January 19, 2014

sweet soiree

now that we've moved into a space where we can actually both fit in the kitchen at the same time and we have more than enough seating, i've started to get the itch to entertain more.  we had a small holiday + housewarming party before christmas that was so much fun that i've been looking for an excuse to have our friends over again ever since.  the Super Bowl is coming up, and then the oscars are in march, but i've realized that i don't necessarily need to center the night around an event.  so instead of waiting for the perfect occasion, i'm just making my own and planning my very first dinner party (how grown up, right?!) in our new place.

the food will obviously be the center of attention that night, so i need a showstopper main course that's not only delicious but uncomplicated enough to make for a crowd.  since some of our friends are vegetarians, i think something like this portobello mushroom lasagne would be perfect.  for dessert, something that can be made ahead is key.  this salted butter caramel ice cream recipe from david lebovitz sounds incredibly indulgent and absolutely perfect.  add a little wine and bubbles...done and done!

i don't plan on leaving any details out; i'll be sending out invitations, everyone will get place cards, and i'm even thinking of doing menu cards as well.  to make the whole process even easier, i recently found minted: an online retailer that specializes in customizable cards, party decor, invitations, and stationary.  with just a few clicks, i have my choice of colorful cards, striped straws, or personalized prints.  after looking around the site, my favorite set is the sparkle everywhere collection.  i love the classic black, gold, and white color combination; it's simple but elegant, and exactly what I would want for my first dinner party.  here are a few of my favorite items that i have on my wish list:

how amazing is this menu card?!
gorgeous invitations
adorable straws for sipping cocktails

one of the best things that minted offers (or really the best thing in my opinion) is the endless amount of ways to customize your items.  for example, if i wasn't a huge fan of gold, i have the option of changing the color of the sparkle on the invitations or cards to silver or rose gold; i could even change the shape of the cards if i'd like.  their site is so easy to use and you can truly find something for every occasion; holidays, weddings, baby announcements, parties...they even have wall prints!  they're currently offering 10% off on valentine's day cards through 01/29 with code HEART10 too.  so if you need a little something for your significant other or if you just have an event coming up, i definitely suggest heading over and checking out their offerings for yourself...planning will be such a breeze. 
enjoy!


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