entertaining Archives — Places In The Home

Kentucky Derby Party Ideas

The first weekend in May means it is Kentucky Derby time, and that my friends means Kentucky Derby party ideas.

Horse racing enthusiasts, socialites and celebrities will flock to Churchill Downs this Saturday to view the Run for the Roses.

Racing the Wind Horse and Jockey Wall Décor

For those of us not making the jaunt, an excellent opportunity to get down and get derby is just a julep jubilee away.

In other words, if you can’t be live and in person at the Derby create your own Kentucky Derby extravaganza.

Churchill Downs

Kentucky Derby party ideas revolve around traditions, red roses, mint juleps and fascinating fashions.

For her

Red Golden Rose Embroidered Mesh Midi Skirt

For him

Men’s Horse-Bit Silver-Tone Stainless Steel Cuff Links

Derby dazzling accessories in gold and silver for Kentucky Derby Day and beyond.

Gold-Tone Pavé Horse Bit All-Around Collar Necklace
Horse And Carriage Stud Earrings
Patricia Nash Gold-Tone Horse Cameo Pendant Necklace

Now let’s switch gears and show and tell Kentucky Derby party ideas.

And they’re off!

Hobby Lobby

Working with a theme makes coming up with ideas an easy exercise in Derby decorating.

Horse races are run on dirt courses and turf races.

Dirt is not something I recommend dressing out a lovely party food table in. I mean come on, who wants to decorate a party food table with dirt?

Anywho…

Emulate the look of a turf race with a faux grass table runner.

Spanish and/or reindeer moss pairs well or as stand alone centerpiece additions.

Red roses rule the Run for the Roses and make a strong show the next day for Mother’s Day.

See where this getting a lot of bang for your buck decorating logic is going?

Polystone Horse Head Sculpture

Red Rose Floral V Wreath Wreath

Centerpiece equation solved with one horse head sculpture/statue sitting in the middle of a red rose floral wreath is Kentucky Derby divine.

Pick up several faux stems of roses to fill in bare areas, and voilà!

Simply dismantle the centerpiece after your Derby party and use the wreath for your Mother’s Day brunch-lunch-dinner centerpiece.

Look at you, you decorating smarty designing and decorating a smashing Derby party.

Over on the Kentucky Derby website is this tutorial for making a DIY Garland of Roses Table Runner.

Coming Down the Homestretch

For extra Run for the Roses Derby flair, I clip several roses from front yard flower bed and float in clear bowls.

Warm water works best, and I drop a low dose aspirin in the water to prolong the life of the roses.

No real roses?

Red Rose Kissing Ball

No real problem.

Design Toscano The Six Stallions of the Hippodrome

Better Homes & Gardens – Photography by Michael Partenio

Faux rose bouquets placed in striking vases, champagne buckets, on trays, or in trophy cups works beautifully as well.

Nickel Etched Trophy with Handles

Super stylish option.

Light Brown Magazine Leather Basket

Incorporating the traditional aspects of horse racing into my Kentucky Derby party ideas such as riding boots, horseshoes, and a riding helmet or two is not as difficult as one would think.

Women’s Riding Boots

Spring is a great time of the year in retail sales to locate a pair of riding boots on sale or clearance.

Riding boots will work perfect in my Kentucky Derby party ideas scheme.

Saturday’s centerpiece will become my new fall fashion boots.

Now that’s getting your money’s worth.

Charlotte Moss – Photography by Brittany Ambridge

Several small arrangements of cut roses set on tabletops continues the Run for the Roses theme.

House & Garden

A combination arrangement of red and white roses perfectly fits in with the Run for the Roses motif.

roses HGTV

Party decorating goes with a clever DIY project, and my list of Kentucky Derby party ideas includes one that is relatively simple to execute.

Fully sanded-ready to paint wood cutouts painted in your choice of color(s) carry out the horse racing theme.

Growing Tree Gallery on Etsy

Scatter about tabletops, prop and position around serving trays, centerpiece embellishments, cake toppers, monogram with party attendees initials as take home favors- you get the idea.

Garden & Gun- Photography by Margaret Houston

Horse racing reigns supreme in Louisville, and the traditional beverage of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby is the Mint Julep.

Ingredients

½ oz. superfine sugar

1 oz. hot water

8 mint leaves, plus one mint sprig

2 oz. bourbon

Directions

Dissolve the sugar in the water in an old-fashioned glass or Mint Julep cup.

Add mint leaves and gently press with a spoon.

Add the bourbon of your choice, fill the glass with crushed ice, and stir.

Place mint sprig in the ice alongside a short straw, and serve.

-Garden & Gun

Acopa Alchemy 16 oz. Stainless Steel Mint Julep Cup with Beaded Detailing

Mock Mint Julep (non-alcoholic julep)

Ingredients

2 cups cold water

2 cups granulated sugar

8 fresh mint sprigs (for syrup)

½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

32 ounces Ginger Ale soda, chilled

8 cups crushed ice

8 fresh mint sprigs for garnish or more to desired taste

Directions

In a large saucepan, bring, water, sugar, lemon juice and mint leaves to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently until sugar is completely dissolved.

Allow mixture to cool.

Strain cooled simple mint syrup and discard mint leaves.

Fill your mint julep cups with crushed ice, ½ cup Ginger Ale soda, and ½ cup mint syrup. Stir to incorporate flavors.

Garnish with fresh mint sprigs.

Makes 8 servings.

Arthur Court Designs Horse Pitcher

Leather Round Decorative Serving Trays with Handles

Horse Drink Stirrers

Please drink responsibly.

Here’s a fun serving idea for other beverages requiring ice cubes- rose petal and fresh mint ice cubes.

Gently remove rose petals and fresh mints leaves from stems and lightly wash to remove any debris.

Place rose petals into each water filled compartment.

Enhance the flavor of mint ice cubes by also adding a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the water.

Better yet, use sweet iced tea infused with fresh lemon juice instead of water.

Freeze and enjoy.

Pick up several nickel-plated serving trays from Dollar Tree in assorted shapes and sizes to use for servings mint juleps and appetizers.

Pimento cheese is a Derby delicacy.

Adding a dash of Creole seasoning or Louisiana hot sauce along with a handful or two of chopped walnuts to store bought pimento cheese brings the c’est si bon to the party.

Stirrup Hors d’oeuvre Forks

Spode Woodland Thoroughbred Horse Dinner Plate

Going through my media files for this post I spotted the gorgeous bowl I sourced for my Mother’s Day Gift Ideas post.

Antique RS Germany Cabbage Leaf Porcelain Bowl

Encore presentation worthy for sure, I feel confident in suggesting the use of vintage beauties such as this one for Kentucky Derby party pieces.

The Kentucky Hot Brown sandwich, a Kentucky original recipe created in 1926 at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, is a perfect Derby Day menu choice.

