Back to School Party

It’s a new year with new resolutions. Two of my main resolutions are to celebrate more (living a life full of gratitude regardless of my circumstances) and to blog more often too. That said, I thought a great way to start the year would be with a ‘Back to School’ party. As happy as I am to be back in the school routine, and having more time to myself, these weren’t our main reasons for celebrating. We were thankful for our summer holiday and that we have the privilege of good education here in New Zealand. We invited a bunch of friends and their kids over for a BBQ style dinner (I say ‘BBQ style’ cause we don’t actually own a BBQ) To my surprise nearly all of them came. Around 15 Adults and 20 children in total – never have we had that many children in our house at once. But we were prepared. We set up a few stations with various types of toys, had a movie playing and a craft table were the kids made tags for their school bags.

Then just to make it a little extra special I set up a drinks and dessert station. We simply used things that we already had in our house, and guests contributed salads and drinks so this was a very low cost party.

Back to School Party

The Drinks & Dessert Station

Back to School Globe

Back to School Apple and Globe

Back to School - Pencils

Back to School - Infused water

Back to School Cupcakes

Back to School - Party Favours

Back to School - Smarties

Back to School - Mini Bunting

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© 2017 As You Wish Events Ltd.  Want to use this article in your E-newsletter, blog, or website? You can as long as you include this complete statement: Auckland, New Zealand – Event Planner & Designer Nadine Crozier publishes the ‘As You Wish Events’ blog filled with secrets, tips and how-tos for planning your fabulous event. Get your exclusive inspiration, tips and tricks at http://www.asyouwish.co.nz.  As You Wish Events is an event planning and design company based in Auckland, serving the Auckland region and certain areas of Northland.

The Wiggles Party

Occasionally, I will be asked to assist with only certain aspects of a party. In these cases the client is usually very keen to do most of the work themselves but wants to be coached through the planning and/or decorating process. And that was the case with our recent ‘The Wiggles’ themed party. The family and I sat down together and (with all my experience at their disposal) created a plan, divided up the tasks and created a programme for the night of the party. On the day I came in to co-ordinate their setting up team. They also hired me to take care of a few décor pieces that they really wanted, but were beyond what they felt they could achieve.

The party was a great deal of fun. Along with the BBQ dinner we served Hot Potatoes and Fruit Salad (two of ‘The Wiggles’ favourites). There was dancing and a lot of helium balloons. A real family friendly evening. Here are a few snap shots of the results:

The Wiggles Drinks Station

The Wiggles Drinks Station

5 Favourites for Winter

Winter Faves

Photo credits: 1. As You Wish Events; 2. As You Wish Events; 3. Pen N’ Paper; 4. Paperblog.

 

With the recent turn in the weather one can’t help but think winter is almost here. I have to admit, winter is my favourite season. I love snuggling up on the couch under a blanket to watch a movie with a warm bowl of popcorn; sitting near an open fire toasting marshmallows and making them into s’mores; cooking up wintery meals that make you feel cozy on the inside or even just holding a freshly brewed cup of hot chocolate.

So on the blog this week I have scoured The As You Wish Blog archives to bring you my top 5 favourite winter articles. Just click the links to see it in full. I trust they will inspire you to embrace and celebrate this winter in style. Let the countdown begin:

#5 – The Fantastic Fudge Cake – smother this cake with a warm custard to make one yummy winter dessert.

#4 – 5 Creative DIY Food Stations

#3 – S’mores by the Riverside – S’mores are great in the winter too.

#2 – The Hot Choc Tube

#1 – 10 Ways to Warm Up Your Guests

 

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© 2016 As You Wish Events Ltd.  Want to use this article in your E-newsletter, blog, or website? You can as long as you include this complete statement: Auckland, New Zealand – Event Planner & Designer Nadine Crozier publishes the ‘As You Wish Events’ blog filled with secrets, tips and how-tos for planning your fabulous event. Get your exclusive inspiration, tips and tricks at http://www.asyouwish.co.nz.  As You Wish Events is an event planning and design company based in Auckland, serving the Auckland region and certain areas of Northland.

 

S’mores by the Riverside

Smores Welcome Party on the Thames Coast

I love to take any opportunity to celebrate. Recently the extended family on my mother’s side had a family reunion. It was the first time in years that so many of us had been in one place. We all gathered at the beautiful Te Mata Lodge just north of Thames where we enjoyed a fabulous, sunny weekend together.

