FANTASY TO FÊTE: HOLIDAY COCKTAILS

'Tis the party season, m'dears; hope you're all getting in the spirit! Camille here, with a major dose of holiday festivity that includes the requisite amounts of bubbly + bling...

Our inspiration board is brimming with shimmer and shine: a cool palette of silver and champagne echoes an icy winter landscape, while touches of black add a dash of sophisticated polish. I think this is my dream look for the swanky holiday cocktail party I'm dying to host as a perfect excuse to break out the silver, ice down bottles of Veuve and slip into something sparkly.

Champagne and oysters make a natural pairing for a luxe spread of hors d'oeuvres - for a more cost-effective yet equally-festive option, try my recipes for Ginger-Spiced Cider and the Perfect Cheese Plate.


There's nothing I love more than a long communal table full of family, friends and loads of flickering candlelight. Serve food family style so everyone can help themselves, allowing you to be a guest at your own party.

For this table, I'm sticking to a snowy white palette for the arrangements of garden roses, peonies, tulips and hydrangeas. Silver or mercury glass vessels reflect the light beautifully and bring an aged patina to the table that feels so right at this time of year. For more floral inspiration and how-to's, check out a similar centerpiece we put together at my house.

I fell so in love with these silver, gold and white stockings from Crate & Barrel that I bought them for my own house this year! A mantle adorned with silvery tinsel and golden votives looks so magical above the glow of the fire.

*images: {row 1} balloons, champagne, stir sticks {row 2} stockings, caviar {row 3} white ornaments, appetizers, table & tree,chandelier {row 4} oreo cake, cupcakes, party blowers, silver wreath. champagne & oysters, communal table, silver centerpiece, stockings.

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FANTASY TO FÊTE: HOLIDAY COCKTAILS

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https://cocokelleys.blogspot.com/2011/12/fantasy-to-fete-holiday-cocktails.html

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FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: BURNING MAN

Well hello there, c+k readers! Camille Styles here, and today we're taking a bit of a different approach to our Fantasy to Fête series by beginning with inspiration from a real party, albeit one that includes a major element of fantasy...



For the last few years I've watched with fascination as the Burning Man festival in Black Rock Desert, Nevada, becomes a bigger, more buzzed-about event. Built upon a set of principles like gifting, self-expression and participation, and fully devoted to experimental forms of art, this is one festival that I think I need to see to believe. I was thrilled when Town & Country devoted a spread to the glamorous crowds and creative artwork that descend on Black Rock, giving us a glimpse into the haute hippie utopia full of the fabulous as they seek something transcendental. No doubt the wardrobes in attendance are as striking as the art, so I thought I'd take a moment to fantasize about what I'd pack for such a weekend in the desert...

And do tell: have any of you been to Burning Man?

*images: event photos, quilt, bike, boots, cuff, lace poncho, canteen, bowler hat, fox mask

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FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: BURNING MAN

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https://cocokelleys.blogspot.com/2011/11/from-fantasy-to-fete-burning-man.html

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FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: MASQUERADE DINNER

Camille Styles here, with this week's party fantasy in onyx and white. I couldn't let Halloween pass us by without squeezing in one spooky-themed soirée...

Our inspiration board is chic and simple in a strict palette of black and white. This Halloween fête is more sophisticated than creepy…a masquerade ball, perhaps? Goth-romantic invitations, dark hors d’oeuvres and an onyx ball gown are perfectly fitting for such an occasion.
 
The strength of this table design comes from the black-on-black styling...illuminated by candlelight, a full moon and that fabulous seventies disco ball. A lacy tablecloth, gothic chandeliers and moss creeping across the entire table completes the mood.
 
Ask guests to come wearing masks to add to the sense of mystery...and it doesn't hurt that these glittery, lacy masks are pretty chic accessories, if you ask me!

Since Halloween is really all about candy, I'd incorporate plenty of sweets into the evening. These figs and candied fruit are perfect for dipping into a pot of warm fondue. And my gooey, melty brownie pudding would make an excellent grand finale.

It all looks pretty magical, no? Hope you all have a ghoulishly glam Halloween, and see you back here in November for some major Thanksgiving party inspiration!

