I love doing events. Really. During set up, making decisions and brainstorming last minute situations, I am so alive and happy.  I have met people who do amazing events but are so miserable and mean to everyone in the process– I always wonder if they really enjoy what they are doing. Recently I’ve been loving the details, nearly as much as set up.

Regardless, after the event I feel spent. I don’t want to make any decisions, I want to sleep, I want to eat M&Ms. Remember how you felt after your wedding? Sorta like that, but less extreme. This time was no different, so its taken me a bit of “down” time to get to the re – cap.

So…you know how every event planner says plan for rain? I would tell you to do the same. So why didn’t I do this? If you remember correctly, the  house — and the theme– required you to be outside! And it’s Southern California– it never rains!

Well, it rained from 7:30-8:30 PM (the party started at 8)–so things didn’t look quite as planned. The gorgeous writing that I was so excited about didn’t happen– at least not to identify the nibbles (the drinks and favors were lucky!) thanks to the rain. And the tables certainly don’t look Amy Atlas worthy. And my pictures are for crap (here’s to a new camera for Christmas!). But you know what? Everyone had a great time– and my husband loved it.

My amazing husband made the cute tent out front. It was the perfect thing to set the theme. Even had a little “fire” out front.

We went to the Los Angeles Flower Market the day before and got some great white mums– to bounce the light around. We put them in the tins with the labels and made arrangements with the tin lanterns around the party. Remember– this is glamping!

I like to create sitting areas around the party, both indoor and outdoor. I did forget the popcorn for the tables! Oops!

And, of course the s’mores area! Too bad I don’t have pictures of the gourmet s’mores buffet.  But notice the blanket and pillows!

And here’s the airstream just around the corner– perfect backdrop!

The huge lanterns and outdoor kitchen (all came with the house)…

And the hot dog buffet… with the muslin napkins!

Dessert table– with whoopie pies and sparkler candles. Both were a big hit.

And the drinks signs– so cute! (I took your advice and added hot cider!)

And the favors: homemade granola for the morning– or the ride home! (cute tags here!)

I have to say a big thanks to my MIL, Christian’s mom. She made this event happen– from the tin lanterns to the flowers to the food– not mention great company. And to my friend, Kim, who did all of the great writing and the music. And to all of you, for reading and your wonderful support and suggestions!

I still have some things to mention (my review of pingg, the invitation service) and other parts of my L.A.trip (including a photo shoot that I won!), but for now…I hope you enjoyed the party adventure as much as I did!