First birthdays, in fact, all children birthdays, are some of the more memorable events in a person's lifetime. That’s why they are made memorable and precious by having fun and colorful birthday parties. Inviting relatives and friends to your child’s birthday party is one of the more important parts of any birthday celebration.
Your child birthday party was great; the birthday gifts were great; and the birthday party fellowships were great!! Your child, you and everyone is happy! But, after the fellowships, parties and gifts, then comes the dreaded task of sending the personalized children birthday thank you cards. But, writing the adult birthday thank you card does not need to be such a daunting task.
Birthday thank you cards make a statement about your child. His custom thank you cards tell others he / you are caring and kind; appreciative of things that were done for you; you have a high standard of values; and believe that thanking people for their kindness is very important. Thank you cards for birthdays demonstrate that your child and you are the type of person who will go the extra mile at the office or in a relationship.
Proper etiquette suggests that a birthday thank you card be sent to those who have attended the birthday party or for those who have received a birthday gift. Although it is appropriate that your child has verbally thanked the person, a written thank you card should be sent since it will be appreciated and treasured by the gift giver. Here are a few suggestions and hints for writing thank you cards for a birthday:
* Write clearly and concisely
* Be sincere. Your family and friends can usually tell when you aren't being genuine
* Stick on point. Don’t mix other issues with your birthday thank you cards
* Write the thank you card as soon as possible after the birthday party, but no later than two weeks
* Use good, quality, 80 lb Avon Crest cards stock thank you card stock paper
* Handwrite your thank you cards or you can include a nice, sincere, printed text message
* Proofread your birthday thank you cards before sending
With all the kids birthday party celebrations, it can be a real challenge just to keep up! A few sites have an exclusive collection of unique birthday thank you cards to help you. Having thank you cards at your fingertips makes your birthday thank you chores a little more manageable. Children birthday thank you cards are a wonderful way to convey your appreciation and to reflect your thank you. The appealing designs of thank you cards for birthdays range from fun and festive, to traditional and elegant, and are ideal for children birthdays. With a distinctive array of printable thank you cards for all birthday occasions including children, there are some that will be perfect for your needs.
Children birthday party invitations are be organized by ages such as their 1st birthday party theme, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th and by theme such as children pool birthday party, slumber or sleepover birthday party, kids bowling party, Sweet 16, children sports birthday party, older child and teen birthday party invitations and more! The start of any kids birthday party celebration begins with personalized birthday announcements.
There are a few sites with an exclusive collection of thank you cards for kids birthdays, http://www.cardsshoppe.com/thankyoucard_list.asp?catid=2 includes hundreds of options. Select a birthday thank you card theme that best suits your personality and the person to whom you are sending the thank you card. The wording of your affordable birthday thank you cards should be sincere, genuine and reflect your appreciation for the thoughtfulness of the giver or gift. There are no “best” ways to say thank you, simply “thank” the person using your own words. There are lots of suggested and sample children birthday thank you cards wording ideas, sayings for kids birthday thank you cards and wording verses for your personalized thank you cards for first birthdays.
Here’s the best place to buy personalized party thank you cards, Express-Invitations CardsShoppe and Announcements-Shoppe.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Party Thank You Cards for Adult Birthdays and Children Birthdays
Tea Party Celebrations Invitations Cards
You might be surprised to know that tea is the second most consumed refreshment beverage, second ONLY to water? Tea has played a vital role in world politics, wars, literature, romance, and cuisine. To many, tea is the nectar of life, so it is the natural choice to set a tone for a grand party – the Tea Party.
Years ago, there was only one type of tea, black tea, which everyone is familiar with. Now there are teas that range the entire spectrum, like wines. As wine comes from grapes, tea comes from a green plant called Camellia Sinensis. And, like wine, tea’s implanted roots in soil, temperature, climate, altitude and rainfall all contribute to the unique characteristics of each plant and leaf. Because of these factors, there are traditionally five categories of tea: brown or oolong; black; green; pua'erh; white; and herb tea, most recently added.
Because tea is worldwide and its influence spans cultural as well as economic boundaries, there are some tea party invitations representing global customs. The tea party pays homage to established traditions such as the “Garden Party” or “English High Tea”. Others tea party invitations are unconventional, trend setting and outrageously cool. Whatever tea party you choose to host you, your celebration will surely be incredible.
The tea party is subject to your own interpretation. Your tea party can be a lavish, formal affair or a more intimate and casual gathering of friends. You can incorporate your favorite things into the tea party experience. Use your favorite linens, maybe even cloth napkins, tea wares, serving pieces and tableware that define you. You can add fresh flowers on your tables or even single rose stems in appropriate glasses. Create a nighttime Tea Party and add candles or tea lights for an added ambience.
Your choices for your tea party are simple matter of taste. Regardless of the type tea party you choose to have, it will be lots of fun from start to finish. So sit down, relax and make your mind up to host a tea party and serve what you like. A tea party great fun for everyone!
Here’s some great sites with a large variety of custom tea party invitations, Express-Invitations CardsShoppe and Announcements-Shoppe.
Sweet 16 Birthday Party Celebrations Invitations Cards
Other than the first birthday party, there probably is no party more memorable than a Sweet 16 birthday party. Of course you want to make the Sweet Sixteen birthday party extra special, but might be having lapses for ideas! Not to Worry!! It’s easy enough if you remember that the Sweet 16 birthday party is all about that magic number. For example, how many Sweet Sixteen balloons do you buy? Sixteen, of course!
