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Couture Invito offers a unique line of custom baby announcements, labeled drinks, wedding invitations and personalized stationery! Whatever the event is you are planning, they have everything you need to make it memorable.

Baby Announcements:
A cute picture of your newborn is the perfect way to introduce him/her to your friends & family. Couture Invito offers a wide range of beautiful designs to select from to announce your new addition. Their photo birth announcements are commercially printed on digital press and feature a design on the back of the card as well. Designs are available for boy and girls, and can be adjusted to be suitable for twins and adopted children. They will also do custom designs for you at no additional charge!





Custom Labeled Wine & Soda:
Using the original 1940s and 1950s recipes, these sodas are not only eye-catching, but are delicious too! There are no additional charges for the custom label, simply choose your label design, choose up to 4 flavors per case and just like that you have your own private stock.

I think these custom labeled drinks are the cutest accent to an event I have seen. I will definitely keep them in mind for Brianna's upcoming birthday parties and my girlfriends' baby showers! They are also great for Sports Teams, Fund Raising Events & Special Occasions. (Minimum order is 1 case - 24 bottles)



Not a fan of Soda? Try custom labels on a bottle of wine! Couture Invito transforms a quality bottle of wine into a unique, personal gift that leaves a lasting impression. Each bottle of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot or Champagne (sparkling wine) becomes a unique and personalized product that's perfect for gift giving by individuals, companies and organizations.



Wedding Invitations:
Each invitation set by Couture Invito includes an invitation with outer envelope, response card with envelope and reception card. All of their designs are printed on a professional digital press (flat printing). They are custom designed to capture your individual style and the theme of your wedding. The product will be created using your choice of color, text-style, and high-quality embellishments such as Swarovski® crystals, rhinestone buckles and ribbons. You can choose from their selection of designs as your starting point or tell them your vision and the Couture Invito design team will create an exceptional piece just for you!

***Order 125 or more invitation sets and receive a 10% discount. (the total will be adjusted after the order is placed)





Stationery Collection:
Have fun while creating stationery that is truly your own and unique. They are great for yourself, gifts for mom, friends and teachers, shower gifts & graduation gifts! (These are too cute to pass up)

Looking for complete style in a diaper bag? You will love the Bimba Diaper Bag collection by La Bella Ragazza! The entire collection of high-end & high-fashion bags are geared to make moms feel chic and in-style. Every diaper bag conveniently comes with a washable changing pad, travel wipes case, and essential pockets for stashing all the necessities for mom and baby. Celebrity fans include Brooke Burke and Tori Spelling.

It’s not often that luxury and practicality come together, but fortunately La Bella Ragazza is the exception to that rule. To view more styles and find a list of retailers visit La Bella Ragazza!

Celestial Seasonings recently introduced their newest natural drink mix called Go Stix™. It is a fun and flavorful way for kids to get their recommended daily intake of water and tastes great.

Go Stix™ contains half the sugar of leading fruit drinks and are the only 100 percent natural kids’ drink mix fortified with Calcium and Vitamin C. It is caffeine & gluten free and comes in fun flavors like Fruit Punch, Orange Citrus Punch, Triple Berry and Wild Cherry.

Brianna and I had the opportunity to try Go Stix™ recently and absolutely loved them! The packets were easy to open and also easy to prepare. I added it to an 8 oz bottle of water and let Brianna shake it up. I poured it in her sippy cup and she enjoyed it until the last drop! (It has become one of her favorite drinks this week.)

Go Stix™ is the perfect alternative to sodas and juices and can easily be used "on the go" when you travel this summer. They are available either online are at your local shopping stores including Whole Foods Markets, Price Chopper, Shop Rite, Tops, Giant Carlisle, Giant Eagle and Harris Teeter. Each box is retail priced at $2.99 and contains 8 individual packets.

Try them today!

Looking for ways to protect those precious baby knees in style? Check out Dittany Baby’s SkidPants!

They are the perfect accessory to any baby’s outfit. Aside from the look - which can count as being visually stimulating for baby - they are also very practical. SkidPants protect little legs from rug burn, chilly AC drafts and cool outdoor evenings.

They are great for baby's knees that often suffer while learning to crawl and make excellent buffers between skin and the floor as babies stumble while learning to walk. Effective and convenient (because they do not interfere with diaper changing), they keep baby safe from other dangers such as cold weather and the UV rays of the sun.

