Pepper Design Blog

Spring Inspiration Board: Cherry Blossoms!

I’m going out on a limb here… but I love these branches so much that I’m predicting cherry blossom-themed parties and weddings to be one of the ‘it’ decoration ideas for Spring 2010. What do you think? Don’t a few branches in bloom make a beautiful inspiration piece?

I know with these images I’m won over {sigh}:

Made from curly willow and origami paper, Curbly shares a beautiful way to create your own DIY branch centerpieces. Perfect for a shower, wedding, tea party or dinner with friends.

And to complete the perfect party, how does a cool and refreshing blossom iced tea, rhubarb martini or rose champagne sound? Yes please!

The perfect drinks for a cherry blossom celebration:

The adorable pink sugar cube recipe (in blossom shapes) can be found here. More lovely images from Martha:

Hello Naomi designed beautiful cherry blossom cupcakes that match this theme perfectly (bottom left image above).

I’m so very inspired by branches – they remain a staple with most of my decorating and cherry blossoms have just moved to the top of my list. I wish they were a bit easier to get a hold of though… if anyone has any good resources, do share!

A Sweet {Candy & Cakes} Vintage Birthday

Ready for a little spring eye candy? I almost fell out of my chair when I came across this absolutely adorable ‘recycled chic’ backyard party. I’m loving the idea of a *sweet* celebration for the coming months!

A vintage candy & cakes theme would work just as well for a shower, a wedding or even Easter.

Style Me Pretty shares this lovely photoshoot, complete with colorful poms, a delicious dessert table (make that the most adorable bookshelf you’ve ever seen!) and vintage place settings. I’m head-over-heels in love with every detail.

I can’t decide which perfect little piece of this party I like best. Is it the mis-matched paper prints (on the signs, as drawer liners, the background for the cake table, as place mats…) or the amazing floral designs (did you see that tablescape up top??) or the mouth-watering desserts!

More delicious photos - including the invitations, adorable handmade pillows and petite cakes - after the jump! Read more »

Friday Guest Blog Interview: Second City Soiree!

Today’s Friday Guest Blog interview brings us to the heart of Chicago – and over to the blog of a delightful hostess who shares her favorite tips, tricks and etiquette know-how on a daily basis at Second City Soiree. As an event coordinator with some of Chicago’s major venues, Jen artfully intertwines the expertise of hostessing large celebrations with her love of smaller events at home.

SecondCitySoiree.com was founded in 2008 by Jennifer, a Chicago native who considers the seemingly simple task of “having people over” a fine art (that can be fun, engaging and creative!).

Whether you’re hosting a party, dinner, luncheon, shin-dig, shower, barbecue, tête-à-tête, fiesta, or yes – even a soirée – you’ll find helpful ideas and tid-bits to pull off the perfect event. One of my favorites: how-to videos that share delicious cocktail recipes and even a helpful reminder on how to properly set a place setting (does the bread plate go on the left or right side…)

When not writing and researching for Second City Soiree, Jen authors lifestyle articles for the popular Chicagonista site, a series on Gals’ Guide called First Time Hostess, and features on luxury goods and services for Simply Magnificent – the blog of the Ritz-Carlton Residences on Michigan Avenue.

One of my favorite SCS tablesettings:

Up next, Jen’s clever answers to PDB’s four interview q’s, including three party killer don’ts, the elements to planning your own soiree (and where you can and can’t cut costs) as well as secrets to where Jen finds her SCS inspiration! Read more »