A Sweet 16 party can be the perfect time for a party, either an all-girls party or for a co-ed party. But, before anything is decided or done, be sure and talk with the Sweet 16 birthday girl to determine what she wants and for her ideas. She might simply want a good old-fashioned slumber or sleepover party or she might be hoping for something much more elegant that announces she is turning Sweet 16 and approaching womanhood.
If you are planning a rather informal Sweet 16 party there is always the ole reliable classic teen foods like pizza, sub sandwiches, nachos, ice cream sundaes and a variety of sodas. For a more elaborate Sweet 16 birthday party, you might want to consider sixteen tiny and delicate birthday cakes surrounding one floral arrangement. Keeping with the 16 theme, you might want to limit the guest list to sixteen friends.
Another unique idea for your Sweet Sixteen Birthday Party is have the guest of honor opens sixteen mystery boxes to find one final gift tucked inside. Or you can have a cluster of small items like sixteen colors of nail polish, sixteen favorite candy bars, sixteen movie tickets or sixteen gift certificates to favorite fast food restaurants.
Your Sweet 16 party is special so your Sweet Sixteen birthday party invitations have to be extra special also. Personalized Sweet 16 party invitations can include any message you want to write and you can choose from a large array of Sweet Sixteen party images. The latest “crave” is to add your photo or picture and have custom photo sweet 16 birthday invitations so your guests, family and friends will have a keepsake for the big event. And, while you are ordering your printed Sweet 16 party invitations, don’t forget to include your matching Sweet 16 birthday thank you cards. You will want to thank all those who’s attended your party, gave your gifts or just contributed to the big day in any way.
Here’s the best sites to find great personalized Sweet 16 birthday party invitations, Express-Invitations CardsShoppe and Announcements-Shoppe.
Surprise Adult Birthday Party Invitations Cards
Having decided that you are the sort of person who can organize a surprise birthday party, and that your birthday boy or girl will appreciate all the efforts, you now need to put plans into motion. It is worth noting that a simple surprise party can be much better than an enormous event, pulling in different strands of work and life so, if in doubt, stick to the safe and simple.
The sooner you can start getting things ready for the surprise birthday party, the more leeway you will have if things go wrong or plans need to be changed suddenly. However, if you can improvise well, and if you are organized, then one of the best ways to plan a surprise party can to do it at the last minute. This has the advantage that there is a very small chance that the birthday boy or birthday girl will find out, and just to see the look on his face will make it all worth it.
If you know the birthday girl / boy well, you can hold the surprise party in a place that has some sort of sentimental value to the person, or to both of you. This will make the birthday honoree happy that, not only did he have a party, but also that you remembered such a thing.
It may be obvious, but if you're planning a surprise birthday party, be sure and invite all of the birthday honoree’s friends, not your friends. To make the surprise even better, especially for a high number birthday dig up some of the friends they haven't seen for many years. Bear in mind it should be those he wants to see, such as old school or college friends, not those he does not want to see. Believe it or not as big numbers come up, if you are close enough to the birthday boy, these names will slip into conversation more frequently.
As for sending personalized surprise birthday party invitations you might try the birthday boy’s address book. Most importantly, ensure the birthday boy doesn’t have other plans on the date and time of the surprise party. Otherwise, the birthday boy might simply not turn up or might find yourself in a situation beloved of sit-coms and advertisements, where the honoree creeps in doing something they shouldn't be doing, probably with someone they shouldn't be with, to be greeted by their entire family and friends.
Regardless of your surprise party plans, the most important person is the assistant who gets the surprise to the right place, at the right time, and in the right condition. Ideally this person should be:
* Someone who has been involved in setting-up the surprise party
* Thoroughly understands the plans
* Has a good chance at making the right guess if anything goes wrong
* But - someone without whom you can manage for that last hour or two.
Misdirection for the Surprise Party
If you organize your surprise birthday party so that the birthday boy has no idea what's going on, you still have a hurdle to face - the birthday boy's feeling of disappointment that no-one has acknowledged his 'special day' can be so enormous that the surprise party is no compensation. There are several options to reduce or eliminate this situation:
* Plan an relatively small party, while at the same time arranging a really big surprise party instead. Hopefully, the birthday boy will be overwhelmed with pleasure by the scale of the real party.
* Arrange a modest outing celebration to take place while the big surprise party is being set up, so one flows into the other to round off the occasion.
* You could even let something slip - accidentally-on-purpose - that isn't really true at all. This is great because it can send them off on a real wild goose chase, while still making sure that they're full of anticipation.
* Alternatively, you could involve the birthday boy in the preparations for the party, under a pretext of course...
Surprise Party Pitfalls to Watch out for
After the planning for the surprise birthday party is underway, there are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
* Don't all huddle in a group and say 'nothing' when asked what's going on. The birthday boy will become suspicious.
* Be careful if you can't spend time with the person you're planning the party for, because you're too busy planning. They might go off in a huff and not turn up to the surprise party.
* Make sure that no obvious clues are left lying around for the birthday boy to spot.
* Always remember that when planning a surprise party, the object is not only to scare them when you all jump out, but also to make them incredibly happy and have a memorable time.
Finding the perfect surprise birthday party invitations is each when you try one of these great sites, Express-Invitations CardsShoppe and Announcements-Shoppe.
Super Bowl Party Celebrations & Sports Party Invitations Cards for Celebrations
Thinking of having a “sports” theme party for someone special who loves sports? Maybe a Super Bowl party, baseball World Series party, National Basketball Championship party, World Cup Soccer championship party or any other type sports. Selecting a sports theme for party makes planning and decoration much easier. Decorate the next super bowl party, league champion celebration or any party for your sports occasions. Sometimes the party theme is clear from the occasion, like holidays. Other times like birthdays, the sports themes, such ideas as football and soccer make great birthday parties for a sports enthusiast. Sports fans will loves the sports theme party invitations available from some websites.
