Reviews – Page 10 – Rockland NY Mom

Annie Get Your Gun- Westchester Broadway Theatre Review

Posted on October 2, 2017 by Sofija Duic Posted in Events, Food, Out and about..., Reviews, RNYM Savings!, RNYM's Picks, Uncategorized .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are our own.

By: Sofija Duic

Last June Megan took little (E) to go see Annie at Westchester Broadway Theater and had a BLAST! Not only did we give a great review, but we were able to snag a FABULOUS discount for our readers. Well, we are back with another great review, and a discount code for you and your family too!!! Read all about it- we are DYING to get back there (seriously (A) asks me EVERY DAY).

Annie Get Your Gun

At The Westchester Broadway Theatre

Music & lyrics by: Irving Berlin

Book by Herbert & Dorothy Fields

Directed & Choreographed by Richard Stafford

Musical Direction by Shane Parus

September 14 – November 18

Getting there & Parking: Leaving from Nanuet, it took my family about 25 minutes to get to the theatre. It was a straight jump onto the NY State Thruway, to the Saw Mill and a few turns and we were there. Parking was so easy as well, since the theatre has its own parking lot. Super convenient, especially with 2 anxious girls that were so excited about dinner and a show, there were no “are we there yet”.

Dinner: WOW – the choices where amazing. We were able to choose from seafood, chicken, pork, prime rib and even a vegetarian option. If you have picky little eaters, they have a kids menu available as well. When you sit, you are served a side salad to start, with a little corn muffin and roll. Your waitress/waiter then comes by to see if you want drinks or any other types of appetizers (these are at an extra cost). We stayed with the menu they gave us. I chose the Chicken Saltimbocca, with a baked potato and veggies. The meal was cooked to perfection, with no complaints from me. Both my girls chose the Chicken Piccata, and said it was “super yummy mommy, can you make this one night” (1 chose to have 2 baked potatoes, and the other a baked potato and rice pilaf). My husbands choice was the Prime Rib. I was super worried that when he asked for it medium, since many places have a hard time making a prime rib to perfection, but once again the chef did not disappoint. It was perfectly pink and my husband even mentioned that it was probably one of the best pieces of meat he has had (going out to diner). Dessert was just as delicious. They have an extra menu that you can purchase from, but we were happy with what the chef prepared. Vanilla ice-cream over a ½ a peach, raspberry syrup, whip cream and a cookie. When we stepped out at half time to stretch our legs, we saw some of the other desserts (and sadly regret not trying one of the other options as a bonus dessert). We also had some coffee and tea.

The Show: The show was great. Annie Get Your Gun is a play about crack shot Annie Oakley. Annie (Devon Perry) is a quick witted, sharpshooter that wills her very first shooting competition against “the best shooter around” Frank Butler (Adam Kemmerer). While they travel throughout the US, Annie and Frank form a bond and start to fall for each other. But as stubborn as Frank and Annie are, they end up going in different directions. Annie with Wild Bill and his show, and Frank with Pawnee Bill’s show. Finally after months apart, they are back in the same City (New York City) when Sitting Bull, helps Annie realize how to win the man of her dreams heart back – by letting him win the competition.

The show was great for men and woman alike, as well as kids. It touches on friendly competition between a man and a woman, some action with the shooting competitions, and some romance. The voices of Annie & Frank were amazing. The notes that they hit and the range was simply impressive. The ensemble was just as amazing as the main characters with the dancing and singing and kept my girls entertained for sure.

Show Times:
Wednesday & Thursday & some Friday Matinees: Lunch: 11:30 am & Show 1 pm.
Thursday, Friday, & Saturday Evenings: Dinner: 6:30 pm & Show: 8 pm.
Sunday Matinees: Lunch: 12 pm & Show: 1:30 pm
Sunday Evenings: Dinner: 5:30 pm & Show: 7 pm.

RocklandNYMOM.Com Readers get a Discount – Just mention: Rockland NY Mom. You will receive an $11 – $15 savings (depending on performance chosen)

Reservations: Call (914) 592-2222. Also at: www.BroadwayTheatre.com
Group Reservations: Discounts for Groups of 20 or More: Call (914) 592-2225.
Luxury Boxes: Call (914) 592-8730. For private parties of 6 to 22. Enjoy dining and theatre in an elegant private box. Additional features include an expanded dinner menu, hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, private powder room, and Luxury Box reserved parking.

