Fun, Friends, and Flamingos: A DIY Summer Soirée
Where is this summer going? Between wedding planning, an impromptu vacation and a new job, blogging took a bit of a back-burner the past few weeks. But there's nothing like a little summer soirée to inspire me to get back to the keyboard.
Each summer my Mom plans a visit and always serves up some of her best appetizers. In our world, appetizers for dinner is completely acceptable! Throughout the years it has always been a fun night that some of my girlfriends have joined in on as well. Although busy schedules made the gathering a little smaller this year, it was the perfect chance to create a fun, intimate dinner party on our new deck.
This year, tropical is in. It is hard to go anywhere without seeing pineapples, flamingos and palm leaves. On a run to Dollar Tree for some crafting goodies, I came across some flamingo plates and napkins and a vision was born.
What You Need
Flamingo or Other Tropical-Themed Paper Plates- Dollar Tree ($1) or your local party store
Flamingo or Other Tropical-Themed Napkins- Dollar Tree ($1) or your local party store
Flamingo Straws- Dollar Tree ($1)
Pink Silverware- Party City or local party store
Tropical Leaves - Amazon ($5.35 for 12) or Oriental Trading Company ($8.75 for 12 leaves in a larger size)
Baker's Twine- Target or local craft store
Kraft Placemats- Target ($3-$5)
Place cards or Tags- Target ($1-$3)
Appetizer Plates
This look can be easily be re-created with your own spin on it. I picked up the kraft placemats on clearance during the holidays knowing that they would come in handy for future table settings. However, similar placemats are often available in Target's aisles of party supplies.
The place cards were made with Target "One Spot" tags that recently went on clearance. I snagged them for 70% off, making them only $.30. Like the placemats, these kinds of tags or place cards are frequently featured in the One Spot at Target. I often get them on clearance and keep a stash around for when I need them. The baker's twine was a Valentine's Day clearance find and worked perfectly for the flamingo theme.
Layer your place setting with appetizer plates you have around the house or pick up some clear disposable appetizer plates to achieve a similar look.
The water glasses were adorned with flamingo straws that I also picked up at the Dollar Store, but I've seen similar straws online and at Michaels. You could also just use fun paper straws available at a variety of retailers. Straws are also something that can often be picked up when seasonal party decor is being clearanced out.
I used the tropical leaves as accents on the table and added some ambiance with some candlelight. It was a perfect summer evening full of family, friends, and delicious snacks!
