Outdoor party: Garden Touches

As soon as we got back from Maine, the summer weather came back - ugh! But trying to look on the bright side - still plenty of time for summer themed parties!

 Today's inspiration is how to Frost your party with simple things you have from the garden (especially if you didn't keep up with the watering heehee)

Flowers don't have to take up the table... put them UNDER the glass table! Great way to add color and interest to your buffet.  Source

Planters hold ice perfectly! Use pots as serving bowls! Source

Serve up appetizers on terracotta planter bottoms! Use garden bricks for height and texture and don't forget to decorate with clippings or plants, too! Source

Make a fun, edible favor and package in simple kraft boxes.  Use chalk for names and a simple clipping of on of your bushes or herb plants for a dab of Frosting! Source




















 

BBQ: Simple styling

Still trying to settle back into life after vaca - and of course, still not fully unpacked! I am making my to do list for the backyard for the weekend so that we can be prepared to throw an end of summer BBQ or brunch. Are you throwing one?

Today's inspiration is for a simple styled BBQ/Cookout party. Don't forget about older, but still fresh!, Frosting for BBQs here (link)

Using neutral tones and block lettering, you can create a party that will be simple, chic and fit for both women and men!  Source

Use a lined wire basket to hold your plates.   Look around the house for boxes, bins and other baskets to help you serve, as well.  Source: Pottery Barn

Create simple utensil/napkin combos using brown bags! Use parchment to create little salt & pepper, too! Source

You could also add a dab of Frosting to your napkins with a custom sticker, iron on or stamp... simple doesn't have to mean plain! Source and tutorial









 

BBQ - Mason Jars ideas

WOOHOO!!!! I HAVE A WORKING COMPUTER!!! Man, that was a couple hundred dollar dodged bullet! Sorry I have been so restricted in my posting!

Mason jars have always been a staple in my home for drinking juice and storing food in the fridge... but they have become so hot lately on the party scene! Here are a few ways to incorporate them into your next BBQ!

Pre-make drinks for your guests in mason jars - these Sangria single serves would please any guest! Source and recipe

Mason jars can be used in so many simple ways... use them to hold your utensils! Source

Salad on the go! Pre-make salads and serve them up in a mason jar so your guests and grab and much away! For an extra dab of Frosting, tie a fork with some twine around the lid! Source

Super fantastic idea (besides the great table cloth layering!) is hanging mason jars down the front of your table with fresh flowers! great way to add color, texture and smell without taking up valuable table space! Source










 

More BBQ ideas and inspiration! - Farm style!

It's too hot to even think about a BBQ here, but I have been missing cooking out the past 2 days! We got a new grill - half charcoal, half gas and have been using it almost every day! Yesterday, though was lights out - horrible migraine totally robbed my evening! but all better now!

If it isn't burn your face off hot there... then here's some ideas and inspiration to Frost your next bbq... don't forget about older, but still fresh!, Frosting for a BBQ here (link)

I love farm style setups - this one is so rustic and pretty - look i the background - hanging open picture frames with fresh foliage! What a clever way to create separation in your party space.  Source

Set up your salad bar farm style too! Farmers baskets lined up, each with a different ingredient will be a feast for your guests eyes! (and something you can prepare ahead of time).  Source

Wrap your serving jars with a cut of fabric and tie off with a rubber band, ribbon or twine - you can leave all your condiments in the original jars AND have them look pretty! Source

Use an old wagon to set up a refreshing lemonade station! ...great tip to find more buffet table room if the wagon is stationed somewhere else!  Source

...what's farm style without pie!? These adorable mini pies make a mouthwatering icecream sandwich! so clever! Source and tutorial
















 

BBQ/Cookout party ideas and inspiration

This week is flying by quickly! I hope you all are being way more productive then I have been! I am planning my next get together and thought I would share some of my inspiration stash!

Don't forget about older, but still fresh!, Frosting for a BBQ here (link)

Send a fun apron invite complete with "spatula".  Source and tutorial

Use plants, fresh veggies and herbs to add lots of texture, color and smell! to your table top.  Source

Use your plant shepard's hook to hang a bucket full of bug spray and suntan lotion for your guests... a little ribbon and you have a helpful, festive station! Source

No doubt do you need to make sun tea for the guests! Make sure to add lace, burlap, ribbon or some adornment to Frost your mason jars.  Source

I have seen "Corn on the cob" cupcakes... but these cake "logs" are just too genius! Surprise your guests with cake and jelly belly (popcorn flavor) "corn on the cob" desserts! Source and tutorial