Southern Lady Celebrate Easy Party Ideas 2014

We at Entertain Decorate Celebrate love to travel. In fact, during most Monday morning meetings, we talk about what we did the weekend before and what trips we have planned—for work and for play. The first warm rays have us all yearning for the beach, the lake, or even our own backyards. It’s the right time to host a dinner party or mark a special occasion. Salute the patriotic observances with a charming outdoor gathering like the one on page 47. Serve easy, portable food like burgers and hot dogs, and display beautiful flowers to make this Memorial Day or Fourth of July a red, white, and blue success. It’s also time to honor this year’s graduates. Whether you are hosting a party for graduates of kindergarten, high school, or college, this…

If you are visiting a friend or going to someone’s vacation home, simple courtesies make the experience pleasant for everyone. As a houseguest, it is important to show gratitude for the hospitality. These simple tips will make your stay most enjoyable, for you and your host. Begin by bringing a gift to show your appreciation. It does not have to be elaborate or expensive—a bottle of wine, a treat from your local bakery, or a candle are all thoughtful gestures. If you cannot bring something in your suitcase, treat your friend to lunch or dinner at a favorite local spot. Be careful not to behave as though you are staying in a hotel. Keep your room tidy by keeping clothes off the floor and making the bed. If you are the last…

Visit my new blog, theribboninmyjournal.com, where you will find creative tips, decorative inspiration, and beautiful photography— all geared to enhance our lives. SIMPLY SET Fish-shaped plates exude summer sentiments, while a galvanized bucket keeps napkins and utensils from blowing in the wind. Complete the look with a sand dollar that doubles as a place card. NAUTICAL NOTES I love the bright, summery prints in these products from p. press. Whether you’re planning a birthday party, giving a present, or hosting a lunch, the colors and graphics will make everyone happy. See the selections at ppresspapers.com. KIT AND CABOODLE Keep kids entertained while traveling by taking along a special box of fun items. Fill a little container with a travel journal, a sketch pad, crayons, candy, a disposable camera, and books. BLISSFUL BLOSSOMS Greet guests at the door with…

SEA CELLARS House salt and pepper in recycled oyster shells. Clean shells thoroughly, and then soak them in bleach. Coat with food-safe shellac, and let dry completely before using. Fill with salt and pepper for a beautiful table addition. TIDAL TAGS Make wineglasses unique by creating tags out of shells. Select distinctive shells, then drill a small hole in each one. Use jute to tie them onto the stem of each wineglass as a beachy tribute. COASTAL CHARGER Give each place setting a seaside feel. Just gather shells in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and secure them to a charger, using hot glue. Layer with a simple white plate to complete the seasonal and beautiful look. SEASIDE LIGHTING Let shells bring a warm ambiance to your party by transforming them into candles. Purchase a candle-making…

create the look ✓ Throwing a fun and out-of-the-box shower is easy! Start by picking a theme, like the kitchen, and let that dictate the décor. ✓ Plan the shower for one to three months before the wedding. When you send invitations, include a recipe card for guests to fill out with a favorite dish, as well as put words of wisdom on the back. Guests who cannot attend can still be part of the fun by mailing in their cards. ✓ Save on the cost of flowers by integrating kitchen utensils into the centerpiece. We placed arrangements of dusty miller, hydrangea, seeded eucalyptus, and spray roses alongside a cream utensil caddy filled with cooking essentials. ✓ Set the table with soft hues and wooden accents, and place cookie cutters and measuring spoons down…