DIY: Snap… Crackle… Wedding Cake!

Everyone has an opinion on wedding cake, you either love it or hate it. I happen to be against breaking your budget for a pretty cake that will end up left untouched by so many guests. If you happen to be anything like us, then opt for an ‘alternative’ wedding dessert. Why not try a gorgeous tower of Rice Krispies treat goodness?! These cakes are sure to draw attention as well as have your guests wanting seconds. For the official recipe, check out the Rice Krispies website. I ALWAYS use extra butter, because, well….why not?

Here are the steps for creating one of these delicious treats yourself:

Step 1: Melt butter in a large pan.

Step 2: Add mini marshmallows and watch them melt!

Step 3: Add the Rice Krispies and mix.

Step 4: Transfer to cake pans and let it harden. (Note: If making a tiered cake be sure to use multiple pan sizes.)

Step 6: Trim, stack your layers and decorate.

For a gourmet spin on this cake, try making it neopolitan style by sprinkling dried cherries or cranberries in one layer (you can even use a berry cereal that’s pink) and using Cocoa Krispies in another, and of course keeping one layer plain. You can even make the whole thing chocolate- YUM! For all you chocoholics: sprinkle 1 cup M&Ms or chocolate chips per 6 cups rice krispies for fun bursts of color and extra chocolate bites. Here are some expertly crafted cakes (not that I am a novice or anything):

By: Nancy Couture (with help from Erin Bohanon :-D )

DIY Glitter Heels

Christian Louboutin Peep-Toe Glitter Pumps which sell for $775

Since we are crafty DIY people, we have decided to start showcasing some DIY projects that will help inspire our readers.  This project is not limited to brides or weddings- it is something to be enjoyed by ALL women that appreciate a pretty sparkly heel!

If you have gone shopping lately you may have noticed glittery heels EVERYWHERE! They are adorable; and what girl does not want a little sparkle to lead her way? :D The best part about these heels is that they are soo easy to make and you can ‘rehab’ a pair of your old heels or buy some from a second hand shop.

Follow these easy steps:

Supplies:

- Extra Fine Glitter
- Mod-Podge
- Pair of Shoes
- Sand Paper (or a nail file)
- Bowl (intend this bowl to be ruined afterwards)
- Paintbrush
- And something to cover your work surface

First, sand your heels to create a better surface for the glitter to stick to.  If you do not have sand paper, use a nail file.  It will work just as well and may actually be a little easier to manage.

Choose what glitter color you would like -this is where the creative part comes in. You have several choices:

1.  Make a solid pair using one glitter color.

2. Mix several shades of the same color glitter together prior to mixing with the glue to give it some depth and color range.

3. If you are feeling ambitious, paint glitter designs with several different colors.  You could make a leopard print, stripes, polka dots, hearts, etc.

Mix the glitter in with the Mod-Podge to create a glitter paint.

Once you’ve mixed in the Mod-Podge just start brushing it on the shoes.   Brush the glitter on in thin coats, allow it to dry and repeat this process until you achieve the desired look. As a tip: while each layer is wet, look over it to touch up any patchy spots.

Voila!!! You now have a pretty pair of glittery heels!

Total money spent: $4 on the thrift store shoes, $3.50 on mod-podge, and $3 on the glitter, all the other supplies were laying around the house.  The grand total was $10.5o for this lovely pair of shoes!