Leprechaun's are tricky little guys! They are also quite mischievous and a tad bit naughty -- but in their defense they are trying to protect their pot  'o gold. Do they visit your house? If you are lucky enough to have a leprechaun visit you on St. Paddy's Day you may wake up to some funny things around the house. Your food may be green, your chairs turned over or you may find gold dust scattered around your home. You may have a bit of a mess to clean up -- it's surprising just how strong these pint sized cobblers can be!

 

 

 

If you and your kids want to try to catch a leprechaun this St. Patrick's day you'll want to build a trap! That's right -- if you are clever enough to devise a leprechaun trap that can trick a trickster -- well then, you may just get a pot o' gold!!! How exactly does one go about building a contraption fit for catching a leprechaun? It just takes a little creativity and some careful planning. Gather your boxes, cans, nets and egg cartons. Grab some glitter, glue, yarn and stickers and get to work!

 

 

 

 

(photo via www.thecraftingchicks.com)

 

I found the adorable leprechaun trap pictured above on TheCraftingChicks.com. Click on the photo for their blog post for the details on how to make this or at least glean some inspiration to create your own. I don't know how any leprechaun could resist a temptation like that!

 

 

 

(Photo via www.familyfun.com)

This leprechaun trap was featured on FamilyFun.com along with a couple of others. Just click on the photo above to go to that post and find the instructions on how to make it. I think my kids have decided to give this one a try. We are sure hoping to finally catch the pesky little guy who visits each year and makes mischief. He's quite sneaky and pretty clever. We haven't been able to catch him, but perhaps this year we will -- will you?

 

 

 

Sterling Silver Enamel Easter Egg
Every Day Low Price ~ ONLY $14.99

 

Easter is just a few weeks away and at Charming Chick we have some wonderful gifts that would fit perfectly in that Easter basket for a special someone. The Sterling Silver Enameled Easter Egg pictures above is one of our most popular gifts. The vibrant spring colors make this an especially fun gift. The charm features an Easter bunny and other springtime embellishments. The egg is hollow in the back to make it lighter weight and comfortable to wear.

 

 

Christian Bless This Child Wall Plaque
Every Day Low Price -- ONLY $9.99 

 

So this next Easter gift isn't sterling silver, but it is cute and very appropriated so I just had to feature it. Since Easter is also a time for renewal, with that comes baptisms and Christenings. This Christian Bless this Child Cross Wall Plaque makes and absolutely perfect keepsake for a child who is being baptized. Easily hangs on the wall near the child's crib, bed or anywhere in his room. The cross features cute blue and green polka dot design and measures 6 inches in length.

 

 

 

Turquoise Sterling Silver Cross Charm
Every Day Low Price ~ ONLY $12.99

 

Another special Easter gift that you can give is this beautiful and ornate cross. It is crafted of sterling silver and has turquoise on one side and an intricate design on the other. This cross measures .5 inches and attaches easily to bracelets, anklets, necklaces and more and makes a beautiful baptism or confirmation gift.

 

 

 

 

Sterling Silver Pearl Bunny Pendant
Every Day Low Price ~ ONLY $18.99

 

This adorable Sterling Silver Pearl Pendant is the last item we will be featuring on the blog today.  The pendant features two freshwater pearls and it is absolutely eye-catching as a necklace or attached to a bracelet. The pendant measures 23mm long and the larger pearl is 6mm in diameter.

 

 

 

 

Be sure to sign-up for our newsletter and follow us on Twitter and Facebook to receive the latest info and discounts!!!

 

 

Everyone know that March 17th is  St. Patrick's Day, right? Did you know that the entire month of March has been designated as Irish American Heritage Month? Well, it is! It certainly makes sense doesn't it?  Each year since 1991 the President of the United States proclaims March to be Irish-American Heritage Month. According to the website Irish Central, on March 1st, of 2012 President Barack Obama put forth this decree:

 

 

 

 

St. Patrick's Day is a Christian holiday meant to honor the teaching, sacrifices and miracles of St. Patrick. However, it has also been a celebration for all things Irish. You don't have to limit your Irish appreciation to just one day; you can celebrate it all month long -- but keeping the green beer drinking to one or two days is probably a wise decision.

