Signed, Sealed, Delivered- Stamp Woes

just this week the united states postal service announced that in january of 2012 they plan on changing the price on stamps.  standard stamps will go from 44 cents to 45 cents.  postcard stamps will go from 29 cents to 32 cents.

why is this on my party planning site?  well, lots of parties, especially weddings require a lot of postage.  if you're sending 100 invitations with 100 stamped rsvp envelopes you'll be paying an additional 2 dollars.  then add in your thank you cards for the shower(s) thank you cards for the wedding and other essentials and you have another dollar or so.  it's not the biggest increase ever, but when it comes to the budget every penny counts.

it is also important to note that if you're using postcard stamps for your rsvps you need to consider when  your guests will be sending them back- if your wedding is in 2012 don't buy the cheaper stamps or you'll be stuck adding extra postage.

to get ahead of the game check out the forever stamps that are good for, well, forever at the lower cost!

DIY- Paper Flowers

in my post about flower alternatives i showed you paper flowers and linked to a tutorial.  tonight, as i was watching tv i decided to try out the tutorial.  i cut some paper into circles and then, without even tracing a spiral cut the paper in a spiral pattern.  i then rolled it up and presto change-o i had really cute paper flowers... what do you think?

keeping the budget in check: flowers

when it comes to weddings flowers can be a real budget buster.  luckily for you there are many flower alternatives!

one trend i've seen, and love, is brooch bouquets. 

via weddingbee

you can buy these, but they'd be more expensive than natural flowers.  however if you have brooches at home and or can find them cheaply at thrift stores or at stores with costume jewelery you can make this without too much expense.  there are tons of tutorials out there, but i like the one ms. sloth did on wedding bee.

bridesmaids can also carry clutches or lanterns in lieu of flowers as pictured below.

via bluestyle

via hoffer photography

i've also seen bridesmaids carrying pinwheels, parasols, fans, and or potted plants.

besides bouquets, reception decor often involves flowers.  one popular option i've seen around the blogs is paper flowers. 

via talk crafty to me

again there are tons of tutorials available for paper flowers. some people choose to make theirs from old books, magazines, or other recycled materials.  or you can use the scraps of paper left over from invitations, programs, and any other paper materials used in your wedding.  centerpieces comprised solely of candles can be very beautiful.  using fresh fruit is also an option.  some couples use books or other unusual objects that fit with their lifestyle.

what are some options you've found to replace fresh flowers?