It's a Fiesta: Invitations and Inspiration

Fiesta Invitations by B.Nute productions on Zazzle

I love a good fiesta.

I love everything about it. 

I love the food; 

Mexican food is definitely one of my favs. 

I love the drinks; 

who doesn't love a Margarita and nothing is better than a nice cold Corona. 

I love the colors;

turquoise, magenta, red, orange, yellow, the brighter and bolder the better.

I love the decorations;

papel picado banners, mexican pottery, lotteria cards, Mexican cloth,  a pinata and a string of twinkling lights on the patio-- it's all that's needed.

I love the music;

just walk into any taqueria in California and you feel like you've taken a little trip over the border. The music always seems spirited and lively, and puts a smile on my face. 

So it's no wonder why my Fiesta invitations are some of my absolute favorites! With the hand designed oilcloth patterns in the background and vintage illustrations, these invites just make you want to party. I've created lots of options in my shop-- mix and match backgrounds and illustrations to find your perfect fit. Head on over to my shop and dust off your blender-- it's Fiesta time!

Vintage Golf Party Invitations and More

Vintage Golf Party Invitation, Stickers and Stationery by B.Nute productions on Zazzle

Golf season is in full swing, time to par-tee!! For many years now, I've sat back and let my husband and parents play golf while I've been with the kids. With my new clubs from Christmas, and lessons this spring, I'm ready to join in and find out what all the hubbub is around golf.

In my very few outings so far, I can see why this sport can be so addicting. Being outdoors, chatting with friends and family and the occasional swing-- this is just my speed right now, and it suits me fine.

Here's a Vintage Golf party theme for the golf fans and golfers who have found the love for golf like me. Sophisticated stripes, an elegant border, playful text and a fun vintage golf illustration make this a memorable party invite, perfect for a birthday gathering on the course, or a big milestone celebration.

So, "drive" on over to my shop and pick up your Vintage Golf Party goods, the perfect look for your par-tee.

Snowboard Gear and Snowboard Party Ideas

Snowboard Items by B.Nute productions on Zazzle

Ski week vacation is over, but there's plenty of boarding left for the season! Head over to my shop to pick up some cool snowboarding gear to keep the season going-- from phone cases, computer (and phone) skins, water bottle, travel bags and more. The note pad can make a great "goodie bag" gift as well for a snowboarding party.

Speaking of a snowboarding party... with so many boarders on the slopes, a Snowboarding Party is a great theme for any kid who can't get enough of it. Here are some ideas to help entertain your energetic boarders if heading to the slopes for a day is not an option.

Snowboarding Party Ideas
Growing up, the closest ski slope to me was about 3 hours away... quite a far trek for one day, but in high school, I did it many times! If you do have slopes close by, a Snowboarding Party shredding the hill with a couple best buddies is a great idea... but, many of us don't have the slopes (or snow) as close by... so here are some other ideas for a Snowboarding Party:

Watch Some Snowboarding Flicks
If you can't be on the slopes, why not watch some epic movies of snowboarders in far off destinations. Here's a great top 10 best snowboard movie list-- I'm sure one of these is sure to please.

Trampoline Time to Perfect the Moves
Many folks have a trampoline in their yard... and/or trampoline gyms are springing up all over the place. Make this part of your party, but give the kids some goals-- have them come up with some epic boarding moves on the trampoline. Have them give the move a name. Hold a contest for the best move, best name, most original, most daring, and more.

Snowboard Dry Land Training Camp
Head out to your backyard, driveway or local park to get the crowd moving with some dry land snowboard training drills. Tom Gibbings site recommends flexibility, core strengthening, leg strengthening, balance, and shoulder strengthening. Get some cones out and have the kids jumping between them like this training video shows (click link). Another idea is to head up to some nearby trails for trail running or rock hoping. There's also stadium drills- stairs, hurdles, and core work. By the end of a good workout you should have some hungry partiers!

Design Your Own Snowboard Gear
For the creative crowd-- print out some "Design your own snowboard gear" templates, and let the crowd create. Perhaps the best work can be submitted to Burton for their new line?

Snowboard Poetry
Sounds a little "deep" for a party-- but the crowd may have a blast trying to create some snowboard poetry. Print out some of these Snowboard Lingo dictionaries and have each person write their own poems only using the lingo from the sites. Perhaps allow a few pronouns and verbs-- but make sure they use 90% of the lingo to be truly poetic! Shreddin' the Gnar 101 has some quick terms to get started-- but then other sites like Frosty Rider have a dictionary full!

Teddy Bear Party (or Picnic) Invitations and More

Teddy Bear Party Invitations, Thank You Postcards, Stickers and Water Bottle Labels
by B.Nute productions on Zazzle

There's nothing like your squishy teddy bear... the one you've loved ever since you can remember! For those little ones who can't get enough of their teddy-- throw them a Teddy Bear Party or Teddy Bear Picnic so they can bring their best friend along. These vintage-style Teddy Bear Party (or Teddy Bear Picnic) invitations in my shop are the perfect look for your sweet gathering. Soft polk dots on a linen textured background and vintage teddy bear illustrations make this an invitation that will stand out! Choose between pink or blue, depending on which color your teddy love likes best.

