mini mag newcastle september issue
DESCRIPTION
A Destination for All Things Kids!TRANSCRIPT
September 2011
Welcome to the September issue of the AlphabetStreet Mini Mag !
Spring has sprung and as there are many children born in the Spring season we thought it would be a great idea to focus a Mini Mag issue around birthday parties.
In our family alone there are six birthdays within a 6 week period plus additional kids birthday parties that are starting to pop up as party invites appear on the fridge!
Thanks to our contributors this month who have written some wonderful articles for us including, Little Sooti, Little Big Company and Sweet Little Birdy as well as a fabulous interview with Sharnel Dollar from Sharnel Dollar Designs and a delicious cupcake recipe from Katrina Higham.
With a new Mini Mag brings a new competition and what wonderful prizes we have this month thanks to Oobi Baby & Kids, Minifashionista, Rudy and The Dodo,My Munchkin Home and Love JK.
We hope you enjoy the September issue of the Alphabet Street Mini Magand we hope it assists with party planningin the future!
Penny PriceOWNER
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COVER: Our Model Evie
(left) wears BowtiquePettiskirt and cupcake t-shirt from Lollipop Kids Hamilton
Alphabet Street Privacy Statement: This issue of the Alphabet Street Mini Mag may containoffers or competitions that require you to provide information about yourself if you choose to take part in. If you provide information about yourself including email address, Alphabet Streetwill use this information to provide you will the products and services you have requested. We will notonsell you details to a third party and will used for our publication only.
Editorial: Penny Price
All editorial and advertising enquiries
e:[email protected]: 89826197104
Photography: Alexandrena
Parker
Mini MagLittle Big Co is an Online Party, Homewares,Toys &Gift Store&Dessert/Candy Buffet Event Styling Cowww.tlbc.com.au
Sweet Little Birdy is an online and local (Hunter Valley NSW) market based store, selling gorgeous things and was born out of a love of home decorating, party styling and event planning, along with all things sweet.
Little Sooti is a boutique party ware store and event styling company that was created from my love of unique party products and eventswww.littlesooti.com.au
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Katrina Higham is chef, co-owner of Windsor Deli and owner of food blog www.katrinahigham.com
“I am a modern lifestyle portrait photographer with a passion for people and photography which really is perfect for what I do!I love capturing the soul and spirit of you and your family and creating those memories that last a lifetime.I love capturing those candid moments you never knewwere taken.”Newcastle PhotographerKylie Mitchell is owner of two fabulous photographyBusinesses; Heart in Motion Photography for kids and families and Spice Photography for women.
Introducing...
Sharnel is a mum to two residing in Brisbane. Combining her love for good design and entertaining, she is the creative director and owner of Sharnel Dollar Designs. Sharnel Dollar Designs design classic and sophisticated dessert tables and stock the most comprehensive ranges of glass candy jars and cake stands in Australia in their online shop.
Q & A with Sharnel DollarWhat inspired you to start Sharnel Dollar Designs? SHARNEL: When I started blogging my children’s birthday parties a few years ago I had so many requests and questions about where I sourced by goodies from. So many other Mums out there found it hard to locate certain products (especially glass jars and pretty cake stands), so I decided to open my online shop and source unique and fun party goods. What gives you the greatest inspiration when creating? SHARNEL: COLOUR! I get so inspired by colour. Who or what has been the most influential in your career path so far? SHARNEL The encouragement and feedback from Amy Atlas certainly pushed me to start my business.What has been the best experience in your journey to date? SHARNEL: Definitely hands down meeting Oprah. I still pinch myself and wonder if it all really did happen. Most of us have various frustrations to deal with in our business. What is yours?SHARNEL: Learning the business side of things for me is the most painful aspect. I’m very creative, I’m not great at paperwork!What is one essential item at a child's party that is necessary to create a memorable event?SHARNEL: A happy child is essential. Make sure the theme of the party is suited to the child andthat he or she were included in the planning and theme selection. Also ensure the number of children at the party is in keeping with what your child can handle.What party theme that you have styled has been your favourite and why?SHARNEL: This would have to be Olivia’s 7th
Birthday, her Mary Poppins style tea party. Everything came together perfectly on the day. (Stay tuned for the gorgeous images in the Little One Baby Kids Annual.)
