Design a site like this with WordPress.com
Get started
Featured

How to Plan a Superhero Party

Superhero Theme Party Bag and Fillers from Bear & Willow

Want to know how to plan a Superhero Party – then read on for some ‘pow’tastic superhero party ideas?

My son asked for a superhero theme birthday party this year, and I’m never one for falling into the norm. He hasn’t been swayed by the movies and comic characters just yet so I got to run with my imagination and create his very own superhero – based on him. He chose the colour scheme, approved the activities and decor, and the character was designed as a ‘mini-me’ so he could truly be the star of the show. So, you can be guaranteed that these superhero party ideas are 7 year old approved!

1. The Party Invitations

Superhero Party Invite from Bear & Willow

Set the scene for your Superhero party by sending themed party invitations. Add a few superhero words, jokes or puns depending on the age of the party guests. Make sure you give details of the date, time and place of the party well in advance. I always recommend at least 3 weeks notice, especially when you have a party entertainer or venue to book based on the number of guests. It also gives the party guests plenty of time to get excited about the upcoming event! These invitations will be available very soon as a pdf from Bear & Willow. Simply print out and fill in the details. You can then post or hand deliver to the invited guests or take a photo and pass it on digitally. Why not sign up to my newsletter to be kept up to date with their launch.

2. The Party Food

Superhero sandwiches with star-shaped fairy breads and jam snacks

I always love researching the possible themed party food ideas for our celebrations. I use Google or Pinterest to search for ideas, but love to put my own spin on things too. Some of my favourite Superhero foods include

  • Superhero Sandwiches – use a star shape cookie cutter to cut a hole in the top bread layer. Just make sure you avoid wet or loose fillings that may fall out. A slice of cooked meat or cheese is perfect. The cut out stars can then be used to create snacks like star-shaped fairy bread (butter and sprinkles) or jam stars (I add some edible gold spray for extra drama).
  • Superhero Power Serum – add some crushed ice to a brightly coloured drink to give your party guests some instant ‘Superhero Power’. We had fun imagining what superhero power they would like to have and what they would do with it. You could use a clear glass to add to the effect, and why not pop in a Superhero Party Straw too!
  • Superhero Marshmallow & Fruit Platter – Use a variety of fruits and marshmallows, even add in some raw veg, to create a superhero theme picture. Spell out ‘BOOM’ or “POW’ in marshmallows and surround with bright red, orange and yellow. I love the superhero shield fruit spread example from Halloween Alley too.
  • Superhero Food Names – if you don’t have the time or creative juices to create themed food then simply add names to your party food. Think ‘Power (chicken) Nuggets’, ‘Super (bread) Sticks’ and ‘Hammer (cheese cube or marshmallow on a stick) Snack’.

3. The Party Cake

Create an amazing centrepiece for your party table by adding a personalised Superhero Cake Topper to your party cake. This set includes a fully customisable ‘mini-me’ superhero, along with a name and age. You can choose the skin tone, hair style and colour, along with the costume colours. Add a gold or silver sparkle accent, and when displayed with the cityscape and superhero ‘BOOM’, ‘POW’ and “CRASH’, you set the perfect superhero scene.

4. The Party Activities

Superhero Toilet Tube Craft

I find having a few party games in mind takes some of the stress out of holding a party at home. I will have at least 2-3 ideas in mind so I can keep the party guests entertained. Hiring a themed entertainer is a fantastic idea. A balloon artist or face painter are always popular or check if there are any local businesses who provide costumed superhero characters.

Outside entertainment is not always an option, or you may still have party-time to fill up so art & craft activities, traditional party games and photo prop set-ups are great options. One activity I have used is this Superhero Toilet Tube Craft. Not only does the activity use up time, it’s simple, cost-effective and the kids end up with something to play with at the end. You can find a short video with instructions here and you can download the template below. Print out on an A4 sheet and use to create the coloured pieces needed.

5. The Party Decorations

Superhero Banner from Ella & Boo

Your party decorations don’t have to be used just on the day. especially if you have a true superhero fan. This fantastic felt superhero banner from Ella & Boo is perfect to use on the day, and then as a permanent addition to your child’s bedroom decor. You can also get a matching personalised pendant with their name. I am also a huge fan of DIY decorations that we make on the days coming up to the party. If your house is anything like ours there is a constant ‘is it my birthday party day yet?’ conversation for several weeks beforehand. Having them help with the decor definitely helps! We print out themed colouring pages and make paper chains in co-ordinating colours. I also love the big impact balloon arches like this one create.

6. The Party Bags

Every birthday party should end with a fabulous party bag – and these Superhero Party Bags definitely fit the bill. They include a special personalised ‘thank you’ on the front, and are sturdy enough to hold plenty of goodies and withstand rummaging! You can purchase as an empty bag to fill yourself, or you can choose to have a selection of Superhero theme party favours added. A super sticker sheet, fun art activity and sparkling party straw will add a ‘WOW’ as the party guests open up their gift. There’s still plenty of room for a slice of cake and some sweet treats – after all, no party bag is a hit without sweets!

