The Best Party: Classic or Casual?

Which kind of party do you prefer, classic or casual? Whether you lean towards invitation only or spur-of-the-moment, how comfortable you feel at the event can make or break your experience. Living along the Gulf Coast, I've been invited to - and hosted - every kind of party. The occasions range from Mardi Gras balls to football tailgates to crawfish boils. Just like every guest is individual, every party is unique. Here are a few ideas for your next party!

The Best Party: Classic or Casual? on Polyvore

Shabby chic tablescape

Unique lighting for dinner party

Flower-filled tablescape

Tailgate party fun

Football snacks and drinks

Formal table with fine china 

and heirloom silverware

Unique fall centerpiece

Formal affair with

chandeliers and tall vases

Special touches of white roses 

and mercury glass 

Lily Pulitzer-inspired table

Outdoor movie party

Back porch bar

Mini champagne bottles

The perfect combination

of gold and silver

Grownup Treehouse

As we head into summer, my sweetest memories are of my children always playing outdoors. And their treehouse was their special summer hangout. In our backyard, we had a simple playhouse built on piers beside our pool. It's seen little use as my daughters have grown. But now it's a "happening place" again. My youngest teenage daughter decided it would make a great place for her and her friends to sleep in overnight. So my husband took it on as a project. He insulated it, put up beadboard walls and wired it for electricity. In a few years, it may not be used for sleepovers, but it will be a great studio for me to write and paint. A "grownup treehouse" is definitely in my future!

Grownup Treehouse on Polyvore

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