Party Lines: PartyParty

Posted by Britni Wood, Style Expert

There are few things that say party like sparkly garlands and candy-colored pinatas. And there are few people that make sparkly garlands and candy colored pinatas quite like CONFETTISYSTEM. How fun to throw a bachelorette party and decorate with all of their amazing creations!

Our Style Director, Katie Hatch, blogged about the amazing pinatas from CONFETTISYSTEM in February, and the design duo have had quite a year. From being featured in music videos, fashion shows, and window installations for some of the coolest stores around, they've found a happy home this holiday season at Urban Outfitters with a collaboration called PartyParty. The items should be hitting stores soon, so eat, drink, be married, and for goodness sake, be sparkly!

photos by estelle hanania

Papermart

Posted by Darcy Miller, Editorial Director

Here at Martha Stewart Weddings, appearances are really important. That's why we spend so much time in our stories on packaging. Over the years, we've found some amazing sources for great gift and specialty bags, boxes, and embellishments. One of our favorites is Papermart.

I particularly love all the sizes and colors of gift boxes (check out my Valentine's Day favor), and their new center-stitch grosgrain ribbon. It looks so cute on a small favor box, and you can't beat the price! They also have cellophane and fabric bags.

Planning on packaging your own favors? What kinds of materials are you using to make that extra special first impression on your guests?

Steinlauf & Stoller, Inc

Posted by Darcy Miller, Editorial Director:

All of us here at Martha Stewart Weddings have our favorite shops in the neighborhood for trimmings and supplies. One of my favorites is Steinlauf & Stoller, which has threads, Notions Cotton Goods and more in lots of eye-popping shades.

Manager Sid, left, and Opal

They have tons of seam binding, as you can see above. Sewers and crafters know that seam binding is normally used to prevent an unfinished seam or hem from unraveling, but it also works great as an affordable ribbon. I wouldn't use it on a dress, but try it to add lightness and softness to any package or special favor.

I love to hear how people use materials in ways other than their intended purpose. What materials have you done this with?

Tender Buttons

At MSW we love buttons. We've done everything from button cakes to button boutonnieres to button favors because not only are they affordable, but they're the cutest way to add a special touch.

Recently I visited Tender Buttons, a store in Manhattan that specializes in the diminutive rounds. I was actually looking to change the buttons on an everyday sweater to make it dressier, but this idea works for you as the bride, too. You can change the buttons on a cover-up cardigan for all your bridesmaids or even your flower girl. Certain buttons can also be used to make cufflinks (Tender Buttons also sells these) for your groom and groomsmen. Whatever your needs, a trip to Tender Buttons is definitely worth the effort: You'll never look at buttons the same way again!

Oh, and don't forget to tune in tonight to the Style Network's Art of Cakes, airing at 9:00PM. Check your local listings.