Monday, June 23, 2008

in limbo


a pve design, illustrated for A.Tierney - Calendar
Posting this week shall be dedicated to Summer parties.  If you are "in limbo" about having a party, be inspired to have a little fun.  Having a party is really so easy and in this rather glum economy, it will add a smile to your life as well as your friends and family.  A party is a good "pick-me-up!"

image from rebecca thuss
Firstly, select a date and a theme for your party.  You do not need to have a specific reason to have a party.  Compile a list of invitees and make or select a simple card for your invitations. Select 2 to 3 colors to build your party around.   For example, if you select Pink, Orange and Red, then all items should work around those colors.  Pink envelopes, Orange napkins, Red plates and festive paper lanterns with crepe paper streamers.   Using classics such as, white, black, navy also sets a chic base from which to build a party.

Look for the clearance aisle at your local party store to see what fun and thrifty items might be found.  Do not be afraid to look in the children's party section to add a fun and youthful vibe.  
Fun games for any age, such as pin the tail on the donkey, or limbo or even musical chairs break the ice when mixing new and old friends.  Physical games such as badminton, volleyball and ping pong are also great exercise.  Last year at our Family Reunion, we played a great game of volleyball.  

Once the invites are signed, sealed and delivered, start to write up your menu and make a master list.  Take a simple file folder and use it to collect photos, ideas, recipes and anything that might inspire and excite you to ensure that your party is a success.   Will you serve a special punch or what will your beverages be and scout for a local bartender or bartendress to serve drinks so that you can have fun too.  You would be surprised, that for a nominal fee, there are people who will gladly work as your bartender or have a trusted friend do that task for you.

In limbo about what you will wear, something casual or formal? Dressing up is often very welcome in this casual world.  Specify on the invite or tell guests when they call to rsvp.  You would be surprised at how many people get excited to wear "party attire."
After all it is not every day that we get to play dress-up and play games.

17 comments:

CC said...

Oh, that sounds like so much fun. I may have to soon don my party dress! :)

Style Court said...

At first I thought the illustration at top was yours :)

Love the colors you used here. Great post.

pve design said...

Courtney-
Yes, the illustration at top is mine, I illustrated it for a client calendar.
thanks,
Patricia

Kwana said...

Patricia you make it all seem so easy. That's because you have such style. Party on!

simply seleta said...

What a delightful post! And the colors remind me of fresh cut watermelon and the feel of warm sun at the beach.

pve design said...

Kwana,
Lists are my saving grace to get things done!
You know about lists or notes when you plot a story board... it is the same thing!
Patricia

pve design said...

Seleta,
color can infuse such energy in any event, think of a child's party or a wedding with color!
wish I could take a walk with you on the beach...aha!
Patricia

Mrs. Limestone said...

You know I love a party :)

Cheapo places like Ikea, Kmart, Michaels and Christmas Tree Shops are great places to find party items too.

Fifi Flowers said...

FUN! FUN! Everyone loves a party!

Tara said...

This summer I think we'll be in the yard more and not travel...well, with the price of gas that may be the way to go--a margarita may be less expensive than a gallon of gas!
:0)

London Calling said...

limbo-akimbo, looks like such fun!

Michelle said...

love this illustration, fun energising and heart warming !! perfect for me.....I'm cold here in Sydney :(

Melly said...

I just love visiting your blog. Your illustrations always make me smile. I really love the colors you used. You're an incredible talent!

Elizabeth said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Elizabeth said...

I just love the look of this post. It makes me want to throw a party. I love the colors.

Unknown said...

i am loving the summer colors - they look delicious! i especially loved the envelope pic.
xo

simply seleta said...

I'm using your post as an inspiration for my upcoming daughter's 4th birthday party. This time I may make it tres chic and sassy. Lots of different pinks for dimension. You are such inspiration! xxoo