Posts Tagged ‘DIY’

I recently went to a potluck dinner party and spent most of the time before hand just trying to figure out what to take. After going over all the possibilities, of cancelling this and that idea because it was too involved or too temperature sensitive, I finally decided to make a pasta salad. Let me tell you, pasta salad is the best invention ever. Not only is it varied and versatile in its preparation, but it also stands up well in room to elevated temperatures.

I decided on Tortellini pasta with artichokes and sundried tomatoes. It was so delicious, I’ve been giving recipe instructions ever since. As such, I thought I’d share it with all of you because it is certain to work well for DIY showers, Girls Nights, or even a wedding menu option. Enjoy, and let us know how your own efforts turn out!

Tortellini Pasta Salad

Ingredients:
1 Lg package of Tortellini pasta (prepare as instructed)
1 12oz jar of artichoke hearts
1 12 oz jar of Julienne cut sundried tomatoes
1 can of sliced black olives
Parmesan Cheese
Basil
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Salt and Pepper

Instructions:
1. Once you have boiled and drained the pasta, place in a large mixing bowl.
2. In another bowl, pour the drained artichoke hearts and olives.
3. Warm the sundried tomatoes in a small skillet, then add to the artichokes and olives.
4. Toss the ingredients together with a bit of olive oil.
5. Add to the Tortellini and mix well, making sure all ingredients are coated with oil.
6. Add about a cup of Parmesan (more or less depending on your taste), salt, pepper, and the basil.
7. Mix well, pour into serving bowl, and use fresh basil sprig to garnish.

If you wish, grilled chicken would be an excellent addition for a heartier salad. Bon Appétit!

Centerpieces are a major topic for brides-to-be. They are the impact statement of the reception and help create the feeling for your event. Using water pearls and silk flowers, twigs or candles in your centerpieces is a simple DIY project that can create the same dramatic impact with far less damage to your bank account.

I know many wedding professionals will tell you incorporating silk flowers instead of real flowers is a serious faux pas but there are many options that have a more life-like feel and, let’s keep in mind, this is your day and your budget. Do what works best for you. If you are going to use tall vases, pairing the water pearls and silk flowers can be a beautiful combination (and it’s up so high no one will know the difference).

Ice Standard has the best price on a 2 oz. package:
Like the Mystic crystals these polymer pearls are created by simply adding water. This causes them to expand into perfect miniature spheres. Use them to add some extra color to your decorating scheme. They are available in pink, aqua, sapphire blue, black or clear. Use separately or mix colors in one vase for a stellar effect! One package will create approximately 5.75L or 1.5 gallons of hydrated water pearls.

Less can still be eye catching and make a great impact. Simple centerpieces are a great selection for the budget conscious or minimalist couple. Grouping together small vases or bottles and using single flowers in each is a popular trend and stunning when put together. Another way to save is to use one type of flower in your centerpieces such as the tulips below.

This very simple and cool diy project was found at the Sunset Website, and it’s such a quick, easy way to jazz up your centerpiece vases. All it requires are cylindrical vases, your choice of placemats, and some craft wire.

According to Peter O. Whiteley, Sunset senior writer, the best types of mats for this diy project are made of reeds, slender pieces of bamboo, twigs, or other natural materials that roll up easily.

Most place mats measure about 14 by 19 inches, so select a vase that stands 12 to 13 inches tall and are about 4 inches wide.

To make your vase:

1.Test-wrap your mat around the vase and mark where the ends overlap.

2. Cut off the extra so the ends of the mat butt together or overlap just slightly.

3. Retie any strings that may be woven through to keep your mat from unraveling.

4. Roll the mat snugly around the vase. Join the ends together here and there with pieces of slender wire.

The mat will become a tight-fitting sleeve that you can slide off when it is time to clean the vase.

My sister-in-law had a very natural feel to her wedding. The venue was a historic log cabin sitting above, what seemed to be, endless acres of freshly cut grass. It was beautiful and completely fit her personality. Her entire décor was eco-friendly and to set off the theme, her centerpieces were various plants from her own garden. Each table had a potted plant with a tag that explained the plant species.

Reflecting on that wedding, we think potted plants or flowers make great centerpieces. They are easy and inexpensive DIY projects. We suggest using unusual pots/containers and grouping small plants together on each table, accented by votive candles.