This recipe from SheKnows plates turkey, bacon, Parmesan cheese, tomatoes and a heavy-handed dollop of bechamel sauce together in all its delicious, rich and Kentucky tradition glory.

Click HERE for recipe.

Heather of Sprinkle Bakes recipe fame comes in first place in the winner’s circle with her recipe for Butter Pecan Praline Cake.

If baking does not fit into your party schedule or itinerary, consider picking up your favorite cake at a local or grocery store bakery and adding embellishments of choice.

Pecan Delight Pie

Pecan Delight pie works, too.

Keep your eyes out for riding helmets and equestrian accents at antiques and resale shops.

Green Velvet, Horse RIDING HELMET/Hat COVER

Perhaps a tip of the hat to a more formal affair prop.

Rio ‘Kentucky Derby’ 16 X 16 Decorative Throw Pillow

Linen/Wood/Foam Equestrian Footstool

Avalon Solid Monogram Wool and Cashmere Throw Decor H Blanket

Kentucky Derby Party Ideas Checklist:

Scrapbook paper in 12×12 sheets found at craft stores make perfect Derby party placemats

Fresh or faux roses

Rose Trim-Tulle

Mint julep cups – a Derby must.

Mint Julep Cups

Silver Horse Cocktail Picks, Set Of 4

Lovely!

Roses Are Red Disposable Lunch Paper Napkins 3-Ply 60 Count Napkins

Fresh mint clippings for mint juleps.

Simple and fragrant, float fresh mint sprigs in clear cut glass bowls slightly filled with warm water.

Dollar store trays with the look of silver.

Tractor Supply meets the Derby need with nickel plated horse bits to use as napkin rings and horseshoes in packs of 4.

Here’s to traditions and celebrating the Run for the Roses with win, place and show-stopping Kentucky Derby party ideas.

Super Bowl Get Together Ideas

Super Bowl get together ideas drive the ultimate game day excitement down the proverbial field.

Current times require a bit of thought regarding to mingle live and in person or to keep your Super Bowl soiree an “in house” family only gathering.

Whichever way you go, Super Bowl entertaining rules of fun, fan, and food revelry remain the same.

“It’s ridiculous for a country to get all worked up about a game—
except the Super Bowl, of course.
Now that’s important.”
—Andy Rooney

My tried-and-true Super Bowl get together ideas entertaining formula consists of three basic components:

Casual.

Comfortable.

Easy.

Regardless if your favorite team is in or is out, as tradition dictates most of us will be joining in on the Super Bowl merriment from the comfort of home- the favorite party zone.

LSU fans proudly rise to the occasion in support for “our” Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals.

Lest we forget, the New Orleans Saints Who Dat Nation cheering on the Cincinnati Bengals Who Dey loyal.

In Louisiana go, Joe, go translates to geaux, Jeaux, geaux.

Cincinnati Bengals

Once a Tiger, always a Tiger.

SUGARFIX by BaubleBar Football Stud Earrings

Even Decoristas who aren’t exactly wild about football excel in seizing the game day to bejewel and bedeck.

Great retail prices at this usually slow time of year following the holidays make picking up an accent here and an accessory tops the Super Bowl get together ideas list.

Samsung 2.1 Ch Soundbar with 290W with Wireless Sub

The next best thing to experiencing the sounds of the Super Bowl live and in person is watching the game in enhanced audio quality.

Roku Streambar | HD/4K/HDR Streaming Media Player & Premium Audio, All in One, and Voice Remote with TV controls

Comfort factors into the game day experience, and comfortable seating options score big points with the crowd.

Excellent price point on this indoor chaise lounge sofa/chair with four color choices.

Man cave-game room ready to go for the big day.

Indoor Chaise Lounge Sofa

Many moons ago when the Canadian snowbird was in junior high we bought him a papasan chair for Christmas.

Fast forward to the following February which found me down and out most of the month with a wicked case of bronchopneumonia.

Getting comfortable escaped me until I dragged his papasan chair from his bedroom to the den and climbed into it.

Absolutely one of the most comfortable chairs I have ever sat-lounged in.

Proves you’re never too old to enjoy a comfortable chair.

International Caravan Bali Papasan Chair with Solid Cushion

Seems everyone I ran around with in junior high school had one of these.

Why do you think these things have been around for year?

Safavieh Manchester Antiqued Brown Tufted Club Chair

Timeless styles, upholstery choices, frames and finishes play well to the overall presence as well as the comfort quotient.

Mid-century modern is hot, and with styles such as these I can see why.

Quinn Swivel Club Chair

Betseyville 20 X 20 Betseys Tiger Throw Pillow Raven Black

Parkland Collection Myra Transitional Black Throw Pillow

Main St. Woven Chair w/ Interlace Weave Fabric & Espresso Finish

Hosting game plans favor spending Super Bowl Sunday knee deep in the fun rather than in a stream of spilled food and drink.

mDesign Steel Single Drawer Side Table and Basket Storage Unit

Spot side tables give a good look, and give guests a spot to place drinks, eats, and devices.

Manila Cylinder Drum Accent Table Gold – Project 62™

Cylinder drum accent tables placed in strategic areas in and around Dave the Builder’s man cave serve a stylish purpose for game day and beyond.

5pc TV Tray Set

Tossing it back to the heyday of the TV tray with an updated color choice is is this 5 piece tray set.

Set up, serve, and store away.

Excellent call.

These bronze finish resin figurines from Hobby Lobby can be used over and over again which makes it a super affordable Super Bowl decorative accent.

In this neck of the woods where mild winters allow magnolia trees, Ligustrum’s, and your basic garden variety greenery to maintain color and growth, cuttings and clippings are readily available for centerpiece arrangements.

The cuttings and clippings make a nice showing on their own, but really kick the look up a notch when mixed with a couple of fresh bouquets from the supermarket floral department.

Another inexpensive decoration involves glass cylinder container(s) from the dollar store and a couple of packages of decorative accent gems with just enough blue to contrast and complement the Rams team color.

Fill containers with crinkle cut paper shreds in team colors.

Top it off with a football and there you go.

It’s not about how much it cost, but the wow factor it creates.

Pick up a pack of coaches/referee whistles for this next idea.

Feed black and white ribbon through the whistle ring and tie around the handles of these black and white ceramic soup mugs in referee fashion.

Serve on black melamine plates or plate charges or ones associated with your team’s colors.

The Best Chili Recipe – Sugar Spun Run

Plastic tubs easily become individual popcorn-nuts-party mix-pretzels holders or fill with ice to create individual beverage tubs.

Dave the Builder and I love In-N-Out Burger.

We go with the eating in the car option complete with lap mats and paper trays.

What better time copy the eating in the car concept than a Super Bowl party.

Scrapbook paper is just the right size and design for lap mats, placemats and coasters.

Football Field Scrapbook Paper – 12″ x 12″

Football Textured Scrapbook Paper

Footballs Scrapbook Paper – 12″ x 12″

I like to buy items that easily fit with other occasions and themes.