Ticket Prices: Dinner & Show range between $56.00 and $84.00 PLUS TAX depending on the performances chosen. Beverage Service & Gratuities are not included in the ticket price. More news at: www.BroadwayTheatre.com

Hello Fitness 450

Posted on September 27, 2017 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Classes, Events, Health and Wellness, Reviews, RNYM's Picks, Services, Uncategorized .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own.

I had the great pleasure of checking out the FREE Fitness 450 Debut Workout at JCC Rockland on September 10, 2017. I generally take the weekends off of my workout routine, so it was very nice to jump on in and workout. I shy away from a lot of programs due to my extensive knee issues. SO I was a little nervous attending.

Well, that was laid to rest within 5 minutes of listening to trainers Josh and Carolyn speak. It was IMMEDIATELY clear that I was not just another body to them (and there were 100 in the room) I was an individual, the whole time. We warmed up (dynamically) and then participated in circuit training.

For those who don’t know what that is, its a series of stations and at each station you complete a different activity. The stations are timed and you rotate through each during the workout. Josh and Carolyn took the time to explain and demonstrate each of the 10 stations, including the available adaptations for those who may have difficulty with the motions. We did each station for 1 minute, and I was SWEATING!!! In fact, I work out, and pretty hard 5 days a week, some of the exercises really had me burning. That’s actually the point. Keeping your heart rate up throughout the workout, and burning, helps you to not only burn fat and calories during the workout, but continually for 3 days afterwards!!!!

During the workout Josh and Carolyn circulated through the crowd stopping to help everyone, and cheer us on as we tried. At the end of the workout Josh cooled us down, and helped us to better understand how to know when we have recovered.

We were then invited in for breakfast and a tour of the new home of Fitness 450. Despite it being located at JCC Rockland, you don’t have to be a member to join and attend classes (although the membership is awesome and has so many perks). Similarly the studio is located kind of outside in the back of the facility. When you walk into the stairwell you know immediately you are venturing into a separate facility.

The studio is BEAUTIFUL state of the art. I loved how clean and uncramped it was. Its not huge either, so the groups/sessions have to be kept small, which I love. Lots of individual attention, here you are NOT just another number. I was super excited to see that they had a filtered water fountain in the studio, to encourage people to bring reusable bottles, and not disposable <3

Of particular interest to me was also the treadmill. Again, I’ve had 3 knee surgeries, and am awaiting two replacements at a later date, I have to be SO careful how I work out. I had to ask about it. Let me tell you, this self-propelled curved machine did NOT hurt me. It encourages you to run more naturally, on the balls of your foot, not slamming on your heels. I was amazed…. It felt good, it was encouraging.

I had an amazing chat with Carolyn and Josh afterwards about further plans for the facility including opening up training to other age groups that are all in the works (can’t wait to tell you about it).

Classes begin in November and from what I saw (over 100 people at the two sessions on 9/10) and what I’ve heard (soooo many people loved it) its booking up fast. We did get a ridiculous deal for our readers to get started 8 sessions for the price of 4 for the first month. Just make sure you mention you heard about it here to cash in. Ashley and I just MIGHT see you there…

You can also check out their website http://fitness-450.com/ to learn more about this high energy, high intensity and fun workout.

Dig in the fun!- Review

Posted on September 25, 2017 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Day Trips, Out and about..., Reviews, RNYM Savings!, Uncategorized .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own.

Two years ago, we hit up Diggerland USA for the first time. Since the day we left, RNYD has been referring to it as “the best day ever”. It was a day of good “dirty” fun with the kids. With a theme park that is large enough for big fun, but small enough to REALLY enjoy in one day, its just perfect for a day trip, ANNNND its getting to be our favorite time of year to go…. Shorter lines, less traffic, and cooler weather makes Diggerland the PERFECT day trip for fall.

We finally had a chance to get back this year with the kids, which is awesome, because the last time we went (E) was only 30″ tall and couldn’t participate in many of the activities available. This year coming in at exactly 42″ she was able to do everything and was rearing to go.