Some sites offer lots of great ideas for all sports party invitations with dozens of unique and cute sports designs cards that can be personalized with any sports wordings or sports sayings you want. Additionally, your sports party invitations can include a picture or photo of your sports star on the sports invitation card. Be sure and order the matching sports party thank you cards when you order the party invitations for sports.
Set the perfect mood for your sports theme party with custom party invitations cards. Whether you’re getting ready for a football game, the baseball playoffs, a big NASCAR race, a golf outing or sports birthday there are sports invitations with the theme you are looking for, such as basketball, baseball, football and more!
For just the right sports party invitations cards, you might try these, Express-Invitations CardsShoppe and Announcements-Shoppe.
Retirement Party Celebrations Invitations Cards, Invitations for Retirement Party
Retirements are cause for special "create memories" parties - they happen only once in a person's life. A celebration is essential. The guest of honor might not feel as young as he once did and, outwardly, might not welcome a celebration. A great theme for any retirement party is "Good Old Days" celebration, where memorabilia from childhood through adulthood is incorporated throughout the entire retirement party. A surprise retirement party is always an option, but the guest of honor might be expecting such a retirement party. Regardless of what you decide, it's bound to turn an important event into a celebration of a lifetime.
These suggestions and ideas can help turn this special party into a memorable celebration for both the honoree and the guests:
Party Time – The guests will usually be able to know what to expect from the retirement party by the time set for the party. If the retirement party starts at 5:00 p.m., it should be a dinner party, but if the retirement party begins at 2:00 p.m., it usually indicates that no meal will be served. However, to be sure all your guests are informed, you should include any information that will be helpful to the guests.
Retirement Party Invitations – You should purchase personalized retirement party invitations that match your retirement party theme and consider adding a photo of the retiree when he were a baby. Your guests will enjoy the personal touch! Use old childhood pictures or newspaper headlines, photocopied in color, saying "Look who's retiring...". For example, "Nifty, Nifty, Look who’s off". Inform guests of the attire, special dress or costumes needed (if applicable) and what kind of gifts, if any, would be welcome.
The personalized retirement invitations should include all the pertinent information the guests would need to know. Here’s some ideas:
* Retirement Open House - "Please drop by between the hours of 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m."
* Retirement Cocktail Party - "Join us for drinks and snacks from 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m."
* Retirement Potluck Dinner - "Please bring your favorite dish. We are eating at 6:00 p.m."
* Surprise Retirement Party - "Park your car a block away and help surprise Barry with a buffet celebration"
Guests – Be sure to contact old school friends, old friends, co-workers and so on, and let them in on the retirement party celebration. If it is a surprise retirement party, be sure and let them know so they will not accidentally spoil the fun!
Retirement Party Theme Ideas – Here are some ideas for retirement party themes:
* Golden Oldies Celebration
* Let the Countdown Begin
* Surprise Retirement Party might include secret mission impossible
* Ensure a camera is available for those "spur of the moment" shots that will not only create lasting memories. You can give all your guests disposable cameras as party favors and let them do their own picture taking.
Gifts at Retirement Party – Guests should be informed in the retirement party invitations whether they should be a gift or now. If you want to allow the guests to bring gifts for the guest of honor, here’s some ideas:
* Ask each guest to bring a small gag gift. This will create entertainment for the guests and probably some embarrassment to the guest of honor. It is ok to ask everyone to chip in a certain amount for one big present to give to the guest of honor
* Donate money to the Retiree’s favorite charity
* Wrap gifts for the Retiree more than once. Everyone will be a big kick out of this and the Retiree will think he’s losing his mind
Golden Oldies - This theme is great for people that were teenagers in the 1950's… or wished they had been - it is not only simple, but easy to arrange, decorate and organize. Send invitations out shaped in the old black 45 record styles, with "Side One" listing the information and "Side 2" listing the directions to the party. Decorate with jukebox style decorations, 45 records, photos of poodle skirts, hula hoops, hot rods. Games can include Bazooka Bubble Blowing Contest, Hula Hoop and Limbo contests, dancing to the Twist and doing the Stroll.
Create signs saying you know the celebrant is getting older, such as:
* “Age is a number, old is in your head"
* "Age isn't important unless you are cheese"
* "Age does not determine who's right, it only determines who's left"
* "You're still on the right side of the grass"
* "You've seen it all, heard it all, done it all, you just can't remember it all"
* "At your age, you've got achy, breaky everything"
Create signs saying you know the celebrant is getting older - The day of the retirement party, hang the signs up for everyone to see. Use a variety of colors of balloons and streamers for simple decorations, decorate according to the season or the celebrants' hobbies. Create a festive atmosphere rather than the 'Over the Hill' theme that is, in my opinion, a depressing reminder.
