notoloo8's Profile

Everyone will tell you not to paint it as you can't remove the paint later. Here's our thought when faced with the similar conundrum. If we hate it the look and color of the stone now we'll probably hate it later and have no desire to see it again. So, after investigating our options, we decided to paint it! We had a similarly large rocked fireplace that was at close glance, a lot of grout. We knew that ripping it out was the $1000 option but painting could work and be only around $100. Sure enough, it's gorgeous and now a stunning part of our living room. A coat of white masonry primer and two coats of white paint later, we are no longer dying to take a sledge hammer to it. If you want a first shot at the easier, cheaper solution, you have little out of pocket to lose. Good luck!!

There are so many ways to give an awesome party for a lot less. However, it is about getting create and doing the work. I just posted pictures of a co-ed baby shower for 60 that we threw on Sunday. All in all, we only spent a couple hundred dollars on food, drink and decor and it was worth every penny.
I made signs out of leftover invitations, made cupcake flags for less than $1 and an hour, picked a definitive color palette and purchased a roll of ribbon in each to dress up a few random areas. Most importantly, I streamlined a beverage bar with sparkling wine, juices, fruit infused water and beer. Greek food was catered by a local cafe' and odds and ends were gathered from the local Farmers' market. It was a magical day for very little AND gave me the thrill of throwing a pretty party. Pictures here - http://www.festassured.blogspot.com

I love these marshmallow pops! What did you stick them in?