*images: {row 1} black wedding gown, bouquet, cupcakes {row 2} candlesticks, cheese plate {row 3} spiderweb, place setting, stationery {row 4} stationery, feathers, candy, ballroom.

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FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: MASQUERADE DINNER

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https://cocokelleys.blogspot.com/2011/10/from-fantasy-to-fete-masquerade-dinner.html

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FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: INDIAN FEAST

Happy fall, c+k readers! Camille Styles here, excited to be back after a little hiatus from our Fantasy to Fête series...

I just got home from a whirlwind trip to Buenos Aires, and I must say: all this travel has left me a bit obsessed with inspiration gathered from exotic locales. For today's fantasy, we're crossing the Pacific for an Indian-inspired feast, perfect for an outdoor get-together embracing the turning of the seasons. It's the perfect party to incorporate my current favorite orange-and-pink color palette, adding exotic details and Bangladeshi-inspired fabrics to the mix. So how to turn this taste of India into a chic celebration?

There's nothing like swaths of exotic fabric to transport guests to distant lands. For a big group, pop up a bright tent that transforms the backyard into an outdoor dining room. If you're hosting a more intimate gathering, try hanging yards of sheer fabric as curtains or room dividers...add pillows and poufs on the floor for the coziest souk-inspired setup.

Hot pink trays bearing coconut shrimp with mango chutney are a delicious accompaniment to Indian beer and fizzy punch. For a casual approach to the menu, you've got to try these curried chicken sandwiches that I blogged about last year. The addictive flavors put them on constant rotation at our house.

Mounds of oranges in metallic bowls are a chic (and cost effective) way to incorporate our citrus-y color palette into the table design. Add vibrant napkins, handwritten place cards, a sari-inspired runner and gold votives to warm up the entire table.

For a final touch, adorn the living room with a couple of earthen bowls filled with water and floating gardenias & orchids. It creates a truly transporting focal point and fills the room with a heavenly perfume. Oh, and a couple of Bollywood films playing on silent can't hurt either!

*images: {row 1} vogue india, champagne cocktails, invitation {row 2} vessels, orange tart {row 3} ikat, cocktail bar, place setting, tissue flowers {row 4} kumquats, taffeta linen, girl in tunic. party images: eddie ross and party confidential.

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FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: INDIAN FEAST

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FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: BRUNCH BUNCH

Happy September, m'dears! Camille Styles here, with inspiration for a party that I'm dying to throw the minute the weather turns a bit cooler...

Why not turn an unexpected time of day into social hour? A breakfast-and-the-paper party makes an early morning so much more bearable, especially when it involves your most fun group of friends. I designed the inspiration board in shades of sunshine, almost as effective as a shot of espresso for invigorating sleepy guests. Of course, coffee will be served in abundance for those who still need an extra jolt, along with some treats that will start the day on a yummy note...

For this party, a good mix of sweets and savories is key. A roasted vegetable frittata, maple-glazed bacon and smoked salmon with bagels hit all the right notes...but to really make guests happy, these Dried Cherry Sticky Buns are my go-to breakfast party food. They're sweet, gooey, and, best of all, they're a snap to make. Hop on over to get the recipe...the hardest part is not scarfing them all down before guests arrive!

There's nothing I love more than starting the day with a cappuccino and stack of newspapers. Treat your friends by heading to the closest newsstand and stocking up on papers, magazines, and a few trashy gossip mags thrown in for good measure. Set them out for everyone to peruse, and let the lively discussion begin!

This is a party after all, and a bloody mary bar is a perfectly acceptable way to booze it up early. Set out a variety of garnishes to let guests mix up their signature version; celery sticks, green olives, pickled onions, and lemon slices make yummy and colorful add-ins.

The key to this party is keeping it super casual. Don't hesitate to pick up several menu items at a local bakery, and stack up plates and flatware on the kitchen counter so guests can help themselves. Your job as hostess is to keep coffee cups full and conversation flowing...just don't be surprised if this breakfast fête goes way past lunchtime!

*images: {row 1} table, bagel, eggs {row 2} flowers, french toast, bloody mary's, eggs {row 3} muffins, pancakes, crossword {row 4} table, coffee. party images: food fashion friends, food to flowers.

