Shower Her In Clover

Who doesn't love a wedding?

Weather it's yours, someone else's, or listening to the reflections of a couple reliving their perfect day it is hard not to get caught up in the joy and excitement that a wedding brings. Even the festivities leading up to the nuptials are sure to illicit enthusiasm from even the most spiritless attendee.

Trepidation, Excitement, Butterfly's in the stomach...The Day Would Soon Be Here.

As my sisters bridal shower was nearing it seemed even a 55 year marital veteran was not immune to the juxtaposition that this event mirrored her own. As I searched Nana's advice for edict, menu planning and general brain storming the course of things veered, as they so often do, to a fond remembrance of the day her sister-in-law to be showered her with love and support.

What Elegance

It was a simple affair with only her closest friends and family. Much as her granddaughters would be so many years later

Listen to Nana recall a special day and a frying pan she still uses.

Party Planning Rule #27: Choose things close to the guest of honors heart.

No, I'm not a party planner by trade but I do get a thrill out of watching the joy others receive when you give them something more then they expected. The bride-to-be in this case loves all things Irish, so what better theme then a St. Patrick's Day Wedding Shower. The genious behind this idea wasn't mine but my partner in crime sister, not the one getting married of course.

Party Planning rule #83: Don't go to a party store and buy out the cheep decorations department.

 I find that the easiest place to begin is a color scheme. Well, I don't know about you, but when I think of Irish the first colors that come to mind are Green, Orange, and White, but for St. Patties Day I am flooded with the thought of Leprechauns coins. So I fogo'd the Orange for a range of yellow and gold. Fortunately for me I have a grandmother who loves to hold on to things she thinks are beautiful or in some way useful.

Party Planning Rule #101: Use what you have, Improvise when you don't.

I mostly used what I had around me with a quick trip to the Dollar Store to fill in the blanks. Flowers and Greens cut from the yard. A bolt of fabric and some mason jars I pilfered from Nana's crafting storage. Candles of course! And I littered the table with gold Hershey kisses and chocolate coins. The picture frames were the gifts for the guests to keep.

When all is said and done love matters most

A simple Irish blessing to toast the bride and her future. Great Chitchat. Munchies and Gifts.

Not being a big fan of party games I simply placed a few shamrock stickers on the bottom of the Hershey kisses and gold coins. If you had been "Kissed by the Irish" or found the "Leprechauns Gold" you won a prize.

Party Planning Rule #12: Food coloring is NOT your friend

As a rule of thumb I try to keep the food simple and when possible I share the work with others. All the recipes were found on Pinterest.com and honestly they are all super quick with minimal ingredients. I abhor Sandra Lee (sorry, but I do) but am an avid fan of anything "semi-homemade" when it comes to feeding a large group.

The Menu:

Asparagus Gruyere Tart

Mini Spinach Quiche

Green Cherry Waldorf Salad

Fruit Skewers and Bailey's Irish Fruit Dip

No Bake Cake Pops

Key Lime Poke Cake

Leprechaun Punch

Champagne Toast with Frozen Green Grapes

Party Planner Rule #5: Consider your surroundings your most important decoration.

I find the surroundings set the atmosphere more than anything. Choosing the right place puts everyone in a social mood. I was blessed with having the pleasure of working with the the amazing folks at The Oaks Events. If you are anywhere near Midland, NC (conveniently located on HWY 24/27) then you MUST give this place consideration. There are beautiful vistas of a lake and gazebo and if it hadn't snowed we would have held this outside. No matter what your planning they will go above and beyond to make the day special.

A wealth of wisdom waits in the arms of her new family

Job 12:12 "Wisdom is with aged men, With long life is understanding.
My Prayer for her as she leaves her parents to become one with her husband is that she will embrace the the wisdom of her new family. That their memories of life and marriage will help to guide her as she ventures ahead.

A Special Thank To

Michael A. Anderson Photography for the exquisite pictures
And
The Oaks Events for the amazing venue.