An Inspired Holiday Event

It was love at first sight when I spied this awesome wrapping paper by designer Caroline Gardner at Kate’s Paperie.  With it’s- not- so typical holiday palette of woodsie neutrals, soft purples, blues and golden yellows and a deer motif that feels more ‘optical illusion’ then ‘yuletide cheer’, I think it would make an inspiring theme for a December fete where the mood is festive- yet nothing is quite as it seems.

Of course the evening’s invite would have to be intriguing- a date and time written on the back of this postcard from decoupage artist John Derian would set the stage.

Even though Christmas in New York has been green the last few years, these larger than life icicles from Horchow strung along the trees of my walk way just might fool my guest into the illusion of an enchanted icy evening.

A doormat that reveals a secret message when flipped upside down ‘welcomes’ guest.

A hostess has to be decked out accordingly… the pattern on this awesome dress by Rebecca+Drew gives me the feeling that I’m squinting into the glare of the late day sun while walking through a snowy patch of woods.  Since brooches are a big accessory trend for winter this year, this sunny yellow “Mini Velvet Bug’ pin from JCrew could prove to be both elegant and whimsical.

While sequin peep toe pumps from Pedro Garcia would sparkle like a starry night set against a pair of Fog colored opaque tights, also from JCrew.

An opening toast of bubbly is of utmost importance, chilled to perfection in this Bouchon Champagne Bucket from Ballard design ( doesn’t it make you feel like you’re in Wonderland with Alice ) and served in these- which way is up? Cross Champagne glasses from Wisteria keeps the fun and illusion flowing.

The table would be set in the same mix of earthy tones and jewel like colors as the paper that inspired this whole shin-dig…. with my theme of festive enchantment shining through. I’ve always wanted an excuse to buy this nature inspired Chinoiserie bird print linens from Dwell Studios- now finally here’s my chance!  A table setting of  Golden Pearl plates from Horchow might just trick my guest into thinking I mistakenedly drip something all over them, while these cool glasses from Shophorne appear to be used plastic cups- they won’t know til they pick them up that they are really ceramic!  In place of a typical winter bouquet a few porcelain succulents from Ballard Design would need little care but would draw loads of attention.  The menu – take out Thai, because I’m way to busy trying to be coy to cook and I’m in love with these clothespin chopsticks from CB2.  The evening’s grand finale?- I figure I can’t go wrong by providing individual campfire votive candle holders from  Velocity Art and Design- to roast marshmellows over, of course!