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FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: BRUNCH BUNCH

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FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: POPSICLE PARTY

Happy August, everyone! Camille Styles here, with this week's summertime party fantasy turned into a real-life fête...

I don't know about you, but the only kind of entertaining I'm into this month is carefree, low-fuss, fun-loving and brimming with chilled drinks. This party takes the cooling effect a step further by showcasing icy popsicles in a rainbow of fruity shades. I created a mood board inspired by watermelon, cantaloupe and a green grassy lawn - summertime essentials, in my book! Invite friends of all ages to embrace their inner kid for a celebration of summer's last taste of freedom...

These popsicle invitations, designed by Ashley Meadors, couldn't be more perfect for announcing such a soiree. Guests will be craving these fruity frozen goodies before they even arrive!

Hang colorful, patterned lanterns overhead to turn any space into an instant party. Luna Bazaar is my go-to source for high-quality lanterns in a huge variety of colors and patterns.



Hit the grocery store to stock up on glass soda bottles in as many colors as you can get your hands on. I always check the aisles at my local Mexican grocery for flavors I could never find at other markets. Or, get fancy and mix up these delish spicy sunrise mocktails (add tequila, if desired!).



Who doesn't love bubbles? Greet guests with their own bottles, and watch as the air fills up with shiny little spheres dancing towards the sky.

In case popsicles aren't quite enough to satiate appetites, casual picnic fare is perfect for this gathering. Serve thick wedges of watermelon with pepper & mint, and toss together platters of this incredible grilled peach & prosciutto salad. The key is to serve dishes that can be served at room temp, no oven required!


*images: {row 1} flowering tree, cannelle et vanille; poppy cake, martha stewart weddings; popsicles, green wedding shoes; macarons, cannelle et vanille {Row 2} dress, snippet & ink; snow cone, gemma comas; tequila watermelon, martha stewart; popsicles in prosecco, green wedding shoes {Row 3} watermelon photo, well wed via snippet & ink; popsicles, green wedding shoes; sodas, sunday suppers; watermelon margaritas, martha stewart. party pictures by our labor of love for design*sponge.

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FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: POPSICLE PARTY

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FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY

Camille Styles here, with this week's fantasy of an old-fashioned Southern potluck, brimming with the bounty of summer...

Designed in shades of mint, sky and warm wood tones, this party transports guests to a Southern porch where they can sip mint juleps and cool down with slices of watermelon. Dressed in sundresses and seersucker, they're welcomed onto a grassy lawn set for croquet. It's all so inviting, they may never want to leave!




Set a wood farm table with bunches of magnolia blossoms, antique silver and your finest china. The formality is balanced by sweet tea served straight up in mason jars, paired with southern classics like chilled tomato soup and deviled eggs. A light main-course, like grilled swordfish with herbed butter, adds a modern touch to the menu.


These bacon-bourbon brownies are the ultimate guilty pleasure. Salty, smoky and sweet, they're even more delicious served from a mismatched collection of antique teacups. Hop on over to get the recipes!

*images: {row 1} martha stewart weddings, cliff brunk via snippet & ink, southern accents {row 2} cliff brunk, forgetting details {row 3} maria mcbride, michael & anna costa via style me pretty, chelsea fuss {row 4}martha stewart weddings, cliff brunk, jeremy harwell via style me pretty. all party images: fredrika stjarne for food & wine.

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FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY

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FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: TACO NIGHT!

Camille Styles here, with this week's summer party fantasy. As Cass learned last time she visited me in Austin, there's nothing I love more than a good taco + margarita night...


So, for today’s inspiration board, I put together my dream south-of-the-border palette: saturated splashes of flame red and grapefruit set against earthy woods and whites. Don a sombrero and gather dahlias & ranunculus into emptied Mexican food cans (I posted a DIY here!) to scatter around tables. If you’re feeling especially festive, hire a mariachi to serenade guests late into the night!



Aren't these papel picado-inspired invites the cutest? Even for the most casual get-together, a simple invite turns the festive quotient way up.

I've always loved dresses with Mexican embroidery, and they make the perfect hostess garb for a carefree summer dinner...especially since the lightweight material stays cool on humid nights.

