11.30.2011

REMINDER: shirley | edith Holiday Cards are Available!!

In case you forgot because of the holiday craziness, we wanted to remind everyone that the new shirley | edith (click the link to see the new landing page - yay!!) holiday cards are now available for purchase on our Etsy Shop!!!  

We're really proud of the unique designs that are perfect for multiple cultures.  Click on the card title above each photo to be taken to the Etsy listing.


Also, we hope you didn't forget about our new addition available on the shirley | edith Etsy Shop - the Abbey Rose Gift Set.  This handcrafted gift set contains ten cards of your choice from the shirley | edith couture kraft occasions line, made from 100% recycled brown bag paper. Each shirley | edith card is individually wrapped in a cello sleeve then artfully placed to "grow" from the gorgeous planter.

A portion of the proceeds from each Abbey Rose Gift Set will go towards The Abbey Rose Fund - a charity set up to benefit The Kudrin Family who tragically lost their four month old daughter, Abbey Rose. The charity also aims to support families experiencing the same loss, as well as University Hospital's Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital located in Cleveland, Ohio.  If you remember, we took part in the Benefit for the Abbey Rose Fund last weekend and it was a wonderful success!

This earth-friendly and good-hearted creation would be the perfect gift for the stationery lover in your family!

All new holiday card designs, as well as the Abbey Rose Gift Set will be available for sale at the Food for Fashion Event this weekend!!

11.29.2011

baci's baking | Cranberry Margaritas

I found this recipe on the Ezra Pound Cake Blog and I want to try this as soon as possible please! It looks absolutely amazing!!


Cranberry Margaritas

Ingredients: (Serves 4)
Wedge of Lime
Sugar
Ice Cubes for Shaking and Serving
1/2 Cup Cranberry Juice or Cranberry Juice Cocktail
1/2 Cup Silver or Other 100% Agave Tequila
1/4 Cup Orange Liqueur (Grand Marnier, Triple Sec or Citronage)
1/4 Cup Fresh Lime Juice
Garnishes: Thinly Sliced Limes or Fresh Cranberries

Directions:
1. Run a lime wedge around the rim of the glass, and dip the edge in sugar to coat. Fill glasses with ice. Set aside.
2. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine all the ingredients, and shake like hell.
3. Strain into ice-filled glasses and serve.

11.28.2011

Food for Fashion Event

Next weekend, baci will be participating in Food for Fashion - a Food Drive Fashion Show!!  To join in on the fun, bring at least three canned goods with you on Saturday starting at noon to Blessed Trinity Parish in Akron.  All proceeds will go directly to The Blessed Trinity Food Pantry.
We'll be displaying all of our shirley | edith cards, including our new holiday designs, as well as the Abbey Rose Gift Set!!  Please join us for a wonderful afternoon, we'd love to see you all there :o)  Swag Bags will be given to the First 100 guests through the door!

Details
What:  A fun-filled fashion show with beautiful products from Matilda Jane, Rubber City Clothing Company and NOTO; displays from great local vendors; Raffles and a visit from Santa Claus!!
When:  Saturday, December 3rd at 12:00 PM - Fashion Show begins at 12:30 PM
Where:  Blessed Trinity Parish - 300 East Tallmadge Avenue, Akron
Cost:  FREE - just bring along at least three canned goods!

Other great vendor displays from Scentsy, Premier Designs Jewelry, Tastefully Simple, Creative Memories, Mary Kay, Thirty-One Gifts, Miche Bags, Dove Chocolate Discoveries, Dusk Till Dawn DJs, Usborne Books and more!!

Raffles with prizes from Scentsy, Premier Designs, Tastefully Simple, Creative Memories, Mary Kay, Thirty-One Gifts, Miche Bags, Dove Chocolate Discoveries, Dusk Till Dawn DJs, Usborne Books, Avon, Party Lite, Tupperware,  Studio Wish Salon, Salon de Pooch, Cindy's Tutus for Tots, ER Photography, Fiesta Pizza, Rocco's Pizza, Pandora's Cupcakes and Lil' Frog Fashions!

