Run for the Roses: Kentucky Derby Inspiration

This Saturday is both Cinco de Mayo and the Kentucky Derby. I've always wanted to attend the Kentucky Derby, sipping a mint julep, and sporting a large floppy hat.  If you aren't able to make it to Louisville this weekend, then bring the Kentucky Derby to you.  Whether you prefer sipping on a margarita (on the rocks with salt, please) or a mint julep, here's some Kentucky Derby inspiration for your weekend, enjoy!

{Photos Via: Top Row: Mint Julep Cup, Horseshoe Place Cards, Horse Decanter; Second Row: Horse Centerpiece, Invitation, Roses, Coasters, Julep Cups with Bow ties; Third Row: Kentucky Derby Poster, Spectator, Cupcakes, & Mint Julep Centerpiece}

A Golden Champagne Toast

Whether it's a night in, or a night out with your friends, girlfriends, or loved one, hope this NYE is golden.   Gold is the perfect color for any NYE event if you're hosting a wedding, a get together, or going out.  Gold is bright, shinny, and new, the perfect way to ring in the promises of a new year.  Other must-haves are cocktails, confetti, and of course champagne.  Some golden-champagne inspiration for you NYE 2011 soiree, Enjoy!

{First Row: Bucket, Girl on Balcony, Champagne Bottle; Second Row: Place setting, Candy; Third Row: Invitation, Poster, Champagne Flutes, Gold Glitter; Fourth Row: Couple Popping Champagne, Cate Blanchette; Fifth Row: Car, Champagne Flute & Cork}



Golden Reindeer Holiday Party

This past weekend was our secret santa/cookie exchange/beer exchange/ugly sweater holiday party extravaganza!  We had guests bring either a dozen cookies or a six pack of their favorite brew, it's a great way to get the non-bakers involved.  The color pallet was red, gold, glitter, and reindeer.  We added holiday cheer with ornaments in apothecary jars, hand made ornaments hung in the window, a "Merry & Bright" sign over the fireplace, and a photo frame wall.  We had a spread of appetizers which included a meats & truffled cheese spread, tortellini skewers with pesto dip, eggplant dip, salsa, and much more.  For the beverages we had a hot coco station, pomegranate-champagne fizz punch, and a DIY drink station.



We laid out cut out reindeers so that guests could label their baked goods

We even had a munchkin tree

Our different drink stations, complete with stir sticks.

The photo wall, for guests to stage a photo opp.

Black & White Cocktail Party

My bestie is throwing a black and white cocktail party in honor of her engagement.   There will be lots of glamour and sparkle, and stylish elegance.  Black and white decor makes everyone feel like they've just walked into a fabulous party, Enjoy!

{Top Row: Invite, Merangues; Second Row: Reception, Chandilere, Breakfast in Box Favors; Third Row: Diamond Bracelet, Ballgown, Cake; Fourth Row: Dessert Table, Car}