Walbest Japanese-style Solid Wooden Walnut Plate

Igloo 5-Gallon Heavy-Duty Beverage Cooler, Orange

Spike the Ball Tea

Ingredients

1 gallon iced tea

1 gallon lemonade

1 750mL bottle honey whiskey

ice

Directions

Combine the iced tea, lemonade, and whiskey in cooler and stir.

Add ice.

Please always drink responsibly.

Football Cooler Glasses- set of 6

These football cooler glasses will carry you through the entire Super Bowl and seasons to come.

Artificial Grass Table Runner

An artificial grass table runner can be used on Super Bowl Sunday as well as springtime gatherings, Easter eggstravaganzas, and bridal showers.

The idea behind the Super Bowl party nosh is to pair good times with good eats.

From a drop by the supermarket spread made for good times and gathering friends to an instant pot-slow cooker feast, easy yet impressive dishes make a taste touchdown.

Boiled crawfish, potatoes, and corn- Louisiana required Super Bowl seafood eatin’.

Throw in lemons, whole onions, and smoked sausage and laissez les bon temps rouler, cher!

Jalapeño Popper Football Cheese Ball Recipe from Peas and Crayons

Clocking time in the kitchen preparing complicated snacks takes you away from the play-by-play action.

Easy is the game plan, so let’s take a look at easy recipes.

Totally Bamboo Football Shaped Bamboo Serving and Cutting Board

Oversized Carved Wood Tray – Hearth & Hand™ with Magnolia

goodness & grace Round Distressed Wood Paddle Board

The ever popular cheese platter and charcuterie board goes into the Super Bowl snack hall of fame.

Variety is the spice of life and the rule of the cheese charcuterie board. Work with what is available, on sale, and in season.

Here’s the items that make the tray:

One sharp, one mild, one soft, and one blue cheese.

Next, I select a trio of in season fresh fruits such as grapes, dates, berries, and apples. Dried apricots and dried cranberries round out the category.

Good olives and pepperoncini complement well, too.

Creole pecans and mixed nuts bring the kick and the crunch.

Place pecans on a baking sheet. Drizzle melted butter over pecans, hit them with a generous sprinkling of Creole seasoning, and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes. Let cool and serve.

Dates, figs, honey and hot pepper bacon are my jam.

An assortment of crackers and breads of your preference.

Pick up a bag of crostini in the bakery department at Walmart, a box or two of the house brand of entertainment cracker selection (good crackers!), and complete the pass me some of those picture with the crowd pleasing trifecta- pretzels, corn, and tortilla chips.

Prosciutto, salami, and thin sliced smoked turkey enter the field as power proteins.

Dip is the official unofficial food of the Super Bowl soiree.

Four quarters, four dip recipes.

Copycat Chili’s Queso (Slow Cooker Version) from Creme de la Crumb is a Super Bowl appetizer tour de force.

This baby is easy, slow cooker easy, and a crowd pleaser.

Copycat Chili’s Queso Dip

Photography by Joe Lingeman – Food Styling by Amelia Rampe

Football and pizza is a natural pairing, and this Easy, Cheesy Hot Pizza dip recipe from The Kitchn is exactly that.

Easy, Cheesy Hot Pizza Dip

A football shaped bread bowl full of dip.

Need I say more?

Click on the link for the how to make instructions and Kale-Artichoke Dip recipe.

Baked Kale Artichoke Dip Recipe from Delish

Don’t be a host/hostess hero, you football animal you.

Pop the top on a few cans of fan favorites Fritos bean dip and jars of salsa and go forth and Super Bowl.

Did someone say wings?

Cooking/frying food in an air fryer is a healthy compromise without any compromise at all.

Food cooks with less fat, faster than traditional methods, is not limited to frying (grills, roasts, bakes), and the best feature- no oil!

Best Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

It’s not a Super Bowl party in Louisiana without a pot of Chicken and Sausage Gumbo.

Carnival season is in full swing with all the fun included and the calories consumed from King Cake parties a conversation for another day.

Standard fare such as grilled or pan fried hamburgers is simple goodness widely received as a Super Bowl party must have.

Pickapeppa Bloody Mary

Ingredients

1 cup Clamato juice

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

1½ teaspoons Pickapeppa Sauce

3 drops Worcestershire Sauce

½ tablespoon ground celery seed

2 ounces vodka, optional

Directions

Fill glass half way with ice. If adding vodka, pour 2 ounces into the glass. Add Clamato juice, lemon juice, Pickapeppa sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and celery seed. Stir well to mix.

Optional spice: kick it up a notch with a generous splash of hot sauce

Garnish with spicy beans, celery stalk, or spicy okra.

Baked Jalapeño Cheese Fries – Simply Delicious

Here again is the easy way to go with sides.

Crank up the oven, follow the package directions, mix up dipping sauces in sweet and savory flavors, add to individual ramekins (COVID safety practices and general double dipping penalties), and serve.

Good old fried chicken from the deli department of your local grocery store qualifies as a can’t go wrong choice of game day offerings.

Games people play before, during, and after the game-

Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Handheld Microphone

Super Bowl Bingo

Leftover wrapped candy from the holidays?

Count out the candy pieces, do the same with plastic football beads you can find at hobby stores, throw it all together in a big jar, and let guests guess how many is in the jar for a prize.

Show a classic football flick on the big screen TV post game entertainment.

Options rule the field and Super Bowl get together ideas.

If the jar idea fails to score, load up a football pinata for an outdoor activity.

Whatever works for you works best for your Super Bowl get together.

That’s the winning point of these Super Bowl get together ideas.

Independence Day Into Night Party Plan Objective

The Places In The Home Independence Day into night party plan objective is all about a cozy at home celebration.

Slow and easy is the theme accentuated by pops of patio and patriotic color, farm to table delights, and staying cool while celebrating Independence Day.

Let me share with you what my it’s not rocket science Independence Day into night party plan objective is all about.

Art.com

Well of course music and perhaps a twirl around the patio will be involved.

This photo tells illustrates a belief of mine which is fashions and music may change, but gathering together to enjoy summer patio fun is a timeless tradition that never will.

While we’re on the subject of blast from the past fun…

Let’s put on our dancing shoes and boogie down to the cornerstone of the any party playlist.

Macramé is making a comeback, and this macramé swing chair is a comfortable and fashionable flashback to the swingin’ late 60s into the mid 70s and pure patio party fun.

ZENSTYLE Beige Hanging Cotton Rope Macramé Hammock Chair Swing

House Beautiful

Setting a cozy party scene is not a complicated process.

Comfortable seating is a necessity, and options range from modern to vintage chairs, settees, swings, rockers, and sit-upons (remember, Girl Scouts?).

Natural Woven Wicker Antalya Outdoor Chair

Just add a red, white, and/or blue decorative pillow to keep with the holiday festivities, a refreshing beverage, and good company and you’ve got yourself a stylish rest and relaxation haven for unwinding on the 4th of July.