11.27.2011

Sunday Funday, #15


Love, love, love the large single protea as the bouquet!  Check out the rest of this beautiful DIY Wedding by Danielle Gillett Photography on Love & Lavender!

11.26.2011

It's Small Business Saturday!!

Today is the second annual Small Business Saturday, when people across the country come out and shop to support their favorite local businesses!!  In honor of this wonderful day, we're offering FREE SHIPPING on everything shirley | edith - just enter coupon code SBS2011 during check out.  Happy shopping and a very special thank you to all supporting small businesses like baci :o)

11.25.2011

Baci's Search for a Spring 2012 Intern

Baci is on the search for a Spring 2012 intern! We are excited to find a new addition to our baci family, could you be the one? Lets see...

We are looking for someone who is fun and easy to work with and has the following traits
• Organization Nerd
• Social Networking Guru - Facebook, Twitter, StumbleUpon, Pinterest - you name it, we use it :)
• Blogger Experience
• Etsy/Wedzu Knowledge
• Photography Skills
• Must LOVE Weddings!!
• And don't forget you'll get to spend a lot of time with Morris – From experience, as the intern, he will pick on you until he realizes you're not going anywhere, then he is a sweetie :)
Here's some basic information:
1} This is an unpaid internship.  However, any design work that is done for a paying client by the intern will be compensated. Also the intern will be paid hourly for any day of events they work.
2} This position will require presence in baci's studio (in Cuyahoga Falls, OH) 2 - 3 days a week.
3} We are interested in stationery design or event planning interns - someone interested and talented in both departments would be GREAT!
4} The position will begin in mid January and run until early May.


If you're interested in applying for baci's Spring 2012 Internship - please send your resume and cover letter to intern@bacidesigner.com before Monday, December 5.  In return, we'll send along a bit more detailed information on what you can expect from the internship.  We'll be interviewing on December 12th & 13th.

If you know someone who would be perfect for the job, please forward on the information to them - post it to your FB wall, retweet it, email it - anything to help us get the word out so we can work with the best of the best is much appreciated!

Any questions or concerns please email Caroline at intern@bacidesigner.com. Thanks, I look forward to hearing from you soon!

11.24.2011

{Happy Thanksgiving}

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!

In honor of Thanksgiving, I am here with the perfect list of five items you'll need for the holiday :)

1) OXO Silicone Oven Mitt with Magnet from Macy's - $14.99 - It may be a small item, but every household needs an over mitt, especially to get the green bean casserole out of the oven :)

2) 16.75" SS French Roaster from Target - $135.49 - A roaster is an essential, simple as that.

3) Pie Baker from Target - $19.99 - What better way to make a pumpkin for Thanksgiving than in a pretty pie dish!

4) Gravy Boat with stand from Bed, Bath, and Beyond - $39.99 - Need to have something to put that gravy in for those delicious mashed potatoes!

5) Carving Knife set from Cutlery and More - $99.95 - And the last thing on my list would be a good carving knife for that special person that gets the honor to cut the turkey.

I Hope Everyone Has A Wonderful Thanksgiving!!!

11.23.2011

Handpicked | A Child's Wishlist

A child can be the easiest or the hardest person on your list to buy for this Christmas! Hopefully, after reading this post they will be the easiest person to buy for. I picked nine wonderful, personalized gifts for your children!!


1) Dinosaur Wall Art on Red Envelope - $79.95 - How cute is this for a newborn, personalized wall art :)
2) Baseball Display Shelf on Lillian Vernon - $19.98
3) Kid's Personalized Cotton PJ's on LTD Commodities - $7.16 per set - How adorable!!!
4) My name is Personalized Book on Freckle Box - I LOVE this!! Only because I am obsessed with books and you can add your child's name into the book!!
5) Outer Space Plate on Ink Garden - $19.99 - Maybe if you get your kid a fun plate like this, he might set the kitchen table more often :)
6) Medium Pink Abigail Jewelry Box on Pottery Barn Kids - $59.90 - Do you have a daughter that loves to wear your old jewelry, why not buy her an adorable jewelry box to put it all in.
7) Canvas Bookcase on Personal Creations - $59.99
8) Pieced Plush Toys on Red Envelope - $39.95
9) Personalized Kids Apron on Etsy - $16.99 - If you have a helper in the kitchen, he will be sure to love this!

