Friday, June 27, 2014

Fiesta Friday: Minted Watermelon Cocktail

Happy Friday Friends! Friday's should always be a day to celebrate. It's the end of the work week and the beginning of a fun-filled relaxing weekend (hopefully)! I present to you, FIESTA FRIDAY! Fiesta Friday will showcase ideas to help you transition from the work week blues to the weekend!

As this is our first Fiesta Friday, I feel there's no better way to end this week than with a cool refreshing cocktail!

I personally have a very strong love affair with watermelon, and since it's watermelon season, a watermelon cocktail is in order! Here is a fabulously refreshing cocktail brought to you by The Novice Chef

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Minted Watermelon Cocktail

Yield: 2 large cocktails
Ingredients:
2 cups fresh watermelon juice
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup simple syrup
1/4 cup mint leaves, roughly chopped
3 oz Three Olives Watermelon Vodka
Ice

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in a shaker, shake and serve over ice! Garnish with a watermelon wedge and a mint sprig.

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Summertime Backyard Living

Hello and welcome to the I Dream in Vintage Events Blog.  This blog has been created to bring you new  and refreshing ideas on planning an event with vintage touches, personality, charm, whimsy, and color. With my help you will be able to pull off an event that is sure to be talked about for years to come!

Since this is the first post EVER, I'm going to start off with a little bit of colorful backyard inspiration on this glorious hump day!

Here in Chicago we have now crossed into summer which, as you know if you've ever been to Chicago, can be some of the best times to be had here! One of my favorite past times during the Chicago summer months is enjoying my backyard. Granted it is a shared backyard, however with some of these clever tricks and ideas, you can surely put together a quick and fun backyard gathering. Whether it be for a specific party, or just to get some friends and family together to enjoy a lovely night. Check out these great ideas to help plan your next backyard soiree!

bohemian dinner
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Easy dining Al Fresco using throw pillows, a blanket and a coffee table or outdoor chaise lounge laid flat. Use real dishes and silverware to up the wow factor a notch. Fresh cut flowers or small potted plants always make a gorgeous finishing touch.



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Dining outdoors may seem like a hassle, but with an easy menu of a cheese plate, salad and pasta you can enjoy great food in no time.


In LOVE!
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Create a relaxing sanctuary in your yard using throw rugs, pillows, tapestry, etc. to create a whimsical vibe.



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If the weather permits, use some indoor furniture to spruce up your yard for an extra comfortable dinner.



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See how lovely indoor furniture can be outside! 


MATT CORBY’S SECRET GARDEN TOUR DIARY
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Lanterns and string lights are a cheap and easy way to create a charming mood without breaking the bank.





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When coming up with drink ideas, a Do-It-Yourself bar is the great way to go. Give your guests a couple of creative juices and garnishes and let their imaginations run wild! What's great is you can limit the bar to one type of liquor which will help keep preparation to a minimum.



Outdoor cinema party


Outdoor cinema party
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Everyone loves a drive in movie! Why not create a movie theater in your backyard! Assorted soda, beer and a DIY popcorn bar will surely make your movie night a hit!



outdoor seating + wildfowers + fire pit = Most Amazing Place by ZaraFee

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One of my favorite ways to enjoy my yard is to have a bonfire (I have a portable one).  I understand my backyard doesn't look like the photo, but a girl can dream right!?




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And of course one can't have a bonfire without S'mores! Create a fun S'mores bar equipped with assorted chocolates, graham crackers and marshmallows.  You can also add fruit like strawberry, raspberry or banana. Put it all on a skewer, toast it on the fire, and gobble it all up!




What is your favorite way to enjoy your yard or porch in the summer? Have any cool ideas? Please share!