BlueBird Hill

Quick + Easy Centerpiece Ideas

Lots of very easy centerpiece ideas for every type of party or dinner from Rachael Ray's blog.

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Candy Bar

This came from a wedding website, but it could easily be translated into a birthday party, large family gathering, etc. A friend dresses up in a cute apron and becomes the candy bartender. Kids flock. Gorgeous photos from One Love Photo to illustrate...

Happy Barware

I know it's winter and technically lemonade is not a winter beverage, but these are too cute to pass up. From HWTM and Brides.com - how cute would these be at a little party, shower, or outdoor picnic? The mason jars and lids are available here.

Natural Wedding Reception

I'm not having a wedding anytime soon, but I can sure appreciate a beautiful party like this! Designed by event planner Beth Helmstetter. Photos from the reception and more info from the original post over at HWTM. Lovely and lots of inspiration ideas for your next outdoor get-together, too.

Serving Board

It's almost cheese and crackers time! I like this Circle in a Rectangle Serving Board available here for about $70. Handcrafted in Vermont and made with slate and black walnut.

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Six Pack Coasters

These cool-O rubber 6 pack coasters were created by Oaklander Josh Jakus and are available at Branch Home. "Inspired by the conventional 6-pack, these are cleverly packaged: simply pop out individual coasters for use. When finished, pop 'em back into their handy "ring" for storage."

They come in 3 colors - orange, green, and light blue for $18.

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Snap and Dine

Let's face it - people eat on the go now more than ever. This snap and dine set by product designer Demelza Hill wants to elevate the whole experience. I say just use the real thing and don't waste a ton of plastic, but that's just me.

"Snap and Dine is a single use three-course table setting that integrates disposable cutlery with traditional silverware. The portable lunch setting expands the possibilities of eating outdoors in style whilst reinforcing the correct use of cutlery, which has been lost over time. This is achieved through the decorative qualities and formal setting which both are a visual reference to fine dinning. This product is fun and interactive whilst raising the standards of current eating on the go habits."
 

Election Party Cocktails

The election is finally here! Celebrate democracy with some fun, patriotic drinks from Simply Stated. Below are recipes and photos of Flag Salute and Vote on the Rocks!

FLAG SALUTE - The flavors of pomegranate and blueberry make a fun red, white & blue cocktail!

Ingredients:
2 parts Stirrings Authentic Grenadine
2 parts Stirrings Blueberry Martini Mixer
3 parts Smirnoff Vodka

Directions:
Layer this shot by adding grenadine first, followed by the cold vodka poured in slowly off the back of a spoon. With a steady hand, add the Blueberry Mixer on top by pouring it off the back of a spoon. Decorate with flag toothpick.

VOTE ON THE ROCKS -A delicious, balanced blend of organic sour cherries with citrus juices, agave and bitters mixed with tequila.

Ingredients:
2 parts Stirrings Organic Classic Sour Cherry Mixer
1 part tequila
Garnish: Cherry and “vote” pick ("vote" sticker or computer-printed design + blueberries)

Directions:
In a cocktail shaker, combine Organic Classic Sour Cherry Mixer with tequila and plenty of ice. Cover and shake vigorously. Strain into glass and garnish with a cherry.

Fun Coasters

I know drink coasters aren't that exciting, but Canadian artist Avril Loreti has set out to change that. She has some cute wood grain, chalkboard, crossword puzzle and scrabble board coasters for the design-savvy hostess. Coasters are from $14 - $20 and available through her Etsy shop.

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Add Some Garnish

This is a great idea for a company and caters to the 'I wanna be like Martha' crowd. And, really - don't we all? Garnish provides the packaging and ideas for parties, gifts, picnics, etc.

"Garnish products are blank canvases just waiting for your expression. Totally customizable, they offer infinite possibilities. Take this opportunity to let your personality shine through... and make every occasion a special occasion."

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Jamali Garden Supplies

If you're planning a large party, you should check this place out. Jamali Garden Supplies has some beautiful bowls, fencing, glass, feathers, seashells, etc. for making centerpieces, garden decor, and everything under the sun.