If you have enjoyed these Superhero Party tips then do check out some of my other themed party blog posts. If you have a space enthusiast, or pirate lover then I have just the posts for you. Click the links below to find out more.

If you’d like to receive updates from Bear & Willow, including news of more party and celebration inspired blog posts, sign up to receive my newsletter. This gives you access to first glance offers, free resources and a special Bear & Willow subscriber discount code for my shop.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.
Advertisement
Featured

7 Christmas Decorating Ideas for Those Who Want to Shop Small This Christmas

Photo by Gary Spears on Pexels.com

Look at these fantastic Christmas decorating ideas for those who want to shop small this Christmas?

We all know how difficult it has been recently for small businesses to survive and continue providing their unique, often one-of-a-kind, products and fabulous customer service to us all. This Christmas is the perfect time to show your support, and grab an amazing Christmas decoration or gift. Buying just one item from a small business will make such a huge difference. To help find just what you’re looking for, I have a compiled a fantastic range of Christmas decorating ideas for those who want to shop small this Christmas.

1. Cute Animal Christmas Cards

Animal Christmas Cards from JOKStudios

My first step in Christmas decorating is to think about how I can add a special something to other’s homes for Christmas Time. Christmas cards are such a lovely thing to send, a way to keep in touch and let people know you are thinking of them. I especially love cards that can be kept after the holiday season, maybe put in a beautiful frame. This cute set of 6 animal illustration cards are the perfect example. Lovingly made from Jo’s original, hand drawn watercolour paintings, these high quality, recycled cards will bring a smile to friends or family over the Christmas holidays. They are blank inside for your own warm, creative message.

2. Adorable Felt Elf Christmas Decoration

Personalised Elf Hanging Decoration from Bean and Boo Stitchery

This Cheeky Elf Hanging Decoration is personalised with an initial polymer clay token. Each one is made with free-motion embroidered fabric backed onto a high quality cream wool mix felt. A co-ordinating jute twine hanging loop is added to allow you to hang it from your Christmas tree, or maybe as a cute gift tag that the receiver can keep. The patterned hat, little peek of hair and rosy cheeks add such a cute touch to this decoration and personalisation is always a hit with me!

3. Fabulous Personalised Christmas Print

Personalised Colour Christmas Family Heart from Dee Dee and Boo

This Colourful Christmas Personalised Family Heart Print is truly amazing. You can add your own names along with a special message on the large sign. As someone who loves to invest in a new Christmas decoration each year I love the idea of this one as a keepsake to take out each year. It would also make a perfect gift for someone else to add to their own Christmas decor. Helen also makes this in black and white, or can complete in a custom colour scheme. She sends every order in festive gift wrap with the option of a personalised gift tag – so there really is no excuse not to buy!

4. Showpiece ‘We Believe’ Shooting Star Decoration

We Believe Shooting Star from Vivid Wire

If you’re looking for a real showpiece Christmas decoration this year then I definitely recommend having a look at this stunning Shooting Star from Vivid Wire. Made with champagne gold and silver wire, the magic of Christmas will be anywhere you hang this star. It can be hung using clear command hooks, nails or using the hanging ribbon provided. Anyone who comes into your home will be sure to get those ‘we believe in the magic of Christmas’ vibes.

5. Magical Christmas Carol Banner

Christmas Banner from Hello Magic Co

This magical Christmas Banner is just perfect for the home that loves a bit of sparkle and fun. The Pom Pom trim comes in a choice of colours and provides a really cute touch. I don’t know about you, but every time I look at it I immediately start singing! Each banner is made to order using a neutral canvas pendant banner with the words and festive lights added in gorgeous Christmas reds, green and glittery gold. You can hang it on your tree or on the wall for a magical Christmas treat.

6. Stunning Handlettered Christmas Prints

Christmas Prints from City & Shore

I just adore these Christmas Prints featuring Sarah’s signature hand lettering on cosy muted colours. These prints, featuring some iconic Christmas Carol lyrics, are the perfect way to add depth and interest to your interior decor this year. With bases of reds and greens these prints, although not the obviously traditional colours, can compliment most schemes. Each print is handlettered by Sarah, and printed on 350gsm uncoated card for a Matt natural feel. It’s thick enough to be propped up on its own however it can be framed for a more styled look. Adding a gold or silver in the frame will really make these prints pop!

