No spring gathering is complete without an ice cold drink to complement your meal. One great thing about mixing up a batch of punch, it makes it easy to serve any size group. They can be alcoholic or nonalcoholic and it will save you some money because you aren't having to purchase several different drinks. Continue reading "Quench Your Thirst with These Springtime Party Punches" »
Being outdoors during the summer is a given. With the heat, a cold drink is one of the best things to relax and cool down. Here are four ways to keep your drinks cold without the usual cooler.
1. Keep bottled and canned drinks cold by freezing some water balloons and placing them in a bucket or container. This is a fun way to keep a summer vibe alive at the party. Plus, you can have a water balloon fight with the left over balloons!
Continue reading "No Cooler? 4 Unique Ways to Keep Your Drinks Cold" »
Gentleman, Valentine's Day is coming, and you need to make sure you have the entire evening lined up and ready to go. You know that your Significant Other likes to be spoiled, so I'm going to run down the top ways to make this the best night of her life!
You may believe roses are your only option here, and depending on your S.O. you may be right, but this is something you need to casually "discover" ahead of time. News Flash: some women don't like roses. Shocking, right? I know, I was surprised too.
So what are your other options? If you know her favorite flower, you can't go wrong. Just contact your local florist and get a creatively designed arrangement featuring that flower. Instant win. If you don't, then you need to look at all the most popular flowers that mean "love". It is Valentine's Day after all. To save you some leg work, I've found those flowers for you.
So now you've picked out a nice bouquet with the best flowers for your situation, what's next?
I know what you're thinking, but prices on limo's are not as outrageous as you might imagine. The key here is to know what you want. Not all limos are the stretch version. You can get a nice limo, with very impressive amenities and a chauffeur for a very reasonable price. The price goes up the bigger the limo, but if it's just you and your S.O., you're not going to need all that room. Of course, if you're hosting a party for multiple couples, you'll need to get the stretch, but hopefully some of those other couples will be pitching in on the price.
And don't forget to make your reservations EARLY. As you can imagine, limo services are covered up on Valentine's Day so you need to make sure you have your appointment made in plenty of time. You don't want to be the guy left out in the cold, literally.
This is very important. I don't care who you are or what your budget is, you CANNOT take your S.O. to any place that could be confused with fast food. I understand that money can be tight, but this is the time of year you save every penny so that on THIS night you can go to a nice, sit-down restaurant. Trust me guys, the local burger place does not a romantic evening make. She may say she's not disappointed, but believe me, if you are sitting in a location with its very own drive-thru, she's disappointed.
*BUZZZZ* Wrong answer! There is no movie. If you want to take your S.O. to a movie, there are 364 other days in the year to do that (Actually, 363. You should probably not make that a priority on her birthday either.) On this night, you need to go somewhere you can sit down together, look each other in the eyes and have an actual conversation. I get it, that's not your thing. Talking always gets so … personal. But she wants to do it, and this night is about her right? Suck it up, Buttercup.
But what if she wants to go to one of those Valentine's Day movies they release every year? You know, the super sappy ones that are all about love and romance and bad acting? Isn't that a free pass? NO! You say, "Sweetheart, I promise I'll take you to see that movie next weekend, but tonight I just want to spend time with you." That's what she wants to hear. Really.
So what can you do instead of that movie you're not going to watch? Take a pleasurable, leisurely walk. Or, if the weather where you are is too cold for walking, take a leisurely drive. Perhaps use that limo you rented and cruise town. Maybe ride in a carriage. Whatever you do and however you do it, hold her hand.
Go somewhere other people aren't so you can have a private conversation. If you are driving, avoid areas with heavy traffic so you don't have to be fixated on the road and you can discuss whatever she wants to discuss while actually participating in the conversation with more than the occasional grunt of acknowledgment.
Don't look at me like that, you know you do it. So do I, but on this night we need to find a way to push through the desire to wool gather and actually listen, think about the conversation and provide insightful answers. You can do it!
