Not Another Diaper Cake: Unique and Practical Gifts

I Drool Black and Gold Baby Clothing Bouquet- Made to Order

2010-05-16T16:14:00.000-07:00

Baby Blooming Bouquets can be customized to your favorite sport teams. Here in Pittsburgh- Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates bouquets are huge hits! For the ultimate Pittsburgh Baby Blooming Bouquet you can combine all three to create a one of a kind "I Drool Black and Gold" Baby Gift!

Past custom Pittsburgh Baby Blooming Bouquets had included:

Pittsburgh Steelers Bibs "Born to be a Steelers Fan"
Pittsburgh Steelers Onesies/Bodysuits "Little Steelers Fan"
Pittsburgh Steelers "Terrible Toddler Towel"
Pittsburgh Steelers "Born to be a Steelers Fan" Hooded Bath Towel
Pittsburgh Steelers Fleece Sweatshirts, Bodysuits, and Hooded buntings
Pittsburgh Steelers socks and booties

Items can range in size from infant to 24 months to fit baby during the football season.

A bright gold basket finishes off the custom made Pittsburgh Steelers Baby Blooming Bouquet for a one of a kind gift for the ultimate Steelers fan!

Custom Steelers Bouquets start at 30.00.

Check out a selection of Pittsburgh Baby items and finished custom orders in this album: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=188034&id=703705357&l=4ceb31c71a

Go Steelers!!!

Wedding Season is upon us!

2010-05-06T14:07:00.000-07:00

It is time to spoil those Brides to be! Did you know that ChristieCreations can purchase items off a bride's registry to be made into a Bath Towel Blooming Bouquet or Kitchen Towel Blooming Bouquet?

Bath Towel Blooming Bouquets were inspired by one of our loyal customers who wanted a unique way to present the towels she had purchased off the bride to be's wedding registry. Much like the Baby Blooming Bouquets, the towels are hand rolled to beautiful flowers to create a one of a kind bridal shower gift. Brides go NUTS over these creative twist to the traditional gift basket.

Especially with the recent green movement to have a "Display shower" where the gifts are asked to be brought unwrapped to save the environment and to cut out all that downtime of unwrapping at the bridal shower.

Bath Towel Blooming Bouquets are exclusively custom made to match the gift receipient's bathroom color theme. The towels can be purchased off the bridal registry or similar high quality department store towels will be bought to complete your blooming bouquet.

The typical Bath Towel Blooming Bouquet is comprised of 3 full size bath towels, 3 hand towels, and 5-8 washcloths to fill out the bouquet. The baskets are typically a large rectangular willow basket with a cotton liner to protect the towels from snags.

A shower curtain and or liner can also be added! Bath Towel Blooming Bouquets with the 14 items described above start at $ 70.00 but can me made smaller or larger to fit any budget.

Another practical option for a bridal shower gift is the Kitchen Towel Blooming Bouquet. It is made from kitchen aprons, kitchen towels, dishcloths, pot holders, oven mitts, placemats and more. Again, these items can be purchased off a bridal registry or similar items can be purchased to match the kitchen color scheme or theme.

Surprise the bride with a one of kind gift! Custom orders take a minimum of 72 hours to complete.

Unique Way to Announce Pregnancy!

2010-04-28T17:34:00.000-07:00

ChristieCreations handles hundreds of custom orders. But this week's special Mother's Day order will remain a favorite for years to come. The customer ordered two Baby Blooming Bouquets to be sent to her Mom and Mother in Law to announce her pregnancy! The gift tag will read "Happy Mother's Day from the three of us!"

The mother to be selected items from the gender neutral clothing and accessory album that featured "Grandma."

Each of the custom bouquets contained 10 items:

1 Carter's Flannel Receiving Blanket
1 "I love Grandma" Carter's Onesie
1 "My Grandma loves me" Carter's Onesie
1 "I'm going to Grandma's House" Carter's Bib
1 Pair of Carter's pull on pants
4 Baby Washcloths
1 Basket

She chose the color combinations for the silk florals from an album of previous custom orders.

It certainly will be a special Mother's Day for the Grandma's to be!

To all of you Moms and Mother's to be, how did you announce your pregnancies?

Happy Early Mother's Day! Mother's Day orders are still being taken until May 5th to ensure holiday delivery.

The Perfect Mother's Day Gift

2010-04-18T09:40:00.001-07:00

Do you usually order live flowers for Mom? Why not surprise her with a Blooming Bouquet that will last forever! Kitchen Towel Blooming Bouquets provides Mom with a unique gift that she will cherish long after traditional flowers would wilt and die.

You can choose from a selection of pre-made Kitchen Blooming Bouquets on the etsy.com set or custom design a bouquet to match Mom's kitchen theme, color scheme, or hobbies.

Check out these raves from last year's Mother's Day customers:

"What a wonderful basket! I bought this for my mom on Mother's Day and it was a huge winner! What a beautiful basket!"

"Mom loved it, I was very pleased with the purchase."

"I cant even stress enough how amazing these arrangements are. The service was prompt and the correspondence between Christie and I was great. She really made my Mom's special day even better!!! THANK YOU!!"

Here is a small selection of past Kitchen Towel Blooming Bouquet orders:

http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/album.php?aid=187228&id=703705357

FREE SHIPPING!

2010-04-13T16:10:00.000-07:00

April Showers bring May FLOWERS! Celebrate Spring with a Blooming Bouquet or Baby Cupcakes! ChristieCreations is offering free shipping for orders over $ 60.00 That is a savings of over 14.00 for the larger Blooming Bouquets. Mother's Day is coming up. Why not have a custom Kitchen Towel Blooming Bouquet designed for her. We can match any kitchen theme or color scheme.

Another great option is a Spa Pampering Blooming Bouquet which will make your Mom or any special woman feel like a princess. You can select your items for a custom creations from:

*inflatable bath pillow
*sleep mask
*manicure tools
*pedicure tools
*bath products
*plush washcloths
*facial products
*back scrubbers
and much more!

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with 20% off from Steel Town Etsy!

2010-03-15T17:22:00.000-07:00

The Steel Town Etsy St. Patrick's Day Promo and Sale runs March 14th, through this Saturday, March 20th. Visit any, or all, of the participating shops below, find the shamrock listed as a picture in one of the items for sale in the shop, and convo the seller to let them know which listing you found the picture in. Then, just let them know which item or items you'd like to purchase at the sale price of 20% off and they'll create a special listing just for you.

Participating Shops:

Barker's Herbs and Heirlooms
Vintage Hotcakes
Charmed By Nature
Sleeping Bunny
Bitsy Kids
Vic's Kitsch'N
aBc Children's Designs
Heavenly Creations
Silent Lotus
Diane Wright Designs
Pima's Beads
Gee... That's Swell
That's What She Thread
Jet Pack Agenda
M. Giehll Creations
Myers Flock and Fiber Farm
Designs2c
GreatStuff2730
The Dreaming Owl
Unique Designs By Jill
Christie Creations
Atlantisak Jewelry

Direct shop links located here: http://steeltownetsy.blogspot.com/

Enjoy your handmade treasure hunt!

St. Patrick's Day Promo: Take 20% off!!!

2010-03-14T18:38:00.000-07:00

Are visions of leprechauns dancing in your head? Always wish you could find their pot of gold at the end of a rainbow? Celebrate the season and the wearing o' the green while you enjoy the Steel Town Etsy team's St. Patrick's Day promo on Etsy. Our promo will allow you to keep more gold in your own pot while purchasing handmade treasures. Visit participating shops the week of March 14th - 20th to take advantage of the promo.

Each shop owner will be selecting a random listing to include the shamrock logo above in (hint - look at the pictures included with each listing). Enjoy shopping the wide variety of items handmade with pride by Steel Town Etsy team members from the comfort of your own home (or office - we promise not to tell) and hunt for the shamrocks.

When you find the shamrock logo above in participating shops, send a convo ("contact this seller" option on Etsy) to the shop owner letting them know where you found the logo and any item(s) you want to purchase. The seller will then create a special listing for you to include your discount.

A list of participating shops will be included in our Etsy shop announcement and listed on our blog, beginning Saturday, March 13th.

We hope you enjoy our treasure hunt and hope you find many treasures at the end of our handmade rainbow.

