Every now and then we get to host an “adults only” weekend at the beach house and invite good friends
I usually don’t send out formal invitations, but there are some amazing options at Paperless Post, like the one pictured above, which can really put a special touch on any party or event. They are very affordable and some are even free! You can see more here…
Paperless Post asked me to share some juicy details of my party and event planning~
Come along and I’ll share this weekend getaway with you
Planning in advance ensures a laid back experience for everyone
I start with my calendar and map out cooking times and meals from arrival to departure, but leave things flexible for last minute changes
If possible I will grocery shop earlier in the week, and spend some time preparing as much as possible the day before guests arrive. You could even make your menu on a cute card from Paperless Post like the one pictured below
I choose easy peasy recipes, tried and true favorites, and things I can make ahead or throw together easily at the last minute, and let the guys do the grilling
Then I think about details, like welcoming touches,
A tray full of goodies
And a jar of extra necessities in the bathroom in case something is forgotten
I don’t do all the work, the guests always bring extra goodies and pitch in with the dishes
They also are reminded to please change their sheets upon departure 😘
The meals are serve yourself, like this Beach Towel Buffet
And dining is often outside, as in Trattoria Sardina
Or indoors by candlelight as here in Washed Ashore
There is boating
and beaching
and lots of chair sitting
Day dreaming and Dining with Mermaids
Cocktails of course, perhaps a Creamsicle Mimosa
or a Firefly
We kicked the weekend off with a Hot Dog Bar, grilled hot dogs with toppings galore
Condiments included Pimento Cheese, Maple Bourbon Bacon Jam, pickles, relish, ketchup, mayonnaise, a variety of mustards, watermelon and chips
Guests help themselves and create their own hot dog masterpiece…Mr. Tom thought the maple bourbon bacon jam was the “bomb” on his hot dog…
Click on the recipe titles below for more photos and information
Coconut Shrimp with Orange Marmalade Dipping Sauce
Boozy Corn Pudding~ this recipe will be posting soon, it has some surprise ingredients!
Baby Beignets with Coconut Syrup
Peachy Bourbon BBQ Chicken ~ you can make this in the slow cooker, or make the sauce and put the chicken on the grill
Maple Sausage Cheese Grits~ this recipe will be posting soon and the best part is, you can make it 2 days ahead of time~
Almond Peach Dumplings will be posting tomorrow~ they are pillows of pure heaven!
Nobody went to bed hungry!
I hope you can enjoy a weekend get away soon!
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I will be joining the fabulous parties and blogs on my side bar and