For this taco night, I'm sticking to my all-time favorite: fried white fish with fresh corn tortillas, lime crema and pico de gallo. Keep the menu simple and let the only accompaniments be my beyond addictive watermelon with mint, salt & pepper ...and a slushy peach margarita, of course!
*images: {row 1} coco+kelley, 101 cookbooks, jose villa {row 2} jose villa, maracas {row 3} diego uchitel, feasting on art, poppytalk {row 4} jose villa, brides, martha stewart living. invitations, d+k buckmaster; gwyneth & fish tacos, my father's daughter; cacti, ashley meadors.

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FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: TACO NIGHT!

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FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: LA VIE EN ROSÉ

Camille Styles here, with today's (girly, flowery and very, very pink) fantasy turned fête...



I created this inspiration board as the jumping-off point to the prettiest of get-togethers... bachelorette party, anyone? A rosé wine tasting with yummy cheese pairings is set at a table adorned with garden roses and a simple, organic vibe. Celebrate the long days of summer with an al fresco affair that goes late into the evening...



A beautiful wood farm table is the canvas for crisp white linens and a cheesecloth runner. Summer blooms in shades of blush pair perfectly with all that pink wine.



Each bottle of Rosé is also paired with a simple seasonal appetizer, like my peach + ricotta crostini (seriously, it's a new summer staple.)



When putting together a cheese tray, I try to follow these rules of thumb: Serve one to two ounces of cheese per person, include a mix of fresh, aged, soft and hard cheeses. Arrange – and sample – the cheeses starting with the freshest and lightest, ending with the ripest and most intense. Take a peek at one of my very favorite cheese displays.



To set up the tasting, create beautifully scripted labels that identify each wine and offer some suggestions on what flavors might make delicious pairings. Don’t forget to provide plenty of glassware for each guest to try multiple wines!



The loveliest pairing of all? A day spent with your best girlfriends and great wine. 'Cause really, that's all you need for the perfect fête!



*inspiration images: {row 1} centerpiece, lisa lefkowitz, & parasol, both via snippet & ink; place card, martha stewart weddings {row 2} 100 layer cake {row 3} rosé cart; calligraphy, linea carta; pie, tara donne {row 4} marzipan cherries, martha stewart weddings; escort cards, lisa lefkowitz; orchard, elizabeth messina.

*photography: michael bullock / coordination & styling: camille styles / floral & event design: kristen caissie / furniture: liv by design + austin’s world of rentals / calligraphy: pretty pen jen

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FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: LA VIE EN ROSÉ

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FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: PICNIC ON THE AMALFI

Since the moment Cassandra mentioned she was headed to Italy this summer, I haven't been able to stop dreaming of vino in Rome, shopping in Florence and most of all, long lazy days spent sunbathing on the Amalfi Coast...



Camille Styles here, and today's fantasy is totally inspired by the idyllic two weeks my husband and I spent in Capri and Positano on our honeymoon two summers ago. The incredible seafood, deep Mediterranean waters dotted with pristine yachts and sailboats, and the nautical-chic style of the jet-set as they escape the bustle of a bigger metropolis. A lovely little fantasy on which to base today's fête, no?



A sandy stretch of beach and a fun group of friends are really the only necessities for the success of this party. A lightweight folding table and swath of linen fabric are the base for a spread of fresh, seasonal dishes. On the menu? How 'bout a very Mediterranean cucumber, tomato & feta salad and this most-luscious marinated bean salad with grilled shrimp & watercress.


What to wear to such a summer get-together? A swimsuit of course, although a classic striped boatneck is a must to guard against the sea breezes when the sun begins to set.



Formal invites are not really necessary for a gathering this relaxed, but when the stationery is as charming as this by Mr. Boddington's Studio, you just might not be able to resist. The Wolfgang style is so fitting for an oceanic occasion with it's urchin-like pattern and inky blue script.



Arriverderci, Cass...we can't wait to hear about your adventures!


*images: {row 1} couple, bunting, compass escort cards {row 2} necklace, feathers {row 3} clementine place setting, capri, rope{row 4} map, invites, oyster, dress. all party images: roland bello. invitations: mr boddington's studio.

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FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: PICNIC ON THE AMALFI

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https://cocokelleys.blogspot.com/2011/06/from-fantasy-to-fete-picnic-on-amalfi.html

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