7. Spectacular Christmas Cake and Table Decorations

Christmas Cake Topper and Party Straws from Bear & Willow

For the grand finale on Christmas Day why not try these spectacular Christmas Cake Toppers and Party Straws. With an elegant black and gold theme, with plenty of glitter, these Christmas table decorations will be sure to impress! Each set of toppers and straws are custom made to order using a range of coloured and patterned card and biodegradable paper straws. The toppers are attached to food-grade wooden sticks that can be easily placed into your cake, and they can be wiped clean to use again next year (unless you’re like me and love to change up your Christmas theme each year). You could even take them out again for a fun Roaring 20s theme party on New Years Eve!

And so with these 7 unique Christmas decorating ideas for those who want to shop small we complete my Christmas Guide series for 2021. I will be back over the next few weeks with some super fun Christmas decorating and activity ideas so be sure to pop back. In the meantime why not check out the 7 unique Christmas Gifts guides for adults and kids who have everything.

If you’d like to receive updates from Bear & Willow, including news of more party and celebration inspired blog posts, sign up to receive my newsletter. This gives you access to first glance offers, free resources and a special Bear & Willow subscriber discount code for my shop.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.
Featured

7 Unique Christmas Gift Ideas for Adults Who Have Everything

Photo by Lucie Liz on Pexels.com

Looking for some unique Christmas gift ideas for adults who have everything?

Giving gifts is such a special part of Christmas, and finding the perfect, unique Christmas gift ideas for adults in my life is one of my favourite things to do. I love to search out small, independent businesses to see what they have to offer. Very often I can find something that is going to really mean something personal to that special someone. Recently I shared some of my favourite finds for unique Christmas gifts for kids, and now it’s time to share my gorgeous finds for the grown-ups!

1. For the Someone Who Needs to Know They are Amazing

Inspirational Art Print from Bear & Willow

Do you have one of those friends, or family members, who needs reminded of how amazing they really are? This custom Inspirational Art Print is perfect when you want to choose the words that will remind that special person how important they are. It creates a beautiful visual reminder of the qualities you admire in them, one that can take pride of place on the wall where they can see it everyday. You can choose your own words, and your own colours and you can give a gift that will bring strength and empowerment to whoever owns it.

2. For Someone Who Loves a Splash of Neon

Geometric Art Print from Louloulane Designs

These fabulous Geometric Art Prints are so much fun! Each one is unique due to the technique used making it a truly original and limited piece. Made with a selection of neon, holographic and pastel tapes laid out in fun geometric shapes, They really standout as the reflections and light mean that it looks different from every angle. Choose your own colours, patterns and finish to create a one-off piece that will suit your someone to a tee. A fantastic gift for someone who loves bright colours and a splash of neon in their home.

3. For Someone Who Enjoys a Little Peace and Calm

Ultimate Lighthouse Burner, Melts and Candle Set from Cosmic Bloom Studios

The Ultimate Lighthouse Burner, Melts & Candle Gift Set includes 2 sets of wax melts, a burner in a colour of your choice and a large amber glass jar candle. Luxury, handcrafted, vegan, soy wax candles and melts and burner that not only looks beautiful, they also create the perfect peaceful and calm ambience to take some time out from the world. Cosmic Bloom Studios has an ethical view on life and belief that we can make a difference to the environment by changing how and what we buy. This means not only are you gifting the perfect gift, you can know you are gifting vegan and cruelty-free ingredients packed in sustainable packaging which is recyclable and plastic free. AND you receive a heritage greeting card inside.

4. For Someone Who Holds a Piece of Your Heart

Ebony and Maple Wood Heart Pendant from BevArt Designs

This stunning pendant is a two-sided solid wooden heart, hand-crafted using only the very finest Ebony and Maple wood, hung on a silver plated chain. The contrast between the two woods makes this a truly stand-out piece of jewellery and the hand polished finish means it is smooth as silk to touch. This makes such a stunning accessory whether you’re out shopping, or dancing the night away. Perfect to gift to someone you love to let them know they will always hold a piece of your heart.

5. For Someone Who Loves Flowers and All Things Pretty

Wire and Crochet Flowers from Sakarma Handmade

These pretty and delicate Wire and Crochet Flowers make the perfect gift for someone who loves flowers, but wishes they lasted forever! These wire flower stems with cotton crocheted flower heads add cheer to any space. The everlasting flowers are first shaped and then sprayed black to prevent the metal from rusting, before the flower heads are crocheted. The attention to detail is amazing and the simple white wood block stand will fit in with any room decor.

6. For Someone Who Loves the Moon and Mother Earth

Every one of Leila’s pieces reflects her passionate connection to nature, and she is constantly inspired by its ever-changing forms. This Moon Phase Necklace is a sterling silver full moon nestled between two sterling silver crescent moons and reticulated to create a gorgeous crater-like texture. The pendant is gently darkened, and hangs on an 18in sterling silver trace chain, evoking the power an energy of the full moon! This piece is part of her Phoebe Buffay Edit – inspired by the quirky, effortless style of her favourite Friend! 