74 Days to Mother's Day!

2010-02-24T15:20:00.001-08:00

Abraham Lincoln once said., "All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother." Mothers are the epitome of love. On the second Sunday of May, we take a day to celebrate them.

My own Mother was not a fan of live flowers. She thought they were a waste of money. She loved the look but hated the fact that in a few days the bright blooms disappeared. Among other things, my Mother passed on her economic ways to me. I adore flowers- I love how they bring a smile to someone's face and make them feel so special. ChristieCreations' Blooming Bouquets solve the dilemma of having by making a beautiful forever fresh floral arrangement and a truly economic practical gift. My Mom would most definitely agree.

Kitchen Towel Blooming Bouquets combine kitchen towels, dishcloths, aprons, and more to create a stunning floral arrangement. Once the bouquet has been enjoyed, the "blooms" can be easily unrolled to reveal these kitchen basics. Mom can enjoy her gift everyday when she uses her kitchen towels, apron, and dishcloths.

Spa Pampering Blooming Bouquets feature high quality washcloths, bath poofs, inflatable bath pillows, spa products, manicure and pedicure tools and more to pamper that special woman in your life.

Last Mother's Day, ChristieCreations received several phone calls from Moms across the country that adored their unique gifts. Many of the bouquets are still on display in their homes because "they are too beautiful to take apart."

More raves for Mother's Day Blooming Bouquet gifts:

"Thank you for making my Mom's special day even more special."

"Mom loved it! She hasn't stopped talking about it and showing all of her friends."

"Mom adored her one of kind bouquet."

I know my own Mother who is smiling down from Heaven and would have loved to receive such a forever fresh floral arrangement. Each time I make a blooming bouquet I have to smile because she was the ultimate inspiration for the company.

Don't Forget Grandma! Gifts for the New Grandmother

2010-02-22T13:40:00.000-08:00

ChristieCreations is always looking for new ideas on how we can improve our products. After a custom order for a Grandmother to be, we created a line of "For Grandma" bouquets with blankets, bibs, and booties to keep at Grandma's house. Of course we can include cute onesies and bibs that said "We love Grandma" and "What happens at Grandma's House, stays at Grandma's house." Why not treat the new Grandma to a gift of her own to celebrate her new grandchild!

Other ways to celebrate the new Grandmother at the baby shower include:

A engraved photo frame or photo album from the new baby.

A brag book for Grandma to carry in her purse to show all of her friends her new grandbaby!

A Grandma's on Duty Tool Belt including all the essential basics for baby: diapers, diaper rash cream, toy, pacifier, baby Tylenol, baby wipes, and more

A personalized t shirt with the new Grandma's name.

So while friends and family are spoiling the Mother to be with gifts- don't forget Grandma!

What's new at ChristieCreations?

2010-02-15T22:24:00.000-08:00

Last month a new line of baby gifts was revealed at ChristieCreations!

Introducing the Baby Cupcake!

Each cupcake is lovingly made with high quality baby basics like bibs, onesies/bodysuits, and washcloths. Handrolled to look like a whipped cupcake and presented in a bakery box all set for presentation.

Other "flavors" available including:

*BOY, GIRL, and UNISEX/GENDER NEUTRAL
*Pink, White, Blue, Yellow, Green Washcloths as "icing"
*Printed Washcloths, Onesies, and Bibs

As always, custom orders are welcome. Customers can choose from a large selection of bibs, layettes, washcloths, and more. Prices start at just $ 6.00 for single cupcakes and $ 24.00 for four packs.

Here is another way to stand out at that next baby shower. We do all the work and you get all the "oohs and ahhs." Enjoy! They are fat free.

Blog Giveaways- FREE CUPCAKES!

2010-02-03T01:57:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't like a free cupcake?

To celebrate the brand new line of A Bun in the Oven Baby Cupcakes for ChristieCreations, we are participating in two blog giveaways.

As a proud member of the KNET (Knotties and Nesties on Etsy) team, I have provided today's giveaway of a four pack of custom made baby cupcakes. The KNET team is kicking off February with two weeks of giveaways. Make sure to stop back each day to enter to win another fabulous item from the featured KNET seller.

http://knetestyteam.blogspot.com

On my friend Cara's blog you can enter to win this Gender Neutral four pack of baby cupcakes. Check out Cara's blog for entry details.

http://cararolinson.blogspot.com/2010/02/long-time-coming-giveaway-from.html

Her Shop- Featuring over 70 Etsy Artisans

2009-09-06T18:52:00.000-07:00

An interview of shop owner, Laura LaChance Stubbs, of Her Shop.

What inspired you to open "Her Shop?"

I always wanted to open my own shop, but never new what to sell. Now that the kids are grown, I've been selling my candles on Etsy.com. But I found Etsy had so many wonderful handmade items, I was buying more than I was selling. My Christmas shopping is almost complete before Labor Day for the first time in my life.

So one day it dawned on me, to open a shop and sell handmade things from Etsy. I realize how bad the economy is nationwide. These crafters, like me, are only trying to make a buck to feed their family and pay their bills. So I began trading in my stocks and started finding quality unique handmade items.

What sort of items will Her Shop carry?

I had no idea what "theme" I was going to have, and being a tomboy, I'm a little surprised that I was buying mostly things for woman and babies. I have 5 grandsons, 1 grand daughter and one grandson due any day now. so I definitely wanted baby things too, for shower gifts or something unique for the new mom. I live in a small town, and I don't want to step on any toes, so I was looking for things, nobody else had.

I have met some wonderful people on Etsy and made some really good long distance friends.

I have jewelry, scrapbooking supplies, soap, my candles, bath salts, paintings, burp cloths, mamas necklace, needlefelting kits, to name a few. And because I knit and crochet as well, I wanted to carry 100% cotton yarn from Peaches n Creme, I have 49 colors! A local chain store ( unnamed) only carries 27 colors.

I also do some consignments for some friends and local people.

Where did the name "Her Shop" come from?

The name was hard to come up with, a little different for sure. But then again, my store is different.

What makes Her Shop stand out?

My goal was to put money in pockets around the nation, while supplying my store with great items. I also wanted to help my community, by offering things in town, so people wouldn't have to travel so far to get scrapbooking, yarn , embroidery supplies, or a unique gift.

HER SHOP is located in Cornish, Maine on rt. 25

Hours will be 10 - 6 pm Tuesday - Saturday

The store had its Grand Opening on Saturday Opening August 25Th, 2009

I am always adding new and interesting things. To date, I have purchased from about 70 different people on Etsy!

Thank you for allowing to share my shop with you!

Le Bella Studio-Center for Fine Arts- Emporium Grand Opening!

2009-08-05T18:14:00.001-07:00

Le Bella Art Studio is expanding to offer an Indoor Emporium retail shop. Grand Opening will be THIS Saturday, August 8, 2009 from 11 am to 4 pm. Come check out Blooming Bouquets in person.

Location: Le Bella Studio-Center for Fiine Arts
850 Pittsburgh Street
Phone: 724.274.6330

While at Le Bella shop for new or used items from one of our many local artists, crafters and collectors. Some items available at Le Bella are:

embroidery, fabric applique, fabric art

one of a kind reconstructed t-shirts, unique patches and bags

screenprinting for babies, kids & women

polymer clay goodies

screenprinted clothing, bags and housewares

neato plastic upcycled rings/jewelry

ceramic jewelry

screenprinting onesies, tshirts

upcycled jewelry

Handmade jewelry

Hand Made Crafts

Home Made Chocolates

Comic Books

Lp's

Skateboards

Used Books

Lots and Lots of Art...Please call for more Info and for store times.

Harvest Fest

Come to Le Bella on October 24th and join us for a day of FUN! While your child is making their own Jackson Pollock Splatter Pumpkins you can pick up some fresh local produce and shop around our Emporium. Enjoy some of our local artists, crafters and collecters work and check out what our Art studio has to offer for the winter.

FREE SHIPPING! Ended August 1, 2009

2009-07-12T17:56:00.001-07:00

That is right! We are now offering Free Shipping in the Continental US!