11.22.2011

Handpicked | A Lady's Wishlist

It's that time of year again, time for christmas shopping! – and time for opening presents of your own too! :)  These are just a few ideas I would love to receive and for you to definitely check out. Enjoy!


1. Michael Kors Crocodile-Embossed Watch, Rose Gold/Gray | $180 – This is just beautiful, do I need to say more? :)
2. Lauren by Ralph Lauren Handbag, Promenade Simple Tote | $98 – Animal print accessories are the way to go. They liven up a ordinary outfit!
3. Style Spotting Scarf | $24.99 – Fashion scarves are really in again this season. It's an easy way to dress up an outfit.
4. Angora Boyfriend Cardigan | $59.50 – I just thought this looked really comfy, and of course cute. Any girl will wear a sweater like this around the house, out and about and of course while relaxing.
5. New York Broadway | $59.99 – Amanda and I are seriously obsessed with these vintage signs. Great for the decorator of the family.
6. Faux-Fur Collar Coat | $150 – Being in college, especially in ohio, you really cannot have enough coats. Enough said!
7. Makeup Brush Set | $17 – If you're anything like me and love doing makeup, then you know how fast you can go through brushes whether you lose them or use them entirely too much. This is a nice gift to give because it's something someone will really use.
8. Crystal and Pearl Dome Ring | $34.90 – I am really into big showy rings right now, and Express even has a buy one get one half off deal!
9. Kate Spade New York Larabee Dot Wristlet for iPhone 4 | $69.95 – This wristlet is probably one of the best ideas for a gal that likes to go out to the bars. A wristlet, phone case, and wallet all in one... you just can't go wrong! (and it's a Kate Spade wristlet) :)

Gift Idea | Custom Designed Personalized Stationery

Looking for a beautiful and unique gift for that special someone?  Custom designed personalized stationery by baci is just the perfect solution!  Have an idea in mind - just  let us know and we can put it on paper. . . don't have a clue, well then let us design something incredible for you!

Below are some designs we've created in the past - to order yours contact us:  info {at} bacidesigner {dot} com!!

11.20.2011

Handpicked | A Man's Wishlist

Here I am again, letting you all know some of the products that exist out there for the special guy in your life. Some of these products I personally own and others would be nice to have. I have a few things for the handyman, the party-er, and/or the "geek" in your life. This is by no means a comprehensive list, but some of these products may spark additional ideas when Holiday Shopping.


1) Craftsman 154 piece Mechanics Tool Set - $99.99 - I personally own one of these ... received it as a wedding gift from the parents of one of my friends. I LOVE this tool set and use it all the time! This tool set has come in handy so many times when completing work on one of our cars. This tool set has everything organized and makes everything easy to find. Additionally, the set is mobile thanks for the hard case. If your man is not handy on the car, this tool set may spark a new interest in learning.
2) PUMA Pulse Watch - $85.00 - If you have a runner, athlete, or someone who likes to work out in your life, chances are he would be interested in his heart rate when engaged in one of those activities. Teamed up with a smartphone app such as Endomondo or Nike+ your guy will have all the information he needs when working out.
3) Leather Excursion Travel Case - $129.95 - I have a similar case and it has earned its place in my travel bag. This bag will organize of your man's (and your) toiletries while being stylish and small enough to take up little space in your luggage. Additionally, the hook at the top allows him (or you) to take the bag into the restroom to hang without having to take all of the products out of the bag.
4) Cigar Humidor - $89.95 - Does your man smoke cigars? If so, he definitely needs a humidor. He'll love you (even more) for it!
5) Mr. Beer Premium Home Brewery / Wine Making Kit - $49.95 / $179.95 - Have a guy who enjoys having a drink, but is also a 'do-it-yourself-er'? Why not let him do both?
6) DODOCASE iPad Case - $59.95 - I have a DODOCASE for my iPad. It is hand made from a company in California. It is made "using traditional book binding techniques" and I get compliments from everyone who sees it. The company keeps you updated on the progress of your case and let you know when it is ready to be sent to you.
*Note : Case for the iPad 2 will not allow for use of the rear camera when in the case. Explanation here.
7) 6DollarShirts - $6.00/each - The only problem is narrowing down the number of shirts you decide to buy, but they are only $6.00 so go for it!
8) WIRED Magazine - varies - I have had a Wired subscription for over a year now and it is an excellent read throughout. Even Amanda says the magazine has an amazing layout and enjoys reading it, too!
*PS - A print subscription now includes access to the iPad version of the magazine!
9) CRKT Eat'N Tool - $7.99 - An excellent stocking-stuffer for the geek in your life that has everything. Make sure he is prepared for anything with this multi-tool.

