These wild violets are vibrant and fun!  Reveling in the idea that less is more, it’s a sophisticated centerpiece that brings so much life to your table.  Whether your reception is held in a fabulous garden with plenty of natural color or you’re using a garden theme in a reception facility, these do-it-yourself centerpieces will steal the show with their simplicity and sweetness.

According to the Elfster.com website, these beautiful wild violets from the garden can be transported to the table or counter in seconds, and it’s a great way to recycle old and mismatched drinking glasses that you’re still holding onto because they’re too cute to get rid of! A cluster of different heights and sizes looks the best on a table.  All you’ll need is a collection of odd drinking glasses, several dug-up wild violets (or other small, weedy flower) and a little moss to cover the soil.

Here’s how to make them:

1. With your fingers or small trowel, dig up individual small flowers, leaving a chunk of soil still attached to the roots.
2. Tuck several small plants together inside each glass, topping off with a thin layer of moss.
3. With proper watering (the soil should be lightly moist), these centerpieces will thrive for anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

If you don’t have a garden, simply visit your local garden center and purchase the plants.  Not only are they a lovely addition to the table, but guests can take one home as a unique, eco-friendly wedding favor.  Perfect for spring and summer weddings, complete the display on the table with bird cage place card holders or personalized seed packs favors if you decide to keep the flowers for yourself.

I came across this online and just had to pass it on.  With so many budget-conscious brides out there, I know there are plenty of you who will want to take advantage of this contest.  The good folks at Crate & Barrel are giving away the Ultimate Wedding!  Valued at $100,000, it will include expert wedding planning, flowers, dresses, a marvelous venue and more–everything except the wedding favors ( It seems you’ll have to get those from us!)

How To Enter

• Create a wedding registry at Crate & Barrel
• Complete the Contest Entry Form
• Tell your love story in 100 words or less
• Share three important details of your Ultimate Wedding (100 words or less)
• Describe your everyday dream day in 100 words or less

Then, in true American-Idol style, you’ll have to get people to vote for you.  The couple with the most votes wins!  You have until March 31st to enter.  So, click on over to http://www.crateandbarrel.com/ultimatewedding/default.aspx for details.

Even if you don’t win their contest, you can always be a winner with our bridesmaid’s gifts!  A personalized remembrance of your super-fantastic day, your girls are sure to thank you for them.

Now that Party City is in the fabulous favor business, you won’t have to sacrifice style to give an affordable accolade.  At around $2.00 or less, it’s easy to thank guests, family and friends with these chic party favors that are impressive and inexpensive (that’s why we love ‘em!)

With fall right around the corner and so many reasons to celebrate, I thought many of you might be in the autumn party-planning mood.  Here are some of my top picks for the upcoming season!  Enjoy!

Rake In The Leaves!

You don’t have to be a bookworm to appreciate this fall wedding favor.  That’s what makes this a nice gift–just about anyone can use it.  I’d love it, and I don’t even read a lot.  But, when I do, it would sure be nice to have something pretty like this holding the page.   Don’t you love how the die-cut pattern brings this bookmark to life?  I know I do.

Cut Up In The Kitchen!

Encourage your guests to spend a little time in the kitchen with this maple leaf-shaped cookie cutter.  The packaging is so elegant, it would be perfect for a bridal shower brunch or one of those baby showers where you cook meals for the Parents To Be.  (I’ve always liked that idea.)

No matter what you’re planning (a fall wedding, Thanksgiving dinner or even a back-to-nature, leaf-changing celebration), your guests will appreciate these practical favors that are chic and so unique.

Not planning a fall event? Don’t worry there are over 60 classy favors to choose from that are under $2 bucks.  So, you’re sure to find a unique favor for your wedding, bridal shower, baby shower or other event.

By the way…Come back often for more ways to save with Chic On The Cheap, featuring deals, giveaways and other good stuff.  When I hear about them, I’ll tell you about them.  How cool is that!?