More about Shipping:

Shipping & Handling Options:
S/H charges for continental US addresses are as follows (HI, AK and US territories please email me your addresses for quotes.):

PO BOXES MUST CHOOSE USPS PRIORITY OR EXPRESS MAIL

FedEx Ground/Home Delivery,
(1-3 days to Midwest and East Coast, 4 days to West Coast, includes insurance and signature confirmation)

USPS Priority Mail Shipping,
(2-3 days average delivery, not guaranteed, includes insurance and signature confirmation)

USPS Express Mail Shipping,
(Overnight to most locations, Saturday, Sunday & holiday delivery, exact delivery guarantee based on zip code, includes insurance and signature confirmation)

Local Pickup/Delivery for Greater Pittsburgh Area extending to Beaver County
(MUST CONTACT ME BEFORE BUYING TO ARRANGE PICKUP) including local hospitals!

ChristieCreations Gives Back

2009-07-06T20:28:00.000-07:00

ChristieCreations gives back! Please join us in supporting these fantastic causes:

Pancreatic Cancer Research

Bilec Bowl

All Proceeds Benefit Pancreatic Cancer Research

(In Loving Memory of Wanda Bilec)

When: Saturday July 25, 2009

Where: New Great Valley Lanes, North Versailles

Time: 1:00 p.m.

Cost: $20 - Adults; $12 - Children under 13

Price includes 3 games of bowling, shoes and

Five tickets toward the basket raffle

Raffle for over 15 baskets

50/50 Cash Raffle

Silent Auction (items include Marriott package, Kennywood package, Pirates Baseball package, Golfpackage)

Register individually

or as a Team by July 11^th

with Jodi at bilecbowls@comc

ast.net

The Superhero Foundation, (a non profit oganization) is sponsoring a family fun run/walk at North Park on April 18, 2009 to benefit the Parental Stress Center of Pittsburgh, PA. The goal is to raise awareness for prevention of child abuse. Participants are encouraged to dress as their favorite superheros and it promises to be a fun filled day for a great cause.

Superhero Foundation:
http://superherorun.com

Parental Stress Center of Pittsburgh:
http://www.pscfamily.net/

These are just a few of the recent charities that have been donated Blooming Bouquets to be auctioned off.

Next month, ChristieCreations will be feature a brand new line of "For Giana" Blooming Bouquets where all proceeds will benefit The Giana Boyd Berardi Fund.

Giana and her twin brother Dominic were born 10 weeks premature. Dominic weighed about 3 pounds 6 ounces and Giana weighed 1 pound 9 ounces. She was diagnosed with Miller Dieker's Syndrome in August 2008. She is fed through a tube in her belly and will probably never walk, or talk. She will be severely mentally delayed. She is susceptible to respiratory illnesses and needs extra special care.

For more information: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/gianaboydberardi

Do you want to help out Giana right now? This Thursday July 9th, Frontline Initiative and the Hero Program will be selling Giana's bracelets outside Wal-Mart in Monaca all day!

We must be doing something right...

2009-07-05T17:06:00.000-07:00

ChristieCreations strives to make EVERY customer a RETURN customer! Each Blooming Bouquet is designed and handmade as though we were giving it to our own friends and family. The product is one of a kind and the quality speaks for itself. We must be doing something right because over half of our customers have made a second (or third or fourth) purchase within two months of their initial purchase.

Here are some recent customer testimonials:

I ordered four bouquets and was “over the moon” with them all! My order was shipped and received within 2 days; all of the baskets in the same condition as they were sent. I even turned them all upside down to see if anything would come out and was pleasantly surprised when nothing did! I am definitely a customer for life! Thanks Christie!

Beautiful, high quality basket, even better than the photos! Wonderful seller: great communication, goes above and beyond to provide great customer service. I will be back for more, thanks so much!

Super cute presentation and extremely fast shipping! What a great gift to help welcome a new baby girl. I will definitely be back.

My sister loved her bouquet she got it yesterday and was pleasantly surprised. I will be back in the future!

Thank you so much. My daughter in law was so surprised, when she got it, and loved it so much, she didn't want to take it apart!! VERY impressive, Great quality items , and awesome selection, in this basket!!

I love this seller she made such an adorable bouquet for m friend's new son I cannot wait for my friend to get this i just know she will love it. I would highly recommend this store to anyone having a baby shower or baby. I will definitely be back.

I have purchased two baskets and have been highly pleased with both. They are beautiful and well put together. I recommend them to everyone!

I cant even stress enough how amazing these arrangements are. The service was prompt and the correspondence between Christie and I was great. She really made my Mom's special day even better!!! THANK YOU!!

I hope to have lots more babies in the family so i can buy more of these amazing baskets! gorgeous, wonderful present. can't thank you enough!!! also, SUPER fast shipping! GREAT SELLER! THANK YOU!!!

This is totally awesome, I just love it and will be buying many more..and Christie is such a nice nice person. thank you !!!!

This seller is terrific! We worked together on the items included and she custom designed the basket to match the shower decorations. Great to work with and the basket is just perfect. First rate experience! Thanks Christie!

ChristieCreations diligently works to make every customer a customer for life!

How to throw a fabulous baby shower (Part 5 of 10) Let's talk decorations

2009-06-14T15:16:00.000-07:00

Let's talk decorations! I am not a fan of blue and pink paper crepe streamers, boring balloon centerpieces, and those tacky paper cut outs of baby carriages, ducks, and bottles.

Baby Blooming Bouquets actually were born in response to not wanting to use diaper cakes as baby shower centerpieces... again. I will be the first one to admit that I bought a diaper cakes or two. I was a fan. It was trendy, unique, and featured on one of my all time favorite television shows, Sex and the City. But go ahead and google "diaper cake." You are flooded with 863,000 hits for diaper cake. Anyone and everyone can either make a diaper cake (google for instructions) or buy one at a myriad of places. In case you are wondering: there are about 364,000 hits for How to make a diaper cake.

Now that I am done with my rant on diaper cakes, let's move to some excellent baby shower decoration alternatives.
Once again, I turn to my crafty Etsy friends. Here is a small selection of my favorite decoration ideas. No, none of them have been featured on a major television series...yet but you can be the cool one to introduce your friends to the new trend in baby shower decorations!

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=25399234
20"x28" personalized photo poster - baby's growing tree - family tree

Feature ::
-4 horizontal & 4 vertical 3x2 photos frames
-20x28 inch poster (paper size)
-free matt lamination
-poster reusable
-photos can be changed unlimited times

Print fits standard 20x28 ready made frame without matting.

www.oh-smile.blogspot.com

Practicality is key when shopping for baby shower decorations. Instead of wasting you money on paper items that you will simply toss out after the shower, why not purchase items that can be displayed and/or used in the nursery?

Another fabulous baby gift that would double as a decoration are these one of a kind, personalized clocks by 5:00 am Clock Designs: Lori's Useful and Unique Personalized Gifts.
It features a great red barn, and a barnyard complete with smiling cow & horse, family of ducks, and a tractor ready to go, all under a bright sunshine with country accents! Our vibrant graphics are on a WHITE background, and it is EASIER TO SEE both numbers and clock hands on a white background!

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6237725

As I have mentioned in a previous installment of How to throw a Fabulous Baby Shower, I love using a clothesline as a practical baby shower decoration. Wouldn't this stunning personalized blanket look simply adorable pinned to the middle of a clothesline with darling onesies hanging on either side? The gorgeous matching pillow can be placed on the Mother to be's chair to help support her back during the gift opening portion of her baby shower. Who would not love to step into their baby shower to find this extra surprise?

You can purchase this item on GirlieBirdBoutique on etsy.com

One handmade applique name pillow with pink chenille front measuring 12x16. The primary fabric is Michael Miller's Carnival Bloom with coordinating fabric for the additional letters. The back is the carnival bloom and it opens to remove the pillow insert for washing. Pink pom pom trim for the trim (pom pom trim is not recommended for children under 3 years of age).

The blanket is also made with pink chenille front and carnival bloom fabric on the back with the pink pom pom trim. This blanket measures approx. 30x34.

Every Blooming Bouquet is one of a kind!

2009-06-11T15:18:00.000-07:00

ChristieCreations has been asked numerous times why we "name" each Blooming Bouquet. Unlike similar products each of our Blooming Bouquets are designed to be one of a kind. Each gift is made with as much love and care as if we were giving it to our own friends or family members. The items inside the Blooming Bouquet are carefully selected to coordinate with each other and provide a colorful "blooming" arrangement.