7. For Someone Who Loves Herbal Tea With Benefits

Bestsellers 3-teas tin set

A Trio of Loose Leaf Tea Blends perfect for boosting the immune system, increasing energy levels and reducing stress and overwhelm as we head into the seasonal mayhem! Amber’s Rose Tea, containing Rose and Lemon Balm, is wonderful for soothing frazzled minds and tempers, Golden Opportunitea contains Turmeric, Tulsi & Ginger, perfect for boosting the immune system and reducing aches and pains. And finally, Partea, made with Tulsi, Lemongrass, Ginger root & Star Anise, perks up your energy levels and boosts your immune system. All blends are caffeine free and contain no added flavouring. Perfect for someone you know who loves a cuppa with added health benefits!

And so we complete my list of 7 unique Christmas gifts for adults who have everything. I hope this has helped you find something that little bit different for that special someone in your life. Whether it’s the friend who has been there for you through the rough times, the sister who has jumped in to babysit to allow you some me-time or the mum who, well, where do we even start! If you’ve enjoyed this list and want some ideas for the kids in your life then do check out my previous post – 7 unique Christmas gifts for kids who have everything.

If you’d like to receive updates from Bear & Willow, including news of more party and celebration inspired blog posts, sign up to receive my newsletter. This gives you access to first glance offers, free resources and a special Bear & Willow subscriber discount code for my shop.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.
Featured

7 Unique Christmas Gift Ideas for Kids Who Have Everything

Photo by freestocks.org on Pexels.com

Looking for some unique Christmas gift ideas for kids who have everything?

I love Christmas – decorating the house, visiting the Christmas markets, listening to carols and watching Christmas movies, I love it all. But do you want to know my absolute favourite thing about Christmas? That’s got to be finding the perfect, unique Christmas gift ideas for my friends and family!

Every year I spend so much time trying to pick out the perfect gift, something that I think will show that person just what they mean to me. Something that they will love and cherish, that will make them smile and that is uniquely them. I’m sure many of you are just the same so I thought I’d share some of my finds from this year.

1. For the Baby Celebrating Their 1st Christmas

1st Christmas Pudding Decoration from Bear & Willow

Well what better place to start than my very own 1st Christmas Pudding Decoration. A gorgeous keepsake for the baby who isn’t quite ready for toys and games. This personalised wooden Christmas decoration is decorated on both sides in a cute Christmas Pudding design. One side has ‘1st Christmas 2021’ and the other can be personalised with the baby’s name, both in shiny gold, metallic vinyl. It is finished with a gloss sealant for extra shine, and to ensure it will keep for years to come. When they grow up they’ll be putting it on their own Christmas tree, reminiscing about their childhood and the wonderful gift-giver who gave it to them!

2. For the Superhero, Fun-Loving Kid

Satin Superhero Cape from Robins Bobbins

I absolutely love these custom made Letter Superhero Capes from Robins Bobbins. They are hand-sewn from swishy satin, fully lined and come personalised with the letter of your choice in gold glitter vinyl. Perfect for catching the light. They can be made with the colours, letter and in the size of your choice and there are a range of co-ordinating accessories available including superhero cuffs, headbands and masks! They also come in adult sizes so there’s no excuse not to get dressed up together and head out for some family superhero adventures over the Christmas holidays!

3. For the Quirky, Cat Loving Kid

Cat Goodie Box from Camilles Land

A box full of cat goodness that will make any cat person beam with joy! This Cat Goodie Box contains a limited print, to-do list pad, notebook, sticker sheet, bookmark, pen and pencil. You also receive a cool ‘Crazy Cat Person Club’ button badge and probably the cat lovers favourite part – ÂŁ1 from each cat box will be donated to Cats Protection, a British charity that is working towards a world where every cat is treated with kindness.

4. For the Outdoor, Adventure Loving Kid

Christmas Hand Warmers from Bluebell Love Shop

These Christmas Wheat Filled Hand Warmers are perfect for popping in your pocket on a cold morning. Just pop them in the microwave (for about a minute depending on your wattage) with half a mug of water and you’re good to go! These hand warmers are made using Liz’s own fabric designs that she hand prints onto 100% cotton. Choose from her Robin, Christmas Pudding, Reindeer, Christmas Tree or Snowmen designs and that outdoor, adventure loving kid who will never keep their gloves on, will now have toasty warm hands! 

5. For the All Things Pink and Rainbows Kid

Pastel Rainbow Cloud and Heart Garland from Ella and Boo

We all know one of those kids who loves all things pink and rainbows (and maybe glitter and unicorns!). This gorgeous Pastel Rainbow, Cloud and Heart Garland would be the perfect gift. Hand-made with the softest felt and including a pastel rainbow with 2 hearts and 2 clouds, it can be hung from a shelf or on the wall. You can also request custom colours. This garland will certainly add a special touch to their bedroom and bring a smile to their face everyday.

