birthday candle round-up

I've just starting brainstorming ideas for my son's November birthday, and have come across some very fun birthday candles. 

My favorites, above: Tag animal candles via lmnop; skinny candles (also available in sparkler version) from layer cake shop; birthday girl and animal toothpick candles from hey yo yo; number, taper and candelabra candle from plum party.

cake toppers

We've all been swooning over that cake topper Sharnel used for her daughter's birthday. At $60 a pop, they are definitely for a special occasion, but can be such a beautiful addition to any celebration. Made by Etsy's Lollipop Workshop...so many amazing creations to choose from, right here! 

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It's my husband's birthday today, and I must admit that I did not do anything picture-worthy for it. I learned looong ago (we've been together for 13 years, married for 6), that most of my thought-out efforts go unappreciated. Too often I've found a handmade card in the trash or spent hours making a cake that he doesn't like (even if he pretends to). So I make sure we do what HE wants on his birthday, which now involves hiring a babysitter, going out to a movie and a nice little dinner (plus 'letting' him go on a 4-day annual golf trip later in the summer). It's actually nice not to feel like I have the pressure of creating something to show him how much I love him. And it works for both of us.

ann wood's latest

I'm in love with the detail of Ann Wood's latest bird topper creation. And that background-fab! 

she's done it again

The 'celebration candle kid' from Small Object is too cute. The $30 price tag seems reasonable- and doable- when compared to her custom wedding toppers!

festive ceramics

via thoughtful day

fave new 'cake topper'

Check out this beauty from Etsy's Middleburg.

vintage cake toppers

loving these from Fancy Flours.

new favorite

Watch out, Ann Wood- these amazing cake toppers from The Small Object are now in a statistical tie (for me) with your awesome bird friends. (Sigh) They almost makes me want to plan a wedding again. Almost.

Discovered via Lena Corwin.

ann wood

I have been obsessed with Ann Wood's gorgeous creations for some time now. However, I can't figure out what kind of occasion can justify a purchase. The birds make great cake toppers- and while a wedding is an obvious choice (except I'm already married), I'm trying to think outside the box...an anniversary party? maybe a single one for a baby shower? The expense makes me feel as though it would need to have multiple uses. I'm definitely not the only one who is a fan. Ann's creations usually sell out the same day they are listed in her etsy store. For those who are interested, her website states that she is now only taking limited orders, so plan ahead!