This past weekend I had the pleasure of co-hosting my sisters bridal shower. The shower was to be held at my co-hostesses’ (also known as my Aunt Linda) house, where many family functions have been held before.
I knew I wanted to keep things fresh and simple because who wants to eat a heavy meal in the middle of the summer? After hatching a few ideas out with my mother (a true party throwing inspiration of mine) we decided a “build your own salad” bar would be a great way to provide a light, fresh lunch that met everyone’s dietary needs and restrictions! Here is what the salad included
- Spring mix
- Red Onions
- New Jersey Tomatoes (thanks Lesley!)
- Cucumbers
- Marinated Artichoke hearts
- Roasted Red Peppers
- Sliced Avocado
- Grilled Salmon
- Roasted Turkey Breast
- Rolls
- Creamy Dressing
- Balsamic vinaigrette
Since guests were expected to arrive fairly early Saturday and there was a decent amount of prep work that could only be done that morning, I wanted to make sure I got as much done as possible the night before. Less stress=a more enjoyable party!
Here is what I did Friday Afternoon:
- Wrap silverware in napkins and place in a basket: Guests will only have to pick up one additional item when filling their plates!
- Wash and dry all vegetables: When it comes time to chop everything will be clean!
- Label Service dishes and set up serving table: Knowing that everything already has a home makes set up easy.
- Make Ice: Okay I didn’t do this but I should have! We ended up buying a bag of ice at the store.
- Fill balloons with helium: To be placed on the mailbox so guests will be sure to know where the party is.
Saturday Morning:
- Fuel with a nice breakfast and a cup of coffee: You have a busy few hours ahead of you!
- Brew tea and allow to chill for ice tea
- Make lemonade
- Chop vegetables/toppings: Place on the serving dishes and cover with plastic wrap
- Fill salad bowls with spring mix: Purchasing the triple washes saves a lot of time.
- Pick up rolls at Bakery (thanks Linda!)
- Grill Salmon (thanks Joe!)
- Roast Chicken breast (thanks Mom!)
Fresh Rolls
Perfectly Grilled Salmon
The Spread
When the guest arrived everyone mingled for a few minutes and snacked on a cheese and fruit plate as well as enjoyed a glass of ice tea or lemonade before we all dug in and ate!
For dessert I made a slightly smaller version of the cake that I will be making for Catherine and Andrews wedding, but that is another post for another time. Let’s just say I don’t think anyone was let down! Modest of me, I know.
Sneak peak of the wedding cake
What is your favorite bridal shower meal?
[Lizzie]
You made this cake and you are making their cake???? More info needed!
[...] a healthy dose of research, and the fact that I kept the cake very simple. As I mentioned in the post about Catherine’s bridal shower, I made a practice cake. This helped me work out a few issues related to the frosting and give me [...]