When we first arrived we needed to hit the bathrooms after the drive, and they are located conveniently right near the gate, I have to say I was very pleased by the cleanliness of them. This is a really big deal with little kids as you know, because they are really new to the process and touch EVERYTHING.

The next 4 and a half hours consisted of us walking around the park experiencing EVERY single attraction- some more than once. The kids (and grownups) really really loved it. That something that’s really cool about Diggerland USA. Its not just for kids. As grownups we enjoy it as much as they do, I mean, who hasn’t wanted to use a backhoe? The parents wait on line just as eagerly as the children do, and when I mention it to people, the grownups always say that they would love to go as well.

The kids adored “Spindizzy” and wanted to go on multiple times. Once they had driven everything available (multiple times) we headed over to the jungle gym. This was great, the kids got to run around some more and we grownups had a chance to sit down and relax a bit.

Even in peak summer trip season (the last two weeks before school starts back up) the lines were never too long. Our wait never exceeded 8 minutes. We really had the best time.

Diggerland is also a GREAT place to take scouts, have a party or spend the weekend… Next door is its “sister” park Sahara Sams which is a water adventure park. There is too much to do at both parks in one day, so its a fabulous get away- hit one park, stay over, and hit the other the next day <3 Annnnnnnd, we have a discount for our readers.

Use Code ROCKNYMOM and receive five dollars off over 42” admission tickets!

www.diggerlandusa.com

For more exclusive RNYM savings hit up our savings page CLICK HERE!

Meet Marco Farsetta Photography

Posted on September 20, 2017 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Party, Photography, Reviews, Services, Uncategorized .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post all opinions expressed are our own.

I love helping people get started. I love watching people do what they love. So when one of my very own students got in touch with me and said he wanted to start REALLY pursuing photography I was SO excited for him. He’s been dabbling since last year (to my knowledge), and I watched as this summer he landed a few jobs and completed them to rave reviews. Marco knows that I help photographers get the word about their most recent offerings out, as well as show some examples of work, and asked if he could take some photos of the kids to promote his talent. I obliged.

He wanted to do something fun so he chose to go down to Nyack Beach. Here’s how it went.

The kids loved him. They were themselves around him. He got some shots I can’t even believe. They were so real, they really showcased how my kids are together, he rarely even posed them. He took SOOOO many photos.

Once the session was over, I had no idea what his turn around time looked like, or how he edited. Well, I got some hysterical photos- who knew he caught my (E) punching (A) in the nose, or laughing at him hysterically? Caught them walking hand in hand, and in a warm embrace. He even caught a photo of (A) after he landed flat in the water.

I didn’t know what to expect when he came to show me the edited pics but I was also pleasantly surprised to see that he had looked up some super cool quotes, and added them to a few of the photos. He also picked a few and changed their coloring (B&W etc) which I didn’t expect him to do. Photos were delivered on a USB drive that is easy to keep track of, and he even came offering packages for ordering prints and/or canvases. I didn’t expect him to be so well prepared and professional.

His work speaks for itself- I was very pleased, his turn around time was also less than a week. His pricing is reasonable, and his attitude great. Marco was a pleasure to work with.

Here’s the skinny. He will be booking LIMITED amounts of sessions (as he is still in school). Attached is his upcoming session info. Book early of you will miss out. He’s interested in diversifying his portfolio, so fee free to bring extended family, book him for parties, bring pets etc- but he is NOT attempting infants at this time.

I cannot wait to see how his work develops as he continues to learn his craft. I will certainly be back to have him shoot the kids again, maybe even the family.

http://marcofarsettaphotography.weebly.com/

845-521-0196

mfarsettaphotos@gmail.com

Having a family photo shoot? Don’t stress makeup and hair (men, boys, or women and girls)- contact Deborah at Sparkle up for your appointment.

Ninjago Days at Legoland

Posted on September 20, 2017 by Ashley Carmichael Posted in Contests, Day Trips, Main Page, Out and about..., RNYM's Picks, Things to Do!, Uncategorized .

Last night we had an amazing time at the LEGO Ninjago Movie Days Preview Party at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester! Our lips are sealed on any details about the new movie, but W and S gave it 2 THUMBS UP!