I hope that these products have given you some new ideas for your guy. Many of these products could be substituted with other similar brands and may be found for different prices with a little searching. Either way, have fun shopping and enjoy the look of happiness on his face when he opens any of these gifts!

Questions, comments, suggestions? Feel free to contact me: ilario {at} bacidesigner {dot} com or comment on this post.

11.17.2011

New shirley | edith Holiday Cards Available!!

I can't tell you how excited I am to announce that the new shirley | edith (click the link to see the new landing page - yay!!) holiday cards are now available for purchase on our Etsy Shop!!!  Caroline and I worked hard to get them all ready before Thanksgiving so you'll all have plenty of time to send out your greetings :o)

We're really proud of the unique designs that are perfect for multiple cultures.  Click on the card title above each photo to be taken to the Etsy listing.


We are also very pleased to have another new addition alavailable on the shirley | edith Etsy Shop - the Abbey Rose Gift Set.  This handcrafted gift set contains ten cards of your choice from the shirley | edith couture kraft occasions line, made from 100% recycled brown bag paper. Each shirley | edith card is individually wrapped in a cello sleeve then artfully placed to "grow" from the gorgeous planter.

A portion of the proceeds from each Abbey Rose Gift Set will go towards The Abbey Rose Fund - a charity set up to benefit The Kudrin Family who tragically lost their four month old daughter, Abbey Rose. The charity also aims to support families experiencing the same loss, as well as University Hospital's Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital located in Cleveland, Ohio.  If you remember, we took part in the Benefit for the Abbey Rose Fund last weekend and it was a wonderful success!

This earth-friendly and good-hearted creation would be the perfect gift for the stationery lover in your family!

11.16.2011

Katie's Summit Bridal Shower | 07.02.11 {Hinckley, Ohio}

Today I'm pleased to share with you Katie's second bridal shower!!  I hosted this event with the Maid of Honor and cousin of the bride, Liz - a wine tasting fête held at the bride's mother's home the week before Katie and Kevin's wedding.

Guests received the beautiful wine-colored, linen package tied with black satin ribbon.  When untied, the flaps moved to reveal the baci designed invitation asking them to bring along their favorite bottle of vino for the bride and groom.

Upon arrival, each guest was given a glass complete with a personalized name tag to avoid a mix up of glasses.  They also received a list of the tasting wines - each sheet provided the name, region and type of grape so they could make notes as they went along.  Several cheeses, homemade meats, breads and olives were displayed for the guests to munch on as the shower progressed.

After a fun version of "Don't Forget the Lyrics", guests were sent home with a handmade wine stopper made by the bride's aunts.

Reliving all of this has me craving wine and cheese - lol!!

11.15.2011

Post-wedding True Brides {Tiffany + Derek}

Remember True Brides Derek + Tiffany?
If not--I URGE you to go check out the previous post :)  We're incredibly excited to have our second True Brides Feature back to answer some fun post-wedding questions!

Derek and Tiffany got married on 9-10-11 in Albion, Michigan, Derek better remember that wedding date--right Tiffany?  :)

Remember how Derek wrote and sang a song to Tiffany and that's how he proposed, well no worries, Derek broke out his guitar again for the wedding. This is what Tiffany had to say about that, "Derek surprised me in the middle of our wedding service by playing his guitar and singing “Your Guardian Angel” by Red Jumpsuit Apparatus.  It was beautiful!"

