Celebrate :: Being the Hostess

The weekend is almost here and it's about time for another house party!  I love throwing parties.  There's something about having all my friends and family together for a celebration that just makes me happy.  So, while in the midst of planning my next little fete, I decided to jot down a few of the elements I use when playing hostess.  [first off - make a list so you don't forget anything - this cute pad is from sugarpaper].

Location + Decor is key, and since the weather is so nice, having little parties outdoors is special.  There are practically a million and one places you could throw a party - and your imagination is the limit.  How about hosting an event inside a nice barn, under fruit trees in an orchard, or in a bloom-filled garden?  Have one large communal table in the middle of a vineyard for an intimate family affair.  Line small tables along a pretty pool or lake and tell guests to bring their swimsuits for after dinner.

Dining alfresco in the garden surrounded by raised beds + flowers.

 The menu should be well-thought out.  We aren't all chefs for 5-star restaurants, but everyone can plan a simple and lovely selection of tasty morsels.  How about planning a simple protein + cheese board, with a few veggies on the side?  Don't forget that crusty breads, an assortment of cheeses, and nuts and fruit are great to serve if you have a tight time-frame.  Or serve baby sandwiches or [veggie-stuffed] pitas + mini individual salads.  As long as the food tastes good and the presentation is pretty, people won't mind that they are eating simple fares.  

Having party favors is always a nice extra touch.  Again, nothing fancy is required, but it will keep your guests talking about what a nice hostess you are.  If you have a smaller budget, get creative!  If you keep bees, give out little jars of honey, or if you have a large garden or some fruit trees, send guests home with individual baskets of fruit or veggies.  Or make mini bouquets with flowers from your flower beds...just remove any thorns or bugs and tie them into groups with pretty velvet ribbons.  How about making small jars of herb-infused olive oil, tied with little thank-you notes?

Hope these basic tips were helpful.  If you are planning a party and need some more creative ideas let me know!  Just write me a note in the comments below...


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RH