More super cute outdoor throw pillows in colors and patterns 4th of July adjacent afford an all summer long vibe.

Mainstays Outdoor Pillows

Shop what’s in home for accents and accessories.

Houndstooth Throw – Design Imports

Throw blankets, for example, in party palette colors, patterns, and textures serve their intended purpose, but also make a handsome tablecloth.

Mainstays Plaid Throw Blanket

Isadora Floral Quilted Throw Blue – Levtex Home

Yes, I’m well aware this next party idea is an oldie but a goodie suggestion, and with good reason.

One Kings Lane

Distinctive candle holders and battery-operated votive candles continue to be the ideal choice of party lighting.

For the sake of flicker to flame safety, select outdoor LED battery -operated votive or pillar candles, pop in a hanging candle holder or ten, and prepare to be entranced by the affordable, simple, and positively elegant look created.

Another reason I love to use and suggest battery-operated candles is the convenience involved.

Turn the candle(s) on and forget about it until time to call it a night.

Our star-spangled celebration menu takes a celebratory cue from the best part of the summertime bounty- fresh from the farmers market fruits and vegetables.

Southern Living – Photo by Beth Dreiling Hontzas

This Berry Splash recipe from Southern Living is summer celebration delicious and family friendly.

Peaches for eating, peaches for drinking.

Summer Fruit Daiquiri Recipe

A star-spangled theme is instantly recognizable as the traditional theme of 4th of July celebrations.

In keeping with tradition, the American flag meets and greets neighbors and friends.

FOLK

Decorating with items such as fabric and serveware in a broader range of holiday patterns and colors gives you a more than one use option.

Red Beaded Melamine Dinner Plate

Royal Norfolk Blue Floral Dinner Plate

You can never go wrong with the versatile red plastic party cup.

Patterns, activities, colors and celebrations generally associated with the summer months give great inspiration.

Pick a favorite as your 4th of July party ideas theme foundation and go 4th from there.

Dottie Clear Acrylic 17 oz. Drink Glass

Preparing a charcuterie board paired with party accessories with red, white, and blue fruits, meats, and cheeses is a taste of America winner.

Cherry tomatoes, blueberries, red grapes, deli meats, white cheeses and nuts- you get the idea.

Serving in style.

Addison 3-shelf Multi-use Cart by Greyson Living

Fabric closeouts are a great source for affordable and stylish patterns to use as tablecloths, table runners, napkins, basket and serving dish liners.

For those who like to get your money’s worth out of accents and party accessories, the white palm leaf tassel napkin ring from Hobby Lobby fits well with most summer occasions.

Tassel napkin ring not your thing?

Go with a decorative braided rope ribbon in your choice of color.

Premium Floral Collection Harper & Violet Hydrangea 2-Wick Candle

Blooming blue hydrangeas from the yard of a very generous and giving neighbor star in the centerpiece arrangement along with small American flags.

Ramekins filled with popcorn and garnished with Nestle Crunch bars (red, white, and blue wrapper inspired) is about as easy as it gets.

Simple.

Affordable.

Appropriate.

Keeping it super summer simple, baby!

Desserts & Recipes

Williams-Sonoma

Oh, I almost forgot to tell you about a dessert I made for Father’s Day that was a crowd pleaser.

Two go-to fluff salads, Watergate and Orange Pineapple, fall off the summer salad season rotation because by the time Thanksgiving into Christmas holidays roll past I’ve pretty much had my fill of these two.

Banana pudding or a delicious improved variation of it is summer dessert perfect.

Banana Pudding Fluff

Ingredients

1 3.4 ounce package instant vanilla pudding

1½ cups milk

1 8 ounce container whipped topping

3 bananas, peeled and sliced

1-2 cups mini marshmallows

20 vanilla wafers, crushed

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

Whisk pudding mix, milk, and ground cinnamon in a large bowl. Let mixture stand a couple of minutes in order to firm up.

Fold in whipped topping.

Add mini marshmallows, crushed vanilla wafers, and sliced bananas.

Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Ice Cream Cupcakes Recipe

Lemon Icebox Pie Ice Cream

Ingredients

3 to 4 lemons

2 cups half-and-half

1 (14-oz.) can sweetened condensed milk

3/4 cup coarsely crushed graham crackers

Directions

Grate zest from lemons to equal 1 Tbsp. Cut lemons in half; squeeze juice from lemons into a measuring cup to equal 1/2 cup.

Whisk together half-and-half, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice. Pour mixture into freezer container of a 1 1/2-qt. electric ice-cream maker, and freeze according to manufacturer’s instructions. (Instructions and times may vary.)

Stir in graham cracker crumbs and lemon zest; transfer to an airtight container. Freeze 2 hours before serving.

-Southern Living via My Recipes

Royal Norfolk Lemon-Printed Stoneware Salad Plates

I knew I would find the right opportunity to order the Royal Norfolk Lemon-Printed Stoneware salad plates, and the lemon icebox pie ice cream waffle cone sandwiches is it.

Serving this summer approved dessert on these melamine lemon salad plates (first cousin to the appetizer/dessert plate) is keeping with the theme of fresh ways to make a presentation.

After all, we do eat with our eyes first.

America Buffalo Check Table Runner

An easy Independence Day into night party plan objective works in concert with summer fun, delicious dishes, and stylish accessories that won’t break the bank.

Outdoor living spaces furnished to the hilt in summer style with creature comforts in mind deliver just that- summer style.

That’s how we snap, crackle and pop a 4th of July party in the USA at Places In The Home.

By the Sea Table Setting Ideas

This decorista is feeling the by the sea table setting ideas vibe.

For those of us who look for any opportunity to show off our tablescape chops, the summer entertaining season is opportunity supreme.

There’s something about the combination of a summer day into afternoon or evening, good friends, great food, and a table set in by the sea style.

Yes, social distancing will guide the guest list and seating arrangement, but hosting a summer soiree we will be.

This post has become packed like a beach bag with sources and suggestions, requiring it to be split into two by the sea place setting ideas parts.

If summer entertaining in coastal style is your thing, grab a cool beverage, get comfy, and settle in.

Before we set the table, let me set the scene:

An interesting article in Better Homes & Gardens highlights findings from the book Blue Mind by author and marine biologist Wallace J. Nichols.

Blue mind is the reflective and peaceful state experienced as result of being on, in, or by a body of water. Research backs up the author’s theory of proving how being on, in, or by a body of water as in lake, river, sea or ocean bolsters happiness.

Replicating a day or evening at the coast, beach or seashore in the form of tablescape set with striking place settings and tablewares engages the senses of sight, touch, taste, and sound, promotes visual happiness, and gives those who love to set a gorgeous table a stylish dose of vitamin sea.

Architectural Digest

By the sea table setting ideas, indoor or alfresco, serve as a passport to dining adventures where the dining table top becomes an inspired canvas.