As everyone was arriving on the Friday evening I wanted to create something special, a welcoming party if you will. Instead of the usual supper I decided to greet everyone with a glass of bubbly and a make your own S’mores Bar.

For those who aren’t familiar with what a s’more is,  it’s a traditional campfire treat popular in the United States (and now New Zealand), consisting of a toasted marshmallow and layer of chocolate sandwiched between two biscuits. They are very yummy!

A Red & White Christmas Table Setting

12 Days of Christmas Ideas 2015 – Day 12

In-keeping with our 12 Days of Christmas Ideas tradition, here is our Christmas table setting for 2015. Unlike the last two years, this year we have come indoors and moved away from the somewhat rustic look. My inspiration for this table setting stemmed from those swirly peppermint candies and the lovely foil prints we saw on Day 2.

Handy Hints for Hosting a Gingerbread House Decorating Party

12 Days of Christmas Ideas – Day 9
Gingerbread House Decorating Party Title Image

I really do enjoy the build up to Christmas, and for the last few years as part of the build up we have included the decorating of gingerbread houses. It really is a fun activity for the whole family. Over the last few years we have kept it all rather low-key, but this year the plan is to go all out. However you decide to approach it, here’s a few hints we have learned along the way that will hopefully help you with yours.

While you can actually buy complete kits for making a Gingerbread house these days, if you’d rather approach it from scratch here’s a list of things you’ll need:

  • Gingerbread house pieces
  • Icing to glue the house together and stick on the decorations
  • Decorations i.e lollies etc.
  • A plate to decorate the house on
  • A knife or scissors or both

 

The Gingerbread House Pieces

Most recipes for gingerbread men will work for making gingerbread houses.

You’ll either need to create your on pattern or you can buy actual cutters from most supermarkets. I find that the cutters you can buy make rather large houses. This is fine if 3-4 people are all working on one house, but if you opt to have one house each like we do, well let’s just say, that’s a lot of gingerbread! I decided to design my own pattern and so far it seems that each year the design has got a little smaller. When you are doing one house each, you want to find the right balance between enough space to decorate creatively without having too much space that the kids loose interest before they are done.

Another thing you need to do when baking the house walls, is double check you have all the pieces – one year I came to the assembling of the houses only to find I was one piece short – arrgh!

Gingerbread Houses

Can you spot the roof piece that is made of cardboard?

The Icing

This is something that I have struggled with a little. They say that royal icing is best. This is made with egg whites or an egg white powder that can be purchased at cake decorating stores. It is quite a fast drying icing that sets real hard – two things you are after when you are trying to get the walls to hold together. I have also had some success with just mixing icing sugar and water, but you do have to get the consistency just right – usually quite thick.

I have also taken to using sewing pins (having sterilised them in boiling water first) to hold the pieces in place while they dry.

Gingerbread house disaster

As you can see this was one of our failed attempts – but it still tasted great!

 

The Decorations

The most obvious thing here is the need for lollies. Smaller lollies are best but you can also cut larger lollies down to the size you want. A pair of sterilised scissors works best for cutting jellies and marshmallows, but you’ll need a knife and chopping board for harder lollies like candy canes. Our favourite lollies for decorating are M&Ms, mini jellybeans, marshmallows, candy canes and chocolate drops/buttons.

While lollies seem like the most obvious choice you can use lots of other things too. For example you can use cake sprinkles like 100s & 1000s, pretzels, small chocolate biscuits, dried fruit, nuts and even some breakfast cereals work well too.

Finished gingerbread house

Love the pretzel fence.

The Plate

Don’t forget about the plate you’re building it on. It does need to be fairly sturdy as the houses do have a bit of weight to them. We tried paper plates one year – not the best idea. Another option are cake boards – you can find these at most dollar stores these days. Size-wise, it’s a good idea for them to have a reasonable space available around the house so you can create gardens etc. too.

A Few Last Notes

I find when decorating gingerbread houses with kids it’s a good idea to have aprons of some description for them to wear. Also do whatever you can to limit their need to get out of their chairs and walk around – this definitely contains the mess. Lastly I make sure they each have either a drink of water or milk – my theory it that it helps to dilute the amount of sugar they eat during the process.

If you have any further questions about creating your own gingerbread house, I’m happy to try and answer them. Just use the comments section below. Happy creating,

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© 2015 As You Wish Events Ltd.  Want to use this article in your E-newsletter, blog, or website? You can as long as you include this complete statement: Auckland, New Zealand – Event Planner & Designer Nadine Crozier publishes the ‘As You Wish Events’ blog filled with secrets, tips and how-tos for planning your fabulous event. Get your exclusive inspiration, tips and tricks at http://www.asyouwish.co.nz.  As You Wish Events is an event planning and design company based in Auckland, serving the Auckland region and certain areas of Northland.