Sharnel Dollar
Owner and Creative Director of Sharnel
Dollar Designs
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We have found some
of the best party products
to accessorise your party
Garden Party
Vintage Butterfly GarlandThe Party Studio- RRP- $19.95Candy Stripe Cups
The Party Studio- RRP- $6.95
Soft Green Stripe Party Straws– Sharnel Dollar Designs RRP- $9.95
Butterfly Cupcake WrapsSweet Little Birdy-RRP-$6.95
Mushroom Stool-Sharnel Dollar Designs RRP- $59.95
Pink Daisy Grass MatP is for Party RRP- $9.95
Belle & Boo Ava’s Tea Party Invitations- P is for Party RRP- $14.50
Polka Dot Lanten: Red Twiggi RRP- $2.35
Red & White Stripe Party BagsLe Petit Party- RRP $9.95
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Circus
Paper Cone Red Dotinviteme.com.auRRP-$5.95 pack
Circus Invitations-Alannah RoseRRP- $24.95
Circus Ice Cream CupsTwiggi RRP-$6.95
Red Clown Noses Available from I love parties RRP- $1.60 each
Watercolours Smart GarlandAvailable from P is For Party RRP- $12.95
Cupcake Wrappers Red Circus: Cupcake Wrapper Company RRP- $10.00
Circus Tent CupAvailable fromP is for party. RRP- $5.00 each
Candy Cane Party BagsPink Frosting RRP-$9.95
Polka Dot Plates-Multi-coloured Sharnel Dollar Designs RRP- $6.95
Ikea Circus TentRRP- $29.99 each
Felt Pinwheel Cupcake ToppersCupcake House RRP- $12.00
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Wild
West
Pink Frosting 19.95RRP- $24.95
Cowboys Kids Teepee-MiniStyle: RRP $229
Sheriiff Badges Twiggi-RRP $0.60
Robert Gordon Baking Cups TwiggiRRP- $6.90
Drink Dispenser-39cm Sharnel Dollar Designs RRP- $65.95
Gold Nugget Bubble Gum-P is for PartyRRP- $2.50 each
Blue Bunting-Le Petit Party: RRP-$9.95
Retro Paper Straws- P is for PartyRRP- $9.95 pack
Cowboy Hat Cookie Cutter-P is for Party RRP- $4.00
Howdy Partner Stickers—Invite me: RRP $3.50
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Sambellina Princess Invitations Details Details RRP- $18.50
Crown Cookie CutterP is for Party: RRP- $4.00
Princess BubblesP is for Party: RRP- $1.50
Retro Striped Straws-Pink Stripe P is for Party RRP- $9.95
Tissue Pom Pom Candy Pink-Invite Me: RRP- $7.95
Sambellina Pink Spot Cups Little Sooti: RRP- $6.95
Fairy Princess Cupcake WrappersCandy Soirees: RRP- $5.50
Princess Lip gloss party favoursThe Party Parlour: RRP- $3.00 each
Princess Party PlatesPink Frosting RRP- $7.95
Pink n' Mix Party Handbags Larkmade: RRP- $9.95
Princess Coach Meal BoxesSpeckled Freckle: RRP- $2.95
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Your Invited!
Magical Carousel fill-in party invitation set RRP $24.95 www.katyjane.com.au
Follow Me Party InvitationsRRP $12.00madeit.com.au/TheLittleHumbugs
Magic Bunny Party Invitationswww.larkmade.com.auRRP $14.95
Paper Eskimo PopcornInvitations RRP $14.95www.twiggi.com.au
Roll Up Roll Upwww.pisforparty.com.auRRP $18.50
Party Bot Double Sided Inviteswww.lovejk.com.auRRP $19.95
It all starts with the invitation and we have found some of the best invites
around to get the party started!
10 Vintage Boys InvitesRRP $22.00www.redwagon.net.au
Dress Up Invitation Box SetRRP $19.95www.wilgo.com.au
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Dress up Monkeys Personalised Party Invites From $24.00 for 16 inviteswww.mooo.com.au
Ahoy me HeartiesFrom $37.50 for 10 inviteswww.inviteme.com.au
Fairy Garden Party InvitationsFrom $42 for 12 invitationswww.katyjane.com.au
Boys Sleep OverFrom $1.30 each. Minimum 20www.paperposy.com.au
Carnival Carousel Party InvitationFrom $2.75 for minimum of 15 inviteswww.littledanceinvitations.com.au
Horse & Mousey GreenFrom $2.20 each for 30 postcard inviteswww.paperdaisy.com.au
Fairy Princess InvitationsFrom $2.95 each. Minimum 10 postcardswww.invitinginvitations.com.au 13
Hot Air Balloon RRP $20www.hamandpea.com
Enchanted Woodland RRP-$20www.stylemegorgeous.com.au
Archie Carnival Invitation RRP-$15www.polkadotprints.com.au
Pizza Party Invitation RRP-$12www.montresor.com.au
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Featured Venue
If you don’t like the idea of having everyone at your house or you don’t have much space to accommodate active children, a park is definitely a great place for a party.Lake Macquarie Variety Playground will soon be completed after its final stage is constructed. In addition to the amazing pieces of play equipment including a climbing tower and slide, a flying fox, etc, there will also be a Kiosk and Cafe making refreshments easy to provide for your guests. We also can’t forget the fabulous bike circuit that keeps kids entertained for hours on end. To keep up with the progress of the final stages CLICK HERE for more info.