Medieval Celebration - Ask the guests to wear costume. If the retiree is a male, he can dress as the Knight in Shining Armour, or if the retiree is a female, she can dress as a Lady In Waiting for the retirement party
* Decorate the area with paper swords, shields, castle backgrounds, gold and black tableware, streamers and balloons
* Don’t use silverware, since it wasn't invented until the 17th century. Serve finger foods
* Use plastic goblets for serving drinks and serve red wine for the toast
* Lace doilies, elaborate settings and plenty of candles will give the room the dramatic
* Consider a three-dimension pig as a very creative and attention-getting cake for the retirement party
Memories of the Way We Were
* Pin a sheet on a wall and ask the guests to sign their names and add
* Ask each of the guests to bring photos of themselves with the retiree from years ago
* A "Gentle" Roast and/or Memory Book -- ask everyone to write down something about the person. Sample questions can include:
The most embarrassing moment with Susie was _________
What I remember most about Harry is ______________
A wonderful Allison did for me is ___________________________
The funniest moment
The most romantic moment
Something the celebrant did to change my life
* "Through the Years" Video or Collage - Collect old pictures from family and guests to and either create a collage or have the pictures transferred onto a video tape (easily done at local video/camera shops). Don't forget the music - a perfect addition to the clips, or play favorite "oldies" at the party while watching the video. (Tip: Transferring pictures to video takes a few weeks - make sure you allow enough time.)
* Memory Scrapbook -- Use pictures to create a memorable scrapbook as a gift to the birthday person. If possible, ask guests to mail in their favorite picture of the guest of honor when they R.S.V.P. (Leftover pictures can be used to decorate the party room).
Retirement Party Food - If you are having the retirement party in your home or at a restaurant, a buffet is the easiest way to serve food. If you are catering the meal, buffets are often less expensive than a formal sit-down retirement party. There are serve large trays of food that can be prepared ahead of time for at home retirement parties like Italian dishes, salads, prepared meats and others. If a very informal retirement party, you might want to have pizza delivered!
It is important to have snacks for guests to munch on until dinner is served. A few suggestions include chips and dips, cheese and fruit platters, buffalo wings, cold cut platters, vegetables and dip. Even if you've never thrown a surprise retirement party for someone before, ask around for suggestions and ideas.
Here’s a few websites that have a great selection of custom retirement party invitations, Express-Invitations CardsShoppe and Announcements-Shoppe.
Photo Birthday Party Invitations Cards for Adult & Children Celebrations
Adult birthdays are one of the more memorable events in a person's lifetime. That is why they should be made to be memorable and precious by having fun and colorful birthday parties. Inviting relatives and friends to the adult birthday party is one of the more important parts of any birthday celebration. There are several birthday invitations categories including adult birthday invitations, over-the-hill birthday invitations, surprise birthday invitations, pool party birthday invitations, teen birthday invitations, milestone age birthday invitations, sweet 16 invitations and MORE.
It is said that, “a picture is worth a thousand words”, so add a photo to your personalized adult birthday invitations cards. Birthdays are the ideal time to send a cherished photo birthday card of your loved ones to family and friends personalized with your photo or picture. Quality card stock and professional printing ensure your photo birthday party invitations will be enjoyed by all. Browse through many extensive collection of photo cards for birthdays and select the perfect one to add your photo to. If, by chance, you do not see the perfect photo card, many websites will design a birthday card with photo just for you. They can also add a photo to any adult birthday cards.
Adult birthday photo invitations have become one of the most popular types of birthday cards for adults during the past ten years. That is why many sites have an entire category of exclusive photo birthday cards for you to choose from. Birthday invitations that include a photo or picture are the most personal form of birthday cards you can send. Your birthday photos can be printed on just about any unique photo birthday invitations that can be kept as keepsakes. Your family and friends will treasure these cards for years to come, by holding the memories of your birthday.
Most adult birthday photo cards are 5 x 7, portrait or landscaped, and are genuine photograph, not an ink-jet or dye sublimation print. Your birthday memories will be preserved for generations to come with these photo birthday invitations cards. These traditional photographic birthday cards are perfect for placing in scrapbooks and framing. Your friends, relatives and business associates will look forward to receiving them.
A few websites guarantee your birthday photo invitations at the best possible price. In addition to their unique and exclusive invitations, some offer FREE birthday cards and FREE Shipping, with minimum purchase and same day printing and shipping of your cards. But, perhaps the best feature is the Instant Preview of your birthday cards. Using advanced technology, you can personalize your invitations and then instantly preview your birthday cards BEFORE you buy. This takes the uncertainty out of buying personalized invitations.
For lots of sample adult birthday party invitations cards try these sites, Express-Invitations CardsShoppe and Announcements-Shoppe.
Kids & Children Birthday Celebrations, Children Birthday Party Invitations Cards
Your baby’s first birthday party will be, without a doubt, more special to you than to your baby. Except for the cake and extra attention, your 12-month-old will likely view the entire birthday celebration as an unwelcome interruption of his playtime. Although the 1st birthday party for a child is usually the most memorable one, the 2nd birthday, 3rd birthday, 4th birthday, 5th birthday, 6th birthday and older are also important milestones and merit a birthday celebration for your child.
There are several different children birthday themes you can use for your child’s birthday party. After all, what would a summer birthday party be without a kids birthday pool party? For children older than toddlers, you might consider having a pool party for your child’s birthday party. Most kids love sports, whether it’s football, soccer, baseball, basketball, gymnastic or a combination. If you have a child who loves sports and are planning a kid’s birthday party, you might want to consider having a sports theme for their birthday party celebration.
Bowling is one of those activities that’s great for people of all ages, so you can be sure the children will have just as much fun as the adults. A bowling birthday party for your child is always enjoyable. Kids think that bowling is irresistible and love the giddy atmosphere of the blowing alley. And, don’t forget the gymnastic birthday party for the children. A tumbling, gymnastic birthday party for your lil boy or girl is always a great idea and will be enjoyed by all.
What about a birthday slumber party or sleepover birthday party – one that all your guests will enjoy and remember! In the past, a sleepover party was known as a slumber party, but whatever the name, great memories are made and good times are shared from these get-togethers. Except for the first birthday party, is there any party more delightful than Sweet 16 birthday? And, you want to make the Sweet Sixteen birthday party extra special!