Now to the Questions :) 

Describe your wedding ceremony:  
Our wedding ceremony was definitely “us.”  There was a lot of love and laughter that everyone shared. We both have a love of music and we both were able to bring a piece of ourselves into the service. Derek’s father, David Cornwell, and our own pastor, Andy Merritt, officiated our wedding.   Good friends of ours, Chip Mezo and Jaime Merritt sang a Glee rendition of “Faithfully.”  As they got to the choral “ahhhs”, my theatre friends slowly stood up and their voices echoed in the chapel, blending beautifully behind Chip and Jaime’s.


Overall, the wedding was short, sweet and full of life.  It was OUR wedding and I wouldn’t have had it any other way. 



Describe your wedding reception:  
Our wedding reception was the part of the day that is fuzzy to me.  Upon arriving at the reception hall, the food was ready and waiting for us, along with nearly 300 of our family and friends.  What little food I ate was absolutely delicious.  We had a lot of kids at our reception, so Derek and I were thrilled when our DJ, Matt, had glow-sticks ready for the “kids' toss” before the garter/bouquet toss. 



What was the most special part of your wedding day? 
Since Derek and I did a “first look,” I believe that moment is the most special.  All the stress, any missed photo opportunities didn't matter once I saw his face.  That’s what our wedding day was about… joining together two individuals to become one.  Nothing else mattered when he turned around and saw me for the first time that day. 

What was the most stressful part about your wedding day? 
 Getting our photos done before the wedding ended up being the most stressful.  My parents were running late, and I didn't go with the flow as much as I should have.  I ended up sacrificing some photo opportunities in exchange for having the special moment of my mom helping me put on my dress.  As sad as I was at first, now, I wouldn’t change it for the world.  My mom is my best friend and I would rather have that authentic special moment between her and I over anything else. 



Who was your favorite wedding vendor and why?
 I think our favorite vendor was unanimous  -  Metts Photo went above and beyond my expectations for our photographs.  They were there at every step of our day, capturing the little things that I would have otherwise overlooked.  The way Karina and Michael work together was seamless.  Husband and wife teams are the best! 


( If you haven't checked out Metts Photo yet, you should! This is the second recommendation from them--head to the website and check out their beautiful photography :)


Did you plan a honeymoon and if so, where? 
 We planned a small weekend get away to South Haven, that ended up turning into a day trip to Chicago.  We have to post pone our honeymoon due to the timing of the wedding with school, but we do have plans next fall to take a trip. 

 Anything else you would like to share about your wedding day?
We would just love to thank all our friends, family, and professionals who came together to make our day as remarkable as it was.  We couldn't have made it half as nice without all of you!  Thank you!!  Also, a big thank you to Jami and Baci  for the opportunity to share our wedding day bliss!


{All Images by Metts Photo}


Baci wants to say a HUGE thanks to Tiffany for sharing her and Derek's wonderful wedding memories with us!!! Congrats to Mr. and Mrs. Cornwell!!!

Sunday Funday, # 14

Err. . . Monday Funday ;o)


I love shoes, style, and BELTS with dresses!!! This photo is taken by the very talented bobbi + mike duo :)

How cute are these mustard yellow dresses!! Each bridesmaid spiced up there own dress!   

baci's baking | Pumpkin Cupcakes + Brown Butter Icing

Amanda and I found this recipe on Clock Work Lemon's blog, they truly look amazing! We just had to share this with you - they would be perfect for your Thanksgiving gathering! Enjoy! :)

Pumpkin Cupcakes + Brown Butter Icing

Pumpkin Spice Cake
Ingredients: (Makes 2 dozen cupcakes)
3 cups all purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1 15-ounce can pure pumpkin
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 1/4 cups vegetable oil
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons finely grated orange peel

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350
2. Whisk the first 9 ingredients together
3. In a separate bowl for electric mixer mix the pumpkin, oil, and sugar together. Beat the eggs in one by one.
4. Add the flour-spice mixture until just combined then stir in orange peel
5. Divide batter into cupcake papers and bake for 20- 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.