 

 

Initially, a large number of Irish immigrated to America after suffering many years under harsh English rule. During the Potato Famine of 1845 to 1852 many were starving, jobless, homeless, and fled to America seeking a better life. When they arrived in the states it wasn't the warm welcome they may have hoped for. Instead, they faced criticism, discrimination and poverty but they pushed on and helped to shape America into what it is today.  They worked had and this month we celebrate all they have contributed!!!

Personalized Damask iPhone Cover
Every Day Low Price ~ ONLY $ 21.99

 

 

You've heard of Pinterest, right? If not, it's one of the hottest, fastest growing sites on the web. It is a virtual pin board that you can use to organize all the things you love. You can post and pin your favorite recipes, DIY projects and ideas, fashions, jewelry, wedding ideas, words you love and so much more to your inspiration boards! It helps you to organize the things you love and to share them with your friends and family. It's so much fun and a really useful tool as well. We used to have to search through magazines to clip out favorite items and create inspiration boards

 

 

We have so many stylish charms. Choose a few favorites
to create a gorgeous and meaningful charm necklace.

 

At Charming Chick, we have now installed a "Pin It" button. You'll find this on all of our products which makes it so easy to share and organize all of your favorite items. You can create a Wish List board and pin all of the things you love that catch your eye. If you are a bride to be, we have a fantastic selection of wedding items that you can pin to you wedding inspiration boards; cake toppers, wedding favors, bridesmaid and groomsmen's  gifts, garters, ring bearer pillows, flower girl baskets, unity candles and so much more!!!

 

 

 

Wedding Love Letter Ceremony. See a something you'd like to
incorporate into your ceremony? Pin it so you can consider it later. 

 

Pinterest is also great because you can browse other people's boards, repin items, comment, like and get inspired. You can follow people from all over the world and their inspiration boards. If you choose folks that have the same interests as you, you are sure to find many interesting items.

 

 

Love Cats? Create Cat Board on Pinterest!

 

Anyone who is familiar with social media knows that there is certain etiquette should be followed. The Pinterest is no different. First of all it is invite only, only so you must either be invited by another member or you can request an invite. It is important to be nice to the other members and respect everyone, be sure to give credit where credit is due and report questionable content.

 

Have fun creating your virtual inspiration boards!

 

 

Gamma Phi Beta ~ ΓΦΒ

Open Motto: "Founded Upon a Rock."
Mascot: White Seal
Symbol: Crescent
Colors: Brown and Mode
Flower: Pink Carnation

 

 

Gamma Phi Beta was founded at Syracuse University in Syracuse, NY -- November 11, 1874. During a time when it was looked down upon - or thought unnecessary - for women to receive a higher education, four women banded together to provide support for each other and others like them by forming a sorority. Gamma Phi Beta's four founding members were Helen M. Dodge, Francis E. Haven, E. Adeline Curtis and Mary A. Bingham.

 

Dr. Erastus Haven - chancellor of Syracuse University at the time - enrolled his daughter into the school and maintained that women should have the opportunity to receive a higher education. Francis Haven was approached by the Alpha Phi Women's Fraternity (the only such organization at Syracuse at the time) but instead Haven decided to ask three friends if they would be interested in starting their own women's organization. They were delighted for the opportunity and with the help of Francis' father Dr. Haven, their brothers, two members from existing fraternities and college faculty they were able to form Gamma Phi Beta.

 

 

 

 

 

Gamma Phi Beta is part of the Syracuse Triad, which refers top the three sororities - or women's fraternities - founded at Syracuse University; Alpha Phi founded in 1972, Gamma Phi Beta founded in 1874 and Alpha Gamma Delta founded in 1907. All three of these sororities maintain a close bond.