Baby Blooming Bouquets are each born with a name. There are three main sections of Baby Blooming Bouquets:

Baby BOY
Baby GIRL
Gender NEUTRAL Baby

Within those sections there are speciality Baby Blooming Bouquets including:

Cloth Diaper Baby
Organic Baby
Preemie Baby

Since our bouquets are designed with a myriad of colors, providing a gender specific name for each bouquet allows a customer to quickly distinguish which bouquets are more appropriate for a baby girl, baby boy, or a baby surprise!

Baby Bouquets are regularly named after our past clients precious babies! If you are purchasing a bouquet as a baby shower gift/centerpiece or as a gift to bring to the hospital, please drop us a line and let us know what special name the parents have chosen. We will feature an upcoming bouquet in their honor!
Every baby in the world is born with his or her own special personality and our bouquets are just the same.

Names are used once and then retired.

ChristieCreations realizes that baby names are very important to the parents to be. Baby name preferences vary greatly. Therefore the gift bouquet's baby name is not shared on the custom photo gift card. The only place where the bouquet's name is listed is on the website.

Kitchen and Spa Pampering Blooming Bouquets are named using cute and corny phrases! Just another way to add a little pizazz to our product and give the buyer an idea of the theme of the bouquet items!

A few of our favorites include:

Open up and Say Spaaaah

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=25283563

You had me at Merlot

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=24089520

Espresso Yourself

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=25855223

Something Fishy

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=25960183

I Never Promised You a Rose Garden

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=21962777

Have an idea for a cute name? Let's hear it!

YART Sale time! Yard + Art = YART

2009-06-09T16:51:00.000-07:00

It is summer and what does that mean? Yard Sales! This was one of my favorite activities to do with my mom. You could always find a bargain! Fast forward twenty years and yes, they have figured out how to have a VIRTUAL online yard sale. On Etsy is is called a Yart sale. What exactly is a “Yart Sale,” you may ask? The term Yart is an artistic spin on the traditional yard sale:

Art + Yard Sale = Yart!

The sale will take place June 10 through June 14, 2009.

If you have never purchased from Etsy before- this is the perfect time to give it a try.

Shops will be offering extra special discounts, free or reduced shipping charges, freebies, and more!

ChristieCreations is participating with a 14 item YART SALE section. All orders over 60.00 will ship for FREE!

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6176691&section_id=6059404

Happy Bargain Hunting!

Do you tweet?

2009-06-03T03:57:00.000-07:00

Twitter is a free social networking and micro-blogging service that enables its users to send and read other users' updates known as tweets. Tweets are posts of up to 140 characters, displayed on the user's profile page and delivered to other users who have subscribed to them (known as followers).

ChristieCreations is now on Twitter! Make sure to follow us for periodic coupon codes. Are you on twitter? Leave your twitter info as a comment and let's us follow you!

http://twitter.com/Bloomingbouquet

Complimentary Photo Cards with Every Blooming Bouquet!

2009-05-25T15:11:00.000-07:00

ChristieCreations offers a complimentary 4x6 photo insert card with every purchase.

A keepsake photo of the Blooming Bouquet is displayed on the front of the card so that its beauty can be enjoyed and remembered long after the gift is taken apart. On the inside of the card, there is a complete list of the bouquet's inside contents written in beautiful calligraphy. This allows the gift receiver to know what fabulous items will be found when she unrolls the "blooms."

Since the majority of our Blooming Bouquets are sent directly to the gift receiver, a personal message can be added to your complimentary photo card.

Introducing Spa Pampering Products

2009-05-23T22:55:00.000-07:00

There is only so much room to discuss the fantastic products featured inside ChristieCreations Blooming Bouquets on etsy.com. In our blog, we get unlimited about of space to show you the quality products selected for the various themed bouquets.

Today we are introducing you to the new lines of Ms. Manicure and Ms. Pedicure products included in the Spa Pampering Blooming Bouquet line.

Look like a pro did your nails with my Tips & Toes set. I've put together all the tools you need to give yourself the ultimate pro manicure or pedicure. This set includes a Toenail Clipper, Cuticle Trimmer, Cuticle Pusher, Washable Salon Board, Wood Cuticle Sticks, Pumice Stone, Nail Brush, and Toe Separators.

Handy Dandy Mani set is a tidy carry-all that has every tool you could require to manicure yourself solo. If you like to have your own personal tools when you go to the salon, just take this set with you! This all-in-one tool kit includes a Cuticle Nipper, Nail Clipper, Nail Scissors, Wood Cuticle Sticks, Nail Brush, Washable Salon Board, 4-way Nail Buffer, and Slant Tip Tweezers.

My Sweet Feet set includes 6 necessities to pamper your feet! Exfoliating Foot Scrub (one of my very favorite products!), Moisture Rich Foot lotion, Emery Boards, and Toe Separators.

Get your toes in tip-top condition with my Best in Toe set! This compact set includes the best basics for a great pedicure! Toenail Clipper, Mini Salon Board, Nail Brush, Pumice Stone,Wood Cuticle Sticks, and Comfort Toe Separators

To further pamper you, we have included:Pamper your feet while lounging in these super soft, washable cotton Spa Socks. Great to cozy up with on cool nights at home or when traveling. Fits shoe sizes 4 - 10.

These bath & shower gloves lather quickly and gently scrub your body squeaky clean. Plus, the textured nylon helps stimulate circulation for healthier, refreshed skin.

Here’s help for dry, overworked hands. These gloves help lock in lotion so parched skin soaks up a rich, conditioning treatment. Enjoy noticeably softer hands. Moisture Booties also available.

Quality Baskets Always

2009-05-21T15:43:00.000-07:00

ChristieCreations pride themselves on using only the highest quality products in their Blooming Bouquets. Each gift is handmade and delicately arranged as though we were designing it for our own friends and family members.

The containers that hold the unique blooms are considered just as important. ChristieCreations is often asked where we purchase such unique, durable baskets! Today we are sharing our secret with our valued customers. The majority of Blooming Bouquets are designed using Andrea Baskets.

Andrea Baskets http://www.andreabaskets.com/

Back by popular demand: The Bushel Basket

Two sizes available

Yellow, Blue, Green, Pink, and Tan Perfect for the Baby Blooming Bouquets and Spa Pampering Blooming Bouquets

With the new addition of the Organic Blooming Bouquets and Cloth Diaper Blooming Bouquets, ChristieCreations is now offering an array of Eco-Friendly Handmade Baskets.

For those who prefer a more traditional looking handled gift basket:

Multicolored woven baskets are now back in stock.

How to throw a fabulous baby shower (Part 4 of 10)

2009-05-20T16:35:00.000-07:00

Where do your guests get the first impression of your baby shower? The invitation! This simple, yet incredibly important element sets the stage for your entire event.

The invitation is more than just a practical way of dispersing the who, what, where, and when but conveys the theme, formality, and general demeanor of the party.

In a time where electronic invitations are getting increasingly popular, your gorgeous custom invitation will be even more valued.

And before we continue, let me mention how cheesy and inappropriate it is to send a baby shower e-vite. First of all, not all of the invitees will have access to a computer. Most showers have a combination of young friends and the full gamete of family members. I know there are some hip grandmothers out there that are "silver surfers" but the majority still prefer the old fashion paper invitation.

Now that we have established that the paper invitation is the way to go- let's get a feel for the extraordinary selection of baby shower invitations.

Handmade Custom Invitations: Are you looking for an invitation as unique as you? Etsy.com is filled with talented artisans ready to make your baby shower dreams come true. Here is one of my favorites from graciegirlnotes.etsy.com

Gather your friends and family to the shower your hosting with this sweet, flat invitation. This listing is for 8 custom invitations and address labels. This heavy-weight, white card measures 4.25 x 5.5 and features an adorable pink, handmade, polka dot onesie embellishment. Chocolate brown envelopes (with custom address labels) included. $ 20.00

graciegirlnotes.etsy.com

TinyPrints.com features a huge selection of invitations. For those of you considering a "Bring a Book" themed baby shower consider this cute invite!

Bedtime Stories: Cream Prices start at .99 per invitation

Encourage the growth of a new generation of baby bibliophiles with a book exchange and this delightful baby shower invitation! Created by Petite Alma, this snoozing babe must be having sweet dreams about the wonderful world of literature.

On a tight budget? Do-It-Yourself Kits are economical and a great way to save money! This kit sold on Target.com includes everything you need for only $ 24.99

Invitation Kit
Features Blank Cards
Contains 50 Cards, 100 Envelopes , 50 Seals , 50 Thank You Cards
Cards: 6x9 "

New Avatars!