Party Inspiration
Some of the best party stylists
share some inspiration
with you!
by Sharnel Dollar
Theme: Wild West Showdown
Photography Leanne Stamatellos PhotographyCookies and Whoopie Pies Bubble and SweetInvitations, thank you tags, sweets table signage Invite with StyleParty design and styling Sharnel Dollar Designs
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By Sweet Little Birdy
Theme: pretty and pink
Decorations: Tulle pom poms and tulle pom pom garland, balloons and streamers, pearls and ribbons, Style Me Gorgeous printables and fresh flowers Cake Stands, set up and food: Sweet Little Birdy 20
Zoe’s Vintage Hot Air Balloon 3rd Birthday
By Little Sooti
Theme: Vintage Hot Air Balloon
This sweet "Vintage Hot Air Balloon" Dessert Table was styled by Thetis from Little Sooti Events in Melbourne Australia. This dessert table was put together as an inspiration shoot for Zoe's 3rd Birthday coming up as there were a few themes Zoe couldn't decide on (yet) so having some fun along the way, and helping narrow down the themes in mind, a clean, simple yet very pretty Dessert Table was put together for Zoe to share with her cousins. What a lucky little girl she is!
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The desserts were styled according to the illustrations and colourspink, light grey, purple and lemon colours in the printables by ham&pea and the sweet treats includes:Vanilla Buttercream Cake
Buttercream Cupcakes with Pink
Frosting
Cookies (butter cookies)
Chocolate Truffle Cake Pops
Strawberry Macarons
Apple, Lemon and Strawberry
Bon Bons
Flying Saucers
Mini Chocolate Bars
Fairy Floss
Strawberry Milk
The backdrop was a large piece of plywood in which I painted a soft pale yellow and kept it very simple by putting up some fluffy felt clouds created by Jane of Sweet Tashie. This table is a perfect example of how simple you can keep your own dessert tables without cluttering and still get a soft elegant look. Credits:Styling: Thetis Sardo – Little Sooti Events (http://www.littlesooti.com.au)Photographer: Laura Cioccia - Laura Cioccia Photography (http://www.lauraciocciaphotography.com/)Invite and Printables Design: ham&pea (http://www.hamandpea.com/)Cake, Cupcakes, Cookies, Cake Pops: Anita Grimbos – Cake Envy (https://www.facebook.com/cakeenvy)Macarons: Helena – Sweet Tiers (http://www.sweettiers.com.au/)Felt Clouds: Jane Hiddle – Sweet Tashie(http://www.etsy.com/shop/SweetTashie)Party accessories - Little Sooti (http://www.littlesooti.com.au) 22
Theme: Jungle Party
Cake Decorator: 2 Sisters CakeElephant Pops and Elephant Cookies: Just Call Me Martha
Sebastian’s 6th Birthday Jungle Party
By Little Big Company
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Featured Entertainment If you have a location but not too sure about
themes or entertainment, maybe consider a DJ and have a GLEE party which suits many children in the 8-12 year old group.Amanda from Dancing Disco Diva keeps the kids entertained not only with your music of choice but also with games keeping the party interesting.The Dancing Diva provides parents and teachers the opportunity to sit back and relax in the comfort of their own venue, while the kids enjoy themed parties, games and a range of interactive dance moves.Choose from a wide range of themes including; Disco, Rock Star, Fairy and many more.For more information go to www.dancingdiscodiva.com.au
Get Dancing with Dancing Disco Diva!
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TIKE Balance BikeLive. Play. Create RRP-$220
Struggling with ideas for your little one’snext birthday? We have put together some greatgift guide ideas to assist in the deliberation.