Brown Butter Icing
Ingredients:
1 cup butter
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla
3 to 4 tbsp milk

Directions:
1. Melt the butter in a sauce pan over medium high heat. Once it has melted turn the heat down to medium low and continue to cook the butter swirling the pan occasionally.The butter will develop brown flecks and slows turn a golden colour. When this happens remove the pan from the heat and pour the butter into a bowl.Set the warm pan aside (its helpful if the icing separates)

2. Stir the powdered sugar, vanilla, and 2 tbsp of milk into the butter. If it needs to be thinned out further then add 1 to 2 tbsp more. If the icing separates then pour it into the warm pan and whisk until it comes together again. Use immediately.

11.14.2011

Shower Etiquette | Tips for Hosts, Guests and Honorees


Whether you're hosting, attending or having a shower thrown in your honor it's always good to be armed with the know how when it comes to etiquette!  Keep in mind the "proper" thing to do may vary from region to region, but all in all these are great tips no matter where you're located :o)


For the Host
1}  Remember, the word "host" means you will put forth effort and money towards this event.  If you don't have the time or the cash, don't offer to host or politely decline if you're asked to pitch in.  There is nothing more frustrating than throwing a shower with other "hosts" who don't pull their weight.

2}  Choose a location that is meaningful to the guest of honor - throwing a bridal shower for a meat-free vegetarian?  Be sure to choose a place that caters to her needs.  It's also nice to remember that not everyone has the same tastes so be sure your meal choices reflect that.

3}  On the same note, book a central location - it may be more convenient for you to host the fête near or in your own home, but if it's more than a half hour away for more than half the guests you should think about having it somewhere else.

4}  Be sure to include the bridal or baby registry information on or in the invitation - the guest of honor took the time to register and if guests don't know where she's registered she's bound to have to deal with the stress of returning unwanted items.  Also, while I'm on the subject - never, ever include registry information with the wedding invitation.

5}  Allow guests to reply in a variety of ways, some guests don't email the same way some guests prefer to not talk on the phone.  You'll receive more replies this way.  Also, be sure to set the reply by date earlier enough to allow for time to collect those rogue responders.


For the Guest
1}  When you receive a shower invitation in the mail (or any invitation for that matter), don't place it aside thinking you'll reply later - you're bound to forget it, causing the host or the honoree herself to track your response down.  Take five minutes to look at your calendar and send your reply off right away - if your plans unexpectedly change, always make the host aware as soon as possible.

2}  The most thoughtful gift is a gift bought off the guest of honor's registry - after all you know they want it.  The only exception is if you know her on a very personal level - this doesn't simply mean you're related to her, it means you speak with her on a regular basis as a friend and truly know and understand her interests.
Buying off a registry doesn't mean your gift has to be impersonal.  Buy something you own and enjoy off her registry, let her know you couldn't live without it when you write your card.  Or buy something useful and purchase something unique to compliment it - think your favorite cookie recipe with baking sheets or a fancy bib to go with those every day bottles.

3}  When choosing your attire for the event, look back at the invitation - it's the first glance into what you can expect at the party.  If in doubt, dress up.  I don't mean pearls, heels and a faux fur stole, but slacks or a simple dress will never disappoint.  Being the underdressed person is very much less desirable than being the slightly overdressed, well put together one :o)

4}  Always be sure show up on time - the event isn't for you, so don't make it wait for you to begin.  Showing up at least 10 minutes before the start time is kind - be sure not to show up too early though unless you plan to pitch in on the last minute details.  Arriving early and standing around twiddling your thumbs is incredibly impolite.
Keep this in mind when attending weddings as well, you don't want to be the guest showing up as the bridesmaids are walking down the aisle!

5}  Play along!  A lot of people feel shower games are less than desirable, but don't be a poor sport by complaining or refusing to participate - join in and pretend you're enjoying yourself, the host and honoree will definitely appreciate you for it!

6}  I have to add an extra one here just because I know it's a huge pet peeve for many people. . . show respect to those hosting the event, as well as other guests who would like to pay attention to the bride or momma to be, and be quiet!!  It's very frustrating as a host to try and organize an event if no one can hear her and likewise for a guest of honor who's trying to show her appreciate to guests as she opens gifts.