6. For the Nature Loving Kid who Loves to Learn

Nature Alphabet Art Print from Carlys Illustrations

I just love this gorgeous original Nature Alphabet Art Print full of beautifully illustrated animals, insects and natural beauty. This Animal Nature Alphabet has been lovingly hand painted by Carly in Watercolour Paints and reproduced as a high quality art print. The soft pastel Rainbow colours would complement any nursery or child’s bedroom. Each animal is painted with so much intricate detail and love, bringing them to life! It really is the perfect piece of decor to encourage little learners to learn their abc’s in a fun and creatively inspiring way. 

7. For the Journal and Planner Loving Teen

Rainbow Washi Tape Bundle from Ludicrous Prints

This bundle of bright and colourful Rainbow Washi Tape is the ideal gift for your journal loving teenager. They are low tack and perfect to use in bullet journals, planners and diaries, but can also be used for scrapbooking and card-making. With 8 different bright rainbow coloured patterned tapes included, prepare for some beautiful, creative journal pages!

I do hope you’ve enjoyed this set of 7 unique Christmas gift ideas for kids who have everything. I know my own shopping list has been updated to include them! In my the next in my Christmas Gift Guide series I bring you 7 unique Christmas gift ideas for the grown-ups. Click the link below to read and happy shopping!

If you’d like to receive updates from Bear & Willow, including news of more party and celebration inspired blog posts, sign up to receive my newsletter. This gives you access to first glance offers, free resources and a special Bear & Willow subscriber discount code for my shop.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

Featured

5 Spooktastic Halloween Party Decoration Ideas

Looking for some fantastic Halloween party ideas? Then look no further – but beware, these five amazing Halloween party decorations may leave your guests with goosebumps!

I love nothing more than a fabulous themed party – and what better time of year than Halloween to create a party masterpiece. I have gathered a selection of fun Halloween themed party decorations for you to host the best spooky season party.

My Top Pick Halloween Party Decorations

Make sure your home, or even just the room you’ll be hosting your party in, is decorated to get your party guests in the mood. Halloween is actually such a colourful celebration – think orange, purple and green along with black and white! Pair all this colour with spiders, cobwebs, pumpkins, ghosts, witches and bats, and you’ve a fabulous selection of party decoration ideas to choose from.

If you don’t fancy making them yourself, or just don’t have the time then why not start by checking out some of the amazing small businesses who make Halloween decorations?

  1. You’ll find some fantastic wooden hanging decorations at Bear & Willow – perfect to add to a tree branch to create a spooky Halloween feature for your entranceway. You could even hand them out to your trick or treaters as an alternative to all those sweet treats.
  1. Chloe at Hello Magic Co creates the most amazing Halloween banners including this one with added hocus pocus! . This fun canvas banner can be hung with your choice of colour cord and coloured pom pom trim.
Hocus Pocus Canvas Banner from Hello Magic Co
  1. You could also take a peek at the gorgeous felt and wood creations from Holly at Tilly & Primrose. Aren’t these little pumpkins just the cutest! They’d make the perfect addition to your Halloween table centrepiece, or set them around your home for a little spot of cuteness amongst the spookiness.
  1. And for my final pre-made decoration, these Halloween crackers from To You From Alice are such a gorgeous idea for your Halloween table setting. They can be personalised, and filled with your choice of confetti, sweets or chocolate, making them the perfect ‘treat’ for your trick or treater guests.
Halloween Crackers from To You From Alice

Feeling inspired by all these spooktacular Halloween decor finds? I thought you might, so I’ve added a fantastic DIY Halloween decoration idea too. You can try this out yourself, or save as a ghoulishly, fabulous activity for the kids at your Halloween party.

  1. Toilet Tube Monsters – if your house is anything like ours there are numerous toilet roll tubes lying around waiting to be transformed into something amazing. We had a go creating a vampire, monster and pumpkin. I have to say they were super easy and look great! Best of all, all you need is coloured paper, googly eyes and a glue stick. You can freehand it, or I’ve included a free downloadable template with instructions that you can use. Feel free to use this for your personal use, and if you know anyone you think would love it too, why not send them a link to this post and they can download a copy!

I do hope you’ve loved this set of 5 spooktastic Halloween party decoration ideas. They’re sure to help create the perfect Halloween party for you and your guests this year. If you fancy looking at some more Halloween party inspiration then check out my Halloween shop. Click the link below to be taken there

If you’d like to receive updates from Bear & Willow, including news of more party inspiration blog posts, sign up to receive my newsletter. This gives you access to first glance offers, free resources and a special Bear & Willow subscriber discount code for my shop.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

Featured

Best Pirate Party Ever

Pirates have always been a firm favourite party theme – and that’s not going to change anytime soon! From pirate ships to treasure chests, gold coins to scull and cross bones, pirate theme parties can be so much fun. To make sure yours stands out from the rest, I have compiled for you a selection of DIY pirate party decor and products from small businesses.