Alright guys, you've given it your all and the night has come to a close. You've done everything right and she's on cloud 9. So that's it, you're done, right? Not quite yet, there's still time to screw this up. Before you go, or if you're married before you roll over, make time for cuddling! And no, that's not a euphemism. I mean, you can do that too, but afterward you need to make time for cuddling. And maybe try some more of that "conversation" we talked about earlier. Who knows, you might even enjoy it.
So there you have it, men, the perfect Valentine's Day. I know you're going to pick and choose from my suggestions, and that's okay. You might take her to that movie. It's a bad idea, but you might do it anyway. If you do, make sure to go for that walk/drive afterward. Because honestly, isn't this night really all about the two of you together as a couple? If you are there, really THERE with her, then she will be thrilled. Believe it or not, what she really wants on Valentine's Day is YOU.
Cocktail parties are such a great adult theme choice because everyone likes to try new drinks. And by making the event a drop-in, there are no worries about guests arriving late and missing out. So get your Mad Men on and break out the barware.
Send your invites at least a week ahead of time. Because this is a no-fuss party that doesn't require special attire or gifts, now is the perfect chance to lure out all those friends you haven't seen in awhile. And you'll hear few excuses because who doesn't want to chill out on a summer night?
Whether hosting inside or out, make sure you have plenty of seating so everyone has a chance to relax. If you are outdoors, this is the perfect time to hang your hammock and light some tiki torches. For decorations, keep it simple. Choose your favorite bright colors and show them off with some coordinated party supplies. An eye-catching tablecloth becomes the backdrop to your bar set-up. Create some balloon bunches to hang for some added whimsy. If you want a more natural look, try a beautiful fresh flower centerpiece from your local florist.
It's hot out so keeping the food simple and the drinks cold is a great plan. Fresh fruit displayed in a fun way is both refreshing and decorative. We love all these examples that mix summer favorites like watermelon, pineapple, strawberries, kiwi and cantaloupe. Using mini terracotta pots for veggies and dip are as cute as can be. Plus, it frees up your guests to grab and go mingle. Opting for some healthy salsa and festive blue corn tortilla chips help keep things on the light side. Don't forget that a pickle and olive tray works great for snacking and garnishing drinks.
These make-ahead drinks are incredibly refreshing and look so pretty chilling in a tub of ice. You will enjoy compliment after compliment without ever having to play bartender during the party! Place colorful straws and a bowl next to the ice bucket so guests have a place to put the metal lids after opening their own individual serving of spiked lemonade. Might want to make more than one batch. They will go fast!
You Will Need:
— Make simple syrup by boiling 2 cups of water and adding 1.5 cups of sugar.
— Stir to dissolve completely. Steep herbs or berries at this stage for different flavors
— Chill syrup in fridge
— Mix together: rum, lemon juice syrup, 6 cups water
— Divide the lemonade into the 10 jars, leaving space for garnish and extra ice
— Garnish with a slice of lemon or lime
— Screw lids on tightly and keep chilled
Throw together some old favorites with a few new highlights to make the night's perfect soundtrack. Whether you just want to lay back and groove or enjoy a dance or two, this mix has you covered.
Summertime – Billie HolidayHere at Wedding and Party Network we want to give you inspiration for your wedding and party details. The details are what sets your wedding and party apart from anyone else. The colors, theme, detailing and style all creates your wedding day style and conveys your party theme. So, today's Inspirational Friday will focus on festive party food.
Party food displays the theme of your event as well. You can create fun food that goes with the theme that is fun and whimsical or you can keep it elegant. You can also give food names that goes with the theme as well. If it's a candy theme party, be sure to have lots of candy. Maybe you're planning a baseball themed party for a little boy, set up a concession stand. Maybe you're having more of a formal dinner party, well your food can be elegant as well. Talk with your local caterer, they'll have lots of ideas that will center around your theme.