 

There are currently 173 active chapters and 175+ alumnae chapters and 180,000 initiated members. The main goal of Gamma Phi Beta's philanthropic mission is to raise funds to support local camps. They have also partnered with Camp Fire USA and Girl Guides of Canada. According to the official Gamma Phi Beta website camping is very important to its members because:

 

"We strongly believe the experiences gained at camp play the same vital role in the lives of young girls today as they have in the past. Studies have shown a camping vacation benefits girls in ways that are remembered for a lifetime, and for that reason, it's a cause we resolutely support."

 

 

It's Leap Year again! You know that it comes around every 4 years but do you know why? What are some of the traditions associated with the holiday? What do people do who are born on February 29th do -- that's got to be a little strange, right? What would happen if we decided to do away with Leap Year all together? Well, in honor of the day we thought we could help by answering a few of those questions and also provide you with a few fun facts you can share with your friends come February 29th.

 

 

 

First, we'll start with the Days of the Month Poem in Honor of Leap Year. I found 88 versions of the traditional Mother Goose Poem On the website LeapYearDay.com but this is Version 68:

 

 

 

 

 

Leap Day Facts

 

~ Supposedly around the 5th century the tradition of women proposing men on Leap Day began. Folklore states St. Patrick officially set aside February 29th as the one day that women could break from tradition and propose marriage to their fella. Leap Day is not to be confused with Sadie Hawkins Day, which is November 15th.

 

~ Born on Leap Day? Lucky you! It is said that people born on February 29th  posses special talents. What's yours?

 

~  There are a few issues with being born on Leap day, some Leap Year babies report that their parents wanted the birth date to be changed to either February 28th or March 1st. There have been some computer issues noted as well. When those born on Leap Day try to enter their birth date some programs won't recognize February 29th as a valid birthday! In addition, some folks have been teased and experienced licensing issues

 

~ The ancient Egyptians discover that the man-made calendar didn't match up with the solar year. The reason for this is because it takes the Earth a little longer that a year to make its way around the sun -- as noted on the Cliff.com website it exactly  takes 365 days, 5 hours, 48 minutes and 46 seconds.

 

~ Also noted on that same website - is that leap year was to occur very four year but the Gregorian calendar  implanted a more precise formula stating that only years divisible by four would be included. This meant that were divisible by 100 would not be included but those divisible by 400 would be. Confusing? Maybe, but it keeps us on track. At least for the next thousand years or so.

 

 

Tomorrow is a big red carpet night for Hollywood -- and for anyone who loves movies and celebrities. If you have been thinking about hosting an Oscar Party but you just aren't quite sure how to put it all together quickly, we have some tips that you might be interested in. Whether you are thinking about inviting a few friends over, or just spending the evening in with your family, we have some great tips that can help you throw an Oscar party together quickly and successfully!!! We've searched the web and found some simple Oscar DIY  ideas that can help to make your party fun and festive.

 

 

 

 1. Dress the Part!

First of all, you'll want to pick out your prettiest party dress or snappiest suit and put it on. Don't rush out and buy anything just grab what you have -- and call it good. Do you have a tiara laying around? Great! How about a feather boa? Perfect! Do you have a top hat left over from last year's Halloween costume or a black tie affair? Fabulous! Get creative have fun and get dresses up and wear every piece of jewelry you own.

 

 

 

2. Food is Essential

 

Of course, what Oscar Party would be compete without yummy food. You can get as fancy or keep it as simple as your like. A great site to visit with some award-winning favorites is Delish.com. The one I thought looked absolutely scrumptious were the Mini- Black Bottom Cheesecakes -- yummy!!! Oh, and don't forget the popcorn...

 

3. Roll out the Red Carpet

 

You don't have to have carpet (and no one actually has to walk on it) but using some red butcher paper or getting some red fabric to lay out can work just fine. Of course, you can always order a red carpet but you don't have time for that this year. However, if you want to get a head start on next year's Oscar party, you'll have plenty of time!