For the Guest of Honor

1}  Register early and with plenty of gifts in different price ranges to accommodate your friends still paying off school loans with a minimum wage job, as well as your aunts who want to go in on a more expensive gift together.

2}  When opening gifts realize people want to see what you're getting - it's polite to turn gifts around to show them off to everyone.  The gift giver will appreciate it even more when people ooh and ahh about their present :o)

3}  Along the same lines, be sure to make eye contact and say thank you to the gift giver - it really proves how grateful you are and that you're acknowledging their presence.

4}  It's common practice to buy gifts for your hostesses - it can be something simple like a gift card to a local restaurant or something more personal like a monogrammed candle.  A host puts a lot of time, effort and money into throwing a shower and showing your gratitude with a small gift is the least you can do.  Don't forget to acknowledge their hard work in your thank you as well!

5}  Last but not lease, be sure to write thank you notes promptly - any gifts you receive ahead of time from guests who can't make it should have thank you's written prior to the shower and guests present at the shower should receive them within a month, or two at the latest.  Recognize the guest for taking the time to come to the shower as well, they'll really appreciate the effort.


Any questions or tips I missed?  Feel free to email me {amanda@bacidesigner.com}.

{Photo source - one of my favorite showers ever!!}

Busy, busy bees!

The lovely Caroline has been such an incredible help throughout these past few months that I honestly believe I would have lost my mind without her!  This wedding season was absolutely amazing (stay tuned for my Wedding Season Round-up later this week!) and even busier than I ever could have imaged (YAY!). . . so once we finished our final wedding of the year at the end of October I thought we would have all the time in the world to get everything done that I've ever wanted to accomplish.

Well, thing is, Caroline and I are pretty much the same person (we don't both just share a love for cheese - lol!) and we refuse to stop at "good enough", meaning we keep adding things to"The List".  Anyway, we hope you've noticed the more consistent focus of posts here on baci's blog, as well as new material on our Facebook Page and you'll be seeing a lot of wonderful edits and changes throughout all of baci as the next month or so continues.

In the meantime, here's a taste of what we've been up to. . . we've even put poor Morris to work ;o)
{Images by Caroline - she's amaze-bells!!}

11.11.2011

Happy Veteran's Day!

We here at baci just want to wish all past and present men and women who have bravely served our country!!  Happy Veteran's Day!!

Sunday Funday, #13

How cute and creative is the graphic that represents the bride and groom? This graphic was what I saw first, but seeing the whole package come together truly creates such a fun and unique style. I love it! 

{Check out Jay Fletcher's full post on his design.}

Katie's Lake Bridal Shower | 05.14.11 {Willoughby, Ohio}

I'm so excited to share this beautiful "Sweet and Spicy" Bridal Shower with you today!!!  I, along with the mother and sisters of the groom, threw this little soiree for one of my best friends and college roommate, Katie, in May earlier this year.

The sweet pink, fiery red and spicy orange themed shower was held at Olivor Twist in Willoughby, Ohio.  Guests were invited on baci designed white linen with red backing invitations requesting guests wear pink, red or orange attire to the event.  Each guest was asked to bring a sweet or spicy recipe with them to the shower on the provided card.

When guests arrived at the venue, they were asked to choose their name tag slogan - "I'm a little sweet. . ." or "I'm a little spicy. . ."!  They were greeted by tables draped with white linens, carnation centerpieces in red vases, pocket fold red linen napkins with baci designed menus placed inside and tasty Spiked Pink Sherbet Punch {recipe below}.

After dinner, guests were directed to the dessert display.  All the tasty treats were made by family members or the hostesses - they ranged from spiced carmel truffles to choco-berry tartlets, seriously yummy!!  Gifts for the shower games were in various shades of shower colors and included some of our favorite kitchen spices :o)  The favors were a perfect combination of sweet and spicy with a pink rock candy sucker and spicy jalepeno pistachios!


