birthday bests

Yesterday I celebrated one more candle added to my cake.  In honor of my special day I am going to share with you all a few of my birthday favorites.  First item on the list is birthday garland.  The above is an easy DIY template available by who else but MarthaStewart.com.  I downloaded the whole alphabet in black letters and use them for all occasions: showers, new year’s, birthdays, etc.  I love that they can look very different pending the paper choice and trim treatment.  When cutting, I like to use pinking sheers, and fun decorative scissors.  Also, your ribbon selection and how you tie the banner together can make quite a statement.  Note: punch holes on either side of the cards so the letters stay facing forward.  The best part is the banners could even be reusable if you store them well.