Striped Sipping

Spiraled Shoppe Straws from BHLDNStripes and the color pink together on one of my favorite objects?  Yes, please.

Seeing those straws on the BHLDN website led me to see what other (and less expensive) festive straw options exist.  These red, white and blue striped straws are perfect for the upcoming 4th of July weekend, as are these from the Etsy shop HeyYoYo. These red and white heart straws are perfect for Valentine's Day and I love this gray and white striped option. These would make a functional and cheerful decoration at a wedding or bridal shower, wedding or birthday party.

Banners & Buntings

I love banners and buntings!  My obsession began with a genius idea from Paper Source (my favorite stationery and craft supply store... my post-lawyer career will be opening the first store in Denver).  Last summer I threw my first baby shower and while perusing the Paper Source blog for ideas, I came across this post describing how to make the baby button banner pictured below.  You can purchase all of the items necessary for a similar banner on the Paper Source website: circle cards (in a range of gorgeous colors), 4 inch labels, 2 1/2 inch labels, satin ribbon, and a hole punch.  The only other tool that is helpful (but not absolutely necessary) is a color printer.

Paper Source Button Baby BannerA version of the Paper Source banner that I made for a dear friend's shower

If you'd rather not purchase all of the individual pieces for the banner above, Paper Source also offers easy banner-making kits (more polka dots!).  This one doesn't have letters on it, but you could easily add your own letters to each flag to spell "Happy Birthday" or "Welcome Baby X".  Martha Stewart also has an easy do-it-yourself option here.

Paper Source Polka Dots Flag Kit

Etsy is an excellent if the "do it yourself" option is not for you.  Below are a few of the available banners that I found and liked.  I think this is a great way to add a little color and festiveness to a party or gathering.  Another great option is available from the Acme Party Box company.  Not only do they sell cute buntings in a variety of prints (see below), but you also order a party box in a particular theme that arrives on your doorstep containing invitations, linens, tableware, favors and centerpieces.  It can be overwhelming to cook and prepare for a dinner party with eight people, let alone to have time to decorate... why not let someone else take care of the decorating for you?

Rodeo Birthday Banner (a nod to my Colorado lifestyel)Happy Birthday Banner

Fabric BuntingJust Married!Acme Party Company's Chocolate Tangerine Party BoxAcme Party Box Company's Moroccan Bunting

White Voile Bunting from Cox & Cox - a classic and simple option that would fit well at any party or weddingUnion Jack Bunting from Cox & Cox - the perfect decoration for your royal wedding gathering!