Elle

Visually interesting, unexpected, and conversation worthy pieces in colors and patterns not typically associated with the tablescape theme at hand is a fun and fresh way to approach place settings and serving pieces.

From coastal casual to elegantly formal to whatever floats your by the sea boat, well-appointed table setting options remain the best friend of the entertaining decorista.

Mary Hannah Interiors

Let’s by the sea table set, shall we?

Placemats and chargers made of natural materials such as wicker, water hyacinth, sisal and seagrass are decorating chameleons, and by that I mean they adapt beautifully to the style situation they are in.

Sisal Leaf Placemat in Natural

Petal Fiber Flower-Shaped Placemat

Round Capiz Periwinkle Placemat

Food Network Resin Wicker Charger

Faux Wood Charger Plates

The Pottery Barn Shell-Rimmed Charger is a shell of a good charger inspiration for a by the sea place setting accent.

Shell-Rimmed Charger Plate – Pottery Barn

Pier 1 has this Shell Border Natural Charger ($17.99 + tax), however, still somewhat pricey when you need several to set the table.

I’m thinking a knock your sandals off knockoff DIY project option may be a stylish alternative.

Woven chargers as well as plastic chargers in your choice of color create the canvas.

Lay out your choice of seashells to get the pattern and sizing right.

You may prefer the look of the shells placed at the edge of the charger, in one concentrated area of the charger, or covering the entire rim in an impressive mix and pattern.

Once you get the placement and look to your liking, go ahead and place a dinner plate on the charger to make sure there is another clearance between the edge of the plate and the shells.

Stack a salad plate atop the dinner plate to make sure it too clears the shells.

**A hot glue gun is just that, hot. Use caution and protect your fingers.**

Using a hot glue gun, glue each shell to the charger.

Prepare to impress.

After all, isn’t that the point?

Pier 1 stores will be closing soon, and their Going Out of Business Sale is currently underway.

There’s no time like the present to add dinnerware, placemats, napkins, and chargers from the sale to your place settings inventory.

Blue & White Capiz Shell Charger Plate

Beaded Aqua Round Placemat

Glitz Beaded Silver Placemat

Blue Embroidered Placemat

Food Network™ Solid Round Placemat 4-pack

Braided Flower Placemat

Frank Pitman Designs

Not all residential dining rooms or outdoor areas are lucky enough to come with an authentic by the sea view, but don’t let that detail impede the by the sea details.

Lacquer Square Charger Plate, Set of 6, Silver

Seashells are brimming with by the sea color, texture and pattern inspiration.

Flickr

The distinctive colors, textures, and pattern play of the conch shell horn.

Tales and truths of lustrous pearls found at sea.

Amina Dinner Plate

Reactive Gray Dinnerware

I love the colors in the Amina dinner plate from Crate & Barrel as the palette is reminiscent of the colors found in seashells by the seashore.

You can spend a pretty penny on dinner plates, and understandably so in some settings, but when a stylish pattern or color is available on the shelves of the dollar store and gives a good look, why would you?

Royal Norfolk Turquoise Swirl Stoneware Dinner Plates

Affordable options such as the Royal Norfolk Turquoise Swirl Stoneware dinner plate make a solid style base to build your by the sea place setting upon.

Coastal Home Small Sea Urchin Bowl

Color choices need not be too matchy-matchy.

Contrast keeps things visually interesting.

Hand Painted Coral Embossed Glass Side Plate, Aqua, Set of 2

I like to color, texture, and pattern outside the lines of what traditionally identifies the coastal look.

Vietri Earth Glass Dinner Plate

Celebrate Summer Together Beaded Placemat

Coastal Living® Dinner Plate in Teal

Reactive Glaze Salad Plate, Set of 4, Celadon

Primrose Gold Dinner Plate

Julo Blue and White Salad Plate

Ruffled Gold Rim Salad Plates, Set of 4

Place setting accents and accessories in Louisiana Gulf Coast fashion incorporate the style of home.

Cronk Duch Architecture

Blue and white with shades of gray.

Need I say more?

Royal Norfolk Classic White Round Stoneware Dinner Plates, 10.5 in.

IMPULSE! Fantasy Crystal Clear Small Salad Plates – Set of 6

Larissa Plate

Round Deniz Flower Silver Glass Charger Plate

Mercer Grey Round Appetizer Plates, Set of 8

When I was sourcing items for this post, I could not get immediately happy with the placemat selections in the coastal category.

Much to my delight, I came across this Oisin Sea Creature placemat which set into motion a sourcing session with not your average by the sea place setting options in mind.

Royal Norfolk Classic Black Stoneware Dinner Plate, 10.5 in.

Nippon Black Dessert Plate – Lines

Amari Ceramic Plate

Luxe Interiors +Design

Sea Sponge 4 Piece Charger Set

Penzo Dinner Plate Feathers with Gold Rim

Denby Dinnerware, Halo Wide Rimmed Dinner Plate Set of 4

Julo Blue and White Dinner Plate

Seaside Small Oyster 6.5″ Bread Plate (Set of 4)

Although a red, white, and blue palette is more closely associated with a nautical theme, it is 4th of July appropriate for a by the sea table setting.

Hanabi 12 Piece Dinnerware Set, Service for 4

Kiaan 4 Piece Dinner Plate Set

Decorative Tortoise Shell Metal Plates -Blue

Gold leaf oyster shell salt and pepper cellars add a touch of unique by the sea elegance to the tabletop.

Gold Leaf Oyster Shell Salt and Pepper Cellars

As far as flatware patterns go, I’ve sourced several color, texture and pattern selections in various price points and styles.

Reed & Barton® Gloucester Shell 5-Piece Flatware Place Setting

Towle Living Abbott Gold Plated Forged 16-Piece Flatware Set

20-Piece Bamboo-Style Flatware Service

Inox Copper Antique Sundance Design 5-piece Flatware Set

House Beautiful – Photo Björn Wallander

Blenko 384 Cosmos Water Bottle

Target

Libbey® Cobalt Blue Goblets Set of 12

Handmade Glass Tall Tortoise Shell Drinking Glasses (Set of 6)

Hive LA Home

Organic Teak Wood Decorative Bowl

Still Teak Wood and Black Resin Bowl – Tamarind Wood Server

2-Piece Sadye Resin Salad Server Set

Crofton Round Wood Tray

Seafood Shell Baking Dish

Acacia Wood 4-Piece Calabash Bowl Set

Planters and urns make super chic additions to your coastal tablescape or themed home bar.

Guava Outdoor Urn

Vintage fish plate sets, platters, and cutlery sets make such a pretty place setting.

Martha Stewart

On one of our treasure hunting trips over to Houston, Dave and I lucked up on an antiques shop specializing in English smalls (china, silver, decorative accessories).

Etsy

I bought a divine service for 12 fish service with platter and a set of fish knives and forks for a phenomenal price.