Pirate Party Table

You can achieve an amazing pirate theme party table with these great ideas. The pirate cake topper from Bear & Willow makes a show stopping centrepiece. You can even order matching cupcake toppers and party straws to create a truly fantastic pirate party table!

Why not try out these fun pirate theme party food ideas too? We tried out this fun treasure map pizza. You could have it prepared beforehand, or have your party guests help out with the decorations. Pre-made pizza bases, tortilla wraps or puff pastry sheets can be used for the base. Add some passatta (or tomato-based sauce), cheese, pepperoni (island), red pepper (red cross and ship), pineapple (gold treasure), mushrooms (treasure trail), rocket and mini breadsticks (trees).

Pirate Treasure Map Pizza

You could also try out these easy, minimal preparation, pirate theme party snack ideas.

  • Canon balls – using any round chocolate or corn snacks (e.g. Maltesers® or Burger Bites®) or black grapes for a healthier option
  • Starfish – use a star shape cutter to cut sandwiches or home-baked biscuits
  • Pirate Ships – a wedge of fruit (e.g. apple, orange, melon) or a mini sausage as the boat and a slice of cheese on a cocktail stick for the sail
  • Rum Punch – make up a jug of fruit juice and add some cubes of fruit and ice cubes

Finally, to add an extra special pirate touch, add some fun pirate theme decorations around the table. This fun Pirate Bunting from Two5Designs can be personalised with your child’s name and age. They also have this pirate skull and swords version for older kids.

Pirate Party Activities

I do love a bit of dress-up at a party and these Pirate Eye Patches from Mummy Hughesy are just perfect to hand out to the party guests on arrival. Get everyone in the pirate spirit and let imaginations flow. Here are a few of my favourite pirate theme activities

  • Walk the Plank – first divide the party guests into teams of pirates and prisoners. Lay a long piece of cardboard, or a low level wood plank on the ground. The pirates chase the prisoners and anyone caught has to walk the plank. On a warm day you could add a waterslide to the end for some splashing fun. Rotate the teams halfway through so everyone gets a turn!
  • Pirate Scavenger Hunt – have a selection of treasure items in a box to hide. Try some gold chocolate coins or other fun treat. Make up a map with a big red cross to mark the spot. This post from Red Tricycle gives some great tips on creating an authentic map. If you’re not feeling crafty then you could come up with some clues. A quick internet search will bring up lots of examples for you to use.
  • Pirate Craft – this super easy pirate plate face is so much fun. All you need is a white paper plate, red, white and black paper, string/wool, scissors, glue and sticky tape.

And for the perfect ending …

Send your party guests home with a pirate theme party bag and favours. The pirate party bag from Bear & Willow is decorated with a personalised pirate ship thank you note. Inside there is a sheet of gloss vinyl stickers with 11 individual pirate theme stickers. Your party guests can use them to create a fabulous pirate theme picture when they get home.

Maybe add a special treat inside your party bag like these super cute pirate theme chocolate lollipops from Onlyhappiness Design. You’ll be sure to have the happiest pirate adventurers!

To find even more amazing pirate party ideas check out my Pirate Birthday Party Pinterest board.

You can also sign up to my newsletter to keep up to date with more party theme planning guides as they are published. You’ll also receive a welcome discount for any purchase from Bear & Willow. Oh and if you’d like to receive a special birthday surprise you can sign up via my website at www.bearandwillow.com and add your birth date and month.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.
Featured

5 Fantastic Space Party Ideas:2

Part 2

In Part 1 of this blog series I gave you some super tips on elevating your space party decorations and party table. You also got some great ideas for a dress-up space party with costume and face painting ideas. In Part 2 I have some amazing space party games and activities along with great party favour ideas to send home with your party guests. They will ensure the guests rave about your party for some time!

Keep reading to find out more ultimate space party ideas.

4. Space Party Games

To keep up the outer space adventures you could play a few space themed party games. Yippee Adventures have some fantastic space adventure gift boxes including this Blast into Space Bumper Gift Box. This space theme gift box includes a whole range of space activities including a set of constellation discs and a deck of space fact cards. They suggest getting a torch to shine through the discs to see what each of the constellations look like and playing a memory game with the cards – I know my kids would love that!

Blast into Space Bumper Gift box from Yippee Adventures

You can also create your very own space party games. If your house is like ours there are always lots of balloons to play with. You can make them into great alien faces for your party guests to play with (and then take home!) by giving them alien shape eyes and glue dots to stick them on. Try using green balloons and cutting the eyes from black and yellow card. Depending on their age, you could either have the eyes prepared beforehand, or include making them as a fun activity during the party. You can get more details on how to make your alien balloons by downloading the instructions and templates below.

