jackson’s debut

As you know, we welcomed a beautiful, new little man in our lives at the end of July. While we are adjusting to life at home with 3, it can be quite busy and stressful at times, but the priceless time of having a baby is fleeting and we are trying to take it all in. Yesterday, Jackson was smiling and cooing as I was talking to him, and I had tears of pure joy in my eyes. I was so incredibly happy as he looked at me with so much love and wonder. So, in light of my blissful {and sleep deprived} state, I wanted to share some pics of our family photo shoot back in August. The talented Meredith of Meredith Moran Photography, drove up from Denver to spend the day with us. After many poop stained blankets {during the naked shots, Jackson’s insides were definitely working}, and unsuccessful props {Jackson refused to sleep most of the shoot, especially posed in a cowboy boot and cowboy hat} Mer was able to capture some great shots. Here’s a sneak peek.

 

For those of you interested in a family photo session, Meredith is offering Tutto Bella readers $50 off a mini photo session. Just mention our blog, and you can schedule a 1.5 hour session {and cd of images} for only $99. And since its time to order holiday cards, once you get your adorable photos, call Jenna and Jodi at Fleur de Lis to order your holiday cards today. Even if you live out-of-state, they will design and/or find a card perfect for your family.  And, lucky you, Fleur de Lis, is offering 20% off all orders through the month of October.

{images via Meredith Moran Photography}

Kite Party Ideas

When we received this party from Lucy, Lucy Munoz Photography, our hearts were happy. We were quickly reminded about the beautiful innocence of childhood, and that we as adults often get caught up in the ‘little’ things and forget how to have fun and see the beauty in all things. With four little ones and one on the way between the three of us sisters, we need to really take a step back everyday and observe with grateful hearts that our children’s world is filled with wonder and beauty, and we need to nourish that joy for life…for them and us.

As told by Lucy, photographer and party planner: The party’s conception really started with a poem by Robert Frost called Nothing Gold Can Stay. It’s a well-known poem to many as it was a pivotal message in the book “The Outsiders.” It speaks about how everything inevitably changes and moves forward, unstoppable with the passage of time. Yet it gives an even bigger message of keeping our amazement for life while living it wide-eyed, receptive and open.

“Nature’s first green is gold, Her hardest hue to hold. Her early leaf’s a flower; But only so an hour. Then leaf subsides to leaf, So Eden sank to grief, So dawn goes down to-day Nothing gold can stay.”
— Robert Frost

With that in mind I set off to celebrate everything that children stand for: innocence, happiness, joy, and wonder. Our party was overtaken with things that remind us of our childhood–from jump ropes to watermelon there was something for everyone. We started the party playing hot potato and freeze dance. Then the kids ate pizza and had a choice of desserts that indulged their sweet tooth. We also had pictures of our little guests that captured them in moments throughout the year.

Overall, our Stay Gold Party reminded all of us, both young and old, that youth is fleeting, but living with a childlike openness can be forever.


VENDOR LOVE
Photography: Lucy Munoz Photography

Rapunzel Birthday Party

My kids love the movie Tangled, so when Renee of Renee Marie Photography, shared this darling party with us, I was smitten. All the DIY details are charming and so well-coordinated with the beloved movie. Not one detail was spared for this special birthday celebration.

This fairytale inspired party summoned everyone to ‘Let down their hair’ as they were transformed into Rapunzel’s Tangled wonderland. Talented DIY Mom, Theresa, almost exclusively created and styled each amazing detail with the help of her sister and the party girl’s Aunt, Sandy.

From sunshine cookies, and paint brushes made from pretzel rods and chocolate, to Flynn and Rapunzel jello boats and apples for Maximus, the sweet treats were delightful. The incredible donut and cupcake tower was the perfect centerpiece that ended in a 6 foot trail of ‘golden locks’ that Theresa hand braided (she is also a hair stylist so her skills were well put to use)!

The party guests each arrived in princess attire and were entertained by Rapunzel herself who led them in story telling, singing and face painting. Guests each were given their own special paint sets packaged in handmade bags created by Lorena of BellisimaSofia on Etsy.

VENDOR LOVE
Photography: Renee Marie Photography
Favor Bags: BellisimaSofia

tutu cute

Tulle. Tutu. Sparkles. Poms. Pink.

Sounds like a party fit for a beautiful ballerina…happy birthday, ballerina Carson!

Thanks to Karey at Orange Blossom Photography for sharing all the pretty in pink details with us.

Everything from the decor to the treats was done by Elle & Em Party Design (Carson’s mom is the Elle part of the business)! Tulle tutu’s were made for all the little ballerina’s in attendance, and they danced around under colorful poms that were strung throughout the yard.

VENDOR LOVE
Photography: Orange Blossom Photography
Planner: Elle and Em Party Design

 

bake sale

I LOVE to bake…and I LOVE to eat baked goods. I could easily be extremely overweight I love them so much. Thankfully, I have some self-control. So, knowing all that, it’s no surprise I love BAKE SALES.

I remember baking cookies and cupcakes with my mom to raise money for my school and sports teams…and now the tables have turned and just this summer, I was baking for my son’s school fundraiser {the first of many, I’m sure}.

With these delicious treats, you will be the queen of the bake sale…and rake in the big bucks!!

Pencil Push Pops, Bakerella

Apple Cupcakes, Martha Stewart


Cupcake Cones
, Taste of Home


Rice Krispies Dipper Treats
, Rice Krispies


Glazed Doughnut Muffins
, My Baking Addiction


Slutty Brownies
…definitely RENAME before arriving at school, The Londoner


Mini Berry Pie
, Martha Stewart

Once you’ve made your delicious treats, don’t forget to spend the time on presentation! View these tips from the super talented Amy Atlas and if your making cupcakes {not on a cone}, and want cute and easy packaging, be sure to visit Lisa Storms site here.

{images via BakerellaMartha Stewart, Taste of Home, Rice Krispies, My Baking Addiction, The Londoner}