0-2 years
Night Light-Toadstoolwww.rudyandtthedodo.com.auRRP-$19.95
Knitted Humpty Dumptyby Pebblewww.babysgotstyle.com.auRRP-$52.95
Skip Hop Bee Zoo MelamineTableware Set www.minifashionista.com.auRRP-$22.95
French Bull Jungle Bowl Giraffe www.thehipinfant.com.auRRP-$9.95
Baby’s First Walkerwww.ecokids.com.auRRP-$120.00
Alimrose Toadstool Hand Rattle -Pink www.tenlittleindians.com.auRRP-$14.95
Where is the Green Sheep gift setwww.dymocks.com.auRRP-$29.95
Push and Pull Along Djeco Cotcotte Pull Along Hen www.peanutgallery.com.auRRP-$47.95 27
2-4 years
TIKE Balance Bikewww.liveplaycreate.comRRP-$220
Wooden Count and Sortwww.rudyandthedodo.com.auRRP-$39.95
Djeco Finger Painting Funwww.wheredidyougetthat.com.auRRP-$44.95
Rocket Racer Tin Toywww.cradlerock.com.auRRP-$14.95
Wooden BBQ Setwww.cheekyjunior.com.auRRP-$44.99
Sevi Memory Gamewww.quirkykidsonline.com.auRRP-$84.95
Sparklet Breakfast Time Setwww.littlestyles.com.auRRP-$38.95
Push Along Fire Truck by Briowww.bebeonline.com.auRRP-$39.95 28
5-7 years
Djeco Silhouette Puzzles- House of Elves 54pc www.rowofducks.com.auRRP-$29.95
Oobi Saskia Tulle Skirt - Cherry Blossom www.cradlerock.com.auRRP-$49.95
Makedo Find and Make Flowers www.ecotoys.com.auRRP-$14.95
Geofform Box Setwww.quirkykidsonline.com.auRRP-$66.90
Dumpling Dynasty Baking Setwww.littlestyles.com.auRRP-$66.90
Paperpod Aeroplanewww.littleliving.com.auRRP-$49.95
Flat Stanleywww.dymocks.com.auRRP-$9.95
Wind Up Tin Racing Carwww.peanutgallery.com.auRRP-$19.95
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8-10 years
Make your own Pirate Shipwww.ministyle.com.auRRP $24.95
Mini Digital Slap Watchwww.smiggle.com.auRRP $29.95
Bamboo Mosaic Puzzlewww.ecotoys.com.auRRP $54.95
Polar Bear Labyritnhwww.ecotoys.com.auRRP $44.95
Friendship Bracelet Kitwww.minifashionista.com.auRRP $19.94
Meccano Xtreme Dragster www.australiangeographic.com.auRRP $34.95
Good Things For Girls-Seedingwww.littleliving.com.auRRP $39.95
Star Gazer Kit-Dumpling Dynastywww.larkmade.com.auRRP $32.00
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11-12 years
Spiral notebook/journal - speaking words of wisdomwww.rudyandthedodo.com.auRRP $12.95
Donut Headphoneswww.smiggle.com.auRRP $24.95
Djeco Spacecraft Paper Toyswww.rudyandthedodo.com.auRRP $12.95
Pear Canvas in Multi Pink/Red-by Urban Nest www.owlandapples.comRRP $39.00
38 Channel Walkie Talkie Set www.australiangeographic.com.auRRP $59.95
Girl Talk Story Starterswww.shop4toys.com.auRRP $19.95
Dangerous Book for BoysScience Trickswww.australiangeographic.com.auRRP $16.95
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Featured Event
Hunter Valley Gardens
Birthday Celebrations
On the last weekend of the school holidays (8th & 9th Oct) , you are invited to celebrate Hunter Valley Garden’s 8th Birthday.Have fun for free on the amusement rides, pony rides, face painting, and birthday cake.Each day will feature a wide variety of entertainment that is fun for all ages and the whole family! Activities & entertainment include circus skills workshop, roaming characters, pony rides, craft and games, amusement rides, face painting, treasure hunts and of course a birthday cake! Admission prices apply. Click HERE to see the full schedule for the weekend.
1. Oobi Sabrina Dress:Petal-RRP $59.95,2. Rock your Baby-High Society Dress : Paris -RRP $44, 3. LA Crafts GnomevilleLucy Dress -RRP$ 30 4. Littlelki-Dress with Yoke and Sleeve -RRP $79.95 5. Miss Haidee Summer Sunday Dress- RRP $60,
6. Naughts and Crosses Charlotte Dress: Magic Mint-RRP$69.95, 7. Coco & Ginger Alba Dress-Cradle Rock RRP
$64.95, 8. Tutu Du Monde Alyna tutu vintage rose-RRP $14933
Lake Macquarie Live SteamVelinda St Edgeworth
Thomas the Tank Engine themed birthday parties are a perfect fit at Lake Macquarie Live Steam in Edgeworth.Children will love riding the miniature steam trains as they make their way through bushland and tunnels.
Shaded picnic grounds, toilets and disabled toilets, Wood BBQ's and a Kiosk are available.The community days run on the last Sunday of the month from 1pm-4pm and are free to the public however a gold coin donation is requested to keep up the maintenance of the tracks.Fully enclosed footwear must be worn to ride the trains.
www.lakemacquarielivesteam.org.au
TIKE Balance BikeLive. Play. Create RRP-$220
Printables: www.lovejk.com.auPhotography: www.alexandrenaparker.com
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By Little Big Company
Need some help organising a party for your little one? Louisa from Little Big Company shares her top tips to create the perfect party.
Parties are a great way of creating beautiful memories and this month we share our party checklist to assist in creating the perfect party.
Checklist
6 weeks before party Create a Theme, make a
moodboard, collect ideas in a notebook, paste magazine pictures or go on sites such as www.pinterest.com to create an online pinboard for your party.