2009-05-20T15:06:00.000-07:00

Help me select the new avatar to represent the brand new ChristieCreations!

Option 1: flower with "Do your gifts bloom?"
Option 2: Flower with name on petal
Option 3: Large name with flower
Option 4: Just flower- no name (not shown)

How to make gorgeous pomander/kissing balls

2009-05-19T06:19:00.000-07:00

How to make gorgeous pomander/kissing balls

This was one of my last DIY projects for my wedding. I almost did not do it but I am so glad I did. I received so many compliments and it really added elegance to the aisle.

Let me preface this by saying it will take a TON of flowers to do these. I literally used 35-50 rose stems on each ball. I used varying sizes and shades of red and burgundy to give the ball dimension. All stems were medium quality - it would have cost a small fortune to use the same high quality roses I used in my centerpieces.

Supplies needed.. glue gun.. low temp, glue and melting pot (you can buy at Pat Catan's for 5 bucks) styrofoam balls (I recommend the green ones) wire cutters, rose stems, ribbon, and a few straight pins (I used the ones with pearl tops).

Things to keep in mind: when selecting the size of your foam ball, remember it will be much larger once all the flowers are in place.

Prep Work: Cut all rose (or other flower) stems and leaves off. Keep 1-1.5 inches to press into stryofoam ball. If using varying stems like I did, seperate into groups of color and size.

Begin by placing the largest roses on the ball first. Dip the stem into the glue melting pot making sure to cover the stem and bottom of rose. Fill in with the medium size roses and then the small buds to complete your pomander ball.

To attached the ribbon, hot glue the bottom of the ribbon into the top of the ball inbetween the roses where it can be completely hidden. To ensure it holds properly, use straight pins to secure to ball.

I hung my pomander balls from iron shepherd hooks special ordered from Pat Catan's (9.99 each).

How to throw a fabulous baby shower (Part 3 of 10)

2009-05-18T13:59:00.000-07:00

No one wants to taste baby food or smell a "dirty" diaper with a melted candy bar. Let's talk baby shower games!

Who was the idiot that came up with the dirty diaper game? Did they actually think that this was something women would want to do? When was the last time you smeared peanut butter, melted chocolate, and butter into a diaper and made your closest friends guess what which one is which?

Needless to say, there are FAR better games and activities to do at a baby shower. There are two things that I always think about when planning a baby shower- would I want to do this at a shower and will it be practical for the Mom to be! Especially with the push to be "green" why not utilize activities that will further help the Mom.

Activity 1: Decorate a onesie!

This is always a hit. Babies need onesies- lots and lots of onesies. They basically live in them from birth to 12 months. Stock up on onesies of VARIOUS sizes and colors. Hang them up on a clothesline to decorate the shower venue before the activity and then after to display all the guests works of arts. Even the least crafty guest can use a paint marker to write "baby" or draw a heart.

~Christie Tip~
*when using fabric paint markers: make a dot outline of what you want to write or draw

*bring cardboard to place in between the onesies to prevent the paint from bleeding into the other side

Activity 2: Daddy Tool Belt

With the increase of coed showers, this is a great way to stock up the parents to be with all the essentials. Purchase or borrow a classic leather tool belt (Walmart sells them for under 15 dollars)

Gather all the baby care necessities: Gas drops, baby wipes, baby Tylenol, thermometer, baby butt paste, toy, bottle, baby food jar, teething ring...

And of course add some funny items like tongs, nose plug, emergency call list to Grandmas, bottle of adult Tylenol, goggles...

Have the Daddy to be wear the tool belt through out the shower. At the end of the shower, ask the guests to do one of several things:

-traditionally guests are asked to write down all the items they can remember
but to make it less predictable you can ask more specific questions like-
1. What was the flavor of the baby food?
2. What brand of diaper rash cream?
3. What color was the teething ring?

Activity 3: Name that tune- Baby style

Who doesn't love music? Pick 10 songs that have the word BABY in the title. Cue up the IPod and play name that tune. Make sure to give at least 1 minute of each song. As the hostess you know the guests the best. Select a variety of songs that will be easy and familiar to the crew along with a few toughies.

Baby Song Suggestions:

Baby - LL Cool J
Baby - Ashanti
Tell Me Baby - Red Hot Chili Peppers
Tell Me Tell Me ... Baby - NSYNC
Always Be My Baby - David Cook
Baby-Baby-Baby - TLC
Baby Baby - Amy Grant
I Got You Babe - Sonny and Cher
Baby, It's Cold Outside - Ray Charles & Betty Carter OR Jessica Simpson & Nick Lachey
Baby Don't Get Hooked On Me - Mac Davis
Hey Baby - Bruce Chantell
Baby, It's You - Shirelles
Baby Love - Supremes
Ooh Baby Baby - Miracles OR Lind Ronstadt
Baby I'm-A Want You - Bread
Baby I Need Your Lovin - Four Tops
Hey Baby - No Doubt
Rockin' Roll Baby - Stylistics
Baby Boy - Beyonce
You're Having My Baby - Paul Anka
Baby Makes Her Blue Jeans Talk - Dr. Hook
Baby, I'm Yours - Barbara Lewis
Baby Workout - Jackie Wilson
...Baby One More Time - Britney Spears
Baby, What A Big Surprise - Chicago
Baby, Come To Me - Denise Austin and James Ingram
Give It To Me Baby - Rick James
Don't Worry Baby - Beach Boys
Take Good Care of My Baby - Bobby Vee
There Goes My Baby - Drifters
Baby, Don't Forget My Number - Milli Vanilli
Always Be My Baby - Mariah Carey
My Baby - Lil' Romeo
Baby You're A Rich Man - Beatles
Be My Baby - Ronettes
Baby Hold On - Eddie Money
American Baby- Dave Matthews Band
Baby Beluga - Raffi
Baby love - Diana Ross
All that she wants (is another baby) - Ace of Base
Always be my baby - Mariah Carey

Or if you are looking for more of a twist: grab your karaoke machine and make someone sing the tunes!

Most importantly, have fun!

A whole new look

2009-05-18T12:48:00.000-07:00

As the end of the month quickly approaches, ChristieCreations is about to embark on a whole new look. Talented graphic designer, Beth Stafford, has taken Blooming Bouquets to the next level. A new logo, etsy store banner, avatar, and independent website are scheduled to debut on June 1st.

New business cards, magnets, flyers, and more will help promote the new website and expand the business into local gift boutiques.

All new backdrops are in the works. Look for a brand new look for ChristieCreations.

How to throw a fabulous baby shower (Part 2 of 10)

2009-05-15T14:19:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the second installment of "How to throw a Fabulous Baby Shower!"

After 3 years of planning my wedding, I learned more than one person should ever know about party favors. This is the number one topic on wedding boards. What's your bridal shower favor? What's your wedding favor? and then... What's your baby shower favor?

According to wordnet.com a favor is defined as a souvenir consisting of a small gift given to a guest at a party. A party planner's definition of a party favor is the object which makes your party stand out from all the rest. Women love favors. More importantly, women remember favors!This past weekend I cohosted a first birthday party where my talented friend designed the favors. These are perfect for the "Green" Mom-to-Be that loves to recycle.

Baby food jars were saved and filled with candy (you could also place a tealight inside). A custom photo label was designed by Alexis Sykut of Luminescent Events. Contact her for pricing.

http://www.luminescentevents.com

These favors were a huge hit and such a great keepsake.As an Etsy.com boutique owner, I wanted to feature some of my talented colleagues.

One of my all time favorite sellers, LoveLeeSoaps makes the most unique, realistic, custom soaps. These would make the most adorable party favors. Here are a few of my favorites and the shower themes they would support.

http://loveleesoaps.etsy.com

This set is so adorable! It is made with moisturizing shea butter. The bird has a soft baby powder scent and the nest is chocolate. The nest has cocoa added the increases skin hydration and decreases its roughness.

Bird themed nurseries are ALL the rage right now. Why not carry that theme into the Mother-to-Be's shower theme. Stop back for tomorrow's post about themes.

Another cute theme is the "Bun in the Oven." These super strong Cinnamon Bun tarts smell incredible and are so affordable!25 for only $ 6.95.

http://theclackhouse.etsy.com

How to throw an incredible baby shower! Part 1

2009-05-14T13:55:00.000-07:00

When I say "baby shower" what images appear in your mind? Cheesy games, pink and blue paper decorations and balloons with chatty women sitting around opening boxes and bags filled with breast pumps, diaper genies, and blankets.