 

One Super Juicy Idea

12 Days of Christmas Ideas 2015 – Day 3

I recently spoke to a lovely group of ladies in which I used the example of creating a Hot Chocolate station. I love Hot Chocolate stations, they look great, the drinks taste amazing and they help to create a warm and cozy atmosphere. Sadly, for those of us living in the southern hemisphere Hot Chocolate stations at Christmas time are not such a practical idea. So this got me thinking – what could a summer alternative be?

Since I have a number of family members who love smoothies and fresh juices I thought how about creating a make your own Juice station.

Juice BarFresh Juices and Smoothies

Fresh fruit and vegetables

Strawberries and tall glasses

Homemade Juice Station

Armed with a few books from the local library (prior to this idea I knew very little about juicing) I went shopping for a variety of fresh fruits and veggies. The key here, so I learned, is to buy what is in season. If you grow your own even better. Also try and avoid using over-ripe produce. I decided to keep it very simple, but if you want to, you can get quite fancy. The little bit of fancy that I added were some bottles of sparkling water. I figured some people like to water down their juice a little and others like bubbles in their juice – so sparkling water seemed like a fun and healthy way to provide this option.

Waiwera Sparkling WaterJuices and Smoothie recipe books

Juice bar set up

Juicer and glasses

Gathering the equipment was the next thing to do. Glasses, knife, chopping board and a rubbish bin were some of the basics. And of course there was the juicer itself. I was fortunate enough to have been given a juicer a few years back. There are a few different types of juicers on the market. They all have their pros and cons, but at the end of the day they all make juice. So whatever you choose is fine. I’ve also seen these on Trade Me and in the second hand stores – so don’t feel you have to spend big bucks.

Juice station setupClose up of Juice Bar

When Life Hands You Lemons

Finally it was set up time. Really you could set this up anywhere and in a variety of ways, but I opted to go with a bit of a rustic look that had a fresh and citrus twist. I used some wooden gift boxes to create the shelves. I lined these with vibrant wrapping paper that I brought from Warehouse Stationery. And I then added a chalkboard sign which I made out of an old picture frame that I found in a second hand shop.

And there you have it – one ‘Make You Own Juice Station’. There are so many reasons why I love this idea. Yes it’s healthy, looks good and tastes great, but it is also a help-yourself-solution to serving beverages that is fun and interactive. A little bit of pre-planning and setting up beforehand means you can enjoy the time you have with your guests even more.

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© 2015 As You Wish Events Ltd.  Want to use this article in your E-newsletter, blog, or website? You can as long as you include this complete statement: Auckland, New Zealand – Event Planner & Designer Nadine Crozier publishes the ‘As You Wish Events’ blog filled with secrets, tips and how-tos for planning your fabulous event. Get your exclusive inspiration, tips and tricks at http://www.asyouwish.co.nz.  As You Wish Events is an event planning and design company based in Auckland, serving the Auckland region and certain areas of Northland.

Go the All Blacks!

Create your own Sports Bar at home!

We’re now getting down to the final rounds of the 2015 Rugby World Cup. What better time to gather with friends and watch the games. Technically even the most casual of ‘get-togethers’ qualifies as a party so why not kick things up a notch and set up a refreshments station for all your guests to enjoy. Here’s some great ideas and products to help get your creative juices flowing.

All Blacks Party Supplies

Set up a table that is in view of your TV, but not obstructing it, and add a few decorations to it. If you’re not keen on making them yourself, then Build a Birthday have a great selection to choose from, and you can order them online too.

 

All Blacks food products

Next you need food. Some of New Zealand’s favourite brands are supporting our team by going black, so why not make use of them. Photo credit: 100% Pure New Zealand

 

All-Blacks-Popcorn-Tin-Nz-Kettle-Korn

I think these tins full of popcorn, are a must. Available at most major supermarkets, not only is it a great game watching snack it adds to the décor. Photo credit: Countdown

 

Game Watching Food Recipes

So that all your snack food isn’t out of a packet, choose 1-2 sweet and savoury options to add to the table. Here’s some tasty ideas from KitchMe – if you choose dishes that can be prepared in advance, even better.