Always organise your personalized party printables, get cupcake toppers, bunting, labels for food on the table.
4-6 weeks before party Organise invitations, confirm
numbers, send out invitations- have a start and finish time on the invitations.
Organize the cake with cake maker or if you are doing it, plan what cake you are going to do in terms of design.2-3 weeks before partyBuy all the treats for your party favour bags or boxes, buy party decorations, have a large box or a big plastic $2 striped candy bag with handles and put everything in there ready for the party. Refer back to your budget.
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1 week before partyConfirm numbers, ring anyone that hasn’t responded, make sure you check if anyone has any allergies.
A couple of days before the partygo food shopping, include tea and coffee/ milk some food for adults too if they decide to stay if you are having a children’s party, refer to your budget and shopping list.
Prepare all the party favour bags or boxes, make sure all the decorations are ready, make sure all the prizes for the party are ready and wrapped.
{ Top Tip}
Places to go for great
and reasonably priced
party ware are the Reject
Shop for jars, candy and
ribbon, IKEA for party
table buffet sign $1.99,
IKEA for glass jars, and
$2 Shops are great for
ribbon and noodle boxes.
Make sure you have planned all the party games and set out an allocated area for the party games
Have a timeline/schedule on a piece of paper how the party is going to run (this doesn’t necessarily work on the day – but it’s a great piece of paper to refer back to, ie pass the parcel first, make a craft second, eat cake…etc)
Check out your local paper for the weather report, alert your neighbours that you are having a party, checking parking is available, if at another venue - confirm venue, confirm insurance if you are having it at another venue, confirm with the cake maker that you are going to pick up the cake the day before, sometimes it’s great also having a party at a park..but always check the weather report the week prior.
{ Top Tip}
Involve your child with
preparing all the
decorations and let
him/her know how the day
is going to run. Make it
fun preparing for the
party.
There are also some great tips for making decorations on the web and great party sites to refer too.
Party Paper Bunting RRP $19.95Available from Little Big Company
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Check that your camera is charged and ready and put in a spot where you can find it easilyMake sure all the music is prepared, The party room /space is free from hazards, all cleaning products are put up high and make sure the front door is closed when all the guests have arrived, you don’t want the door left open because of safety.
On the day of the party
Give yourself plenty of time for set up, we find it very useful to set up most of it the night before.
Make sure you have matches, lighter ready for the cake - put somewhere safe
Set out your party table with tablecloth, jars with ribbon, printable labels for the party buffet, decorate your party space, remove any potential hazards from the party space. I.E electrical cords, TVs on cabinets - that little children can pull down, breakable house decorations, cleaning products are put up high etc
{Top Tip}
Make sure you and your
kids get dressed for the
party ASAP, because you
are going to be so busy
setting up, time will
pass away. Sounds silly I
know but it’s a good tip!
Make sure you have easy accessibility for prams etc. A baby change area – the toilet is stocked up with toilet paper – I know you may smile!!! But some people do forget!!!
Put any pets away, make sure your party games are ready and set up.
Have a pencil and pad ready to note down all what presents were given so you can send out thank you notes.
Set up a main pretty cake table or dessert/candy buffet and have a separate table set up with paper plates, paper cups and napkins for the children to sit down at.
Have all the prizes ready near where you are going to have the games.
Place your sign out for the party with balloons or just balloons.
Make sure a table or chairs is set up if any parents are going to stay at the event.
Ask for help from a friend to help you out on the day it’s always helpful to have another set of hands. Also if you have younger children, I.E toddler or baby make sure you allocate someone to look after their safety on the day, because you are going to be busy with running the party.
Write 'thank yous' after the event. (thank you for coming and thanks for the lovely present).
Most of all have fun, enjoy and create a lovely day…Love Louisa at The Little Big Company http://www.tlbc.com.au 38
Featured Business
Kids in the Kitchen Cooking Parties
A cooking party can be held at a few different locations depending on the number of children. It can be either your house or located at a community hall of your choice or at Kids In The Kitchen Cooking – kitchens at Adamstown Uniting church, corner of Glebe and BrunkerRd Adamstown.
The cooking party involves the kids making their own food, snacks and a treat for their take home lolly bag. While learning new recipes and techniques they have fun creating the party food and enjoy their masterpieces. It’s a lot of hands on fun and very different to any other themed party.
www.kidsinthekitchencooking.com.au 39
“When you look at a cupcake,
you've got to smile.” ~ Anne Byrn
Ingredients
125g butter2 cups SR flour1 cup sugar150mls milk1 tsp vanilla essence2 eggs
Method
1. Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.2. Add the eggs one at a time and then the vanilla essence.3. Add half the flour and then half the milk and mix until combined and then repeat.4. Fill the patty pans to two thirds full and place in the oven for 10-12 minutes at 180 degrees celcius or until golden brown.
