My grandmother, who is 99 now, loved to host and had entertaining down after many years of doing it. Her organization allowed her to throw parties for any number, at any given moment. Drawers held napkins that were organized by color and sets and recipes were already in double and tripled versions for more guests.
This book touches on ideas for brunches, the perfect cheese plate, playlists, hostess gifts, and cute tips on how to put a quirky twist on any party. There’s even how to serve takeout on fine china. The ideas and inspiration from this book are copious and I recommend this book if you’re in a hosting slump. Love it.
Last, but not least, this gem by designer Lela Rose… If you aren’t familiar with Lela check out her gorgeous clothing. She’s all about pretty and her dresses are literally little works of art. They are special occasion and aspirational clothes for sure and her party book is along those lines….
I went crazy for the fabric below for my Chinese takeout dinner. Sometimes just finding a really cool fabric is all you need to get going on a party theme. I added gold lanterns found at Orchard Supply of all places, and bought some small orchids in pink tones there as well. By the way, you need not sew the tablecloths. I have used Stitch-Witchery and ironed the hems, but this time I just cut the fabric and threw them on the tables. No one was judging I think.
We bought a banana cake from my favorite bakery, Icing on the Cake and topped it with a dahlia bought for $4 at Bunches flower shop. It has an ombre look almost. I would do this again, so easy and lovely!
On another note, did you know the people who live longest in this world, from an island in Greece regularly get together with friends every night? They believe the nightly socialization is part of why the live so long!
Happy weekend and invite someone over…even if it’s for takeout. 😀
What a fun post, Kim! I'm loving the adorable tea lanterns for your pool! I'm going to try to find those on Amazon. A lit up pool makes the entire yard look fabulous and adds a certain ambiance. Love it! Oh my gosh that banana cake from Icing on the Cake has me drooling! Worth every single calorie! April xo
April, Thank you. Those lanterns are really fun for the price. Link is here:http://rstyle.me/n/bznfyn78de They are $15 for 10, which isn't bad! By the way have you been to Icing on the Cake? Cutest spot ever for decorations and seasonal things too! The banana cake is their specialty, but so many good things there it's hard to choose! xo
Kim, what a beautiful setting and I love the fabric you used for the table. The dahlia was a great idea and I will keep that in mind the next time I order a cake. ( or make one) My daughter has a baby shower coming up in the near future!
I have heard that being social is key to aging well. I try to get out with friends once in awhile since I don't work outside the home. Having dinner with a friend tonight actually!
Linda
xo
WE DO HOST A LOT……………….and seldom are we invited OUT!As you stated people get nervous…………or feel it has to be a catered event!IT IS A GIFT YOU GIVE YOURSELF and to the FRIENDS and FAMILY that ATTEND because you are making MEMORIES……….
YOUR POOL PARTY sounded W O N D E R F U L.KEEP IT GOING!!!!!!!!