 

All Blacks Cookies

And if you feel like getting a bit fancy, you could even give these a try. Photo credit: The Whole Cake and Caboodle

Now while this may seem like a lot of work, as my Mum will often say, ‘there is a method to my madness’. Not only will this look amazing and help build a great atmosphere for watching the game – because you have put out everything your guests could possibly need on this “self-serve” food and beverage station, you’ll get to enjoy the game more because you won’t have to keep getting up to get things.

For more ideas check out our Rugby/Football Party pin board on Pinterest, and if you do give this a go we’d love to see your photos.

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© 2015 As You Wish Events Ltd.  Want to use this article in your E-newsletter, blog, or website? You can as long as you include this complete statement: Auckland, New Zealand – Event Planner & Designer Nadine Crozier publishes the ‘As You Wish Events’ blog filled with secrets, tips and how-tos for planning your fabulous event. Get your exclusive inspiration, tips and tricks at http://www.asyouwish.co.nz.  As You Wish Events is an event planning and design company based in Auckland, serving the Auckland region and certain areas of Northland.

 

 

 

5 Fabulous Father’s Day Ideas

Father’s Day is coming up this Sunday. If it has snuck up on you and you haven’t got anything planned yet then we’ve pulled together five of our favourite  Father’s Day ideas that are bound to inspire you.

The Manly Gift Bucket

A different more manly take on the gift basket, this gift bucket is a great way to put together lots of those little gifts for the Dads in your life.

As seen on: Tried and Twisted

The Sock Bouquet

If socks are what your Dad needs, then this is a novel and fun way to present them.

As seen on: One Good Thing

Car Treasure Hunt

If your Dad loves an adventure, then this could be the perfect gift experience.

As seen on: The Dating Divas

Photo Fun

I think there is always something special about giving and receiving a photo gift. This idea is awesome, and would be fairly easy to make too.

As seen on: House Hunt

Bow Tie Brunch

If you’re planning a Father’s Day brunch or dinner why not dress things up with these bow tie bundles.

As seen on: BLOGLOVIN’

We hope this inspires you for your Father’s Day celebrations. But if you’d like to see more ideas for Father’s Day then check out our Pinterest board by clicking here.

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© 2015 As You Wish Events Ltd.  Want to use this article in your E-newsletter, blog, or website? You can as long as you include this complete statement: Auckland, New Zealand – Event Planner & Designer Nadine Crozier publishes the ‘As You Wish Events’ blog filled with secrets, tips and how-tos for planning your fabulous event. Get your exclusive inspiration, tips and tricks at http://www.asyouwish.co.nz.  As You Wish Events is an event planning and design company based in Auckland, serving the Auckland region and certain areas of Northland.

Coca-Cola Theme Party

Earlier this year I put together a Coca-Cola themed party for my husband’s birthday, and I have finally got the photos sorted and ready to share. It was a fairly casual occasion so it mainly consisted of a Burger Bar, Drinks Station and Dessert Table.

 Party Highlights:
  • The burgers were soooooo gooooood! Everyone made their own, along with all the trimmings we had two main meat options – Cola BBQ Shredded Chicken and Cola Beef Patties.
  • Drinks were simple – Coke, Sprite, OJ and Water.
  • Décor wise I loved the paper circle garlands. We used vellum paper and overhead transparency sheets to create a look reminiscent of bubbles.
  • Desserts were also simple. We had ice cream sodas with you guessed it Coke, donuts from Dunken Donuts to which we added our own Coca-Cola glaze and some iced cookies in the shape of Coke bottles.

 

Burger Bar 1

Burger Bar 2

Burger Bar 3

Burger Bar 4

Burger Bar 5

Burger Bar 6

Burger Bar 7

Drink Station 1

Drink Station 2

Drink Station 3

Dessert Table

Dessert Table 8

Dessert Table 2

Dessert Table 3

Dessert Table 4

Dessert Table 5

Dessert Table 5

We hope you liked this party as much as we did. If you have any questions or comments regarding how we put this theme together or if you would like us to create a party for you then please contact us either via email or through the comments section below.

 

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© 2015 As You Wish Events Ltd.  Want to use this article in your E-newsletter, blog, or website? You can as long as you include this complete statement: Auckland, New Zealand – Event Planner & Designer Nadine Crozier publishes the ‘As You Wish Events’ blog filled with secrets, tips and how-tos for planning your fabulous event. Get your exclusive inspiration, tips and tricks at http://www.asyouwish.co.nz.  As You Wish Events is an event planning and design company based in Auckland, serving the Auckland region and certain areas of Northland.