Butter Icing
250g butter400g icing sugar80g cocoa powder1 tsp vanilla icing
Method
Beat the butter, icing sugar and cocoa powdertogether until light and fluffy. Pipe in a circularmotion over the top of the cooled cupcake anddecorate as desired. AlternativesCinnamon and Sugar: Melt 2tbs butter and baste over the top of your cupcakes as soon as they are out of the oven and then sprinkle with 3tbs sugar mixed with 1 tsp cinnamon.Lemon: Add 2 tsp zested lemon to the icingbutter mixture and take out the cocoa powder. Add 80g icing sugar to the mixture.
Makes approximately 12 cupcakesRecipe supplied by Katrina Higham ofwww.katrinahigham.com
We are loving
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Featured Entertainment
Medieval Parties with Nova
Hollandia- 9 Paterson Rd,
Bolwarra
Step back in time to the world of knights and learn the art of medieval warfare and life, in a safe and supervised environment.The basic birthday package is $250 for 2 hours of activities, swordfighting (with child safe foam and latex equipment) and archery ( with blunt arrows and knock down targets).Along with a supervisor in medieval costume, you will also get 10 sets of swords and shields, and 10 sets of bows and arrows to use for the 2 hours.Both activities can be done either inside or out and are suitable for children 5 years and over.
www.novahollandiaentertainment.com
Play not Push!Little Kickers Newcastle uses soccer as a fun forum to instil confidence, co-ordination and control in small,
age appropriate groups. Parents get to relax while the boys
and girls learn skills such as colours, numbers, sharing and teamwork.Come and have a ball!
Contact 02 40091545 or 0402533651
[email protected] www.littlekickers.com.au
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Party ideasThere are so many fabulous options for kids parties in Newcastleand we have found a few suggestions the kids will love!
Get Active! Hunter Sports CentreStockland Drive Glendale PH: (02) 4953 6366 The fun starts at the gym!The Hunter Sports Centre provides a unique birthday party experience in a top class gymnasium.A qualified instructor will guide the children through various equipment including: Trampolines, Foam Pit, Ropes, Games, Bars, Beams, Sprung Floor, and much moreEverything is supplied, all you need to do is bring along the birthday cake!www.hsc.org.au
Lift Dance Fitness- 44 Park Avenue Adamstown PH: 0401 811 962 Lift Dance Fitness offers parties that include games, craft and dance. Parents will have the opportunity to see their LITTLE PARTY ANIMALS perform the dance they have learnt.All kids parties run for 1 1/2 Hrs. An extra half an hour is included at the end of the party to run your own present and cake time. Catering is available for each party and will include light party food snacks, all packaged. Party bags will also be given out for each child that attends.www.liftdancefitness.com.au
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Sporty Kids Tots PartyPH: 4951 8886 If your little one loves running around then Sporty Kids tots may be just the right party for you.Session runs for 1 hour and includes Games based on Sports such as: Soccer, Basketball, T-Ball, Rugby, Touch Football and more. The Birthday Child receives a Sporty Kids T-shirtSaturday parties are only available at WallsendSunday parties can be at the location of your choice subject to ground availability.www.sportykids.net.au
YogabugsPH: 0418 435 955 Would you love your child to have a party where imagination can run wild, where every child gets to be the hero of their adventure and where they'll burn off some of that party food? They might even leave calmer and more relaxed. YogaBugs Newcastle is now offering YogaBugsBirthday Parties. Your little 'bug' can choose which magical adventure to go on, and if you provide the space, we'll provide the adventure... and we can add music and stories too.Dressing up can add to the magic.Every child can stretch their imagination and their body for up to 1 hour. CLICK HERE for more infowww.yogabugs.com.au
The Forum Sports & Aquatic Centre, The University of Newcastle–Funtastic BirthdaysPH: 4921 7001 The Forum Sports and Aquatic Centre at The University of Newcastle offers two fabulous options for children’s birthday parties. Choose from;Splashzone- This party is on one of our awesome two pool floats where you can climb to the top and swing your way through the massive archway or slip and slide with a splash into the water. Ages 5+Kidz Climb Parties- Climb the second highest climbing wall in Australia! At an awesome height of 18 metres, the artificial wall is a magnificent centrepiece of The Forum where you can experience the extreme world of climbing! Ages 8+www.theforum.org.au
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Pulse Climbing PartiesPH: 4023 4743 Pulse Climbing Kids Parties are a great way to celebrate a party. There is an awesome party room so the kids can make as much noise as they want. The parties last for 2.5 hours and a staff member will be on hand to make sure things run smoothly. Welcome to bring own food to the party room as it is equipped with a small kitchenette. Alternatively pizzas can be organised on the day. Minimum 10 peoplewww.pulseclimbing.com.au