Have you started planning out what parties you will host this spring? Are you searching for new ideas? What about the food you will serve at your spring party? There are wonderful ideas for your food. So, Wedding and Party Network is bringing you our top 5 picks that will just truly enhance your next party.
Flower Pot Cupcake via Domestic Fits
Pineapple Beehive via Parents.com
Easter Lemon Meringue Nest via My Sweet Remedy
Spring Salad via Turnstyle Vogue
Green Tea, Lychee & Raspberry Tart via Zen Can Cook
Now, run to the grocery story and get the ingredients to create all these delicious foods! They'll be a hit at your next party!
There are many traditions and celebrations during the holidays. Some people host various parties, fix different recipes, or open gifts on Christmas eve. Some families have dinner on Christmas, but what do you do for breakfast or lunch? Why not start a new tradition on Christmas by planning a Christmas brunch? Wedding and Party Network has a few tips on planning a brunch that your family and friends will love.
Perfect timing – Who do you plan on inviting? Close friends and family members are great guests to invite. Since most families open their gifts that morning or even on Christmas eve, a brunch is great. It gives everyone time to open gifts and get ready.
Holiday decorations – Since your house will already be decked out for the holidays, no decorations required. The only thing you might decorate is the table and the food table. Come up with a festive table centerpiece for your dining table and food table. Don't forget the table linens, tableware, and servingware. A fun accent is to have place settings made of Christmas ornaments. It can serve as a party favor as well and your guests will want to put them on their tree as soon as they get home.
What's on the menu – Think about serving various pastries, such as cinnamon rolls, scones, and muffins. Even have doughnuts for brunch. Make sure to display them as a doughnut tower to create depth for your table. Plus, it's a fun way to serve doughnuts. Also, serve fruit kabobs, casseroles, gingerbread waffles, french toast, or a candy cane coffee cake. There are many recipes to try out for your Christmas day brunch. For drinks, set up a mimosa bar, hot chocolate bar, and have all your juices ready to go.
Start a new Christmas day tradition with a brunch. It's a great time to spend with close friends and family.
This post is brought to you by Houston Party Caterers
Not in Houston, TX? No worries, use Wedding and Party Network's handy party planning directory to help you find party caterers near you!
Photo via Celebrate!
Thanksgiving is a holiday of tradition. However, why not switch it up somewhat? Trying something fun and unique always makes the holidays more interesting. Why not switch up some of the recipes you normally use for your Thanksgiving dinner? You may even find a new recipe that will become a Thanksgiving dinner tradition. So, Wedding and Party Network has a few Thanksgiving recipes with a twist.
The Twist – Chicken
Cooking turkey can be a bit overwhelming for some people, especially when there is a large crowd. Instead, opt for chicken. It's simple. Preheat oven to 350 degrees, rinse & pat chicken dry, squeeze lime juice on top, fill the cavity with cut limes, lemons, garlic, thyme and rosemary and place herb butter underneath the skin of chicken.Place it on a roasting pan, baste it with some of the leftover herb butter mixed with olive oil, roast for an hour re-basting every half hour, turn up the oven to 425 degrees once the hour is up, baste it one last time and cook for 15 minutes.
The Twist – Not your ordinary cranberry sauce
Yes, cranberry sauce is seen on most dinner tables for Thanksgiving. Why not put a different spin on it? Create a fresh chutney made with dried cranberries and fresh apples. You can also stick with cranberry sauce but add cinnamon, pomegranate seeds and freshly squeezed orange juice to liven it up. Think out-of-the-box when it comes to your cranberry sauce and pair it with some fresh, seasonal fruit.
The Twist – Change up those side dishes
Stick with your traditional side dishes. However, add some unique side dishes to the table as well. It will give everyone something new to try. Think about serving brussels sprouts with bacon, fresh apples and lemon juice. Also, think about serving mashed sweet potatoes, coconut candied yams, fried green beans or put a different twist on mashed potatoes. There are many recipes out there, just research online and pick something that stands out and seems tasty to you.