Whether you are raising a little surfer dude (try the aloha pattern), a precious princess (strawberry shortcake pattern), a future astronaut (space walk pattern), or just want to keep baby matching (solid colors), there is a fun and fashionable SkidPants just for your little one. Additionally, this one-size-fits-all-accessory is available in several different fabrics, including Organic Cotton, New Lightweight Cotton and Fuzzy Lambswool, making it wearable year-round!

SkidPants have become an instant hit with mommies across the country, including one mommy who knows a thing or two about style. That’s right, glamour icon Gwen Stefani made sure her son Kingston, the reigning monarch of Hollywood baby royalty, learned to crawl and walk in SkidPants.

So keep your baby safe and in style with SkidPants!

Are your kids fans of Harry Potter? If so, Sassy Tails® is introducing a Harry Potter themed collection of accessories based on characters, logos, graphics, crests and text from books I through VI. The Harry Potter collection includes Sassy Tails® ponytail holders, Sassy Snaps®, Ponytail Pizazz ponytail holders®, headbands and head scarves.


Sassy Tails® ponytail holders have multiple solid and screen-printed ribbons, some with feathers, crystals and beads. There are nine styles in the collection, from Harry Potter ribbons in red or purple themes to the Ministry of Magic and Dumbledore's Army colors and graphics. (Ponytail holders are only $12.95)


For boys, try Sassy Snaps®! They are fun buttons with elastic that can be used on backpacks, belts and shoes. There are 12 styles which include logos of the four houses and the Hogwarts' crest. Sirius fans and members of Dumbledore's Army can show their allegiances with their own snaps! (Sassy Snaps sell for only $9.95)


Do you love the house ties? There's a Sassy Signature™ head scarf in every house color and others with the Hogwart crest and Order of the Phoenix™ logo. The high-quality silk scarves are generously sized and shaped like neck ties. (These beautiful head scarves sell for only $14.95)

Gift collections are available for every fan and budget. They range from The Hedwig Collection, which includes a feathery white Sassy Tail® and Hedwig snap for $19.95 to The Ultimate Collection, which has 2 head scarves, two snaps, two Sassy Tails ponytail holders, two Ponytail Pizazz ponytail holders and 2 reversible headbands. More information about the $99.95 gift package and the rest of the Harry Potty Collection is available at SassyTails!

Mattel and Barbie has recently launched a new site called We Believe in Girls. The site focuses on what it takes to raise a girl today, and how we can best support today's girls as they move through childhood to young adulthood.

As girls today grow up too fast and often skip past the simple joys of "girlhood", We Believe in Girls aims to give parents a voice about the state of girls today. Parents can participate in polls as well as weigh in on discussion forums about societal pressures their daughters face everyday. The poll results will then help shape the content of a global, 10-country research study this summer. Everyone is invited to participate, from moms and dads to teachers, academics, social commentators, behaviorists - anyone who cares about girls' well being. They want to hear your ideas, opinions, points of view - in short the unfiltered truth!



Barbie herself has been a 48-year icon of girls' childhoods, alternatively adored or critiqued based often our views about girls, their play, their bodies, role-modeling, and their self-images. In addition to collecting real advice from real parents, the website will be augmented with relevant articles, website links and an engaging array of diverse parenting points-of-view from around the world.

I believe it is very important to support this effort! Your voice will be heard and you can listen to the voices of others about raising happy, healthy girls and to help them achieve their dreams. I encourage all of my readers to join the discussion!

Looking for virtual clothing advice? Visit Shoutfit! It's the next best thing to taking your girlfriends shopping with you! Their website lets users post pictures of outfits, solicit advice, keep up with trends and find the hottest places to shop for great looks. Members can browse clothing items that have been uploaded to the site and meet stylish people.

Membership is free so check Shoutfit out today!

Are you a busy mom and looking for ways to treat yourself? Suave and four moms has compiled a list of tips for women like us to sneak some pampering - beauty, exercise, relaxation, etc. - back in our busy schedules.

Enjoy!

Beauty Tips
I use a foundation that is also a moisturizer and sunscreen all-in-one; much easier to apply one item to my face! - Michelle

I use pre-moistened facial wipes to cleanse my face before bed - the wipes are the perfect thing to wash away makeup and so easy to use. - Michelle

Need a little break, schedule a time once a week for Daddy or a relative to play with the kids while you sneak off for a relaxing bubble bath, remember to lock the door. Add some music or read a book. - Barbara

Rub a thick lotion (such as Suave Exhale Calming Lavender Vanilla Lotion ) on your feet and hands, cover with gloves and socks. Kick back and watch a movie or go to sleep. When you wake up your feet and hands will be touchably soft!

