Back Yard as Ballroom

House too small for a hundred houseguests? No great room, formal dining room or even elbow room? No problem! Take the party outside and make al fresco memories.
For an afternoon Sip 'n' See in honor of Juliana Elizabeth, our youngest It! Girl, we set round tables in the garden with folding chairs and rustic burlap linens. To enhance Mother Nature's verdant backdrop, we tied fresh jasmine to mauve napkins, and planted budding carnations in mason jars trimmed with twine (guests were invited to take them home to plant in their own gardens). Lanterns were lined with family photos, and piles of miniature lady apples kept the organic feel going.
On the patio, glass vessels filled with gala apples, bosc pears and black mission figs complemented a simple menu of crudites, charcuterie and artisinal cheeses. Mini cupcakes by The Sugar Monkey — chocolate-peanut butter, pumpkin spice and vanilla — invited guests to nibble. Champagne punch, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir rounded out the beverage selections (plus sodas and juices for the kiddos!).
But don't take our word for it: Check out these lovely photos by LILA PHOTO!