Fete Files: Chic Spring Fling

Burst onto the scene this Spring (and celebrate the return of longer days and warmer weather) by hosting a chic Garden Party, a stylish Shamrock Soiree, or a hip alfresco Brunch. Ditch the heavy winter coats and wool sweaters, throw on a sweet Pucci-inspired ensemble, mix yourself a sparkling cocktail, and read our tips to organizing and hosting a Chic Spring Fling.

THE INVITE

Forget about heavy, formal invitations and mix things up by choosing stationary that incorporates pastels, bright colors, or pretty prints. If you do decide to go with a more classic invite, there are several ways to soften things up. Choose an outer envelope in a color that pops, such as bright yellow or green. You can also make a statement by lining the inside of your envelope with decorative Japanese papers (think stripes, flower prints, etc). Paper Source makes a great template for envelope lining, or you can simply create your own. For those on a time crunch, Crane & Co makes a great printable invitation called “Spring Garden” (pictured right) that can be used for both formal and informal occasions.

Shamrock Soirée idea: Create an invite using a mini box of lucky charms, and hand them out at your next gathering. Simply design the invitation on your computer, print onto green paper, and use craft glue to adhere the invitation directly to the box. You can also choose to open each box and nestle the invite inside.

Resources:

Crane & Co – invitations, stationary and etiquette tips

Paper Source –  handmade papers from around the world

SIP

Fresh, sparkling drinks infused with fruit are the perfect libations for a spring soiree. Simple drinks such as peach and strawberry champagne, pineapple mimosas, or southern-inspired sweet tea served with wedges of fresh lemon will be a huge hit among guests. Put out bowls filled with fruit (lemon, limes, strawberries, raspberries, cherries) so that guests can garnish their own drinks. For those not wanting alcoholic beverages, fill glass pitchers a quarter-of-the-way with fresh herbs and frozen fruit, and top with sparkling water. If you're in the mood for something a bit more festive, try creating a Cherry Blossom cocktail: