A Beautiful Mess

20 Homemade Valentine Ideas

Hi friends! I spent some time digging through our archives to find 20 homemade projects that would make amazing Valentine's gifts. There are also some ideas of things you can wear or make to feel festive. Enjoy...1. His + Hers Pillow Cases! 

2. Pink Pancakes! 

3. His + Hers Valentines DIY Projects... 1. Heart Sweater 2. Bow Tie 3. Suspenders 4. Saddle Shoes

4. Pie Inspired Pop Tarts.... yum! 

5. Celebrity Valentines that I made back in the day... for all your pals. 

6. My favorite cupcake recipe of all time! *cough-cough* Emma, Do you love me? 

7. Heart Tea Bags... for your co-workers.

8. Heart Journal... for your girlfriend.

9. Heart Blocks... for your tiny loves. 

10. Best Friend Art... for your best friend, of course! 

11. Glitter Jars... for all your valentine candy! 

12. Red Velvet Hot Chocolate! 

13. Because nothing says "i love you" like cheese! A cheese platter. 

14. Heart Knee Jeans! 

15. The perfect hairdo for February 14th!

16. The easiest gift you could make? They're cute too. 

17. I can't wait to try Emma's Red Wine Pasta recipe. I think Valentine's dinner at home is super romantic (plus all the good restaurants are too crowded- yikes!).

18. Ricotta + Raspberry Pie... whoa. 

19. This sweet throw blanket. 

20. And a gift I would always LOVE to receive, a book full of memories. 

Last but not least I should mention... these make amazing gifts, just made this boozy valentine punch and this lipstick art.

So what about you? Have you already planned our your valentines? Do you go all out or think it's kinda a silly holiday? Either way... I hope this post puts you in the mood to make something fun! xo. Elsie  

Lipstick Art Inspiration

I love Valentine's Day! In the spirit of all things lovey-dovey I got inspired to make a fun piece of art for our bedroom... using lipstick! I have been pinning lipstick prints (on my valentine board) like crazy for the past few weeks. I love the simple visual statment that kiss prints can make. So pretty, feminine and personal.First, cut a piece of white cardstock slightly larger than your frame or matte size. Go to town with lipstick + kisses! This step is slightly embarassing, but also really fun.These are all the lipsticks I used, a few of my favorites!Next, just frame your kiss print and personalize it with a note on the back. There you have it... instant, personal artwork for your bedroom!What do you think? Is this something you would enjoy in your home? What are your Valentine's plans? I think we are going to take a little weekend trip to celebrate and relax. xo. Elsie 

Merry Christmas!

Wishing you a lovely holiday today!

Love, Elsie + Emma and the A Beautiful Mess team

10 Easy Holiday Breakfast Ideas

Feeling stumped about what to make for your family's holiday breakfast tomorrow? Here's 10 easy ideas. We love baked fruit, especially baked grapefruit for a lighter breakfast (save room for all those holiday treats later in the day!).Eggs benedict is always a treat: here are 3 ways to serve it!Easy homemade donuts with chocolate glaze? Yes, please.Homemade granola is so delicious and will make your whole house smell amazing. Bake a batch the night before for a quick breakfast in the morning.If you are looking for a fun, kid-friendly option try making colored pancakes! You could make ombre or rainbow colors. Here's a yummy ricotta pancake recipe too. If you've never tried dutch babies (also called baked pancakes) give them a go this holiday season. Serve with fresh fruit and powdered sugar. Biscuits and gravy are always a crowd pleaser! Here's a vegetarian friendly option plus buttermilk biscuit recipe.Super quick and yummy pie inspired pop tarts can be made in 25 minutes or less.If you can't make up your mind check out our favorite recipes for: croissant french toast, buttermilk pancakes and easy hollandaise sauce here. Or you could give crispy french toast a try using your favorite cereal. Happy baking & Happy Holidays to you and family! xo. Emma and Elsie