Get Back to Nature!Hunter WetlandsSandgate Rd Shortland PH: 02 4951 6466 Celebrate your birthday at the Hunter Wetlands Centre Australia. Explore the Wetlands with your own guide and return to a party room decorated with birthday decor.Your Party includes the following:Guide for 1 hour*Dipnetting (Catching pond creatures).A guided tour around the ponds at the wetlands exploring the sensory trail & egret tower PLUS Choose 3 items from the lunch menu selection and 2 items from the snack menu selection for the party guests.www.wetlands.org.au
Blackbutt Reserve Critter EncountersCarnley Ave New LambtonPH: 4904 3344 Blackbutt Reserve are now offering ‘Critter Encounters’ for onsite parties and events, where qualified staff provide hands-on learning experiences and the opportunity to meet, learn about, and interact with, native animals.The program’s wildlife critters include:• Ringtail possum, Diamond python, Giant burrowing cockroaches, inland bearded dragon, Eastern blue tongue lizard, White lipped tree frog, Eastern long turtle, Stick insectsCost: $120. Package price available with shelter hire.Duration: 45 minutes www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/recreation/blackbutt_reserve
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Tree Top Adventure Park-Minmi Rd MinmiPH: 4026 7617 Tree Top Adventure Park consists of 96 challenges in the tree tops, where participants can slide down Flying Foxes, move from tree to tree on suspension bridges and enjoy many other exciting activities up to 15 metres above the forest floor! Two packages available for 3-9 years and 10-17 years.The 3-10 years old course is built with a continuous belay safety system unique in the southern hemisphere so they can concentrate on the challenges the course offers. They can experience flying foxes on their courses. www.treetopadventurepark.com.au
Get Sipping!Truffled Catering-Kids High Tea PartiesPH: 0412 683 853 Truffled Catering offers the complete package. From delightful nibbles and "drop in" cheese platters for the adults.To fairy floss, sparkle filled, glittered platters for the girls and spiderman figurines for the boys.Be it catering for the kids or just yourselves, Truffled has it covered. www.truffledcatering.com.au
The Arts Emporium2 Pearson Street, Lambton PH: (02) 49562641 The Arts Emporium holds the most fabulous children’s birthday parties for children aged 5 to 12 years old! An art party at The Arts Emporium is an event that is full of pleasure, imagination and hands-on, creative fun. The party fee covers the theme and activities preparation; experienced, professional, highly qualified staff; all art materials; finished art and craft works to take home; party games; prizes; the hire of the venue and the art and venue clean-up. www.theartsemporium.com.au
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Maritime MuseumPH: 4026 7617 What kid doesn’t like a fun party!
It’s even better when you have your own pirate to teach how to laugh like a pirate and hunt for hidden treasure….arrrrr
We can cater for up to 20 children for a fun arrrrrfternoon
www.maritimecentrenewcastle.org.au
Get Arty!
Get Swashbuckling!
Get Up Close! Oakvale Farm3 Oakvale Drive, SALT ASH PH: 4982 6222 Book are party at Oakvale Farm where the children can get up close to farm animals. There are feeding shows at 11am and 2pm daily where everyone has an opportunity to bottle feed our baby goats and lambs, milk a cow, pat our koalas and go for a tractor trailer ride around the farm .There will also be duck feeding at 1pm which includes free feed and the chance to watch our pelicans be fed .CLICK HERE for more details on party package.www.oakvalefarm.com.au
Hunter Valley Zoo138 Lomas Lane, Nulkaba PH: (02) 4990 7714 With our hands-on, interactive animal experiences, daily shows and fun relaxed atmosphere Hunter Valley Zoo is the perfect location for any event.Feed our kangaroos, cuddle up to a koala, pat a python, or a wombat and meet our cheeky monkeys.Amenities, Picnic Grounds, BBQ's, snacks & refreshments and playground are available.
www.huntervalleyzoo.com.au
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Lollipops Kids DiscoUnit 6, 154 Park AvenuePH: 4965 5466 Why not have your next Birthday Party at our Friday Night Disco with the Kids Party Ideas specialists, run on the first Friday of each month the Disco provides all of the fantastic features of a Lollipops Party, plus a bit more including a Disco for all of the kids, both young and young at heart to dance the night away to. Click HERE for party inclusions.www.newcastle.lollipopsplayland.com.au
Get Dancing!
Monthly Competition
Roll up! Roll up! The Oobi Summer/Spring 2011 – 2012 collection is in town! Gorgeous, sweet & summery prints fashioned in Oobi’s trademark retro twist. Oobi is inspired by retro
and all things whimsical, in a past where children could enjoy the chance to be children without compromising in style.