I surprised the boys as they got off the bus yesterday, told them I had an adventure planned and to jump in the car! They were SO excited when we pulled into Ridge Hill Plaza and they realized we were headed to LEGOLAND.

When we arrived we were escorted into the event room with fun Ninjago themed activities. The kids picked out ninja headbands to match their favorite ninja – GREEN of course. Each child was given a chance to build on a color coded Lego tile to be added to the Ninjago mosaic to be completed by visitors over the upcoming Ninjago days. The back of each tile had a number and fit strategically on the mosaic board. We are anxious to see the final outcome!

We finished up in the event room and headed out to the play area, and we bumped into the
RED NINJA!

The play area has been completely transformed into Ninjago City Adventure! Modeled after the Temple of Airjitzu, it includes more than 20 ninja inspired obstacles. A great spot to work out some energy and perfect your ninja skills.

There was also Sensei Wu’s Dojo. S had a blast in here playing the ninja skills games. He had to touch the green shapes as they lit up, working on his ninja reflexes and coordination.

After about an hour of playing we headed up to the third floor of Ridge Hill Plaza to Showcase Cinema de Lux Ridge Hill for an advanced showing of the brand new LEGO Ninjago Movie. As I mentioned before, we can’t share details of the movie but W and S loved it! W said it was “really neat!” ( Watch the trailer here!)

LEGO® NINJAGO® Days will be happening the next 2 weekends, hurry and get your tickets now!
9/22-9/24
9/30-10/1

There will be giveaways, mini scavenger hunts, character meets,
building tables set up and so much more!

We are currently running a giveaway of 4 tickets on our Facebook page.
Head on over to enter!

Little Drummer Boy

Posted on September 18, 2017 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Classes, Opportunities, Reviews, RNYM Savings! .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post, all opinions expressed are my own.

My son just started drum lessons. He had such a blast while at The New City School of Music with Andrew (READ HERE), that he asked and asked to go back, and here we are!!! I love this because not only is (A) getting into something that he loves, but I can also show all of you sneak peeks into what being a student at The New City School of Music is like. I will periodically update you on his progress with Andrew and the fabulous staff here.

Today for his first (real) lesson I must say that again I am impressed at how organized they are. There was a sign welcoming (A) to his first lesson, paperwork all set, and his very own binder for his music papers. There was also a little questionnaire for him to complete about why he is here. He LOVED all that individualized attention.

(A) remembered much of what he had already learned, and Andrew jumped right in with the same beat that they had been working on when (A) had come to the trial lesson. I adore the way Andrew explains things to (A). He is patient and makes sure that he understands before moving on. This is soooo important for a child of (A)’s age who is so impressionable, and inquisitive. Andrew was able to correct many of the minor body movements that (A) needed to be more “economical” with his movements. Then they got into a new beat.

When (A) started getting a little mixed up between his hands- he even found a fun and engaging way to help him practice at home. He got his first homework assignment and is SOOOO looking forward to showing Andrew next week what he can do.

Now the weekend after his first lesson- (A) has successfully practiced for 10 minutes every night and can’t wait to show Andrew what he can do on Monday <3 I can’t wait either.

Don’t forget that for the rest of the month we have a special deal for those who would like to register for lessons–

Register for back to school music lessons at the New City School of Music before September 30th, 2017 and get a FREE $55 registration fee! Just mention this article!

How to find them….

14 N Main Street
New City, NY 10956
office@newcitymusicschool.com
Phone: 845-709-8383

www.NewCityMusicSchool.com

Introducing: SURGE STUDIO

Posted on September 6, 2017 by Ashley Carmichael Posted in Classes, Main Page, RNYM Events, Uncategorized .

For our most recent RNYM event we teamed up with our friends over at
Surge Studio for a Beach Dance Party!

Miss Carly and a few of the dancers from the competitive dance team greeted us with huge smiles when we arrived. Each child was given Hawaii’n lei’s to wear and the main dance studio was decorated with palm trees and Hawaiin’n flowers, looked great!

The party started in the back party room: lights down, disco ball spinning and the music playing! Miss Carly started with a game of freeze dance to help loosen everyone up. It wasn’t long before all the kids (and parents) were dancing.

After a few rounds the party really ramped up with a game of limbo! I mean, what is a beach party without Limbo?! The kids were laughing as they crawled, and slithered under the limbo stick, over and over and OVER!