The balloons can also be used to play ‘Musical Alien Catch’ – think musical chairs but when the music stops players have to catch a balloon alien to stay in the game.

5. Space Party Favours

Send your party guests home with a space theme party bag and favours. The space party bag from Bear & Willow is decorated with a rocket thank you note and personalised tag from the birthday boy or girl. Inside there is a sheet of gloss vinyl stickers with 11 individual outer space stickers. Your party guests will have so much fun creating space pictures when they get home.

You could also add in a few more fun space favours like these space crayons from Crazy House Crayons. They would be perfect for adding some more details to the space pictures they’ve made using their space stickers.

To find out more amazing space party ideas make sure to read Part 1 here. And check out my Space Theme Children’s Party Pinterest board for yet more space-filled fun

You can also sign up to my newsletter to keep up to date with more party theme planning guides as they are published. You’ll also receive a welcome discount for any purchase from Bear & Willow. Oh and if you’d like to receive a special birthday surprise you can sign up via my website at www.bearandwillow.com and add your birth date and month.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.
Featured

5 Fantastic Space Party Ideas

Part 1

We all want to create a party for our kids that they will remember, one that will be talked about, one that all the kids would love to have had! But planning that party can be hard work – trawling through countless web pages and shops for the perfect party decorations, games, food and party favours.

My son made a special request for a space theme party last year (you can read some more about it here). It was the perfect opportunity for me to create my space cake topper set but it got me thinking too. What if I wanted to plan the ultimate outer space birthday party? Well read on and I’ll give you the perfect guide to planning a space theme party. You’ll find 5 great ways to make your party ‘totally out of this world’. In fact, I had so many great ideas for you all that I’ve made 2 posts, so make sure you check out Part 2 to find out the 4 and 5!

1. Space Party Decorations

The decorations at the party can create such an impact when the party guests arrive. Think happy birthday banners, rocket and astronaut balloons and blue and silver sparkly streamers. The party decorations just get everyone in the party mood.

DIY Balloon Arch

You can make your very own balloon arches using balloons and a roll of balloon arch tape. Once you’ve blown up your balloon, simply insert the knotted end into a hole in the tape. Alternate the side of the tape you insert into and hey presto! Try blowing your balloons up to different sizes for a fun effect, and you can even add more volume by using glue dots to stick balloons to others in the display. Different shades of blue balloons, with some white and silver added makes a perfect space theme. Try out some metallic and confetti filled balloons for some added sparkle and interest.

Letter Decorations

To add something a little different to your decorations, why not try these 3D space themed letters from Sobe Crafts to spell out the birthday boy/girls name and/or age? They’d make a fabulous centrepiece at the party entrance or on the table.

3D Space Theme Letters from Sobe Crafts

2. Space Party Table

What’s a party without food and cake! It’s the part of the party my kids look forward to most so we make a big deal of creating fun, delicious – but with some healthy options included! I love baking my own cake and spend so much time scrolling through Pinterest ideas for decorating. It’s become a birthday preparation ritual for us, sitting on the computer picking out the theme and ideas for the cake.

Space Cake Topper

My very own space cake topper set can bring any cake to the next level and provide an amazing centrepiece on the table. Simply push the wood skewers into your home-baked, shop-bought or professionally made cake to add height and drama. The added personalisation makes them extra special and they co-ordinate perfectly with the space theme party straws. Made with biodegradable paper straws and handmade space decorations, these straws add some more outer space highlights to the party table. They are also a great way to keep track of your guest’s drinks!

DIY Party Food

You can then add some fun space theme party foods to the table. These can be so easy to make and can definitely make the healthier options look more appealing! Why not try these great banana and strawberry rockets? All you need are bananas, strawberries and food skewers. Slice the bananas and strawberries into rounds about 1″ thick. Start with the point of a strawberry at the top of the skewer then alternate the fruits until you have a rocket shape. For an added whizz you can cut a piece of orange or red fruit (rock melon, plum or watermelon) into a rectangle. Cut a triangle shape from one of the long ends and add for the flames at the bottom. Here’s a few we made!

3. Space Party Dress-Up

Why not hold a fancy dress space party? Party guests can come dressed up as aliens, planets, rocketships

These space theme satin capes from Robins Bobbins are just perfect. Each costume comes with a personalised cape and up to 3 accessories including a mask and cuffs.

Satin Superhero Space Cape from Robins Bobbins

You could pair your costumes with some galactic space face painting. A set of face paints, a sponge, a fine paintbrush and a little water is all you need. A quick google search of ‘kids space face painting ideas’ will give you lots of ideas – and don’t think you need be really creative to join in the fun. This galaxy face paint is so easy to do. Dab some light blue face paint over the child’s face with a sponge. Add some darker blue to one side with the sponge, then dot little stars of white with the paintbrush. If you’re feeling adventurous why not add a little circle planet once the background is dry!