I've also created lots of matching goodies to go along-- Teddy Bear Thank You Postcards, Teddy Bear stickers (where text can be personalized) and water bottle labels too.

So, whether your setting up a picnic in your backyard, or heading to your child's favorite teddy bears/stuffed animal shop to make your own, be sure to order some vintage Teddy Bear invites to announce the special day! Stay tuned for more teddy bear ideas to come.

Beer Bash Party Invitations and More...

Beer Bash Party Invitations and More by B.Nute productions on Zazzle

Here's the perfect party theme for the guy who loves his brew-- a Beer Bash! Whether it's a birthday, a big game or a beer tasting party-- these are the perfect invitations and party accessories for your gathering.

I had a great time designing this invitation to be like a micro brew label. Lots of rich textures and colors and a nice cold lager in the background, this Beer Bash invitation will definitely be a hit. To continue the theme, I created some matching Beer Bash stickers, perfect to label the bottles, as well as some custom coasters to commemorate the event. There's even a custom Brew Pub coaster that can make a perfect gift for a Beer lover, or a great addition to your bar area at home.

So head on over to my shop and get your beer gear!

Hockey Party Invitations and More...

Hockey Party Invitations, Thank You Postcards, Stickers and Notecards by B.Nute productions on Zazzle

Hockey fans rejoice... the NHL lockout is over and it's time to celebrate! Here's the perfect Hockey party invitation and matching party goods to get your on your way.

A Hockey Party is a great party theme anytime of year-- In the Winter, renting some time at a rink to let the kids skate and have fun is the perfect activity when it's too cold outside for much of anything else. In the same light, having the kids at a cool rink in the Summer is great way to beat the heat!

Head over to my Zazzle shop to get ready for your party-- there's a Hockey Party Invitation, with a spot for your pro's picture, matching thank you postcards, personalized notecards, and stickers perfect for accessorizing as cupcake toppers (stick to paper and a stick), water bottle labels, goodie bag tags and more.

Whether you are a little hockey fan-- ready to make his debut, or an old pro, grab your stick and friends and have some Hockey party fun! Stay tuned in the next coming posts for loads of Hockey Party ideas as well.

New Year & New Direction for B.Nute productions!

Happiness is Being a Designer by B.Nute productions

Happy New Year! I'm back from a wonderful holiday vacation and ready to dive into my "NEW" work. No, I'm not stopping what I've been doing this past 5 years, I'm just hoping to do MORE of it... more designs, more parties, more blogging, more fun! Let me explain...

2012 was quite a year for me at B.Nute productions. Business boomed!! (Thank you, thank you, thank you!) I've been so honored by the amazing positive feedback, compliments of my work and orders I've received. This incredible energy boost kept me going for many months of full days, late nights and long weekends... but alas, I must say, my family and personal life began to take a toll.

After much soul searching and business brainstorming this fall, I realized I was losing what I loved to do the most -- DESIGN! With proofs, everyday communications, productions, packaging, shipping and more, I had very little time to create new designs, blog fun free printables or do the things I set out to do. I realized I wanted that back... but how?

Focusing on my print on demand shop on Zazzle (and potentially other sites down the road) is my answer! The beauty of a site like Zazzle is it will get me out of the proofing/production/shipping business, and get me back to the design business! More time, more designs, more blogging and more fun! Here's how:

• No Proofing Time - Head to my shop, find a design you like, enter your party details on the right and watch the proof update on the left! No wait, and you are ready to order! (By the way, white envelopes are included in invitation orders.)
• Fast Shipping Time - I've been very impressed with Zazzles fast shipping time-- they have loads of details on their site about shipping times, so take a look.
• Great Customer Service - Zazzle has done a great job in my experience with customer service. They are quick to respond and answer any questions. They also offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee (on production of product.) Can't beat that!
• Questions- Although I won't be answering every email and question (Zazzle handles the ordering/production/shipping/etc.), I love hearing from you! Feel free to email me any time to ask about a design, request a new theme or whatever you'd like: questions@bnute.com! 

So, for now, my Etsy shop is on sabbatical as I journey down this new path. I have loads of invites to add to my Zazzle shop (that were in my Etsy shop), and many more up my sleeve I can't wait to design. Definitely email me if you can't find what you are looking for.

Thanks again for all your wonderful support. Here's to a fabulous 2013!

Soccer Party Invitations and More

Soccer Party Invitations, Thank You Postcards and Stickers from B.Nute productions on Zazzle

Our town is a huge soccer town! Ask pretty much any kid and they will let you know they play soccer. Both my kids have been playing since the ripe old age of 5. Granted, many of those early years, I don't think you could have called it "soccer" they were playing, but they were having fun.