While standing at the sink brushing your teeth, do leg lifts (side and back) for a butt and thigh firming work out.

Exercise Tips
I like to rent some exercise videos and get my kids in on the act. Okay, so maybe you won't get through the whole routine, but kids genuinely like to imitate what they see, especially when it involves, jumping, hopping or jogging. We've actually added it to our rainy day routine activity repertoire. – Liz

Stick with it, and, eventually, they will accept it as just part of the household routine. - Elizabeth

Invest in some indoor exercise equipment, or, research ways to get fit at home, if you really can't get out of the house. - Elizabeth

Walking is a wonderful way to stay fit and relax and clear your head. Dad can watch the kids, or have a neighborhood teenager come over for an hour and play with the kids while you take a walk. Have small children, load them in the stroller and take them with you and all enjoy the fresh air together. – Barbara

Hair Care Tips
It will never seem like the right time to spend money on your hair. Do it anyway, you'll be glad you did, and, it can do wonders for your outlook on everything. There are a variety of salons in different price ranges out there, ask friends for a recommendation. - Elizabeth

I take the time that she's in school to try and schedule any appointments like hair cut/style, doctor appointments, and do errands then. It's a lot faster to get done without a 3 yr old tagging along! - Michelle

Child Care Tips
Time for mom does not have to be away from the kids, it is sometimes difficult to get away. Take those moments when playing outside with the kids or taking a walk and listen to a mom podcast (an internet radio show that can be downloaded to a computer), just load up your mp3 player or iPod and enjoy some mom entertainment on the go. - Barbara

Enlist older children to help with the younger ones while you take a few minutes alone, even if you just look at a magazine in the guest room. - Elizabeth

Take advantage of their pride in being a "big brother" or "big sister", and, ask them to "be in charge" of a simple craft project with their younger sibling, or, to start a DVD and feed them a snack. – Elizabeth

Relaxation Tips
Most people don't realize how physically demanding it is to be a mom. That being said, don't wait for someone to pat you on the back or buy you a gift certificate for a spa day. Instead, take matters into your own hands and book yourself a massage. Choose a day/time when your little one can either be dropped off at daycare or call on your mother-in-law. You'll see, she'll be thrilled to have some extra time with the kids and you'll enjoy a well-deserved break. Also, a few of the larger spas or spas connected to health clubs often offer onsite daycare for a small fee. Consider booking your treatment at one of these types of locations. – Liz

My daughter still takes an afternoon nap - I use that as "me" time (which usually means no chores!) to respond to email, read blogs, read a book/magazine, and sometimes just to catch up on a nap myself! – Michelle

To get some "time away" with other moms I joined my local MOPS, International group which meets every other week. It's a welcomed break! I also have a group of ladies that I play Bunco with once a month. - Michelle

In the Kitchen Tips
If I have a busy day, or evening planned, I'll usually plan for dinner in the slow cooker. I get everything ready to go in the morning and don't have to worry about cooking the rest of the day - it's so nice to come home and dinner is done! - Michelle

Why not make a quick, nutritious breakfast for the family and a facemask out of the same ingredients? To exfoliate and deep clean your skin, mix oatmeal (1cup), blueberries (1 cup), honey (1tbsp) and almonds (5-6) in a blender. Spread on your face, set for 10-15 minutes until dry, rinse with warm water and follow with a toner. Breakfast should be easy with these same four ingredients! Prepare the oatmeal for your family, top generously with blueberries, almonds and a drizzle of honey!

While stirring a pot on the stove, grab a heavy kitchen object such as a can or rolling pin. With your free hand, do bicep curls, overhead lifts (from the shoulder to overhead) and tricep curls bend your arm back behind your head and straighten your arm, so the weight moves from behind your neck, past your ear to up in the air and back again).

Extras!
When moms do take care of themselves, an overwhelming 93 percent say it makes them feel good. Moms who take care of themselves report they feel happier (76 percent), more attractive (76 percent) and more self-confident (72 percent). Furthermore, taking care of themselves made 60 percent feel more feminine and just over half feel like they are setting a good example for their children.

It's taken me a while to realize it, but, in order to care for yourself, you sometimes have to just do it, even when it feels like there are other, more important tasks at hand. You have to take care of yourself in order to take care of your family, and, you are the only one that can make it happen. Sure, there are clothes that need folding, but, there's always clothes that need folding, they'll wait. - Elizabeth

Love designer bags, but don't love the price tag? Try the new wave of designer products - just borrow them!