Everyone worked up quite an appetite during limbo, so it was a perfect time for a pizza break!

After pizza we jumped right into a game of Party, Party, Beach Party. (a variation of duck, duck, goose) This was a barrel of laughs! Watching the kids giggle and squeal as they ran away from each other was too much!

After one more quick game, Miss Carly challenged the kids to learn a dance routine! They all lined up with the dance team in between to help out, and Miss Carly went through the steps. I was amazed at how fast the kids picked up the steps. After twice through with Miss Carly showing them, they were all following along, SO proud of themselves!

The hour and a half FLEW by! Miss Carly is full of energy and wonderful with the kids. You can tell she truly LOVES what she does. She even managed to convince me to come try a class myself! Stay tuned …

Surge Studio is perfect for students taking dance for fun, as well as students who want to take the next step in establishing a professional dance career. They offer Youth Classes, Adult Classes, Competitive Dance team, Private instruction, Dance Workshops, Birthday Parties and MORE!

Want to meet Miss Carly and check out the studio?
Join them this Saturday for their Fall Open House.
September 9th
11am-2pm
285 N Route 303, Congers, New York 10920
http://www.surgestudioarts.com
https://www.facebook.com/surgestudio/
info@surgestudioarts.com

Passion for Percussion

Posted on August 30, 2017 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Classes, Reviews, RNYM Savings!, RNYM's Picks .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own.

We are a music family. I have said it before and I will say it again. We love music. We listen to it during dinner, we jump at opportunities to experience it live. Heck RNYD and I were even in a classic rock band together when we were younger. The kids love music too, but just now little (A) is really starting to appreciate it. He’s asking RNYD to teach him how to play songs on his bass and he really has a knack for rhythm (not shocking since dad is a bass player).

(A) watches the show “School of Rock” and has expressed interest in seeing the show on Broadway. He has even said that he wants to start a band. This paired with his great sense of rhythm got us thinking, would he enjoy drum lessons? We thought we should give it a try, and knew just where to go- New City School of Music. It’s right down the street from us and we have been there before. We scheduled a lesson with Andrew, and this is how it went.

Andrew came out to meet us in the lobby and you could tell immediately how personable he is. He introduced himself and brought us back to the lesson room. He asked a few questions to see how much (A) knew about drums and music theory. (A) has some basic knowledge thanks to a great music teacher at his elementary school, and some quality time with RNYD.

Andrew first went to his drum book to try some rhythms with (A), who was having some trouble following. This didn’t phase Andrew at all, he pulled out a sheet that he created himself and broke it down to (A)’s level. This worked MUCH better. Andrew explained that sometimes the book is difficult to follow because there is a lot going on on each page, so he developed a sheet to make it easier for his students. He said that one of his favorite parts of working with New City School of Music is the freedom that he and his colleagues have to choose the curriculum that best suits their individual students. They aren’t forced to use a cookie cutter program for EVERY student who walks in the door no matter their level or style. This is good teaching, and as an educator it made me super glad to hear.

Several times during the lesson Andres had to switch things up for (A). He had some difficulty with remembering the 1 and 3 vs 2 and 4, so Andrew helped him to remember and get it (I can’t explain how cause its his method). He also went to the white board to show (A) some of what he was talking about and to touch on the “REAL” music theory parts of rhythm.

As Andrew broke things down for (A) he explained that he has a “growth” mindset, be believes in setting attainable goals for his students who all learn at their own rate. He believes that positive reinforcement and fun are the key to helping his students develop a passion for playing, and that over time it is that passion that drives them to practice and progress. He mentioned that he has had students as young as 4, and students who are developmentally delayed, and they have all made strides. Andrew accepts and loves the challenges that come with each one of his unique students.

Andrew teaches theory and technique throughout the lesson, but he doesn’t force it. When we spoke after class he addressed it by saying, “at this age, its important, but it can be worked on as they grow. I am more interested in fostering creativity, a passion for playing.” He explained that it was most important that they love it because then they will practice it. Kids who enjoy what they are doing, want to do it more often. I am super pleased to say that he did in fact foster this passion during our lesson. (A) has been to many lessons, this is the first time that he seriously inquired about returning. RNYD and I are trying to work out the details, but are excited for (A) to continue to foster his love for music.