Now that our season is in full swing, I've created Soccer Party invitation, thank you postcards and stickers perfect for your soccer player! They come in a couple bright color options and you can choose from either a boy or girl soccer player image as well.

So, time to head out to the field, dribble, shoot and score some points with your soccer enthusiast and get their party started!

Day of the Dead Invitations and More

Day of the Dead Invitations, Advice Cards, Shower Invitation  and More by B.Nute productions on Zazzle

The Day of the Dead or Dia de los Muertos holiday is coming up soon! I've noticed lately this is a very popular theme in America. Sugar skull cookie designs are everywhere, and many are heading out on Halloween with fabulous skull face painting designs!

As a request of a customer a year ago, I created some Day of the Dead invitations. Since that time, the invitation has been very popular as a Day of the Dead wedding shower or bridal shower Fiesta celebration (celebrated any time of the year). To go along with the shower theme, I created advice cards and stickers, perfect to share your marriage advice for a long and happy life together!

Someday, I woud love to travel to Mexico and experience their wonderful celebration. When I first learned about the Day of the Dead celebration many, many years ago, I did think it was rather creepy... but as I've gotten older, I think it is quite a wonderful celebration. What a colorful and honorable way to remember loved ones who have passed on.!

Construction Party Invitations and Decoration Ideas

Construction Party Invitation, Envelopes and Stickers by BNute productions on Zazzle

Calling all construction guys, Mr. Fixits and Bob the Builder fans... here's the perfect Construction Party invitation and matching goods for you. Distressed background, hand drawn tools and your little builder front and center are the perfect look for his party! Head over to B.Nute productions Zazzle shop to print up your goods for the party.

Decoration Ideas
Now that your invitations are set, it's time to "build" your party and get some great decorations to set the mood! Here are a few ideas:

Blueprints: Blue prints can make a great table covering or buffet covering, or could be perfect to hang on the wall behind your serving table! Search your garage for your house blue prints, or ask around to neighbors who maybe just did a remodel... and get those blue prints out for that "on site" look.

Play Tools (or real ones if you dare!): Set play tools down the center of a table for a great center piece.

Hard Hats: All the kids need a hard hat to enter into your party Construction Zone. Hard hats can be found online and make great "goodie bag" gifts for kids to take home.

Construction Site Workers Badge: All crew need to have a badge to enter the construction zone! Create a simple "badge," and hand out to each guest when they get to the party.

Caution Tape: Nothing like caution tape to announce a construction party zone. Pick up some of this and line the path to your front door, or decorate like crepe paper in your party space.

Jars of Nuts, Bolts, Screws, Washers, etc.: Fill up Ball or jelly jars with nuts, bolts, screws and washers and place on your serving table or as a center piece on the table.

Lumber or Balsa Wood: Another great buffet table decoration is some good old fashion lumber! Use to prop serving dishes on, or down the center of the table to indicate this party is ready to be built! (Balsa wood can be a great alternative to lumber, since it has the wood look, but is much lighter.

Now get building your party! It will be great.

Print on Demand for B.Nute productions!

B.Nute productions is on Zazzle!

I'm excited to announce that B.Nute productions is on Zazzle offering print on demand invitations, stationery, party goods and more! What's this mean for you? Well many things, here's just a few:

• Same great B.Nute production invitation designs with added bonus design on the back
• Matching envelopes available to order
• More matching party goods
• FASTER turn around time with no proofing necessary-- you enter your party details, approve, order and it's done!
• New designs all the time!

Bug Hunt Party Invitation and Envelope by B.Nute productions on Zazzle

I'm so grateful for my wonderful customers who have made my business so successful this past 5 years! Business has boomed so much, though, it has left me little time to create more designs. In the past year, I've spent much of my time fielding emails and creating proofs, and very little time creating new designs. I've also noticed while I do sell "printable/digital" goods, I also have a very large customer base that wants my items to be printed. I've been searching for a great business solutions to allow me to continue to grow as well as create new designs (and more blog posts with free printables!) Going to a print on demand solution like Zazzle is my answer!

Woodland Animal Party Invitation and Matching Envelope by B.Nute productions on Zazzle

The biggest benefit by far is the allowing my customers to enter their own party details, and remove the whole proofing process. This will speed up delivery of my products greatly, and also free up some of my time! Yay. I've included pictures in this post with some of my latest additions to the shop (ooo, I just love the squirrel on the back of my Woodland Animal Party invitation!)

Princess/Snow White Style Party Invitation and Matching Envelope by B.Nute productions on Zazzle

So, over the next couple months, I'll be moving my items over and adding more! Be sure to continue to check back in my shop for updates. If you know a theme you'd like to see, and don't see it yet, just give a holler!

Little Red Riding Hood Party Invitation and Matching Envelope by B.Nute productions on Zazzle.

Above is my Little Red Riding Hood Party invitation-- I just love Grandma's house on the back!