I don’t know about you, but I’m still scratching my head over here, wondering how it got to be 2012. As a kid, having a year start in the number 2 just seemed inconceivable, yet now here we are, almost 12 years in.
I’m going to be welcoming in the new year with friends and family at a neighbor’s house, but if I was hosting a party, I’d probably be looking for some last minute decorating ideas.
In case you’re like me, here are some crafty ideas that you could make just a few hours before your guests arrive:
- Grab some tree branches from the backyard and place them in pretty vases. Gather the gold globe ornaments off your Christmas tree, or spray paint some store bought ones gold, then hang from the branches. These look especially pretty in you have a candlelit party.
- Black eyed peas are considered good luck on New Year’s Eve, so scatter some around the table, or fill small jars or votive holders and create a centerpiece.
- Create a pretty banner by using decorative edge scissors to cut pieces of fun fabric (try squares or triangles). Print out “Happy New Year”, “2012″ or any message you wish in template size of choice and cut out letters from different fabrics. Adhere the letters to the fabric pieces, then use clothespins to clip them to a piece of twine or string. Hang as desired.
- Spice up some old water or wine glasses (or champagne flutes) by spelling out “cheers” or “2012″ with alphabet/number stickers, then use frosting spray to cover outside of glass (you could also cover the glasses with rubber bands in a pattern you like, or use circle stickers to make polka dots). Let dry, then remove stickers. If you’re having a small gathering, spell out your guests’ names; not only will everyone know who’s glass is who’s, your guests will have a fun party favor to go home with.
- If you have little ones, give them two white paper plates and some crayons or markers. Have them decorate the bottoms of both plates. Lay one plate right side up, spread some beans or popcorn kernels on it, then place other plate (with decorated side facing out) on top. Staple together, then let the kids make all the noise they want when the clock strikes 12 (if they’re still awake, that is).
Do you have any other fun ideas? Please share!
Beverly and I want to wish all of you a safe, happy, and of course healthy New Year. We look forward to a clean slate that we can fill up with more fun games, contests, and giveaways, so keep checking back here, as well as Facebook and the website. See you in 2012!
