Celebrating Life… one step at a time

Every year I plan one BIG gathering for my friends and family members to come together, eat, socialize and raise funds for “challenges” around the world. This year’s theme was a “very laid back summer.” The colors I decided to use where cool and refreshing (yellows, pale pinks and browns, sky blue and khaki). Instead of having chairs and tables as usual, I decided to purchase raffia mats for guests to sit on the grass and provide large blankets as the evening cooled down. To keep guests comfortable, I sat down and actually sewn pillows with a coordinating fabric.

Guests sipped chilled lemonade, old-fashion root beer and soda pop from the beverage bar. For dinner I thought it would be more convenient to hire a taco cart to come and cook an all-you-can eat taco bar. Warm and delicious carne asada, marinated beef and chicken were served along with rice and beans. As the sun went away and night came dozens of candles were lit all around the yard, and a movie projector played “I Love You Man” outside against a blank white sheet that was placed on a brick wall. Keeping with the DIY theme, I had laid out a ice cream sundae bar where guests created their own ice cream sundaes (see the yummy  pictures).

It was a wonderful event and I am very thankful for each and every person who came out and celebrated…LIFE! Truly life is amazing and I do want every one to take advantage of every moments. Live each moment… have no regrets.

Now on to the pictures!

My homemade donation board out of an old table frame and leftover frabric from a past event

Beverage Bar

Varying size mason jars… mini ones for the lemonade and larger ones for the candles

Handmade pillows, blankets and raffia mats for guests to sit on

Create-Your-Own-Sundae Bar

A perfect ending to a splendid night…