Hello Twilite Moon fans. I’m Amy, founder of Tonality Designs (link: http://www.tonalitydesigns.typepad.com), an event stationary company focused on creating entertaining ideas for social gatherings like baby showers, bridal showers and birthdays. When Twilite Moon asked if I’d be a guest blogger and write holiday ideas for moms and moms-to-be, I jumped at the opportunity. Why? Because new moms are looking to start family traditions and what better way to enhance traditions than by adding creative touches to your next Thanksgiving or Christmas gathering. So over the weeks to come, I’ll happily pass on some helpful ideas to make your next holiday affair a little extra special.

That said, if you’re reading this, most likely you’re a busy mom or mom-to-be. It probably seems like a century has passed since your wedding, so you’ve long since stopped reading bridal magazines. However, it’s the bridal magazines that often have the best entertaining ideas. They provide us with seasonal color stories, creative centerpieces, easy decorating ideas and do-it-yourself invitations and favors. And yes the magazine editors are tapped into the wedding market, but who says that only your wedding day should be planned to perfection? I believe that the same thought can easily be translated to your everyday party.

To prove this I’m going to start with flowers because if you focus on adding one extra-touch this holiday season – flowers will provide the greatest impact.

And flowers are easy – a key element to consider when you’re dealing with diaper changes, midnight feedings and play dates.

So let’s remember back to when you were preparing for your wedding. You most likely found a picture of the perfect bridal bouquet and then took it to your local florist to translate for your big day. Well, you can do the same this Thanksgiving and Christmas. Today we’ll focus on Thanksgiving.

Here are 4 different pictures that could inspire the centerpieces for your Thanksgiving table this year. You’ll notice each evokes a different feel, but all say fall and fabulous. And you don’t have to limit the arrangements to just the dinner table. Think about where in your house you could use an added touch of color and simply add an arrangement. Big or small, flowers will immediately transform your home. They are welcoming and somehow have the power to make us feel special. By adding them throughout your house, your family and guests will immediately know that you made an effort to make this holiday memorable.

Now what if you’re not hosting Thanksgiving this year? Well, don’t worry. You can always surprise this year’s host with a special arrangement. Sure you could pick up a bouquet at the grocery, but where’s the extra thought and fun in that?

And remember – even though you’re no longer a bride-to-be, from time-to-time while in line at the grocery, I encourage you to pick up a bridal magazine along with your typical parent’s magazine. Or periodically visit a top bridal blog like Style Me Pretty. (link: http://www.stylemepretty.com) You just might find the inspiration you need for your next holiday party – or baby’s first birthday!

***As a side note, for you extra ambitious moms, you can always try making the flower arrangements yourself. Find where your local flower market is and on the Tuesday or Wednesday before Thanksgiving, go to the market. For tips on flower arranging see this article and video on none other than MarthaStewart.com (link: http://www.marthastewart.com/article/lilly-pulitzer-flower-arrangements?autonomy_kw=flower%20arranging%20tips)

Flower Sources:

1. Photo by: In Photography

(link: http://www.inphotography.net/)

2. Flower by: Ink and Peat

(http://housemartin.typepad.com/housemartin/2009/09/sunshine-grey.html)

3. Flowers by: Jess Country Flowers

(link: http://www.jesscountryflowers.com/ )

4. Photo by: Jose Villa Photography

(link: http://josevillaphoto.com/ )

Amy is the founder of Tonality Designs (www.tonalitydesigns.com) where she can create the perfect stationary or decorations for any special occasion.  You can also follow her blog at http://tonalitydesigns.typepad.com/tonality_designs/.