Designer Alex Riggs’ passion is for the 1940s and 1950s and her inspiration comes equally from her mother and grandmother’s closets, with a gentle nod to current trends, ensuring
Oobi is timeless rather than trendy.
This season Oobi have relaunched the highly anticipated and reinvented 1950s Party Dress. The vintage inspired style of the dress, the quirky vibrant rosette, and the wonderful mix of colours and prints (Apple Pop and Red dot) has together created a statement piece that is
loved by all Oobi Mums and Oobi Babies. One lucky reader will have the chance to win Oobi's Classic 1950s Party Dress in red dot.
For more information and to see the full summer 2011/2012 go to www.oobi.com.au48
Monthly Competition
Visit this gorgeous little online store to view their ever expanding range of both handpicked and handcrafted products, with an individual and quirky edge. Catering for 0-5 year olds,
their range includes toys, gifts, clothing, home wares, accessories and more from around the globe.
Goodies are itemised by age suitability making shopping so much easier. Be sure to check out our divine range of French bags and gifts for Mamas too!
This month one lucky reader will have the opportunity to win a gorgeous set of three French Suitcases valued at $54.95 and a peaceable kingdom - animal alphabet match ups game
valued at $19.95.
For more information and to see the full range of rudy and the dodo products go to www.rudyandthedodo.com.au
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Monthly Competition
For close to 5 years, Minifashionista has been a leading online Australian children’s retailer. They specialise bright, fun and funky clothing, toys and gifts for children 0-4 years. Just recently they have undergone a fabulous website makeover and have introduced some
fantastic new brands including Skip Hop, Boon, Aden & Anais, and Seedling. Although a lot has changed at Minifashionista, one thing that has stayed the same is their commitment to
excellent customer service.With Christmas not too far away, Minifashionista have been busy sourcing and loading lots of great gifts for children aged 0-10 years. You’ll find a great variety of fun and unique gifts, and
there’s no need to worry about the wrapping, as it’s free. They can also deliver your gifts worldwide.
This month one lucky reader has a chance to win a wonderful Skip Hop package valued at over $110.00. The package includes: The Skip Hop Zoo Bee Insulated Lunchie Bag; Bee
Foldable Bib; Bee Melamine Tableware Set; Owl Treetop Hug and Hide Activity Toy, and; Owl Treetop Stroller Activity Toy. For information go to www.minifashionista.com.au
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Monthly Competition
My Munchkin Home are Australian Made Designer Removable Wall Stickers that are perfect for the baby nursery, kids rooms and home interiors. Many rooms have been decorated in
gorgeous designs from their in house design team. An example of their designs is the Animal Tree House Silhouette design which is a classic design that suits the baby nursery, kids
rooms and playrooms. Available in the full colour range this design along with other Tree designs, Rocket Ships, Words quotes and Customised names. Decorating your child’s room is
easy with wall stickers designed with kids in mind and your homes décor.
The team have proudly launched soft Hand Screen Printed cushions to add to your child’s room and enhance your wall stickers. These super soft cushions are perfect to cuddle or to tell your child how much you love them with such designs as “I Love You To The Moon And
Back” or “You Are So Loved”. All cushions are hand screen printed with eco inks in a range of colours perfect for your child’s room.
The prize offered by My Munchkin Home is a Gift Voucher for their online store to the value of $100.00.
To view the full range head to their website www.mymunchkinhome.com.auAlso follow them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mymunchkinhome for new
design releases and offers.51
Monthly Competition
Love JK creates beautiful designs for children. Ranging from wall art, invitations and stationery, all products are created with love in Melbourne.
Love JK also offers a gorgeous range of personalised prints. They are a stunning addition to a nursery or bedroom and make for a perfect gift for baby showers, christenings, and birthdays.
This month, one lucky reader, will have the opportunity to win their choice of two large framed personalised prints. The Lovey Dovey Dala print in pink and navy, or the Off To The
Moon print, both valued at $99.95.
For more information about Love JK's range of lovely, unique products, please visit www.lovejk.com.au
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Is your child the next
cover star of the Alphabet Street mini mag?
Would you like your
little one to be the next
cover star of the
Alphabet Street mini
mag?
Each month we will email our
subscribers the theme of the month. This theme will need to be incorporated into any photos you
send us and will need to be somehow included in the photo. It may be pets,
toothbrushes, food etc. The most creative entry will have a chance of being the cover star of our mini magfor that month as well as being shot
by by children’s portrait photographer Kylie Mitchell from
Heart in Motion Photography.. If you are a subscriber to Alphabet Street....stay tuned for more
information
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Monthly Competition Terms and Conditions
•Entrant can only enter once •Winners will be notif ied by email•Winners will need to respond to email within 7 days to collect their prize •Alphabet Street will determine what prize is issued to winning entrants •Entrants must be 18 years and over •Entrants must be from within Australia•Competition will close midnight on the 30th September 2011