Is this how you imagined YOUR baby shower?

I have thrown my fair share of baby showers and have found the out of the ordinary activities and unique themes are always well received. The number one complaint of baby shower attendees is the stupid cheesy games: dirty diaper, baby word scramble, and the infamous guess the circumference of the Mother to Be's belly. Who in the world thought that would be a good idea? My guess is a man.

Here is my Top 10 Best Baby Shower tips list:

10. Think outside the pink and blue box. There are so many color combinations out there. There is no need to stick to the traditional pastel pink and baby blue shades. Don't worry, the guests will still know that it is a baby shower.

Why not try these unique color combos?

Navy Blue, Aqua, and Crisp White

Mandarin Orange and Bubblegum Pink.

(Photo courtsey of Hostess with the Mostess)

School Bus Yellow, Kelly Green, and Cherry Red

If you must have include a pastel, try these alternatives:

Ice Blue, Beige, and Cream

And the always loved Princess Pink and Happy Green combo:

New Logos! Help me choose!

2009-05-13T20:01:00.000-07:00

Option1 (above)

Option 2 (above)

Option 3 (above)

Option 4 (above)

Check out my new logo designs created by the talented graphic designer, Beth Stafford.

Please choose your favorite~

Do you like Beth's work? Contact her at: e_a_stafford@yahoo.com
or at http://www.momsofga.com

For a great cause....

2009-05-06T10:41:00.001-07:00

Those of you that know the Randall family are asking what you can do to help! ? And those of you that don't know them are asking, what's going on?

Our friend Shannan and her husband Monti gave birth to a beautiful 8 pound boy last Sunday after emergency c-section. The cord came first which is the baby's lifeline to not only food but oxygen and blood. The doctors and Phoenix Childrens Hospital did all that they could, and after many tears, prayers and medical life saving measures the machines were turned off on Friday, and he was returned safely to heaven on Friday afternoon.

This was supposed to be a time of rest and relaxation for the family, but that was not meant to be. They are reeling, emotions are raw, and the funeral expenses were not expected.

This is were you come in. "WHAT CAN WE DO TO HELP?"

This Thursday through Saturday (hopefully many) blogs will be hosting online auctions to raise money to cover the funeral expenses, and time off work for the family.

If you will be hosting an auction or would like to donate an item email me at shannanrandall@gmail.com

I will have a list here of all the places you can shop!

AUCTION RULES AND INFORMATION
If you would like to bid on an item:*Please place your bid by leaving your Name, Email, and Bid Amount in the comments section of the item you are bidding on. The auction will go on from Thursday till Saturday, keep checking the comments to see if you need to bid higher!

IF YOU WIN THE AUCTION:*Please pay your high bid amount directly to the Baby Harry Fund at PayPal by clicking on the link on the sidebar.

*Please forward the receipt they email you to the person running the auction with your shipping address. The person running the auction will then ship your won item.

http://inhonorofharry.blogspot.com/2009/05/lets-talk-auctions.html

Sneak Peak at New Items!

2009-04-28T06:46:00.000-07:00

Showcase time!

2009-04-26T21:37:00.000-07:00

ChristieCreations will be included in the Children Showcase today! Be sure to shop by and take a look at the 10 new items added to the store this week right in time for Mother's Day!

Introducing Spa Pampering Blooming Bouquets

2009-04-22T21:08:00.000-07:00

Ask my friends, I am a spa loving, pampered princess. I want to share this wonderful relaxing luxury with my customers. I am introducing a brand new line of Spa Pampering Blooming Bouquets. All the products are Christie tested and approved.

These unique gifts will give everything a gal needs to do some relax and rejuvenate!

ChristieCreations Spa Pampering Blooming Bouquets will include a combination of the following awesome products:

Bamboo Naturals

Bamboo - Chinese symbol for "Longevity"

Used by the Chinese as a medicine to treat infections
Over 1,000 species of bamboo
Requires no pesticides for cultivation & harvesting
Baby soft, durable & naturally anti-microbial
Has been used by Asian cultures for 1,000's of years

So versitiles that it is used for food, wine, paper & clothing

Bamboo fabric guarantees exceptional moisture absorption (more than cotton) due to it's criss-cross structure which creates microscopic openings in the fibers
Bamboo has strength & absorbancy, is soft & silky, is Eco-friendly, and is an anti-bacterial fabric that is easy to wash

All cosmetic and skin-care products are trending into the Eco-friendly, all-natural arena

Use Bamboo daily to gently invigorate the skin & circulation

Cutting edge - "GO GREEN"

http://www.drake-williams.com/products/bamboo_naturals.php

Another of my favorite line of products for pampering is:

Earth Therapeutics

http://www.earththerapeutics.net/

These may be two of my MOST favorite products:

Ultra Plush Aloe Moisturizing Socks and Aloe Moisture Ultra Plush Moisturizing GlovesOther items to be feature include:

Soft Hands Gel Gloves

Eye * C * U Eye Care Unit

Manicure-to-Go

For the insomniacs:

Dream Zone Pillow Mist

Dream Zone Comfort Cream

Slumber Party Kit

Best Mani/Pedi products: http://www.trim.com/

Portable Pedicure System

Toe seperators

Nail and Foot Brush

Terry Disk Foot Cloth

Fingernail and Toenail Clippers

Tweezers and More

KitchenAid, Betty Crocker, Fiestaware, and more...

2009-04-22T03:01:00.001-07:00

ChristieCreations Kitchen Blooming Bouquets feature high quality kitchen linens. The oven mitts, potholders, aprons, placemats, kitchen towels and dishcloths are sold at Macy's, Boscov's, Bed, Bath, and Beyond, Kohls and other major department stores.

Custom orders are very popular for Mother's Day. Here is a sample of items you can choose from to be used in your custom Kitchen Blooming Bouquet:

KitchenAid Kitchen Textiles

Features:

Exclusive Heat Guard provides superior protection
Metal hang ring for easy storage
Oversized
Heavyweight and durable
100% cotton
Machine Washable
One Year Warranty

Colors available: Black, Beige, Burgandy, Burnt Orange, Red

Betty Crocker Kitchen Textiles

Colors available: Yellow, Aqua, Red, Green, Purple

Bed, Bath and Beyond Exclusive Printed Sets

The absorbent towels are ideal for drying pots and pans and the pot holder will protect hands and kitchen surfaces. 100% cotton. Kitchen towels measure 15" x 25". Pot holder measures 8". Machine wash. Imported.

Jesse Steele Vintage Style Aprons (These aprons are almost too cute to wear!)

http://www.jessiesteele.com/

Mother's Day is less than 2 weeks away!

2009-04-20T21:58:00.000-07:00

Did you know that the first Mother's Day was celebrate in 1907? This year Mother's Day will be celebrated on Sunday, May 10th.

Mother's Day is a time of celebration for Mom. It is a time of breakfast in bed, family gatherings, and crayon scribbled "I Love You's." Do you remember making those adorable handmade cards filled with misspellings and unrecognizable drawings? Or perhaps the quaint little projects you made in grade school to honor Mom.

I can still see my own Mother's gleeful face when I handed over my unique, one of a kind gift made with my own two hands. In second grade, it was a magnet with my awkward school photo and my shaky handwritten "Happy Moter's Day!" That magnet proudly hung on our fridge until after I graduated from high school.

Why not bring back that feeling with a handmade gift? Allow me to custom design a beautiful Kitchen Towel or Washcloth/Pamper Blooming Bouquet for your Mom. Each of my bouquets are custom designed and are one of a kind. Just like your gifts of yesteryear.

The bouquets can be made in any theme to match your Mom's kitchen or bathroom decor or perhaps her favorite hobby.

Each of the Blooming Bouquets include a 4x6 Photo card with your personal greeting to your Mom and a list of bouquet items written in beautiful calligraphy. Your purchase can be sent directly to Mom.

So go ahead and surprise Mom with something extra special this year: A Blooming Bouquet. Each gift is made with love as if I were creating it for my own Mother.

Happy Mother's Day!

The bouquet below can be purchased in my etsy shop for $ 29.95.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=21962703

It was inspired by my own Mother who's favorite color was country blue.

