I wanted to share another little project I was able to work on with a sweet friend. Sarah hosted a couples shower this past weekend, and I can’t think of a better theme!
Congratulations to Emily & David!
XO, Mariel
Dreaming of a French Farmhouse Christmas
Earlier this year, I discovered a blog called Dreamy Whites. And I fell in love with the precious antiques and handmade goods Maria offers on her site. When I saw her holiday collection, I adored it all and couldn’t help sharing it with you. Forget any sugar plums… I’ve had visions of vintage French grain sacks dancing in my head. :)
The Dreamy Whites shop is filled with handmade items constructed from antique European linens and grain sacks. These lovely items would add charm to any home for the holidays…
You can shop for the items pictured above here. And don’t forget to check out the rest of the Dreamy Whites Shop for everyday beauties for your home.
XO, Mariel
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Gifts for the Holiday Hostess
The tree is up and sparkling, our holiday festivities are all mapped out, and it’s even starting to get cold outside in Texas. Christmas is coming, and I’ve been doing some serious holiday shopping. I love picking out Christmas presents. But sometimes it’s hard to find that perfect gift. I’ve scrolled through gorgeous gift guides on Pinterest and clicked on websites filled with beautiful things… but I believe you can never have enough inspiration. :)
So that’s why I did some research and put together a few of my favorite gift ideas. I’m a huge fan of neutrals, and this year I haven’t been able to get enough GOLD. These pretty presents are perfect for any friend, relative, or hostess who loves to entertain.
1) Chalkboard Spice Jar from Anthropologie, $12
2) Agate Cheese Plates from Jayson Home, $60
3) Confetti Place Mats from Anthropologie, $28
4) Little Luck Horseshoe from Suitor, $32
5) Cheese Markers from Nordstrom, $30
6) Guest Towel from Style Vista, $18
7) Cheers Glasses from Williams & Sonoma, $49
Which one would you like to receive? I’m eyeing it all…. ;)
Happy hunting!
XO, Mariel
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Fairy Birthday Party Invites
Do you believe in fairies? This glittery invitation is perfect for a little girl’s birthday party. I loved creating these and addressing the pretty pink envelopes with a silver pen. It was the perfect touch!
And who doesn’t love the color pink? :) Happy Friday!
XO, Mariel
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Fall {Paleo} Dinner Party
I am so excited to share something new with you guys today. Earlier this year, I had the joy of meeting Dee, the lovely lady behind The Primal Beauty Queen. I love her blog and tweets because she shares two of my passions, beauty and healthy eating. We both follow a Paleo-style diet, which you can learn more about here and here.
When Dee asked me to collaborate on a blog post, I was so excited. We began talking about ideas, and both agreed that there isn’t much inspiration out there for the modern day Paleo hostess. So we decided to put together everything you need to host a Paleo-inspired dinner party this fall!
Now that Thanksgiving is over, this is great inspiration for a casual evening with friends. Find all the delicious recipes on Dee’s blog, and keep reading to learn how to pull all the details together!
Start off with a few appetizers… I’m in love with Dee’s delicious and simple recipes for Sweet & Spicy Nuts and Italian Stuffed Mushrooms. Find free printables for the labels at the bottom of this post!
Print out a menu for each place setting so your guests know what’s in store {Look for the link at the bottom of this post!}. 
Use a red apple as a simple and chic place card. To put it together, just follow these four easy steps.
1) Cut small rectangles out of black cardstock.
2) Write each guests’ name with a white gel pen.
3) Punch a small hole in the corner of the cardstock.
4) Tie it around the apple’s stem with a piece of twine.
And there you go! A unique and affordable (not to mention totally paleo) ;) way to seat your guests.
Let us know if you try any of the recipes. Happy entertaining!
XO, Mariel
Printables:
Menu Printable Appetizer Printables
Instructions:
1) Right-click on each image to download and save it to your computer.
2) Print onto white card stock using the high-quality print settings on your home printer.
3) Using a paper cutter (or scissors), carefully cut each piece following the grey dotted lines. Be sure to trim inside the guide lines.
4) Fold the appetizer cards in half and place them next to each dish.
5) Place a menu at each place setting.
6) Let the party begin!
Size:
8.5″ X 11″
◊
*Printables are for personal use only, not for commercial use.
© 2012 OneCharmingLife.com
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Thanksgiving “Graffiti” Table
I can’t believe Thanksgiving is tomorrow! This holiday has totally snuck up on me. If you’re in the same boat, you may be feeling a bit unprepared this year. So if you’re looking for a fun and creative way to decorate your table tomorrow, here’s an easy last-minute idea.
Line your table with a long piece of kraft paper. Set-up your favorite dishes and silverware, and then add in a few white pens. Ask your guests to get creative and write or draw what they are thankful for. And then sit back and watch the creativity begin!
This is a great conversation starter and a wonderful idea for the little ones. Plus, the set-up doesn’t get much simpler. You could also write your guests’ names next to their plates, or draw arrows and label any food on the table. Be creative and have fun!
Alright, it’s time to start some baking. I’m testing a few new “paleo” pie crusts this year… what new recipes will you be trying? Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
XO, Mariel
Supplies . . . kraft paper + white pens
On the Table . . . plates + napkins + glasses + napkin rings + turkey
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Tiffany and Randall’s Save the Dates
Remember that bachelorette party I wrote about a couple of months ago? Well that lovely bride-to-be is getting married this weekend! I couldn’t be happier for Tiffany and Randall. They are perfect for each other. I am so excited to celebrate with them this weekend!
Earlier this year, Tiffany asked me to address her Save the Dates. Here’s a little peek at her pink and black ensemble…
Congrats to Tiffany & Randall!
XO, Mariel
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Aggie Game Day Treats
Football season. It’s a great time of year. The weather’s cooling down and the holidays are right around the corner. But first, it’s time to gather friends and family to cheer on your favorite teams. I love it. And of course, what every good gathering needs is a scrumptious selection of food and drinks.
As you may have learned from this previous post, I am a proud former student of Texas A&M. Which means that I’ll be serving up maroon-inspired snacks during the big ‘Bama game this weekend. :) While searching for the perfect game day treats, I came across these gems. Since I know many of you are Aggie fans, I wanted to share them with you!
Whether you’re a fan of Johnny Football or not, these recipes will work wonders at any fall game watching party. I cannot wait to try the Rum Glazed Pecans. One of our much loved traditions at Kyle Field is C&L Nuts. Bobby always grabs a bag of their cinnamon roasted pecans before we even sit down. Delicious. My mouth is watering just thinking about them…
What’s your favorite game day treat? Enjoy the beautiful weather & football celebrations this weekend!
XO, Mariel
Sources: Red Velvet Fudge / Oatmeal Bars / Rum Glazed Pecans / Keep Calm / Cheerwine / Football / Bourbon Ginger Soda
One Charming Life 
