Bibs, Blues and Banners - A DIY Baby Shower Part Two

In my earlier post (Part 1),  the baby shower we celebrated was a beautiful blend of ideas and inspirations for sweet baby Logan!  When all the pictures are taken at the shower, it captures the celebration but it doesn't share the preparation and the work (albeit enjoyed).  In Part two of this DIY series, I want to share with you a few projects and plans we made before the actual event, give you tips and ideas on how to create a one of a kind celebration and how to put your own personal touch to the day.

Use a square plate or a basket to collect the wishes

Let's get started with the preparation.  Our shower was to be held in July.  The timeline for invitations, whether email, evite or snail mail, the invitations need to be given 5-6 weeks in advance. So this means getting the guest list is one of the top priorities in preparation.  For our shower, we actually did both paper invitations from tiny prints and evites through paperless post.  We chose to send both because first, not all guests respond to emails (think older like great-grandmothers) and through emails, you can send reminders.  It's a win-win for everybody.  We also chose tiny prints as they had more of the design styles we liked and also we were printing "Wishes for Baby" that coordinated with the paper invitations. We chose "Wishes for Baby" instead of advice for the new momma so it would remain positive and encouraging.  Use a square plate or a basket to hold the wishes and for a fun touch, I ordered Sharpie markers in the coordinating blue from amazon.



The first project was the mantle...Banners are the theme of the day. Whether they are burlap, paper or fabric; they become the focal point of the room, the celebrations.  Sometimes when the banners are hung from a mantle, the everyday decor is removed and nothing is added or the decor is still there but doesn't coordinate and compliment the banner.  To redecorate a mantle can be costly and frankly, you may love your mantle decor. I know I love mine!!  For celebrations, we want to find easy, inexpensive and elegant.  So here's what we did....

The Mantle was created with treasure {thrift} store vases, glass jars, glass candle holders and Krylon Sea Glass Spray. We gathered several jars and vases that were different in shape and size.  Using the sea glass spray in blue created harmony between all the glass.  Here are a few tips on spray painting glass--

*Use a box larger than the jars/vases and turn the box on it's side to create a back drop to catch the spray.
*Spray in a slow, continuous motion.
*Use several light coats to build up color.  let dry in between sprays.
*You can spray a sealer but it is not necessary.
*Turn the jar by reaching in the opening of the jar and moving it.
*Try not to touch the jar when wet; it will remove the paint and you will need to respray.

I found at the blue candlesticks at Hope's Closet in Florida- a beautiful treasure {thrift} store that benefits missions in Africa and around the world.  No matter where I am, I try to visit these stores and hope to find treasures as well as helping others.  The candles were the battery operated ones that had an ombre look.   Seashells were added as they are always a part of my home!! And the silver platter - always on the mantle and yes, it came from a treasure store!! Project one and done!!

Stay tuned for Part three of the Bibs, Blues and Banners which will feature an etched mirror, appliqués bibs and more.

Until next time, I hope you found treasure that just might need a little spray of color!!!