Usually, children birthday party invitations are be organized by ages such as their first birthday party theme, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th and by theme such as children pool birthday party, slumber or sleepover birthday party, kids bowling party, Sweet 16, children sports birthday party, older child and teen birthday party invitations and more! The start of any kids birthday party celebration begins with personalized birthday invitations cards. Children birthday party invitations are the best source of information about the kids birthday party that you are planning. All customized birthday invitations are designed to integrate your party theme and include all the pertinent information about the birthday party.
Unique children birthday party cards are available in many different styles, including classic, trendy, simple, ornate and, of course, blank! Regardless of the kids birthday invitation you choose, it should be simple and reflect the theme of the birthday party. You should include information like the time, date and venue of the birthday party and the theme and purpose of the party. When planning and organizing your party, custom birthday announcements for children should be sent to your guests three to four weeks before the birthday party date.
Although the majority of the children birthday invitations are “cute” and “simple”, some have more elaborate designs. Many sites continuously update their birthday party cards selection, so you are sure to get just what you want. Or, if you do not see exactly what you want, or would like a truly personalized birthday card, some websites will design a card just for you with your birthday theme. Children birthdays are very special times so you will want your announcements to reflect this extraordinary occasion and reflect your creativity. The invitations for your children birthday can even include a picture or photo of the birthday guest of honor. Photo birthday invitations have becoming very popular and are being use much more often.
Some sites guarantees you birthday invitations cards for kids at the best possible price. In addition to unique and exclusive invitations, they offer FREE birthday cards and FREE Shipping, with minimum purchase and same day printing and shipping of your cards. But, perhaps the best feature is the Instant Preview of your birthday cards. Using advanced technology, you can personalize your invitations and then instantly preview your birthday cards BEFORE you buy. This process takes the uncertainty out of buying personalized birthday invitations.
For the best children birthday party invitations try these sites, Express-Invitations CardsShoppe and Announcements-Shoppe.
Over the Hill Party Celebrations, Invitations and Cards
The “Over the Hill” theme party in always fun and very appropriate for those beyond the third decade. There are several versions or variations of the “Over the Hill” adult birthday party theme, one being the mock funeral party. This tops the list of birthday party themes for adults, provided the guest of honor has a real sense of humor. If he doesn’t, then don’t have this as your party theme! There are websites that have specialized birthday party invitations with the Over the Hill theme.
Here’s some ideas for the Over the Hill party theme:
* Ask the guests to dress in clothes of mourning and each will read a eulogy
* Set an obituary at each place, which can serve as a place card
* Decorate the party with lilies and play organ music during the party
* Black is, of course, the color scheme for this party theme
* The cake should be in shape of a tombstone. This can be done by attaching a rectangular cake to a half of a round cake with a diameter that matches the width of the rectangle. The cake frosting should be in gray or white and write R.I.P. on it with black decorator icing.
* Be sure that none of the guests have recently experienced any deaths of a close friend or family member.
If the honoree won’t appreciate an "over the hill" party, you might consider a kinder approach. Consider designing the party around a theme that the guest of honor enjoys.
For truly original and unique over-the-hill birthday party invitations cards try these sites, Express-Invitations CardsShoppe and Announcements-Shoppe.
Luau Party Celebrations Invitations, Hawaiian Celebration Party Cards
The traditional feast, Luau, in Hawaii was once referred to as the ‘aha ‘aina and was used to celebrate important events like christenings, weddings, birthdays, coming of age and visitors. The modern term Luau may have originated from the great coed feasts of the Hawaiian King Kamehameha. In traditional Hawaii men and women were not allowed to eat together and all women were forbidden to eat certain kinds of foods in Hawaii.
In 1819, King Kamehameha abolished these laws and validated the change in tradition by having a symbolic feast with women invited. At this first feast one of the main dishes included the wrapping of chicken in the young leaves of the Taro plant and baking it in coconut milk. This dish was called ‘Luau’ and since it was one of the main courses of these feasts, they became known as ‘Luaus.’
Luaus are traditionally eaten on the ground, with food place on Ti Leaves that cover a type of woven mat called ‘Lauhala’. Leis are given to guests as they arrive at the Luau. The Lei is given as a display of affection and is a necklace or headdress of woven flowers or shells. Also when dressing up for the Luau, women place a flower behind their right or left ear. Placing the flower over the left ear indicates that one is taken or in a relationship and placing the flower over the right ear indicates that one is available.
Try these sites for the perfect printed luau party invitations cards at Express-Invitations CardsShoppe and Announcements-Shoppe.
Fiesta Party Invitations for Celebrations, Cinco de Mayo Celebration Party Invitations
A Fiesta party is always great for Cinco de Mayo, quinceanera or anytime you want to have a South-of-the-Border party. Here’s some ideas and tips will help make your planning easier:
Fiesta Party Invitations – Many sites like have an assortment of unique and original fiesta party invitations that can be personalized for any type fiesta party, including the Cinco de Mayo, quinceanera or any other.
Decorating for your Fiesta Party – Here’s some decorations suggestions for your fiesta party:
Drape serapes, Latin party props or Mexican print fabric, red, green and white table covers on furniture and around your cantina
* For centerpieces, try dried gourds, peppers, cactus plants and bright flowers
* Buy new paper goods in the color of the Mexican flag or recycle Christmas red, green and white party products
* String chili pepper design novelty lights or red, green and white Christmas lights around the party site
* Have your guests create their own "wild Spanish rose". You might need to help them. It's not a fiesta without colorful tissue-paper flowers.