Now offering Traditional Gift Baskets

2009-04-18T14:08:00.000-07:00

Recently I was asked by a customer if I make traditional gift baskets. Absolutely! I have been making and selling custom gift baskets for friends and family for nearly 10 years.

Once again, I get to combine my love of shopping and my flare for artistic expression through my one of a kind gifts. My new website: www.babybloomingbouquets.com will feature both my Blooming Bouquets and Traditional Gift Baskets.

Here are just a few of my past gift baskets. If you are interested in this type of basket, please email me directly at babybloomingbouquets@gmail.com to place an order. I currently accept paypal and money order.

Local pickup and delivery available for the Greater Pittsburgh area including Beaver County.

Traditional Gift Bouquets themes include but are not limited to:
Kitchen,
Wine,
Sports,
Baby,
Spa/Pamper,
Gourmet Cooking,
Holiday Decor,
Teacher Appreciation,
Gardening,
Scrapbooking,
Children.

Prices start at just $19.95.

Extra Large Baby Shower Gift Basket (front view)

Extra Large Baby Shower Gift Basket (back view)

Custom Hello Kitty Basket for Birthday Girl, Alexa

Welcome Baby Katharine Gift Basket

Pittsburgh Steeler Gift Basket- Extra Large

"Grow with me" Baby

2009-04-15T05:38:00.000-07:00

ChristieCreations is committed to offering the most useful Baby Blooming Bouquets. Clients have suggested the need for a "Grow with me" Baby Blooming Bouquet featuring baby clothing in a variety of sizes.

Several "Grow with me" Baby Blooming Bouquets have been added to the etsy boutique!

Grab your umbrellas, it is shower time!

2009-04-13T15:09:00.000-07:00

As the saying goes, April Showers bring May Flowers...The air is warming up, flowers are blooming, and the sun is finally making its appearance. ChristieCreations is gearing up for the upcoming baby shower and bridal shower season.

Did you know that more newborns arrive during the late summer and early fall months of July, August, and September than during any other time of the year?

Paul Sutton, a demographer for the CDC's National Center for Health Statistics, says it makes sense if you think about what happens nine months earlier in most of the country — the weather gets colder and people spend more time indoors with their sweeties. Also, some people plan their baby's birth to coincide with summer vacations, especially teachers and other people who get summers off.

According to TheAmericanWedding.com, the most popular months for a wedding are, in order, June, September, August, May, October and July.

So with the baby and bridal shower seasons quickly approaching, let's discuss those special options for making YOUR gift stand out from the rest.

Most individuals who receive a Baby Clothing Blooming Bouquet or Kitchen Towel Blooming Bouquet have never seen anything like it!

The majority of the Baby Blooming Bouquets are purchased to serve double duty as a baby shower centerpiece and gift!

Recently the smaller Baby Bib Blooming Bud Bouquet was purchased to be held by a large stuffed animal bear for a Teddy Bear themed baby shower.

Kitchen Towel Blooming Bouquets are ideal for double duty as well. Why not purchase multiple Kitchen Towel or Wash cloth/Spa Blooming Bouquets to be used as centerpieces on the bridal shower tables.

As you play Baby Bingo or other shower game, the winners can select a Blooming Bouquet centerpiece as their prize.

This is a unique twist to the now common "gift basket" centerpiece option. The blooming bouquets are far more beautiful, unique, and affordable. Prices start at just $ 14.95. Who can make a gift basket for $ 14.95?

As always our Blooming Bouquets, can be sent directly to the gift recipient and wrapped in clear cellophane with a bow (at your request and a nominal fee). All orders receive a complimentary custom 4x6 glossy photo gift card with your personal greeting inside and a list of items in the bouquets written in elegant calligraphy. (see previous post for more information)

ChristieCreations LOVES custom orders. We can use items directly off a mother to be or bride to be's gift registry or her style, theme, and color selection can be matched.

A custom order was received for a Baby Clothing Blooming Bouquet for a dolphin themed baby shower. ChristieCreations matched the items to the invitation while adding two dolphin accents to the outside of the bouquet. The client was thrilled.

Let ChristieCreations do all the hard work making the perfect, pretty, yet practical shower gift. We do the work... you get all the oohs and ahhs.

Baby Shower invitation available at: scraplesspress.com

Custom Photo Greeting Cards

2009-04-08T17:35:00.000-07:00

ChristieCreations will now be offered complimentary photo greeting cards with each purchase. The main display photo on etsy will be printed and placed on the front of the custom card. The inside of the card will include a list of items included in bouquet written in calligraphy.

ChristieCreations is aware that our target audience are customers purchasing a gift for a baby shower, bridal shower, birthday, thank you or wedding gift. The custom photo card allows the gift recipient to enjoy the beauty of the bouquet long after it was been disassembled to use the items. The card is perfect for keeping in a scrapbook or memory box.

Currently you can choose from the pink card pictured above or a yellow printed framed card.

New Boutique Brands to be featured in Blooming Bouquets

2009-04-07T20:39:00.001-07:00

We are expanding our line of Baby Blooming Bouquets! Our new Bouquets will feature fantastic boutique brands including Elegant Baby and Piper & Meadow.

After receiving numerous custom requests, ChristieCreations will now sell 100% Organic Cotton Baby Blooming Bouquets. Several new bouquets will include an organic quilt, matching receiving blankets and dust ruffle along with onesies!

Piper & Meadow baby bedding brightens up the nursery with color and whimsy. With delicate, farm-inspired patterns in soft, playful colors and made from 100% organic cotton, Piper & Meadow brings a sweet and sunny touch to baby bedding.

http://homesteadbrands.com/pipermeadowbaby.html

Elegant Baby offers unique and personalized baby gifts, baby blankets, and baby clothes perfect for a baby shower, a new mom, or for the dad to be.

http://www.elegantbaby.com/

Here are just a few of the items that will be going into the Baby Clothing Blooming Bouquets featuring Elegant Baby products:

I Drool Black and Gold: Pittsburgh Baby Blooming Bouquet

2009-04-07T20:33:00.001-07:00

Looking for the ultimate baby gift for that Sports fanatic? Check out the new Pittsburgh Baby Clothing Blooming Bouquet.

"I Drool Black and Gold" Pittsburgh Baby Blooming Bouquet (30 items)

This uni-sex Baby Blooming Bouquet is the perfect gift for the future Pens, Steelers, and Pirates fan!

It includes:

9 PITTSBURGH STEELERS items:

1 Steelers Reversible Blanket
1 Steelers Button down tshirt and diaper cover (0-3 mths)
1 NFL football bottle
1 Terrible Toddler Towel
1 Steelers Bib,
1 Steelers Bodysuit (6-9 mths)
1 Pair of Steelers Booties (6-9 mths)
1 Black and Gold Hair Bow with Steeler button

5 PITTSBURGH PENGUINS Items:

2 Pens Bibs
1 Pens Short Sleeved tshirt (12 mths)
1 Pens Pair of Pants (12 mths)
1 Pens Pair of Shorts (12 mths)

6 PITTSBURGH PIRATES Items:

1 Pirates Bib
1 Pirates Bodysuit (18 mths)
1 Pirates Pair of Booties (18 mths)
3 Pirates Short Sleeved Bodysuit (24 mths)

3 Pairs of Gold Socks (6-18 mths)
1 Pair of White and Gold Socks (0-6 mths)
4 Gold and White Washcloths

1 Pittsburgh Skyline Label Pin
1 Andrea Basket

**** This particular Baby Blooming Bouquet will be auctioned off in Pittsburgh on April 18, 2009 to benefit the Superhero Foundation and Pittsburgh's Parental Stress Center. For more information: http://www.superherorun.com/****

Similar Pittsburgh Baby Bouquets may be custom ordered. Smaller and Larger sizes available.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=23385659

Beware of Imitators!

2009-03-31T10:06:00.000-07:00

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery

To imitate someone is to pay the person a genuine compliment—often an unintended compliment.

In the last week, my Etsy store has exploded! I have orders flying in both online and offline. With popularity comes imitation. There are numerous new stores offering their versions of "baby bouquets."

So, why should someone purchase my bouquets?

Price/Value

Baby Clothing Blooming Bouquets had a variety of price points to fit every budget. Baby Bud bouquets (smaller basket/less items) start at just $ 14.95 for a 7 item bouquet.

