A SENSATIONAL SOIREE!

It's that time of year when holiday parties are upon us.  Since this week seems to be a kick off of those parties, I thought I would post a little guide on hosting your own holiday soiree in style!

   

Your guests are going to receive more invitations than only your's this holiday season. Chances are, they might even receive one for the same evening as yours. You wants yours to be appropriate and well designed with simply the information it needs and no more.  Choose a fun design thats easy to read, and clearly states all the necessary dates, times, and addresses. People are likely to attend a party which captures their attention right away from the invitation!

There are so many great color palates to work with during the holidays, and certainly don't be afraid to go with one that is unconventional and fun. Choose something that compliments the elements you already own.  Here are some I consider when it comes to the holidays...

Traditional red and green is almost never a miss. With so many variations of the colors, and a wide array of decor options this time of you, you can be sure to differentiate.

I know I discussed this color palate last week, but its absolutely breathtaking. Soft and glamorous, its sure to make you're guests feel special

Light greens and blues remind me of christmas at the beach, but really- it doesn't have to be at the beach. This refreshing palate is fun and energizing!

Finally, you can't go wrong with plum and white. Its luxurious and eye popping!

Last, but certainly not least... classic black and white is beautiful and appropriate at any time of year.

When you are trying to make an impression, detail is everything!  Think strongly about the use of florals or other organic elements to include. A couple groupings of well arranged florals can make the spread complete!

The same can be said for candles, their warmth and ambiance will leave people lingering long into the evening...

Elevate your Elements!

I think every great table scape/food spread has a mix of heights. Put your mismatched vases, candle sticks, and hurricanes to use! It will make your table feel full and beautiful!

and of course, dress up more than just your table. Make your own or purchase adorable drink/food flags for your cupcakes, or your signature drinks, top it off with these cute straws and you've gone from drab to fab.

Keep it simple for yourself. Unless you plan to hire a bartender, serve beer, wine, and champagne [ and don't forget water and soda's, too!]. This way its easy for you to serve several people at once without anyone getting too picky, and when the party picks up you can stock up the bar space and people can serve themselves!

Consider serving a signature champagne drink that they won't have at any other party! My favorite is this [available at Williams Sonoma]  super delicious raspberry puree nectar in champagne. Easy, too!

Some seasonal drinks served shooter style are sure to evoke a warm feeling from your guests, and a welcome diversion from other offerings. Think hot chocolate or egg nog garnished with a priouette or peppermint stick...

No one likes to arrive at a party to see that the food has been completely over though, and underwhelming. Serve food you know that people will enjoy, because when they think back on your party, they will probably consult their stomachs too. Try some gorgonzola turkey burgers, or these sweet little grilled cheese/tomato soup combos for a fun and fancy take on some comfort foods!

Send your guests home with a reminder of what a great time they had! These s'more boxes are a sweet ending to the perfect night, and something they can indulge in at home!

[via] the poor girl, pinterest, the party dress, celebrations at home , the decorista, pizzazzerie, a cup of jo

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

 Its officially December 1 ! With only 25 days until Christmas - the hunt is on!

I have been working tirelessly[ and loving every second of it]  to bring you a holiday gift and entertaining guide that covers just about everything. I hope you enjoy it!

For the best viewing experience, please click "view in fullscreen"!

Open publication - Free publishing - More hostess

A Seaside Christmas

In honor of spending Christmas this year in sunny southern Florida, I thought I would pay homage to a slightly less traditional and more sea inspired holiday.  The clean whites paired with the bright pops of color is fresh, light, and inviting, the perfect setting for a memorable Christmas morning.

Usually, I'm not one for the colored, artificial trees. However, I think these are rather fitting of an island celebration

photos via coastal living, traditional home, layout sparks, coco+kelley

All Wrapped Up

There are few things that complete a lovely tree more than beautifully wrapped gifts underneath it.  This season I have had so much fun wrapping my gifts with some little toppings like unconventional tags, and pretty ornaments. Here are some wrappings to inspire...

 

 

photos via real simple, and heather bullard

Christmas + Candle

Hello my lovelies, I am back after my blogging hiatus. The last three weeks have been absolutely crazy, but this week it all ended on a very happy note. We travelled to Boston for M's yearly checkup this week, and we are SO excited to be celebrating his 9th year in remission!  Many thanks for sticking it out with me, and I promise to get back to a regular blogging schedule.

I know I have said it before, but I'll say it again, I have an infatuation with candles. Always looking for something new for each season, here are some of the very best for the holidays!

Thymes Frasier Fir is a classic... what more is there to say about this fresh and fragrant scent?

At the price point of $5, who could pass on this? Its subtle and clean, yet brings that certain coziness into a room lacking that last little touch. Better yet... you can find it at most Target's.

Seda France always makes fantastic candles that scent your whole house.

Soft and Lovely...

Ok, I know, Anthropologie is maybe over blogged about, but I couldn't resist sharing these beauties for this christmas season. The palette is so soft and lovely, pieces you will keep long after your holiday parties are over.

The rosettes are simply gorgeous

 

This cuff or bracelet would be the cherry on top of the sundae for that outfit you have been trying to complete with accessories. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the scattered baubbles on the sparkly bracelet, they are perfectly misplaced!

This sweater looks like it would go with just about anything. Here is Florida, it is a essential piece to own, (especially this year since it has been 90 and humid since may) you can pull it out on those chilly nights when a jacket is just too heavy.

I think I could cozy up on the couch all day with this blanket

Sweet and simple, a little touch of glamour to stir your hot cocoa with.

DIY Christmas Decor

Last week some "unconventional" if you will christmas ideas were posted. Redbook published these great ideas that I think everyone can admire!

I'm swooning over this idea, it looks like a cool chandelier!

I've always through these copper cookie cutters were kind of vintage and fun, now there is a whole new use for them!

Happy Monday!

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend!

Red and Green will always be the classic christmas combination, but this year, maybe you can find some inspiration to do something new and fresh!

Kelly green and blue has to be my favorite this year. It feels clean and light, the perfect way to kick off a new year!

While not classic of christmas, there is a classic feeling about this palette. I like the warmth that the brown brings, but also that is reminds you of all the tasty chocolate christmas goodies.

I think this pink and green combination is exactly how Lilly Pulitzer would have had it!

Cool and contemporary. I've been totally into the tall branches in a big vase this fall, here is no different, the baron trees in the back are an interestingly natural touch.

all photos via Better Homes and Gardens

'Tis (almost) The Season

Food Network has these great DIY ideas for a festive wreath this season.  With one of these on youre door, you're sure to be the envy of every neighbor.  Better yet, judging by the instructions that come along with these photos in Food Network Magazine, they're pretty easy projects! My favorite is the marshmallow wreath.. whats yours?

All photos via Food Network Magazine