Sparkly & Red: Buon Natale Party

Thank for the well wishes. We ran ourselves ragged on Friday but I think it went well. A few minutes before the guests arrived, I snapped a few photos of the decor.

We started by putting up last years decorations. The tree, the bows, the glittered snowflakes, etc.


But it needed more so on Friday, we took a predawn trip to the flower district. Not sure what I wanted, I found the whole experience of pretending to be a pro a bit intimidating. In any event we brought home a a case of carnations and some silver twigs.

Using wire I strung up some carnation heads on the branches for some drama on the buffet.


Then for added pops of red, I filled tomoto cans with carnations and put those on display.


Using the rest of the carnations, I filled a load of Ikea vases. Some got some some silver twigs, some got some glittered snowflakes and others just stood alone.



And of course there was food, food, food. We tried to keep it mostly Italian - always a crowd pleaser. Pasta and meatballs in silver chafing dishes, italian cheeses, cured meats, olives, etc..



Let's not forget the spirits. Aside from the Italian varieties, we cheated with Australian wine and Russian vodka :)

We served eggnog but it wasn't that popular. I'll have to remember that next time round and make a lighter signature cocktail next time.

Once the guests arrived, I put down my camera and took part in the festivities. Mother Nature even gave NYC the first snow of the season to keep the theme going!