The Sarah Baby Bud Bouquet features 11 items for $ 19.95!

It's not only beautiful, but economical and unique, I can guarantee, no one else there will have a gift like this! - Etsy Customer

Quality of Items

Each Baby Clothing Blooming Bouquet is made from high quality, name brand items. After talking to real moms, I chose brands based on their recommendations. ChristieCreations wants the bouquet receiver to enjoy the baby clothing and items for a long time.

Durability of Arrangement

Baby Clothing Blooming Bouquets are the ONLY bouquets that are guaranteed to arrive just as pictured. The items are packed tightly to ensure that the bouquet will be perfect when delivered. The basket can be turned upside down and nothing will fall out! You can rest assure that your blooming bouquet will arrive just as pictured.

Many of our bouquets are sent directly to the Mother-to-Be. The bouquet needs to be perfect right out of the box no matter if the Baby Clothing Blooming Bouquet was shipped across the state or across the world.

It arrived in perfect condition and in plenty of time for the baby shower. - Etsy Customer

Variety

Options, Options, Options! Is the expectant mom having a girl? A boy? A surprise? ChristieCreations has a Baby Clothing Blooming Bouquet for all three occasions.

Need a baby girl gift that isn't pink? No problem! Check out The Louisa: 11 item Baby Girl Clothing Blooming Bouquet featuring delicate blue and white items! Because girls can like blue too!

ChristieCreations not only specializes in Baby Clothing Blooming Bouquets but the shop offers Kitchen Towel Blooming Bouquets, Wash Cloth Blooming Bouquets, and Bath Towel Blooming Bouquets.

This lady was so helpful when I had a bouquet of kitchen towels and dish cloths sent to a friend. I wish I would have been there when my friend received it! Just the web-site picture was awesome! - Etsy Customer

What are real mommies opinions of Baby Blooming Bouquets?

2009-03-26T09:28:00.000-07:00

Before the first Baby Blooming Bouquet was born, mothers were polled to find out what items and sizes should include in the bouquets. The overwhelming response was that most moms receive too many blankets and that most babies grow out of newborn clothing very quickly. They suggested the creation of "Room to Grow" Baby Blooming Bouquets with a range of sizes.

Here is a sample what real mommies are saying about the Baby Blooming Bouquets! These are direct quotes from newlywed and baby chat boards, former customers, and etsy shoppers and sellers.

She custom designed the basket to match the shower decorations. Great to work with and the basket is just perfect.- Former Customer

OMG!! That is just to cute and reasonably priced!!! Its so nice I would not want to take it apart. - Mother/Fellow Etsy Seller

I love this idea. What a great thing for a baby shower, especially when you're pressed for time. - Mother/Fellow Etsy Seller

Your baskets are WONDERFUL! What a fantastic gift!
As a mother, I really liked Carter's. - Mother

I haven't had my baby yet, but those baskets are adorable! They definitely seem way cuter than diaper cakes and are certainly prettier. I think a "Room to Grow" basket would be nice. Everyone wants to buy you newborn stuff your baby grows out of in a minute and a half. They would definitely be a nice, practical alternative to regular flowers. - Mother to be

These are so darling and precious! What a great idea! - Mother of two children

I wanted to let you know that I really think this is a WONDERFUL idea! I'm definitely keeping you in mind for all of my friends who are having babies! Kudos to you for developing such a unique way to present shower gifts. - Fellow Etsy Seller

Everything was completely in place. I am happy with the bouquet. It does include alot of items. Thanks for everything. Good luck with your business. Like I said before you should do well. You have very nice unique bouquets. - Former customer

I think they're a great price. If I had the need I would buy one for a close friend, family member, or as a center piece at a shower. - Mother/Fellow Etsy Seller

ChristieCreations strides to make every Baby Blooming Bouquet an affordable, practical, and beautiful gift.

Do you have ideas? Suggestions? We want to hear from you!

Diaper Cake vs Baby Blooming Bouquet

2009-03-22T14:37:00.000-07:00

In this corner we have the defending champion, The Diaper Cake. After its appearance on Sex and the City, The Diaper Cake became the "it" baby shower gift. Soon almost every shower had at least one Diaper Cake. Women everywhere were busting open Pamper packages and using their grimy hands to wrap diapers that are eventually supposed to be used to on your precious child.

In the other corner, we have the new kid of on the block. The Baby Clothing Blooming Bouquet is the up and coming baby shower gift. Its recent appearance on the Martha Stewart Show introduced the world to a much more unique alternative to The Diaper Cake.

Let's see how these two competitors stack up!

The Diaper Cake

The Baby Blooming Bouquet

Items used: diapers, ribbon, elastic bands, cardboard cake rounds, various small accessories to be tucked inside cake or around cake

Personalized by ribbon color and size of diapers used

Diapers cannot be washed and have the gift makers germs on them

Diaper cakes are difficult to transport and are virtually impossible to send in the mail

Diaper Cakes makes a great baby shower centerpiece/gift but is not ideal for a hospital gift. No mom wants the diapers exposed to the germs in the hospital setting nor the hassle of trying to get the diaper cake from her hospital room into the car and into her home.

Registry items cannot be easily used inside the diaper cake.

Items used: baby clothes, blankets, bibs, lap pads, wash cloths, burp cloths, booties, socks, mittens, elastic bands, basket/other container, silk flowers and stems, ribbon

Personalized by ribbon color, baby clothes and items (size, color, organic or nonorganic), type of silk flowers, type of basket/container

Baby clothes and items can and should be washed before touching baby and therefore is more sanitary for baby

Baby Blooming Bouquets are ideal for transport! Bouquets can be turned upside down and nothing falls out or even moves! The Baby Blooming Bouquet can be sent in the mail will complete assurance that it will arrive just as perfectly as when one packs it in the box. The handled blooming bouquets are obviously even easier to transport.

Baby Blooming Bouquets make great baby shower gifts/centerpiece and hospital gift: what mom does not appreciate a flower bouquet that can be carried out of the hospital much easier than a traditional live flower bouquet. Mom can even place it in a bag for ease of transport.

There is a plethora of baby registry items that can be used to make the blooms of a Baby Blooming Bouquet

So readers- please make your choice known! Who is the winner?

Baby gift for the Trendy Modern Parent

2009-03-21T06:19:00.000-07:00

Last week I was asked by a friend to custom design a Baby Blooming Bouquet with a trendy, modern flair. I did my research and found an incredible line of baby clothing and accessories.

Boon http://www.booninc.com/

Boon offers a wide range of products that help parents all over the world. They are committed to creating the most innovative gear at affordable prices. The design studio is always tackling one parenting challenge after another while maintaining their commitment to quality and safety.

After seeing their clothing sets in a local store, I was hooked. I simply had not seen anything like it! Coveralls that have no snaps! Bibs that snap into the onesie! And finally modern designs for the trendy parent that does not want cutesy boats, bows, and other traditional prints for baby.

As if that isn't enough reason to love this brand, they donate 10% of profits to charities specifically benefiting children in need. http://www.booninc.com/inside_GivingBack.php

So join me in supporting a fantastic company!

The pictures above display a few of the items I am currently featuring in my Modern Baby Blooming Bouquets. These new bouquets are available in boy or girl themes.

Be sure to check out the new modern baby listings in my etsy store!

What in the world is a Baby Blooming Bouquet?

2009-03-20T18:23:00.000-07:00

When I got married in 2007, one of my most favorite bridal shower gifts was a bouquet of kitchen items. It was by far the cutest thing I had ever seen. Being a crafty person I wanted to see if I could duplicate this awesome gift for friends. As I was crafting I came up with the idea to put the rolled towels into a basket instead of in the traditional floral shop wrapped bouquet. I gave one to a friend and she loved it! The next thing I know all of my friends are asking me to make them.

I am at an age where ALL of my friends are having babies. I was sick of diaper cakes and wanted to do something more practical. Diaper cakes are difficult to transport and take forever and a day to take apart. Hence the Baby Blooming Bouquet was born!

Each blooming bouquet is handmade to create a stunning yet practical flower arrangement. Baby Blooming Bouquets have blossoms made of every mom's favorites: onesies, burp clothes, booties, sleepers, blankets, lap pads, gowns, and washclothes.

Receivers of a Kitchen Blooming Bouquet will unwrap each blossom to find kitchen towels, aprons, dish cloths, pot holders, and oven mitts!