Twinkle Toes

 

I think in my friend Noelle’s next life she really, truly would love to be a ballerina.  She has always loved to dance; whether it be hip hop, tap or ballet.  I remember going to watch her “recitals” at Rollins while she was taking a variety of dance classes in college. 

Now, to give you a visual, this was an athletically built, six foot tall volleyball player amongst all of the other tiny dancers.  It was an absolute hoot (although Noelle really can dance, unlike me).

 

 

So, when I found out that Noelle, aka “Nomo” was expecting a baby girl, I couldn't wait to find out what the nursery theme would be; and was not surprised in the least to find out it was a vintage ballerina theme.

 

 

As my friend Kamrin and I were planning her baby shower, it only seemed fitting to carry on the twinkle toes theme. We had so much fun planning a girly, frilly event and couldn’t wait to make our shabby chic shower come to life.

 

 

Kamrin has an absolutely beautiful house that is perfect for entertaining, so we opted to have the shower there.  We wanted to create a cozy and comfortable yet special setting for these two special girls (momma and baby!).

I made the fireplace decorations in hopes that Nomo would be able to use them in the nursery after the shower was over.  I made simple fabric wreaths (strips of fabric double knotted over embroidery hoops and a burlap name banner with pink gingham fabric.  I also made a white and pink tutu for dress up time when Finley gets a little bit older (in the picture above).

Luckily Noelle loved it all and has already hung them in her nursery.  It all looks perfect!

 

Décor at the shower (above) and then used in the nursery (below)!

 

 

We also really wanted to use real plates and napkins rather than disposable and I’m so glad we did.  We mixed and matched all of my table linens (tablecloths, placemats, napkins) and all of my mom’s antique china plates.

 

 

We also added a bit of whimsy with this paper garland decoration over the serving island in Kamrin’s kitchen.  I simply cut scrapbook paper into different size squares and rectangles, doubled them up and then using my sewing machine I just sewed right through the middle. 

This is the cheapest and easiest way to make personalized garland (color and shape).  I also made the mobile in Everett’s nursery this way and just attached the strands to dowels.  I love the look and think it makes a huge statement!!!

 

 

 

 

We had fresh flowers on all of the tables, and even conjured up a few pictures of Nomo as a baby.  The picture below with her dad is extra special since he recently passed away.  He was one of our biggest cheerleaders during every volleyball game in college and always made us laugh – we know he was with us in spirit. 

 

 

How fun are these straws?!?!

 

As for the menu – it was light, summery and soooo yummy!

• Chicken Salad Sandwiches on Croissants
• Strawberry Summer Salad
• Caprese Kebabs
• Lemon Fluff Salad
• Strawberry Cupcakes

 

 

The lemon fluff salad (top right on the plate) was my mom’s recipe and was an absolute hit.  It is a congealed salad that our friend Lynn wanted to eat it with her lunch and for dessert – it was that good and perfect for any party, shower or potluck; and the best news…it can and should be made ahead!

 

Lemon Fluff Salad

Print this recipe!

 

1 can crushed pineapple (undrained)

1/2 C sugar

1/2 C water

3 small lemon Jell-O

1 (8 oz) cream cheese

1 (12 oz) container of Cool Whip

1 C grated cheddar cheese

 

Bring pineapple, sugar and water to a boil.  Remove from stove and blend in softened cream cheese and lemon Jell-O.  Pour into a bowl and chill in refrigerator until syrupy ( a little thick and cool).  Add cool whip and mix well.  Pour into dish and refrigerate until ready to serve.  Put grated cheese over top before serving.  Cut into squares or scoop out with a spoon (depending on serving dish) to serve.

 

 

The strawberry cupcakes were also a hit; as were the white chocolate covered Oreos that were used as the party favor.  Delish and so easy to make.

 

 

Kamrin and I both were so honored to host such a beautiful shower for such a beautiful friend.  We have been through thick and thin together and can’t wait to be with Noelle and her husband Tim as they welcome sweet baby girl Finley any day now.  Let the next set of adventures begin!