 

 

(Via Amazon.com)

 

4. DIY Red Carpet Backdrop

 

What Red Carpet event would be complete without a backdrop for all those glam photos? Oscar night is all about seeing and being seen right? We have all gazed at those infamous photos of the celebs at awards shows, pausing and posing, in front of those simple and recognizable backdrops. You can create one for yourself using anything, felt, butcher paper, cardboard, etc. Get creative, have fun and if you have a little bit of time - or are exceptionally crafty - here are a are a few tips for a slightly fancy version of the backdrop.  You can also order these backdrops online. They are a little spendy but if you plan on hosting these parties in the future it could be well worth the investment.

 

From all of us at Charming Chick, have a wonderful night at the Oscars!!!!!

 

 

Bright Pink Floral Wedding Flower Girl
Every Day Low Price -- ONLY $9.99 

 

If you are planning a spring wedding this year then it's almost "go" time! I'm sure the excitement is welling up inside of you and you may be trying to make sure that every last detail is taken care of and that nothing will be overlooked. There are some special considerations that need to be made when planning a spring wedding and today on the Charming Chick blog we are going to let you know what those are and what you can do to ensure your special day runs smoothly and you take advantage of all the wonderful things this season has to offer.

 

 

 

 

Sparkling Flowers Wedding Cake Topper
Every Day Low Price ~ ONLY $49.99

 

A Chance of Showers

You can't control mother nature but you can be prepared. If you are planning on having an outdoor wedding you'll definitely want to order some tents or have a "plan B" of some kind. Having a wedding outdoors with all the gorgeous blooming tulips, daffodils, crocuses, blooming trees, etc. can be super romantic so if you live in an area where you can be relatively certain you'll have a dry day -- or you just want to take a chance, go for it, just make sure you have arrangements in place to keep you and your guests dry. Even if you aren't planning an outdoor affair, you still want to be prepared with umbrellas and awnings in place to keep you dry. It would be a shame for your hair and make-up to get ruined because of a few sprinkles (or a downpour).

 

 

Black and White Wedding Guest Book and Pen Set
Every Day Low Price ~ ONLY $29.99

 

 

A Season of Flowers

 

When you think spring what is the first thing that comes to mind? Flowers of course! There are some gorgeous flowers that you can use that are usually unique to springtime. Take advantage of this time of year by incorporating a lot of flowers and save money by choosing flowers that are in season. If you are planning on having an outdoor wedding you can incorporated all the of beautiful springtime blooms into your wedding decor.

 

 

 

Ivory Lace Ring Bearer Pillow
Every Day Low Price ~ ONLY $18.99 

 

What to Wear? What to Wear?

In many areas of the country springtime means ideal temperatures. Sure it may be rainy but in general temps are not too hot and not to cold, meaning brides can really choose from any style of dress without worry. If you have your sights set on a short sleeve, long sleeve or strapless gown you should be just fine. You can always carry a beautiful pashmina  or other type of wrap or arm coverings but chances are pretty good that you won't need them.

 

 Heart-Shaped Wedding Unity Sand Vase and Stand
Every Day Low Price ~ ONLY $34.99  

 

 

Be sure to sign-up for our newsletter and follow us on Twitter and Facebook to receive the latest info and discounts!!!

 

 

Spring is on it way! That's pretty exciting, right? Even though most of the country has experience some pretty mild temperatures this year, I think we can all agree that spring is always a welcome sight. With all the beautiful flowers, vibrant colors, feelings of renewal it is a time that many people look forward to all year long. Today, on the Charming Chick Blog, we are going to feature some of our favorite items for spring.

 

 

 

 

Sterling Silver Spring Multi-Charm Necklace
Every Day Low Price ~ ONLY $82.99

 

Multi-Charm necklaces are a hot trend and this one is the perfect addition to your new spring wardrobe! Crafted of genuine sterling silver and features a flower, a leaf and a dragonfly charm. It also has a stylish toggle closure that fastens in the front which makes is very easy to fasten. The necklace measures 17.5 inches long to fit most neckline.

