Spring Celebration Shoot With DIY Details

I have such a pretty inspiration shoot to share with you today that's just right for a bridal shower, or girly birthday celebration.  This idea was designed and photographed by Lou of Whimsical Wonderland Weddings, and has some cute crafty details that are sure to inspire you!

Lou combined an eclectic mix of fabric patterns to create a table runner and napkins.  Sweet felt "puffy hearts" were sewn with a simple stitch and are a focal point throughout the display.  A variety of ribbons are used to tie around chairs, silverware, and centerpiece vases {recycled cans that have been painted}.

One of the most adorable features on the table is the place holders, made by sewing a monogram on a small piece of felt fabric, and tied around a painted egg cup using bakers twine.  Such a great touch that adds handmade charm to any occasion!

The dessert table does not disappoint as it utilizes a dresser and fashions a drawer into a flower "vase."  A banner hangs above, made of scrap fabric and bakers twine.  Doilies and more felt hearts are scattered across the table, and a mini bunting tops the cake. 

Not only are the colors and flowers in this design gorgeous, but these are all ideas you can re-create for your own charming party!  Thanks Lou!

Hugs & Kisses Modern Engagement Party {Styled Shoot}

"XOXO" - the sweet salutation that's used so prevalently in social media outlets has found it's way into this themed shoot from Emily Steffen Photography.  And why not?  It's the perfect sign off for any newly engaged couple!   

This modern design has just enough details to present the theme, but isn't overly done or cutesy.  One of my favorite elements is the hanging frame behind the dessert table, with "xo" letters and black and white photos, which is also found in the "ladder chandelier" above the dining table.  The sophisticated colors act as a blank canvas for the fun details to stand out against - notice the pops of red in the sweets display, hanging letters, and menu cards.

This original design was created by these amazing vendors:

Photography - Emily Steffen

Paper goods & Styling - Bethany Hway

Flowers - Sadies Floral

Dessert Table - Shauna Young

Tea Party For Mother's Day

I can't think of anything more lady-like than a tea party, so when Glory of Glorious Treats shared this recent tea party with me, I knew it would be sweet inspiration for Mother's Day.  All you need to do is make a few tea sandwiches (cucumber, chicken salad, egg salad), add some scones and some tea cookies or petite fours and you have a wonderful menu.  Offer a couple of different tea flavors or varieties, and bring out your china and silver serving pieces.  Mom will be so touched!

Find Glory's favorite tarragon chicken salad recipe to use for your tea sandwiches here.

Mexican Fiesta Inspiration

{photos & styling by Celebrations At Home}

I can't believe it's nearly May!  Where has the first quarter gone?  Fortunately that means it's time for a Fiesta party to celebrate Cinco De Mayo!  You can see all my Fiesta design ideas in my latest contribution to Celebrations.com.  And find the recipe for delicious and refreshing Beer Margaritas here. 

I don't think you'll want to miss it!

Spring Bridal Shower Shoot

This beautiful Spring Bridal Shower shoot was created by Sarah of Events by Sarah Elizabeth, for a vendors design challenge on Brenda's Wedding Blog.  The instructions were to create a Bridal Shower tabletop and dessert table using the color scheme of bubblegum pink, mint green, and robin's egg blue.  I think you'll agree this is a stunning inspiration piece!

Not only would this make a great bridal shower, but this would be terrific for a Mother's Day brunch as well.  One of the most unique ideas here is the "create your own fruit kabobs" area.  What a fun new twist on a classic concept!

You can see all of the fabulous inspiration from this challenge, including a design by our friend Sandra Downie, on Brenda's Wedding Blog.  Great ideas to incorporate for Easter too!

Vendor Credits:

Design & Styling - Events by Sarah Elizabeth

Photographer - Jim Heine Photography

Florist - Falls Flowers

Baked Goods{mini wedding cakes & cupcake macarons} - Le Fouet

Paper Goods - 23rd & 5th

Chic Design For Casual Entertaining

If you love casual entertaining with a chic twist, this inspiration shoot by Vanessa of Alchemy Event Design is for you!  The theme revolves around the cheese and fruit display incorporated into the dessert table, and decorative elements include cheesecloth runners, and sheep, cow, and goat graphics to represent the sources of the cheese.   

The centerpiece of the table is a combination of old bottles and vases which hold flowers as well as fig branches, bunches of cabbage leaves, and herbs.  Rustic boxes in different heights adds elevated interest and is a great place to set food for serving family style.  When it's time to eat, you can simply move the smaller vases & bottle out of the way to make room for the platters.

The sweets table is a lovely mix of cheese and fresh fruit, along with some Greek pastries - I just love this idea!  All the vintage pieces and props add much personality and charm to this table.  The entire party setting would be fantastic for a wine & cheese engagement party, a family reunion, or a special birthday. 

Styling & Stationery: Alchemy Fine Events & Invitations

Photography: Cameron Ingalls

Flowers: Renae's Bouquet

Props: Found Vintage Rentals