Bag Borrow or Steal is similar to the video rental services because it lets you pay a monthly fee (as low as $20 per month) for the use of the bag of your choice. When you are tired of that one, simply send it back and they will mail you the next one on your list. Choose from Jimmy Choo, Gucci, Fendi, Louis Vuitton and many more.

There is also a jewelry option for those Vera Wang fans out there :)

Want a multi-dimensional workout while spending time with your kids? Learn the slimming secrets of a former Miss Bikini America in the new Fabulously Fit Moms DVD series!

In just 15 months, Jennifer Nicole Lee went from a 200-lb. mom to a slim, confident pageant contestant through an exercise program of her own devising. The first two DVDs are the New Mom Workout and Total Body Workout and feature cardiovascular exercises mixed with strength training. Each DVD is available at Amazon and currently retails new for $12.99. Order online today!

Whether its a parade, fireworks, barbecue, shopping, or relaxing at home, enjoy this special holiday with your family & loved ones!

As an extra bonus, here are some fun food ideas to celebrate with the kids:

-Vanilla ice cream with red & blue sprinkles.
-Sugar cookies with white icing and red & blue sprinkles.
-Mix blueberries, strawberries and raspberries in yogurt.
-Make a cake of your choice and use whipped cream for icing. Make a flag out of berries to decorate the top.

Imagine having the time to prepare delicious healthy meals for your family without spending your days (or nights) in the kitchen!

My Girlfriend's Kitchen & The Dinner A'Fare gives you a gourmet studio kitchen with meal prep stations complete with recipes, fresh ingredients, spices, and measuring cups and spoons.

In less than 2 hours, you can have 12 amazing meals to take home to your family. Both companies pre-slice, dice, and chop everything you will need. You just take the meals home, put them in your freezer, and cook (following provided instructions) the dishes according to your schedule.

See below a few menu selections from each site:

-Feta Tomato Basil Tilapia
-Linguine with Walnut Pesto
-Crusted Chicken with Jalapeno Corn Salsa
-Roasted Red Pepper Steak Kabobs
-Love Me Tender Ribs
-Sage Seasoned Pork Chops

Pickup & Delivery is available - but visit their websites to see which one is near you!

My Girlfriend's Kitchen


The Dinner A'Fare

Here are a few more hot picks for the summer!

Crayola Sidewalk Paint Sprayer lets your kids create cool art that the whole neighborhood can enjoy! The sprayer is easy to carry for kids 6 and up and allows them to paint two colors at once. When your child is finished (or you are tired of it) - simply wash it away with the water hose or wait for the next rain day. The sprayer comes with two 10-ounce bottles of washable sidewalk paint, an adjustable nozzle, carry handle and belt clip. It is available for purchase at the Crayola Store, Target and Toys-R-Us. ($14.99)



Remember the Snoopy Sno Cone Maker? This nostalgic toy lets children create cool treats to help them beat the heat. The Sno Cone maker comes with a metal ice shaver, one syrup bottle (the jolly snowman) one package of unsweetened soft drink mix, paper cups, scoop and instructions. It is recommended for children ages 4 and up and can be found at Toys-R-Us. ($14.99)


Have you heard of Floam®? It is a non-toxic material that is used to create arts & crafts. Your daughter can create some summer art with the Floam® Picture Frame Kit. The kit contains Floam®, picture frame components, and one floaming tool. ($9.99)


If you have a son, then Floam® Floambot Kit may be more his style. It is includes everything he needs to create a posable robot. The kit comes with non-toxic Floam®, a stand, and an idea booklet. ($9.99)


Does your toddler love bubbles? Brianna enjoys being outside playing with bubbles on the weekend. Our favorite is Gymboree's Bubble Ooodles. It has five bubble ports and makes oodles of bubbles with one easy blow. This set includes one easy-grip wand, a non-spill tray and four ounces of oodles bubble formula. Gymboree explains that Bubble Ooodles helps to develop your child's fine motor skills and cause and effect cognitive skills - which is always a wonderful thing! ($6)

Give your child (or loved one) the opportunity to name a star! The International Star Registry's new Shining Stars program is designed especially for children. Your child will receive a teddy bear (either in brown, blue or pink) and the ability to name his or her very own star - a tradition that begun in 1979.

Also included is a star chart, star certificate and a letter from the Star Registry that will put the universe at your child's fingertips for only $29.95. Your child can create a birthday for their Shining Star friend plus learn about constellations and play games here.

Visit Star Registry for more information and to purchase a star!