection of delicious ice cream and gelato. 

Best Spot for Donuts:

Erika and Ellen said that PAYNE'S DOCK killer donuts are a must and so I had to add it to the post. 

Best Spots to Take the Kids:

With 17 miles of beaches, Block Island has endless spots to play in the surf.

A walk at Lewis-Dickens Farm.

BALL O'BRIEN Skateboard, Tennis and Basketball Park has something to entertain everyone!

Thanks, ladies!!

Images: About.com, Sea Spary, University of Arkansas, Vittles Vamp, Yelp