Spiked Pink Sherbet Punch

2 quarts sherbet (Any flavor will do - we used raspberry to go with the color scheme, but I generally use lime)
2 liters ginger ale
1 (46-ounce) can pineapple juice
Lemon slices
Lime slices
Maraschino cherries

1)  In a punch bowl, add 2 quarts of lime sherbet. Then add ginger ale and pineapple juice.
2)  Decorate with lemon and lime slices and some maraschino cherries.

11.09.2011

Wedding Wednesday | Wedding Videos by Shark Pig

Get excited everyone, this is our first blog post including wedding videos! These videos by Shark Pig are so inspiring whether you are looking for ideas for your wedding video or even just for inspiration directly for your wedding itself. Shark Pig is a video business in Los Angeles, California that started as a boutique wedding video business but now they also do commercial production. They also are members of The Flashdance Collective (you should check them out too!!). Enjoy!

Here is the link right to Shark Pig's portfolio!

My favorite Shark Pig video of all time! How could this not be your favorite?

This couple is absolutely adorable and the video effects are so retro!

I love how the video syncs with the song!

Having the "smilebooth" is another great idea! It keeps your guest entertained and makes great keepsakes. 

Wedding videos can be so much more fun now than they were even just five years ago. I remember watching my parents wedding video from the 80's and for their reception they basically had the camera on a tripod in a corner. These videos make you feel like you lived the bride and groom's wedding day with them, and if you were there I'm sure it makes you relive the day all over again. 

11.08.2011

baci's baking | Sofia's Chicken Paprikash

Today's baci's baking recipe is a seriously tasty one, originally found on Giant Eagle's Recipes site.  Enjoy!!


Sofia's Chicken Paprikash

Prep time: 00:40
Cook time: 00:40

This light version of chicken paprikash was passed along to our recipe developer Carolyn by her Aunt Sofia. Brilliant red paprika is the main seasoning in Hungarian cooking and this dish highlights its nuanced character. Vary the heat by using hot, sweet or a combination of paprikas. Make it a meal: Serve over whole-wheat egg noodles or spaetzle with a side of steamed broccoli and a cool fruit salad for dessert.

Ingredients:
1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts , trimmed, cut into 2-inch pieces
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground pepper
1 Tbsp. canola oil
2 each large green bell peppers , thinly sliced
1 each large onion , halved and thinly sliced
2 tsp. hot or sweet paprika
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 Tbsp. lemon juice
1/4 cup reduced-fat sour cream
2 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley

Directions:
1) Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook, turning occasionally, until browned, 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate.

2) Add bell peppers and onion to the pan and cook, covered, over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add paprika and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add wine; increase heat to medium-high and cook, stirring, until mostly evaporated, about 1 1/2 minutes. Add tomatoes, broth and lemon juice; bring to a boil. Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the pan; reduce heat to a lively simmer. Spoon some sauce over the chicken and cook, turning occasionally, until the sauce is reduced and the chicken is cooked through, 6 to 8 minutes.

3) Remove from the heat and stir in sour cream. Serve sprinkled with parsley.

11.07.2011

Handpicked | Jennifer Lopez & Lauren Conrad Clothing at Kohls

Last week Amanda & I had to make a, what was supposed to be, quick trip to Kohls for an errand but after passing these two collections we immediately fell in love. I am pretty sure we were obsessing while running around showing each other items that were showcased from the Jennifer Lopez and LC Lauren Conrad clothing lines. These were just a handful of our favorites.


1.) Crinkled Faux-Leather Crop Jacket by LC Lauren Conrad –  $57.00
2.) Faux-Fur Jacket by Jennifer Lopez – $112.50
3.) Floral Cutout Top by LC Lauren Conrad – $33.00
4.) Midcalf Boots by Jennifer Lopez – $59.97
5.) Pointelle Wrap Wool Sweater by LC Lauren Conrad – $45.00
6.) Tall Boots by Jennifer Lopez – $82.49
7.) Rosette Sweaterdress by LC Lauren Conrad – $51.00 
8.) Shirred Crepe Blouse by Jennifer Lopez – $36.00
9.) Lace Shift Dress by LC Lauren Conrad – $48.00