We were big eBay sellers at the time, so listed they were.

Dave tried to convince me to keep the service, but I reasoned we would come across more of the same in our hunts.

We have, but not of the quality or the fabulous price.

Live and learn.

Limoges Fish Plates Set

Variegated colors.

Patterns and textures created by nature’s wonder.

Salt kissed air.

A symphony of sea waves.

Place settings, serveware, and tabletop accessories in a by the sea theme set a coastal scene and seen.

Next up in this By the Sea Table Setting Ideas series is serving pieces, table linens, a simple DIY project idea, and tabletop accessories.

Sea you then.

Home Bar Styling Ideas

Home bar styling ideas serve up a concoction of chic and stylish options for accessorizing a bar cart, accent cabinet or table, bookshelf, countertop, media cabinet, tailgate, antique armoire, or atop a mid-century modern credenza.

Better Homes & Gardens

Styling a home bar works off the same principle applied to styling a coffee table.

Silverwing Interiors

Monkey Bar Tool Set

Monkey Cocktail Shaker

StyleCraft Ravena Standing Monkey Table Lamp

Monkey Cheese Board

The mix and the marvel is in details, proportion, and placement.

KNOF design

Stunning options serve a refreshing look and frame a unique home bar area.

Designer Darryl Carter’s Townhouse – One Kings Lane

The style of Darryl Carter is absolutely genius.

Where one sees an antique desk, a keen eye sees a piece better utilized as a distinctive home bar.

Antique Heavily Carved Mahogany Executive Desk Cowan Circa 1900

Elliot Decanter

Antique Decorative Books for Dark Academic Decor

A&B Home Clear Glass Decanter

Beige Polystone Vintage Sculpture

X marks the center spot which is the prime location for a medium or low height object placement.

Blakely Interior Design

The outer areas balance the method with graduated heights to continue the flow and engage the eye.

Havilande Whitcomb Design

Thornbill 2 Shelf Serving Cart Black

My Domaine – Design by Zoe Feldman– Photo by Stacy Zarin Goldberg

Diamond Decanter with Glass Stopper

Punk Whiskey Decanter and Double Old Fashioned Set

Cheers to the home team.

La Rochere Fleur de Lys Tall Tumblers, Set of 6

NFL New Orleans Saints Commissioner Glass Set of 2

Antique Brass and Glass Ice Bucket

Julia Reed – One Kings Lane

Perley Traditional Glass Bar Cart with Shelves by Christopher Knight Home

It’s all in the bar cart accessories details.

Polished French Pastry Table With Marble Top and Metal Finials

Vera White Marble Top 36 in. High Bar Table

Whiskey Glass (Set of 4)

Accessorizing the bar cart, cabinet, tray, or tabletop proves an entertaining and easy endeavor when you have a theme to build upon.

Artistic Designs for Living

Qualia Artisan Highball Glasses in Black (Set of 4)

Fornasetti Trumeau Archittettura Black and White Handcrafted Wood

Appetizers, anyone?

Easy Gravlax Appetizer

Play up your cocktail corner of the world by introducing whimsical finds and unique additions.

Ginger Barber Interior Design

West Natural Cane Bar Cabinet

Rattan Ice Bucket

Victoria Magazine
Photography by Stephanie Welbourne Steele
Styling by Jan Ware

Silver Wine Goblets

Dark Agate Ice Bucket

Cocktails and conversation pieces make for a visually interesting mix.

Achieve a smooth and stylish blend by mingling classic barware tools and essentials with accents and accessories of various time periods and decorating styles to create contrast, conversation, and home bar banter.

I use my vintage Antoine’s creamer as a jigger which never fails to start the “where did you get this?” conversation.

Nicole Forina Home

Dublin 5-Piece Wine Set

Domino

Decorative items steeped in whimsy garnish the home bar with a splash of fun.

Form Collective

Chairish

Set of 4 Double Old-Fashioned Glasses

Rabbit Head Ice Bucket

Cocktail stirrers, straws, mixology tools and accessories house well in candy dishes.

Cillian Rabbit Dish, Pink

Hubert Zandberg Interiors

Picket House Furnishings Lucca Bar Cart in Chrome

Spectrum Decanter

Hatch Cocktail Glass

Gilt Framed Oil Painting On Board Of Foxhound Hunting Dogs Signed

Domino

Take the party and the home bar styling ideas outside.

A Weathered Sea Captain Oil Painting Reproduction Print

Hammered Stainless Steel Party Tub with Carrying Handles

Godinger Whiskey Decanter

Theme decorating is a Bahama breeze when it comes to coming up with decorative touches to bring the look together.

Consider using a decorative clam shell for housing cocktail garnishes, stirrers, or salt/sugar rimmers.

House Beautiful – Photo by Matt Albiani

Addison 3 Shelf Cart

Handwoven Rattan Sailboat

5-Piece Anchor Bar Tool Set

Seaside Moby Whale Bottle Opener

Reimagine the purpose of a dresser, chest or console as a distinctive home bar piece.

Martha Stewart – Photo by Pieter Estersohn

Drawers become excellent housing options for barware, tools, linens, and glassware.

House Beautiful

Italian Walnut Chest

Spode Kingsley Wine Glass-Set of 4

Glassware and decanters cut heavy in color, pattern and texture introduce a curated quality.

EBTH

Inverted Thistle Glass Pitcher, Amethyst

Better Homes & Gardens

Vintage Etched Goblets

Vintage Etched Wine Decanter

Godinger Dublin Wine Decanter

Bella Designs Studio

Pour, mix, and mingle in modern style.

Tall Arched Antique Gold Metal Framed 3-Tier Mirrored Shelf

Bar shelves- love it!

Amanda Reynal Interiors

Handmade Blown Glass Blue Blossoms Glasses Set of 6

Godinger Dublin Goblet – Set of 4

You’ll never make a decor misstep with classic blue and white porcelain vases and accents.

Plum Blossom Ginger Jar

Jennifer 25.25″ Ceramic LED Table Lamp, Blue (Set of 2) by JONATHAN Y

AGK Design Studio

Top Shelf 12.5-Inch Double Wall Round Bar Tray

The secret to successful entertaining is creating ambiance.

A space drenched in simple yet elegant ambiance is festive, comfortable, cozy, and inviting- an entertaining cocktail hour/party win.

Martha Stewart – Photography by Paul Costello

This image exemplifies just that as the simple yet elegant touches set the tone and the style for an evening of sips and toasts.

Dorset Toasting Flutes, Set of 2

Aluminum Stand-Alone Wine Cooler

Etched Floral Coupe Glasses, Set of 4

Statement Glassware

DesignStyles Acrylic Folding Tray Table

House Beautiful

Console Table

Ellis Art Print 23 Beautiful Antique Sea Ocean Red Coral

Murano Cranberry Blown Glass Bowl

Cobalt Red Blenko Pitcher

Viv All Purpose Big Wine Glasses, Set of 8

Palm Beach Tray Red – Johar Furniture

Console, cabinet, chest, or cart- cheers to the glamorously chic home bar, stylish and responsible entertaining and the holiday sip and social season.