* Your Cantina should have sombreros, posters, maracas, artwork, piñatas and chili peppers around it
Fiesta Party Entertainment Ideas -
* The Mexican Hat Dance is always an ideal fiesta party game. Ensure all your guests shake their maracas with the Macarena
* Hire someone to paint the men’s faces with mustaches and women’s with a floral design on their face or shoulder.
* Enjoy the "Pass the Sombrero," very similar to the hot potato game
* And, of course, the piñata!! All fiesta parties must include letting your guests take a big whack at a goody-filled piñata until it cracks
Fiesta Party Drinks and Foods -
* Allow the fiesta party guests to build their own fajita, enchilada and taco at a do-it-yourself bar
* Small dips and snacks in glowing margarita glasses can be served
* Use red and green plastic eating utensils, hopefully left over from Christmas, to match the Mexican flag and coordinate with your Mexican theme party
* Serve dry snacks like corn and flour tortilla chips in the brim of a sombrero
* The ever-favorite drink includes pre-made or homemade sangria, or pitchers of virgin and regular margaritas. To add variety, make frozen and fruit-flavored varieties. It is always appropriate to serve in blinking or glowing margarita glasses or add square, wedge-shaped or fruit slice-shaped glowing ice cubes to your already-owned margarita glasses for festive fun
* Offer fried flour tortilla wedges in hot oil until crisp sprinkled with a cinnamon-sugar mixture for dessert
Fiesta Party Prizes and Favors –
* Be sure and buy enough sombreros so that you can give each guest a sombrero to wear during the party and take home to keep
* Ensure each guest has a picture with the guest of honor or in front of a Mexican scene backdrop that they can take home
* Allow your fiesta party guests to conga to their cars with maracas
Try these sites for your ideal custom fiesta party invitations cards at Express-Invitations CardsShoppe and Announcements-Shoppe.
Organizing & Hosting a Dinner Party, Dinner Party Invitations Cards
What to know how to have a great dinner party? Try these helpful hints for organizing and hosting a successful dinner party:
a. Dinner Party invitations should be written with all the pertinent information included and mailed at least four weeks before the dinner party. The dinner party invitations should include a RSVP card or how to respond to the RSVP card. Guests should respond with the RSVP card by the deadline shown in the dinner party invitations
b. Greet your dinner party guests as they arrive at the door. Ensure that you have a safe and secure area for their personal items. After all the guests have arrived, you should ensure all the proper Introductions have been made. If, and when gifts are presented, accept them graciously. If you are the guest, you should always bring the hostess a gift that is small and one which the hostess will not feel the need to use that night, like dessert or flowers.
c. Offer all your guests beverages and hors de oeuvres
d. While your guests are enjoying the hors de oeuvres, you can slip out to the kitchen quickly to get the first course on the table before the guests are asked to take their seats. However, if the first course is hot, then you would wait until the guests are seated to bring the food to the table.
e. Ask the guests to join you at the table and direct them to where you want them to sit. Even with placards there can be a great deal of confusion and some uncomfortable moments.
f. Use an etiquette book as a guide for setting the table. Lots of changes have occurred in recent years and many of the pieces that were previously used might not be necessary now. Additionally, some utensils have been changed to different locations. Remember, a guest should never move a utensil to get to the napkin.
g. Utensils, knifes, forks and spoons, should be used from the outside toward the plate. A used utensil should rested against or on the side of the plate and never be placed back onto the tablecloth. Napkins should only be place on the table when the meal is over. In those situations when you must leave the table, excuse yourself and place the napkin in your chair. When you return, place the napkin back in your lap.
h. Remove the plates and utensils used after each course
i. All plates, used utensils, butter, salt and pepper, dressing, and so on are to be removed after the main entree. The dessert fork and spoon are then place at the top of the plate on the table until dessert is served.
j. When you serve dessert and coffee cups, be sure and place sugar and creamer on the table.
k. There is no need to remove the dessert dishes after dessert unless they will be seen from the living room or family room for the rest of the evening.
l. By this time all hors de oeuvres and cocktail glasses should have been cleared.
m. After dinner, if desert has been serviced, it is acceptable to play games and just converse with each other.
n. As the dinner guests leave, walk them to the door, give a brief good-bye and return to the other guests. Guests should realize the host must return to the other guests and should not engage the host in a long conversation at the door as they are leaving the dinner party.
And, the ever popular question - What about the children??? Here’s some suggestions:
a. Feed your children early and let them greet guests and serve hors de oeuvres. Then slip off quietly to watch television and to sleep
b. Order pizza and cokes and then let them eat and watch a parent-approved movie in a family room away from the dining area
c. Let them participate in the entire evening by adding the proverbial "children's table."
These are suggestions for getting started. It is always a great idea to have an etiquette book to refer to as needed. But the best rule of thumb to follow is to be a gracious host and enjoy your guests when they arrive at your door.
Here’s some suggestions for finding personalized dinner party invitations cards at Express-Invitations CardsShoppe and Announcements-Shoppe.
Theme Ideas for Birthday Party, Birthday Party Invitations, Birthday Party Cards
Deciding on your adult birthday party theme can be a trying experience. Although you start with the birthday theme, you will usually want to have a birthday party theme that complements your birthday. Here’s some popular themes for adult parties shown in order of popularity you might want to consider:
Over the Hill Party – The “Over the Hill” theme party in always fun and very appropriate for those beyond the third decade. There are several versions or variations of the “Over the Hill” adult birthday party theme, one being the mock funeral party. This tops the list of birthday party themes for adults, provided the guest of honor has a real sense of humor. If he doesn’t, then don’t have this as your party theme!
