The A is for Addalyn first birthday brunch featured many watercolor elements through the whole event--the invitations, the nut cups, the sugar cookies, the thank-you cards, and even the ribbon used to wrap the present.

First birthdays aren't about the kid--we all know that.  It's a chance to gather the family and friends and celebrate with those who love the little one.  There's no need to choose a particularly juvenile theme for first birthdays.  That realization is what inspired the A is for Addalyn first birthday brunch.

I don't usually post on Sundays, but I just whipped up an amazing Cheddar Beer Broccoli au Gratin for lunch, and had to share.

Recipe for homemade soft pretzel bites and beer-cheese dipping sauce.

Since I shut down Tradewind Tiaras to focus on Tikkido and blogging, it occurred to me that I should share some of the tips and tricks I figured out over the years in the bridal business and help some DIY brides.  Today I'm going to start with an easy tutorial for making crystal stems.

How to make and decorate easy apple shaped sugar cookies using royal icing.

When I started posting the tutorials on how to make the teeny tiny tea set cupcake toppers, Suzanne from Fanciful Events contacted me and asked if I might be able to make a circus-themed version for an upcoming party she's styling.  Challenge accepted!

My Kia Sedona minivan had plenty of capacity (I loved the space), but it died a horrible, complete death 2,000 miles after it was out of warrantee. Two months after it had been at the dealer for regular maintenence and an inspection. Have not had a response back from Kia.

The first time I made my miniature gumpaste tea set cupcakes, I covered the entire cupcake with a circle of gumpaste so it resembled a tablecloth of sorts.

Making the teacups for the tea party cupcake toppers requires nimble fingers, but not a whole lot of artistic ability.