I’m loving this trend of reversible paper. Beyond gift wrapping, these papers could be used as a table runner, on a photo backdrop, or even framed in a group. Gorgeous, right?
Category Archives: Dinner Party
Sophisticated Indoor Picnic
Even though we are in September, it’s not quite fall {we have another week!} — so I am going to enjoy the bright colors while I can!
I put together this casual look for a dinner party, as a way to bring the outdoors in. This time of year often brings a few showers, so here’s a way to enjoy the flowers from the comfort of your own home.
The runner is wrapping paper that I picked up from Target, most likely from their $1 section {one of my favorite places to shop}. I used the striped gold paper and cups to play with the pattern and add some sophistication. The tea towel napkin and tea tin votives ensure that the look stays casual and doesn’t get too fussy, while the colored vases make the flowers pop. I painted a few of the petals gold to add some sparkle to the centerpieces.
This look is simple and fun— easy to put together with items you already have around your house. Enjoy your last days of summer!
Summer Drinks
To help cling on to the last moments of summer {as you know I am} I put together some of my favorite cocktails. Some from bars, some from my own kitchen, but all delicious. These drinks got me through the summer…and then some.
Margarita {tequila, fresh lime juice, simple syrup,triple sec, a dash of beer}
Glamourous @ the Mandarin Oriental {Bombay Sapphire Gin, Grand Marnier, Galliano, rose syrup, fresh lemon juice}
Elderflower Spritzer@ Busboys & Poets {St. Germain, vodka, muddled strawberries and lemons, champagne}
Paloma {grapefruit soda, silver tequila, fresh lime juice}
Quick Cheese Plate
I love this cute idea for display and identifying cheese at a party– and all the better it’s a fast DIY. I might even try this with a wooden cutting board. {via Imprintables}
Crazy Cakes
Farmers Market Flowers: 2 More Ways
Day 3– and final– of my adventure in floral design. Yesterday I decided that I preferred the single bloom look, especially with the black and white polka dots. So I today I’m combining those elements to come up with 2 new looks.
First up, I used a straight sided bowl (also from Jamali), with the polka dots showing through the water. It looks very serene, doesn’t it?
Then, I tried covering with the cloche — and it went from calm to centerpiece worthy. Don’t you think?
I hope that you enjoyed my experiments in flower design as much as I did! Maybe it even spiked some inspiration in you! 
Farmers Market Flowers: Glass Cloche
Day 2 in my adventures in floral design! I got this fun bell jar cover at Jamali and couldn’t wait to try out it’s level of party fun.
To use it for a dinner or shower, I’d need to add a little sprinkle or sparkle; I went for polka dots. I added a single bloom– and loved how it turned out. The red flower with the black and white add a bit of Alice in Wonderland, don’t you think? 
This is so simple and cost effective (with only one bloom) and would add a little bit of fun for any dinner or party.
I also tried out 3 blooms, for a more lush experience. 
I love the mix of colors and textures this look offers.
Which do you prefer? Do you have a favorite? At just $12.99 for the cloche and $.75 per stem, you can’t beat this bang for the buck.
Farmers Market Flowers: Milk Bottle
The other weekend when we were in NYC we stayed near the Flower Market. Naturally, I took advantage of the opportunity of being so close to Jamali Garden Center and stocked up a bit. I got a few fun things to share with you, that I put together with $6 of flowers from the farmers market.
First up is the milk bottle vase. These white flowers give a romantic, vintage look. {even with my modern vases in the background!}
I love how these flowers reflect the light!
Then I tried colored zinnias, and loved the modern shift. 
Gorgeous, right?
What do you think of this vase 2 ways?
BBQ Rehearsal Dinner
My mom is the expert on summer picnic style rehearsal dinners; I helped her put one together for my brother’s wedding and she hosted a wonderful BBQ party for my own rehearsal dinner. This set up is cute– and the tips on One Lovely Day will elevate any picnic party.
Boho Chic Table Setting
Did someone say map table runner? Throw in an ethnically inspired napkin and some colorful flowers and it has my name written all over it. Even better that it can be used in multiple seasons. {via 100 Layer Cake}