Hawaiian Luau Party – Each guest could be welcomed with an "aloha" and a kiss on the cheek. Give a lei to all guests, and a silk flower for the women to put in their hair. The Hawaiian luau party should be balmy and exotic, bright and colorful, which will surely set a tropical ambiance. Some of the sure fire winner drinks include Margaritas, Pina Coladas, Mai Tais, Frozen Daiquiris and Bahama Mamas, to name just a few. And, Hawaiian punch should be available for the non-alcoholic set as well as water for all. Be sure to have a limbo contest to see "how low can you go" and a hula contest for great fun.
Wine Tasting Party – A wine tasting party doesn't have to be for only the well-versed wine connoisseur. Invite your friends to an informal potluck party, and ask each guest to bring his favorite wine. Food can be simple appetizers with wine, cheese and bread. The guests could rate their favorite wines and the winning wine announced.
Bunco Party – Bunco has developed into a great game is growing in popularity for adult parties. It's not your ordinary canasta game! Bunco allows for regular get togethers with family, friends and neighbors as you can meet on a monthly basis, while rotating hosts. It's fast paced and gets you mixing with all 12 players as you rotate from table to table.
Fortune Telling – A fortune telling party theme is always popular. Guests should come dressed in gypsy type garb, complete with scarves, hoop earrings and lots of bangle type bracelets. Tables should be set up with a crystal ball. Other similar type games include a magic eight ball and a Ouija board.
Mexican Fiesta – Try a “South of the border" theme party. You could decorate using inflatable cactus, boots, chili peppers and sombreros. Of course, the drinks of choice for any fiesta party are margaritas and Corona beer. And, don’t forget to have plenty of fiesta music as you shake your maracas.
Casino or Las Vegas Night – Friendly gambling should be the simple theme for these gambling parties, either for prizes or just for fun. Blackjack and poker are the most popular games. Be sure and have simple games like bingo and other popular card games for the non-gambling types. Each guest should be given play money, poker chips and dice when they arrive. Don’t forget the appropriate decorations such as hanging fuzzy dice and lots of black and red balloons. If your theme includes a Las Vegas style nightlife effect, be sure to have plenty of glow products.
Decade (50's, 60's, 70's, 80's and 90’s) Party – Parties with a decade theme are extremely popular and can also be used for themed birthday parties as well. Guests will have lots of fun dressing in outfits from their high school and college days. Peace signs, flowered pants and John Lennon glasses are great for a 60's theme. Wranglers or Bell-bottom Levi's are great for that 70's party, or you can go all out with your leisure suit. Jelly bracelets, punk wigs and mezpahs are great for an 80's look.
Dinner Party – There are many options for hosting a great dinner party. Depending on your own style, the dinner party can range from casual and entertaining, to gourmet and polished. The most popular types of dinner parties are dessert, cocktail and international food themed. For a less formal dinner party, you might try a potluck style. Guest can bring the dish of their choice, ranging from a full course American meal or international cuisine. You can choose the dessert and cocktails.
Magic Theme Party – Detail planning of a magic party doesn't have to be difficult. Dress in your black top hat and magic wand and teach your guests simple card tricks. Tricks can range from easy to more special effects. Decorations include hanging black top hats and lots of black and red balloons. For the magical effect, add lots of glow products.
Western Theme Party – With a Western party theme, you might want to think rustic and hearty. Bales of hay, jugs and old lanterns make great decorations. Kerosene lamps and washtubs as accents can also be included. Throwing horseshoes next to a roaring bonfire is a great activity for socializing. Sing-along western songs can liven up the bunch, and karaoke takes cowboy tunes to a new dimension. Games include competition in roping or using a lasso to catch an object for your western theme party.
There are lots of printable party invitations cards at Express-Invitations CardsShoppe and Announcements-Shoppe.
Party Invitations, Party Announcements, Party Cards for Party Celebrations
A party is a social gathering for recreation and celebration. Although parties often relate to and sometimes form part of cultural, religious and seasonal festivals, the word "party" usually means a smaller, personal gathering.
When giving a party, the type party, party theme, party decorations and such will depend on the party guest of honor’s likes and dislikes. If the honoree really doesn't like big parties, then what's the sense in having a big bash if you're going to have an irritated and unhappy guest of honor? Unless it is a surprise party, it is best to discuss with the honoree. If you're planning the party, you probably know the honoree best, so you will know if it should be a small dinner with only a few close friends or a big out party for everyone.
Usually, a dinner party with close friends is and appreciated by the honoree and his guests. You can check out the food to get some sophisticated menus to help you celebrate in style, whether it's an intimate evening for two, a small dinner party or an all-out birthday bash. There are many internet sites that you can peruse to get just the right menu, or, if you are cruntched for time, hire a caterer and they will come up with a list of suggestions for the big party.
An elaborate sit down dinner party is not necessary. You can go completely casual with outdoor barbque if the weather is suitable. Or, mabye an ole fashine hay ride? We never get too old for a hayride. There are many companies that specialize in this type of event and provide food and entertainment. The web can be your source of information for great party ideas for adults parties.
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Religious Invitations Announcements Cards
Religious Invitations are the specialty of http://www.announcements-shoppe.com! Personalized invitations for Baptism, First Holy Communion, Christening, Bar Mitzvah, First Communion and MORE, at discount prices!! Their custom Religious Invitations are perfect for any religious occasion including Baptism Invitations, 1st Holy Communion Invitations, Christening Invitations, First Communion Invitations, Bar Mitzvah, Bat Mitzvah Invitations, Dedication Invitations and Confirmation Invitations! Select from their large selection, and then you can personalize any cards for your special customized Baptism Invitations, affordable 1st Holy Communion Invitations, cheap Christening Invitations, unique Bar Mitzvah, printed Confirmation Invitations, printable Religious Dedication Invitations, plus our huge selection of matching religious thank you cards!
