Invitation and Caramel Apple Party Favor

My first rule of party planning is that it all starts with the invitation. You want something that will set the tone and build anticipation for the event. In short, I believe if people are talking about a party before it starts, they're more likely to have fun when they actually get there.

To create the invitation for our first challenge, I used a heavy maroon cardstock and stamped gold apple leaves on both sides. If you'd like to make your own, simply cut an apple in half and carve it so that the raised portion of the apple resembles a leaf. I chose gold ink to give my stamp a rich and regal feeling, hoping to convey that this party would have an element of decadence to it. The sides of the card stock all fold into the center and interlock so that when the recipients open the invite, they feel as if they're opening a present. The interior of the invitation was written on heavy vellum. If I had access to a computer and laser printer I would have chosen a beautiful typeface, but given limited resources and sleep, I had to hand-write this one. The title read, "How do you like them apples?" with specifics about the party beneath.

I wrapped the invitation in gold ribbon and paired it with a Caramel Apple party favor. I always make party favors for every party I throw, even if it's as simple as two aspirin and a water bottle with a label that says, "Break seal in case of too much fun last night."