Gabor Gold Bar Cart with Lower Shelf

Dorset Martini Mixer

Real Simple

DIY Ice Bucket Project Perfection from Rachel Hollis

Pryce Gold Glassware

Vintage Heisey Paneled 22 kt Gold Accent Candy Dish

$https://brandcycle.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=115&aff_id=2671&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.anrdoezrs.net%2Flinks%2F7921344%2Ftype%2Fdlg%2Fsid%2FA{affiliate_id}O{offer_id}TID{transaction_id}%2Fhttps%3A%2F%2Fwww.overstock.com%2FHome-Garden%2Fangelo-HOME-Alcott-3-Tier-Bar-Cart%2F28135201%2Fproduct.html%3Frefccid%3DT4GQL2YZDESK2LKDHD44BZF6JQ%26searchidx%3D6%26kwds%3Dacrylic%2520bar%2520cart%26rfmt%3D$

angelo:HOME Alcott 3-Tier Gold Metal Bar Cart

Hand Cut and Polished Orson Decanter

Godinger Ceska Century Whiskey Decanter

Antique Dudson Dancing Hours Pitcher

Anchor Hocking Fairfield Green Glass Pedestal Bowl

Making spirits bright this holiday social season starts with the well-appointed home bar.

House & Home

For the holiday season, entertain replacing decanter tops with glass ornaments for a festive touch.

Christmas Time In The City Dessert Plate

Melania 9 oz. Stemmed Wine Glass

EBTH

The Pioneer Woman Amelia Goblet, Rose

Signature Design by Ashley Clarkburn Bar Cart

Royal Guard Whiskey Decanter

Bottle Brush Trees Water Globe

Allison Elebash Interior Design

Pemberly Row Modern 3-Shelf Glass and Metal Bar Cart in Satin Gold

Set of 6 Bohemian Crystal Style Cut Czech Tumbler Set

The essential pop of color welcomes style home.

Southern Living

8×10 Oil Painting of a Rooster

Rooster Table Lamp

Vintage Rooster Tole Tray

Colorful Murano Style Artistic Glass 11 in. Tall Traditional Rooster

Southern in tradition with just the right blend of flavors to season the sip and serve hour, this recipe for easy-to-make Homemade Cheese Straws
will become a must have appetizer accompaniment to the cocktail hour.

Domino – Photography by Eric Piasecki
Architecture by Gil Schafer – Design by Rita Konig

Frisco Tray Table in Slate

Old Colony Furniture Co. Faux Bamboo Butler’s Bar Cart

Light Woven Oval Tray

Rattan Scallop Deep Ottoman Tray

Set of 6 Whiskey Neat Note Cards – Lana’s Shop

In Spirits of the Holiday Style-

Domino – Photography by Cassandra Monroe

Handcarved Land & Sky Buffet By Anthropologie in Grey

White Stoneware Plates with Gold Rims, 8 in.

Large Gold Hammered Serving Tray

Domino- Photography by Josh Yöung Design House

Altered Vintage Oil Portrait

Dublin Triangle Decanter

Early 20th Century Williamsport Furniture Chinese Chippendale Dresser

Studded Glass Decanter by Viski

Preserved Cedar Foliage

DIY chic is always in old-fashioned fashion for a curated home bar cart, cabinet or corner.

DIY Painted Abstract Brushstroke Ice Bucket

Majestic Gifts Inc. S/6 Glass Highball Tumblers

Thorold 2 Door Square Accent Cabinet

Dublin 5-Piece Wine Set

Red Pinecone Cut Goblets

Qualia Bling Martini Glasses (Set of 2)

House & Garden – Photo by Dean Hearne

Wilshire Decanter, Red

Small his and hers Santa mugs become super cute shot glasses.

Wembley Drink Holder Christmas Bulbs 4pk Gift

Sipping in a Winter Wonderland.

Snowflake Dinnerware

Snacks go well with seasonal cocktails, and the clear candy kiss dishes house nuts, pretzels, etc… in holiday fashion.

bar mix

Candy Dish Collection from Godinger

Southern Living – Photography by Kat Teutsch / Big Leo

Stud Decanter

4pk Porcelain Wexford Dinner Plates

Haglund Bar/Letters Snack 3 Piece Nut Bowl Set

Acopa Alchemy Hammered Stainless Steel Mint Julep Cup- Set of 4

Southern Living

Boxwood Garland

Hudson Grace Double Champagne Bucket

Luttrell Indoor Aluminum Handcrafted Champagne Cooler

Viv Champagne Glasses, Set of 8

HomArt – Long Match Box Set of 2 – Oh, Christmas Tree

Winter Drinks: 70 Essential Cold-Weather Cocktails

3 Gallon Dispenser

Britta Optic 3-Gallon Punch Bowl

6pk Cotton Oh What Fun Embroidered Cocktail Napkins – Threshold™

Dollar store nickel-plated serving trays make a lovely presentation and prove budget-friendly.

I use these trays for everything from serving trays to cocktail napkin holders to coasters.

Waiting on Martha

Cyan Design Roscoe Tray Roscoe 18.5″ Diameter Metal Tray – Nickel

Royal Brierley Honeysuckle Crystal Bowl

The art of modern farmhouse style courtesy of casually elegant pieces.

Saluti II Black Metal Frame Cage with 3-Wood Shelves Oval Bar Cart

Vintage Seltzer Bottles

John Wayne Signature Decanter 23Oz

American Icon Buffalo Sculpture

Sheep Head Wall Décor

Rue Magazine – Photo by Adam Jablonski

Clear Dark Leather Strap Wine Cooler

Squirrel Candy – Nut Bowl

Pumpkin Wood Bowl

Caballero Horse Spoon Rest

Thoughtful bar accessories include accents to set the tone for home bar styling ideas.

Antiqued Copper-Finish Shaker & Jigger

Acopa Alchemy 14 oz. Straight Sided Hammered Copper Moscow Mule Mug

Tuscany Classics – Whiskey 3pc Set

This cow cheese board with rooster knife covers the cut, slice, or spread of farmhouse, garnishes, and cocktail bites.

Brushed Buffalo Plaid Plates, Set of 4

Super cute idea for a farmhouse style home bar shot glass or jigger.

Pewter Cow Creamer

Home Bar FYI:

Shot glasses range in size from 1 to 1¼ to 1½ ounces.

A pony shot equals 1 fluid ounce.

A jigger equals 1½ fluid ounces.

Tom Beckbe

Olive Wood Lemon Reamer

Slesinski Design Group, Inc.