To find out more amazing space party ideas make sure to read Part 2 and check out my space party Pinterest board for even more great ideas.

You can sign up to my newsletter to keep up to date with more party theme planning guides as they are published. You’ll also receive a welcome discount for any purchase from Bear & Willow. Oh and if you’d like to receive a special birthday surprise you can sign up via my sign up form and add your birth date and month.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.
Featured

5, 4, 3, 2, 1 … Space Party

It started with my son’s 5th birthday. I had been thinking about extending my product range and loved the idea of cake toppers. One of my favourite birthday activities is baking and cake decoration. I have such amazing memories of the birthday cakes my mum and aunt made for me – and I want to do the same for my kids.

Over the past 9 years I have slowly improved my baking skills, and although my decorating is getting there, I thought, why not use my paper crafting skills to make my own decorations? So at the start of 2020 I made my first set of personalised cake toppers – a space cake topper set featuring a rocket, planets, aliens and stars.

My first set of personalised space cake toppers

It just elevated my rather flat cake and turned it into a masterpiece. Finn’s face when it was brought out at the birthday party was priceless and I knew I was ready to bring these to the world! We can’t all create the fabulously decorated cakes we see the professionals make, but here was a way to bring a home-baked (or shop bought) cake up to the same level of ‘WOW’.

After lots of sketching and erasing, making and cutting, my space cake topper set was finalised and added to my shop.

Bear & Willow Space Cake Topper Set and Party Straws

They’ve been joined by a set of personalised space theme party straws – decorated with rockets, alien-ships and stars. And now, as I aim for the ultimate space party experience, I am ready to launch the next product …..

Space Party Bags with matching sticker set

Following a collaboration with fellow Indie Biz owner, Becky, at Ludicrous Prints I am about to start the release of the next stage of Bear & Willow’s party range.

Have you ever just wanted to be able to put together a party bag that suits the theme of your party? Something thats not full of plastic toys and sweets picked up from the supermarket shelves? I certainly have, and so the themed party bag and sticker set was born. First theme due for release on Friday May 28th 2021 ….

Anyone who signs up to my newsletter prior to May 28th 2021 will receive a special offer for this new product release.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

All subscribers receive a welcome discount code and if you pop me a message with your birth date/month then you’ll also receive a special birthday surprise! Simply click the birthday surprise button and follow the instructions or email me at sarah@bearandwillow.com

Featured

Creating Smiles – Creating Memories

From those first sunny days of exploring the possibilities of paper and keepsakes, Bear & Willow has developed into a place of smiles and memories. It’s why I started it all in the first place – as a way of helping people create something that will bring a smile to their face, or those they love. To be part of a special memory that will stay with them forever.

My vision for Bear & Willow – I want to breathe a little happiness and positivity into your life, with unique pieces that will remind you of the good times and what’s important.

It started with the keepsake books I talked about in my last post. I made books for wedding anniversaries, new baby’s and special birthdays. I started to explore other possibilities and made keepsake and personalised frames too. In 2020 I made the decision to start really trying to make the business grow and succeed. I was getting close to all three of my kids being in school and knew I was going to want to get back to work. Bear & Willow wasn’t going to work unless I focused properly on making it happen – and if it didn’t happen then I’d always wonder ‘what if?’

And so the Etsy shop I had opened several years before was finally stocked. I started posting regularly on my Instagram and FaceBook pages, set up my Pinterest business account and Bear & Willow was officially launched into the world. And then lockdown … home schooling with zero nana and granda childcare breaks! I have to admit, it all stopped for a while and I was sure my great 2020 New Year resolution was dead in the water.

I’m not sure exactly what sparked the change. It could have been a chat with my amazing sister, a fellow maker (Ella & Boo – go check her out!!) and someone who has always been such an inspiration to me. It might have been lifting my Indie Roller Handbook that I had invested in via a Kickstarter campaign the previous year. It might have been a ‘stop feeling sorry for yourself’ moment. Whatever it was it made me step back and I launched a new product line that I had been thinking about for a long time.

I’ve always been a lover all types of celebration – a party lover. Not the dance and drink all night party …. but the let them know how amazing they are party, the celebrating the fantastic things you’ve done party, the we all love you so much party. Some of my favourite memories are of childhood birthday parties and now that I have my own, I love being able to plan their birthdays. Every year I make their birthday cakes and in 2020 I decided to take my cake decorating to the next level.

And it sparked an idea in my head that helped me out of that lockdown mood and started to steer Bear & Willow in the right direction ….

To be kept up to date with news and updates from Bear & Willow please sign up to my newsletter. You’ll receive an email about once a month, with news of any new products, blog posts and special offers.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.