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Personalized Invitations Announcements Greeting Cards Company Moved to Large Retail Store With its Expanded Product Lines
CardsShoppe and Express-Invitations president, Sharon Shelton, announced the move of their business to a new retail location. The new location is their new corporate offices and will allow their consumers to buy from a new, full service, retail store. The move to a spacious storefront begins the second phase of expansion and goals of Cards Shoppe - to become the premier online source for personalized invitations, announcements and greeting cards of all occasions. Shelton stated, “I always wanted our customers to access all our unique and exclusive invitations announcements cards in a secure and convenient manner by shopping through the Internet, and now they can view our products in our large retail store. Our new retail store is located 200 Production Drive, Lafayette, LA.”
The new Express Invitations and Cards Shoppe retail store has approximately 60,000 square feet. Imagine a dedicated store for your personal invitations announcements cards and the gigantic selection of greeting cards it maintained in the store. Shelton stated that in addition to personalized cards, they will also sell related gift baskets to match the categories of invitations announcements cards and lots of other related gift products. CardsShoppe and other sites it likes include Baptism, Christening, Communion & Other Religious Invitations, Birth Announcements & Pregnancy Announcements, Baby Shower Invitations & Birth Announcements, Birthday Party Invitations & Baby Shower Invitations, Bridal Shower Invitations & Party Invitations, Graduation Announcements & Invitations Cards, Christmas, Halloween, Mardi Gras & Other Holiday Invitations, Holiday Invitations for Mardi Gras, Halloween & Christmas and MORE!!
At http://www.cardsshoppe.com, all invitations, announcements and greeting cards are created and designed by their in-house artists and are on acid-free 80 pound, Avon Crest stock cards to ensure the cards will last a lifetime. All Orders are processed with attention to detail and packed for shipping in an air tight, water proof shrink wrap, then wrapped in scotch cushion wrap, and finally packed nice and snug in an appropriate shipping container filled with “peanuts”. With their SAME DAY PRINTING AND SHIPPING, you are assured of getting your personalized cards on time and in excellent condition. The prices for their Cards, matching Thank You Cards and envelopes are presented with volume discounts. If any cards are damaged during shipping, they will have them picked up and shipped back and reprinted and shipped the same business day.
By moving in its retail store, customers can now visit Cards Shoppe and Express-Invitations, personally, and browse their personalized invitations announcements cards. Just imagine, being able to buy unique and exclusive invitations announcements cards, have them personalized and printed all while you wait! No other greeting cards company offers this type service!
Invitations-Shoppe Introduces its Holiday Collection of Personalized Invitations Announcements Greeting Cards
Invitations-Shoppe announced it has released its collection of exclusive holiday invitations, announcements and greeting cards for this year’s Oktoberfest, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years and Mardi Gras party invitations. Sharon M. Shelton, president, stated, “this year’s collection includes the most unique greeting cards for all holiday occasions. All our Oktoberfest, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years and Mardi Gras party invitations can be personalized with any wordings you want.” Shelton also stated that the customers can use any typestyle, fonts and ink color of their choosing.
Started over five years ago, http://www.Invitations-Shoppe.com provides personalized invitations announcements cards for all occasions, including all holidays and has become the industry leader. Its current listing of holiday invitations cards include: Beer Oktoberfest Party Invitations Cards, Halloween Party Invitations Cards, Thanksgiving Party Invitations Cards, Business Christmas Holiday Party Invitations Greeting Cards, Christmas Invitations Greeting Cards with Photo, Hanukkah Invitations Cards, Chinese New Year’s Party Invitations, Mardi Gras Party Invitations Cards and Many More!
Along with the unique personalized holiday invitations greeting cards, you always get free proofs, same day printing and shipping, Free Cards and Guaranteed service! Holidays are always special, and http://www.invitations-shoppe.com/sitemap.asp makes it even more fun and enjoyable with the entire family and friends.
Holiday-Invitations Introduces its Holiday Collection of Personalized Invitations Announcements Greeting Cards
Holiday-Invitations announced it has released this year’s collection of exclusive holiday invitations, announcements and greeting cards for this year’s Oktoberfest, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years and Mardi Gras party invitations. Sharon M. Shelton, president, stated, “this year’s collection includes the most unique greeting cards for all holiday occasions. All our Oktoberfest, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years and Mardi Gras party invitations can be personalized with any wordings you want.” Shelton also stated that the customers can use any typestyle, fonts and ink color of their choosing.
Started over five years ago, http://www.Holiday-Invitations.com provides personalized invitations announcements cards for all holiday occasions and has become the industry leader. Its current listing of holiday invitations cards include: Beer Man Oktoberfest Invitations, Ghosts Halloween Party Invitations Cards, Thanksgiving Party Invitations Cards, Business Holiday Invitations Thank You Cards, Christmas Invitations Greeting Cards with Photo, Hanukkah Invitations Cards, Chinese New Years Party Invitations, printed Mardi Gras Party Invitations and Many More!
Along with the unique personalized holiday invitations greeting cards, you always get free proofs, same day printing and shipping, Free Cards and Guaranteed service! Holidays are always special, and http://www.holiday-invitations.com/sitemap.php makes it even more fun and enjoyable with the entire family and friends.