New City School of Music even has a Special offer for RNYM readers:

Register for back to school music lessons at the New City School of Music before September 30th, 2017 and get a FREE $55 registration fee! Just mention this article!

How to find them….

14 N Main Street
New City, NY 10956
office@newcitymusicschool.com
Phone: 845-709-8383

www.NewCityMusicSchool.com

Girl AGain Visit – American Girl Fun- With a Mission

Posted on August 21, 2017 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Classes, Day Trips, Good Cause, Out and about..., Reviews .

Disclosure: This is an unsponsored post, just a super cool place we HAD to share.

Here at RNYM we scour areas close to us looking for fun for the children of Rockland County. Little (E) is growing at an alarming rate (don’t they all though?). She recently got really into the Bitty Baby Doll (Baby Natasha) that she received for Christmas 2 years ago. Since she didn’t show too much interest at the time (aside from sleeping with her), we never looked for any accessories for her. Lately she has been asking about getting her some clothing so that she doesn’t have to wearthe same pajamas every single day.

Enter Girl AGain. I don’t think that (E) is quite ready for the American Girl Store, I am sure that it won’t be long now, but she hasn’t been into the doll and accessories that long yet. I can’t wait to take her for the tea, and a day in the city, but not quite yet. I wanted to take her somewhere that she could pick something nice out though. Well, Girl AGain has been on our radar for a while, it has a mission that we ADORE and sells previously loved American Girl Dolls, clothes, and accessories. PLUS, its right in White Plains, a mere 25 minutes away from Rockland.

What is Girl AGAIN? Girl AGain is a store that is created by parent company Yes She Can Inc. Its goal is to employ Autistic Women. Here’s a small blurb from their website:

“Did you know that 80% of adults with autism are unemployed? We created our boutique specifically to help develop transferable job skills for young women with autism. Our trainees at Girl AGain sort, clean and prepare the merchandise, price it, and display it in our shop. Our trainees learn about marketing, merchandising, retailing, customer service, and inventory acquisition in addition to appropriate workplace behavior, research, collaboration and decision-making. We have staff who manage our accounting (Quick Books) and our website (WordPress).

Our customers learn about the abilities of people with autism. And hopefully, our youngest shoppers learn about acceptance and inclusion of people with disabilities.”

So, since (E) had to miss camp for a Pulmonologist appointment, her grandmother and I decided to take her on a road trip afterwards as a treat.

Getting to Girl AGain is SIMPLE. It is a straight 25 minutes door to door, you can park right in the hotel (the underground entrance is RIGHT next to the store). Just press the button and let them know that you are there for Girl AGain. Walking into the store is magic- little (E)’s face lit up right away. We brought Baby Natasha with us to try things on and so that she could see as well. Although the space is small, there is SO much to look at. Tables and racks and nooks of special toys. The staff at the store was SUPER helpful, asking if there was anything special that we were looking for. Once they heard (E) was looking for Bitty Baby items they walked her right over to where they were and showed her the clothing.

(E) picked out a beach set, and a gardening set for Natasha, before heading over to the off-brand section where she added a backpack and a night gown to the collection.

Gran was looking for some clothing for the AG doll that she has at her house, and was able to find Samantha’s Pinafore (which is what she was looking for) as well as an Irish Step Dancing outfit that she is saving for (E) for Christmas since she dances for a local school. Gran also had questions about care for the dolls, and they had a wonderful guide all printed and ready that they handed her.

The ladies at the store were great, (E) was able to run her whole transaction like a big girl, and was handed her bag to go (she was SO excited). We had a fun little afternoon and she got some GREAT stuff to play with. Natasha left wearing her new night gown, and was changed into her beach clothes shortly after coming home.

The prices of the items are market value, in fact, the staff spends time checking the market value on sites like EBAY. There are some absolute STEALS there though, like (E)’s $5 flannel night gown or $2. What makes us even happier is spending the money for a good cause, not just spending it with a big company. This money, this experience makes a difference. These girls are special, and I mean I got to hear stories about their own dolls and learn about how they run the store, it was truly lovely and enjoyable.