 

Rowallan Personalized Leather Key Chain & Wallet
Every Day Low Price ~ ONLY  $31.99

 

A fabulous new line that we recently introduced is the Rowallan of Scotland collection. These leather goods feature designs that are simple and elegant. The colors are vibrant and stunning. The organizational features mean you will have everything you need - right at your finger tips - as you navigate through your busy day. The key chain offers a smart valet design, featuring two key rings that can be easily removed for ultimate convenience. The matching business card case, which can double as a credit card or ID case, is designed with a clever pull tab so that cards may be easily raised from the holder for easy access.

 

 

 

Hot Pink Bridal Garter
Every Day Low Price ~ ONLY $7.99

 

 

You'll be pretty in pink (hot pink that is) with this gorgeous bridal garter. It will coordinate perfectly with your hot pink wedding colors -- or just add a splash of color with your all white attire. This garter is perfect for a spring wedding and is a new item that we have added to our already outstanding collection of bridal garters.

 

 

Be sure to sign-up for our newsletter and follow us on Twitter and Facebook to receive the latest info and discounts!!!

 

Sweet Sixteen Zebra Print Personalized Photo Booth Backdrop
Every Day Low Price ~ ONLY $111.99

A Sweet 16 Birthday Party is a celebration for a young girl who is coming-of-age, to officially commemorate their voyage into womanhood. In the Hispanic community this tradition is celebrated on the 15th birthday and called a Quinceanera. Quite simply it is a special time for family and friends to get together and see what a beautiful young woman the guest of honor has grown to be. Despite some reality shows like My Super Sweet Sixteen where the parents are extremely wealthy and shower their daughters with extravagant parties and luxury items. Most girls don't have those kinds of parties but they are special, they usually different from other birthday parties and they are showered with lots of love, attention and yes -- special gifts.

 

 

Sweet 16 Swarovski Crystal and Pearl Bracelet
Every Day Low Price ~ ONLY $14.99

 

Sweet Sixteen celebrations date back to the 1600s in England. This wasn't just a time for young girls to transition into womanhood -- this was actually their début into society and they were officially being "put on the market" for marriage. There are also many traditions that are found at most Sweet 16 parties in the United States. Today on the Charming Chick blog we are going to feature a few of them. If you have any special Sweet Sixteen party ideas or traditions that we haven't covered, be sure to leave a comment  and share it with us. Now let's get started...

 

 

Sweet 16 Pink Tiara
Every Day Low Price ~ ONLY $42.99

The Shoe Exchange and Crowning Ceremony

The birthday girl is escorted into the reception area where she is presented with a new pair of high-heeled shoes and a dazzling tiara. Her flat shoes or ballet style slippers are removed by her father or grandfather and he slips on her new high-heeled shoes, which symbolizes her walk from childhood into womanhood. In addition to the shoes a tiara is also carried in as well. The father places it on her head letting her know she is princess for the day but she is growing up and becoming a woman.

 

Sweet 16 Birthday Signature Pillow
Every Day Low Price  -- ONLY $18.99

The Candle Lighting Ceremony

The candle ceremony is a great way to include friends and family into the Sweet Sixteen festivities. 16 tapers, votives or even tea lights are set out in a decorative arrangement. The birthday girl lights the first candle symbolizing her transition into adulthood. Then parents, siblings and other close family members light candles 2-7, close friends light candles 8-15 and if the birthday girl has a boyfriend or close male friend he will light the 16th candle. Each person says something sweet or tells a story about the guest of honor.

 

Sweet Sixteen Toast

After the cake is cut the father of the girl, her mother or another close family member or friend gives a toast. They recall significant moments in her childhood and share pearls of wisdom with her. This may also be the time when she is presented with a special gift.

 

Sweet Sixteen Key Chain
Every Day Low Price -- ONLY $11.99

Father-Daughter Dance

For her Sweet Sixteen party, the birthday girl chooses a song that is sentimental and significant to she and her father. The Father-Daughter dance symbolizes the girl  becoming more independent; and the father is acknowledging that his little girl is growing into a young woman.

 

At Charming Chick we have many special personalized jewelry items that would make the perfect Sweet Sixteen keepsake; as well as several fantastic favors, decor and momentous for the Sweet 16 party.