The Twist – Get creative with those desserts
Pumpkin and pecan pies are absolutely delicious! Again, don't hesitate to fix these items, they are staple pieces to any dinner table. Add a fun dessert to the table as well. Put a twist on pecan and pumpkin pies. Make them mini or add a unique ingredient. Create a bundt cake and make it into a pumpkin or an apple or pear crisp.
Get creative with your Thanksgiving dinner. Try out new recipes and keep the dinner table interesting.
This post is brought to you by Miami Party Caterers
Not in Miami FL? No worries, use Wedding and Party Network's handy party planning directory to help you find party caterers near you!
Here at Wedding and Party Network we want to give you inspiration for your wedding and party details. The details are what sets your wedding and party apart from anyone else. The colors, theme, detailing and style all creates your wedding day style and conveys your party theme. So, today's Inspirational Friday will focus on wedding and party food.
Wedding and party food are such important details of any event. If the food is absolutely delicious, it will make your special event even more memorable. However, if your food isn't that tasty, that's the one thing that guests will remember. Food is very important, especially the way you display it as well. Make sure your wedding or party caterer uses fresh ingredients, knows your vision for your food and you of course do a tasting for the food. Also, research ways to display your food and see if your caterer can achieve that. Remember, food is important.
The Super Bowl is coming up on February 5, 2012. Have you already made plans to host a Super Bowl party at your house? What are you doing, just the traditional food, drinks and watching the big game on television? Why not switch it up a bit and do something a bit different? It's also fun and exciting to change things up a bit, even if it's minor. Change up your Super Bowl party with the help of Wedding and Party Network. We've got some fabulous tips that will make your party a huge hit!
Plan Accordingly – Of course, with every party, you also need to plan accordingly. How many guests are you inviting, what type of food are you serving, are you having party decorations and do you plan on having activities for everyone? The best thing to do is to sit down and write everything out. Make a list of everything. This truly makes planning easy.
Party Decor – This party doesn't need a ton of party decorations at all. Just keep it within the team's colors. Divide it half and half to be fair to all your guests, unless all of you are rooting for the same team to win. Use the colors within the table cloths, centerpieces and scatter some footballs around. Use beer mugs or football koozies for the floral arrangements, except place simple flowers. Just keep it simple.
For The Food – Since it's the beginning of the new year, a lot of people made new year's resolutions to eat healthier. So, keep this in mind when planning your party menu. Instead of doing a variety of food that really doesn't go well together, think about planning out a food theme. Go with a chili bar and serve different types of chili, even a healthier version, like turkey chili. You can include all the toppings and even some hot dogs, burgers or nacho chips.
However, you can take a different approach and host a taco night, soup night or a burger bar. This way, you don't have way too much food to satisfy everyone's appetite and your menu isn't all over the place. Focus on one or two appetizers to satisfy everyone while everything else is cooking. Don't forget, you can always find a local caterer to create your meal so you're not in the kitchen all day. They always have great ideas and it frees you up from the kitchen.
Sweets – Of course, go with the theme and have a football shaped cake or football cupcakes and cookies. Just keep in mind football and the teams that are playing. You can even set up a cute dessert table that replicates a football field and have cupcakes in the team's colors and place them on the field. Don't forget to always keep in mind how you display your food. It makes everything that much better.
Don't Forget The Drinks – Drinks are just as important as the food. Have a signature drink for the evening or even have one for each team. You can do punch, have beer tasting for the guys or margaritas if you go with the taco theme. Make sure you have drinks that pairs well with the food and display them in a fun way.
Game Day Activities – Of course, you can have games like washers, horse shoes, bean bag toss or ping-pong set up to play before the big game starts. Don't forget to have everyone pick who they think will win too, which makes a great game day activity.
The Super Bowl is a great time to get friends together and hang out all day to enjoy each other's company. It's a great time to host a party and to get creative.
2024 is here, and that means it’s time for everyone’s favorite blog: wedding trends for the year! If you’re planning a wedding for this year, or hope to plan one soon, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn what’s …