Girl AGain isn’t just a store to visit to shop, they also run some fabulous events that are suitable for Birthday Parties, Girl Scout Troops, or simply a fun afternoon with friends. You can keep up to date with their class offerings by clicking HERE. We intend to post all classes (starting back up in September) on our calendar, and attend at least one now that (E) is old enough. Also, if you can’t get to the store to purchase items in person, you can always shop their online inventory HERE.

OH YEAH- if your little ones are finished playing with the AG dolls and you would like to donate them to the cause you can contact them HERE to send them what you have and make a donation.

**Side Note** Tons of people have been asking about where I found (E)’s outfit- the dress, belt and bow are from www.kennedygreydesigns.com and we get a discount RockMom15. The boots are payless. :o)

Have you seen Basic Invite??

Posted on August 10, 2017 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Party, Photo Obsessed, Reviews, RNYM's Picks, Services, Uncategorized, We're Having a Party .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are our own.

I am such a control freak when it comes to my parties, and quite a snob when it comes to stationery. I know this is my own problem. But everyone who knows me expects it, they have even mentioned getting excited when they receive mail from me, as they never know what to expect when it arrives. As of late, I have given up on pre-made cards and was creating my own, from scratch. I will admit that it is fun, to a point. It all started when (E) was born and I needed to choose a birth announcement. It had to be just perfect, and I didn’t see anything I liked, either the shape was off or the color, even just the color of one flower was making me crazy. So I made my own. I have been making my own since, and she just turned 4.

I just made it through both birthday parties and the amount of work that went into designing, printing, cutting and sending invitations really makes my head spin. I was thinking “there has to be a better way!” Well it turns out we just learned of a great website (similar to some of the popular ones we see out there) called www.basicinvite.com. Contrary to its name, its actually so much more than basic. It covers your “basic” stationery needs, but in a very detailed and precise way.

I decided to take a look- right where my problem started Birth Announcements. Basic invite makes it possible for you to choose a basic design (there are quite a few), and then add all your own personal touches. Design options include:

modern birth announcements

baby boy birth announcements

baby girl birth announcements

traditional birth announcements

You can add photos, change wording, shape and the fonts just like I have seen before. But then, something I hadn’t seen… I could change the colors of the invite, I could change the colors of the INDIVIDUAL flowers on the announcement I had chosen. This is the new level of personalization that I have been looking for. I chose an announcement with a floral ring around the photo. Not only was it able to make all of these great changes, I could see and play with the combinations right on the site, and easily. It’s easy to use for ANYONE.

So many great choices

My choice (I wanted to see how much I could change)

The original colors- click on each element and choose your own colors.

My new color choices (I went crazy to make a point)

My new and improved Birth Announcement.

You can then go on to customize not only the front, but the back, the envelope and the envelope liner. Once you have had your fun there it gets down to the nitty gritty. Will your foil be flat or raised? What type of paper do you want? Yeah this may be one of the happiest parts for me. I like stationery to be on nice thick paper and I am intrigued Luxe Velvet.

Unsure if it’s actually going to meet expectations? They allow you to order a sample. Now, the sample does cost some money, but with this company when you order a sample its NOT just a sample of the invite they had left over. Its YOUR actual sample. You can get one to make sure you LOVE IT. If you aren’t pleased, send it back for a refund or they will fix it for free. This sample route doesn’t work great if you are a last minute type of family, but for planners like myself, its AMAZING. If you are in need of ideas you can also check out their Pinterest page for some goodies.

You have the ability to save and come back to your design, so that you can work on it another day or order more if necessary (I always end up having to order more Christmas Cards). Oh yeah AND free address collection. You simply share a link with friends and family, collect the addresses and basic invite has free envelope printing!!! That will save HOURS every time you have a party, send holiday cards, etc.

Basic Invite doesn’t end with birth announcements, they cover all your stationery needs, even providing 2 pages of FREE PRINTABLES (click here) for people to check out and use. I am slightly obsessed with the ugly sweater gift tags for Christmas gifts.

If you are looking for more information you can find Basic invite on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter as well.

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We are currently running a giveaway of 4 tickets on our Facebook page. Head on over to enter!

We are currently running a giveaway of 4 tickets on our Facebook page.
Head on over to enter!