Ah, summer. The days are longer, the sun shines brighter, the wine tastes better (it’s a science) and everyone is gearing up for a season of celebration. If you’re planning an event for the silly season but have no idea where to begin, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. From weddings to end of year office parties, birthday bashes to ‘just because we’re on holidays’ parties, here are 6 ideas to make sure your next Summer event is extraordinary.
1. TREAT YOUR GUESTS TO EDIBLE FLOWER ICE CUBES
Photographer: Jade Behrens Creative @jadebehrens_creative
Flower power is back in vogue, and edible flower ice cubes are the perfect ode to Summer. Gorgeous looking and easy to make, these frosty flower delights will keep your drinks cool, take the perfect picture to post on social media and bump up your party host credentials.
INGREDIENTS
Freshly edible blossoms
Water
STEPS
1. Fill half of each ice cube square with water.
2. Place a flower into each cube. Freeze until firm.
3. Remove the tray from the freezer and pour in more water. Gently push the flower down if it rises. Place the tray back into the freezer and keep it there until ready to use.
Handy tip: Store your flower cubes in an insulated ice-bucket on the day of your event so guests can easily top up!
2. SWEETEN YOUR EVENT WITH A DONUT WALL
Flower walls might have been the rage a few years ago, but there is something more delicious trending in the world of event planning. Say hello to the donut wall. You’ve probably seen these beauties all over your Instagram or Pinterest feed in recent months, and for good reasons. They not only make the perfect dessert bar backdrop, but everyone from your nana to your partner’s uncle’s brother will love them. The best part is they can be adapted to suit any kind of event.
3. BEAT THE HEAT WITH A GLASS OF FROSÉ
Photographer: Jade Behrens Creative @jadebehrens_creative
Frosé (A.K.A frozen rosé) is the ultimate Summer drink. It’s cold, it’s sweet, it’s pink and it’s alcoholic. It’s perfection in a glass. Frosé has been a massive staple at restaurants and wine bars alike throughout 2017, and we have a feeling the trend will continue well into 2018. We’ll just sit here and wait to be proven wrong (but we don’t think we will be). It’s the ideal drink to beat the heat and sweeten up any Summer bash.
4. BUILD YOUR OWN BURGER BAR
Will we ever get tired of burgers? There’s no better way to share a gourmet burger than through a ‘build your own burger bar’ food station. With a selection of brioche and seeded burger rolls, sweet chilli jam, sliced cheese, pickles, caramelized onion, beef patties, veggie patties, even the fussiest of guests will enjoy building their own burger. And, your food station doesn’t have to be a burger bar. You could channel a Mexican theme with a taco station, or delight guests with a sweet chocolate station. These food stations create the perfect theatrical experience making your event one to remember.
5. GO PINK WITH A FLAMINGO TAKEOVER
Image source: Popstic Ice Cream @popsticicecream
Flamingoes are emblazoned on just about everything these days, from sunglasses to pool toys and men’s cufflinks. These colourful creatures have been taking the style and design world by tropical storm and are a key trend for Summer. Embrace the flamingo takeover by incorporating a bright and bold tropical theme to your next outdoor Summer event. Think: flamingo adorned cutlery, bright pink tablecloths, palms, pineapples, toppers, stirrers and flamingo statues – think big and go wild!
6. JUMP ON THE PEONIES AND PLANTS CRAZE
Photographer: Elana Sketcher @elanamariephotography
A splash of healthy greens and pink peonies adds an instantly fresh and welcoming feel to any event. Larger plants are a great way to add a sculptural element to a room, with smaller pot-plants livening up any table they’re placed on. Get creative with peonies by creating a dazzling centerpiece for the main food table, or having them hanging in pots from the ceiling.
Let’s be honest, planning a party takes time and commitment. Take the pressure off and get in touch with Wine & Dine’m today. We offer full-service catering for as little as 10 people up to 1000, in Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast regions. We know what it takes to create memorable food experiences which is why we’ve been a trusted caterer in Queensland for more than 18 years. Contact us today.
