Flowers for Valentine's Day - The Dollar Store Way!

[caption id="attachment_1568" align="aligncenter" width="430" caption="bud vase image credit: partyhire.co.nz"][/caption]

If you love shopping at the dollar store even half as much as I do, you may have stood before the tiny bud vases so many of those stores offer thinking, "They're so cute, but what can I possibly use them for?" Yes - I have eyed up those vases more than my fair share of times. I'm drawn in by their charming tininess, but can never seem to think of a way I can use them, so I walk away well-aware that the last thing my house needs is yet another piece of decor I can't figure out what to do with! Until now, that is. I can excitedly say that I finally have a reason to pick up a few bud vases, and a good reason at that! Not only do I plan to create a few 'arrangements' for my own home, but I think my idea will make for darling little Valentine's Day gifts for friends. And - it's super cheap and chic! Aren't you glad I'm the sharing type? ;) So, what is this genius idea? It's super simple, and will take literally a few minutes to create. The only supplies needed are bud vases, conversation hearts, and Valentine's Day lollipops. You can grab some ribbon too if you'd like to wrap a bow around the vase, but I think it would be pretty either way. Here's the easy-peasy steps... 1.) Wash and dry the bud vases. 2.) Fill the vases 3/4 to the top with conversation hearts. 3.) Stick a Valentine lollipop or two in the center as 'flowers'. 4.) Smile - you made an adorable decoration or gift! In addition to the little vases I'll be placing on my desk, bedside table, shelves and such, I think I'll also make a larger one to serve as a table centerpiece. And that means I'll also have to pick up a larger vase while I'm at the dollar store. Oh well - someone's gotta do it!