Icy Pine Clear Champagne Ice Bucket

Pine Cone and Crystal Table Lamp

12″ Diameter Aluminum Ice Bucket with Scoop

Stag Cocktail Shaker

House Beautiful – Photo by Douglas Friedman

Lodge Whiskey Glass

Horn Handled Ice Scoop

Fashioned after a classic.

2 Door Accent Chest with Molded Rectangular Accents, White and Black

Lismore Black Collection

Eiffel Tower Goblet Pair

Accents by Jay Square Tray with Handles

Lucia Swirled Glass Decanter

Luxurious Highball Cocktail Sparkling”Diamond” Studded Glasses

New York City Skyline Trinket Tray

Bliss at Home – Bloglovin’

Regency Eagle Bevel Mirror

Brass and Glass Bar Cart with Acorn Finials

Voyager Pink Turntable

Leopard Accent Plates – Set of 4

2xhome Designer Transparent Dining Chairs

Leopard Lumbar Pillow Cover

Gold Leopard Glam Table Lamp – (Set of 2 )

Better Homes and Gardens

Whetzel Bar Cart

Drinking with Chickens: Free-Range Cocktails For The Happiest Hour

S/6 Las Flores Coaster Set, Ivory/Multi

Fred Press 22K Gold Curtain Tassel Rope Design Mid Century Highball Tumblers

Jax 14 oz. Pink Crystal Highball Glasses (Set of 4)

Victorian chic at the cocktail hour- this large brass hand clip will be clever and chic as a cocktail napkin holder.

American Brilliant Period Water Wine Liquor Decanter Carafe

Ellipse Decanter

Gatsby Carafe

Badash Crystal Chelsea Ice Bucket

Dublin Ice Bucket

Badash Hemmingway Pitcher

Glam meets old Hollywood meets modern day must have.

Carson Carrington Ullnasnoret Scalloped Velvet Arm Chair

Oliver Gal Press For Cocktails Decorative Throw Pillow

Louisiana lagniappe reflects a sense of home state home which reflects a sense of my personal style.

StyleCraft Grey with Whitewash Wooden Cabinet with Mirror Design

Alligator Bottle Opener

Arthur Court Designs Alligator Pitcher

Arthur Court Alligator Pilsner Glasses

High Chancellor Crocwell portrait Serving Tray

Southern entertaining and the home bar go together like Tabasco and tomato juice.

Southern Living

Take the home bar styling ideas outdoors.

Cocktails on the front or the back porch strike a chord of Southern charm.

I love how a bit of imagine results in an outdoor grill becoming a Bloody Mary bar accessorized with vintage serving pieces of silver, crystal, pottery, and porcelain.

Bali Collection Glass Carafe, All Natural Handwoven Rattan Wrapping

Sea Grass Sleeve Tumblers

Arthur Court Designs Magnolia Ice Measuring Scoop

Southern Comfort Set of Four 22K Gold and Aqua Riverboat Highball Tumblers

Traeger x Williams Sonoma Cocktail Mix, Smoked Bloody Mary

Southern Living Idea House – Crane Island

Global Caravan™ Marari Rattan Bar Cart in Natural

Cane Mixing Bowl by Mason Cash

Glitter Guide

A Mardi Gras mambo always adds Louisiana style to the mix and the mingle.

Giada Acrylic Wine Glass – Green – Large

Thomas Jayne – One Kings Lane

Vintage Culver Mardi Gras Jester Glasses

Whiskey Glass (Set of 4)

Glass “Elixir” Bottle

French Pierrot Jewelry Box, Ceramic Sad Clown Figure Trinket Dish

Swint 6.5″ Appetizer Plate (Set of 4)

Domino

Everything old is new and in style again.

Ryker Chestnut Brown Stain and Pale Satin Gold Panels Two-Door Cabinet

Nourison 17″ Sleek Modern Iron Mushroom Table Lamp – Silver

Howard Miller Open Cellar II Solid Wood Foyer Liquor Cabinet

Jack Nicholson @ China Town Framed Print

Furniture of America Sene Contemporary Rolling Buffet

Race Car Cocktail Shaker

Tortoiseshell Resin Wine Cooler

Marq Burl Wood Trays

Man Walks Coasters

Jaxson Barware

Burl Wood Rectangular Tray

Multiwood Serving Board

Mid Century Orange Party Bowl

“Another Round” Tumbler Glass

Franklin Double Old-Fashioned Glass

Cocktails and conversation take place around unique home bar pieces.

Steven Sclaroff

Accents mix well together to create ambiance and flow.

Simple Designs Mini Ceramic Globe Table Lamp, Black

A small accent lamp layers a enhanced soft light, and a chic set of appetizer plates (salad plates work well, too) frame a tasty nip and nosh.

Black & White Medallion Stoneware Salad Round Plates, 4 Pack

Fire Truck 10-Pc. Bar Tool Set

Radius Decanter

Hendrick Interiors

Serge 2 Door Accent Cabinet

SILVER ART Airplane Base Shot Glass

Brixton 12-Ounce Rocks Glass

Black Dashed-Pattern Cooler Glasses

Vintage-Like Airplane Set of 4 Napkins

Hip Vintage Rod Hand Cut and Polished Glass Decanter

Steady-Temp 8 oz. Martini Glass

Stainless-Steel Cocktail Picks, Set of 6

Stainless Steel Martini Picks (Set of 6)

Degroff Silver Cocktail Shaker

Hammered Stainless-Steel Champagne Bucket

Before many of us became smarter and healthier and the laws of the land changed, the ash tray was part of the cocktail bar landscape.

Mid Century Ceramic Shoe Ashtray

A vintage ash tray repurposed as a cocktail spoon or stirrer holder makes a great conversation piece.

Antique Silver Sentiment Pitcher

Hammered Candy / Nut Bowl

Stovetop Sugar Free Candied Nuts

Entertain these home bar styling ideas for a finished result that’s one part glamour, one part personal style, and one part fabulous now being served.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the product links I have an affiliate relationship with and make a purchase from the retailer, I receive a commission from the sale.

A Gouda Idea: Fall Entertaining

Those of you who are in fall entertaining, pumpkin, color, sweater, and comfy throw heaven, please do share, show, and tell with us what fall looks like in your corner of the world.

Hey There Pumpkin Welcome Mat

Our Canadian snowbird son called home this past Saturday to show and tell what fall looks like in his corner of the world.

He and his lovely wife were welcoming several friends in for an evening of fall entertaining featuring fireside cocktails and fall themed food and drink.

We discussed what cocktails and dishes would be served, the fall decor touches his bride was adding to the mantel, how good of an idea it was for his mom to suggest a first fire of the season to warm up both home and hearth, and at the moment it just happened to be snowing.

Louisiana temperatures can’t see fit to drop below 83 degrees with 98% humidity.

Meanwhile, the Canadian snowbird is not only enjoying fall, but winter to boot (or should I say aboot).

Cool, crisp, and cold weather signals it’s time to pull out the blankets and throws, start a fire in the fireplace, bedeck the abode to fit the seas