There will always be an excuse to party for a holiday centered around all things pink, girly, flowers and love. I love hosting these workshops not only as a creative outlet but it's a great "excuse" to get women together to truly celebrate themselves. The theme was Galentine - exactly how it sounds, a Valentine but for the girls. The workshop was hosted by 1111 Studewood Place in the Heights. This amazing venue has a rooftop space with a downtown Houston skyline view that other venues envy. The weather was a little chilly in the morning but ended up warming up for the perfect clear sky day. All these gorgeous photos were captured by Stacy with Stacy Anderson Photography - gorgeous!
The ladies were welcomed to set tables with blush linens by Lavish Linens Houston and mini charcuterie boards and pink ramekins to match.
The simplicity made the "before" picture beautiful and built anticipation as to what the "after" photo will be after the crafts.
Here is the link for most of the materials sourced to create this event. From charcuterie boards to streamers, here is a one stop shop for you to recreate on your own Galentine's party.
My love for flowers has no end and I always get excited when Amanda with Amanda Bee Floral brings in fresh blooms for my events. From the pampas and rose installations to the centerpieces, the flowers set the romantic feminine vibe.
Before the crafts were started, the ladies were able to enjoy a delicious brunch bite spread by Jim Benton Houston. LaVada was an absolute joy to work with to coordinate with Chef to create a custom menu with perfect presentation. We enjoyed Pecan Crusted Fried Chicken Bites and Rose Belgium Waffle with Creme Fresh and Drizzle of Maple syrup, 'Nawlins style blackened shrimp and 3 cheese grits followed by Velvety White Chocolate Mousse with fresh berries.
Drooling yet? I know I was. A classy touch was the china used to serve the bites, added an elevated elegant touch don't you agree?
Now if you have been to one of my workshops, I am sure you have met mother. She is the lady floating around or encouraging you to go eat. She takes it upon herself to add a little more to the menu (complete honesty - she wanted it for herself more than anything, haha) so she decided a field greens salad and "crack" bacon HAD to be on the menu. So what mama wants, mama gets. The bacon seems to be a staple at all the workshop events and maybe the field greens salad might be one also. I have the recipe here if you want to create a crowd favorite green salad for your next get together or weeknight dinner.
It was all washed down with Fresh Squeezed Lemonade with Thyme and a touch of Honey and cucumber infused water. We also had some specialty cocktails by Palace Party, but we will get into that a little later.
After the ladies indulged in bites, we broke off into mini craft classes by Palace Party, For the Love of Charcuterie and yours truly.
Karyn with For the Love of Charcuterie has the detailed eye and elevated taste to provide the most gorgeous charcuterie board display. Before the ladies even started the class, the tools needed (aka display) were beautiful. It not only got everyone excited to work on their board, it provided inspiration on how to beautify their personal board.
Karyn led the ladies on the basics of building a board - meats, cheeses, fruits, crackers, chocolates...she covered it all. All the wonderful designs and creations on each board were so creative and "eye-ppetizing" and I'm pretty sure there was some board design competition going on.
Palace Party always brings the party with delicious, creative and BEAUTIFUL (themed) drinks. Everyone was able to sip on Frosé, Fruity Pebbles and Sugar Cookie Shots.
A nice surprise for the attendees happened to be, being able to learn and make their own version of each of these drinks. The bar was set, ingredients prep...time to shake and pour.
Sammy with Palace Party ALWAYS creates new and exciting cocktails to match all my event themes and these didn't disappoint. Check out the recipe for the cookie shot to recreate at home:
Lastly the ladies created their own essential oils rollerball. From soft and sweet to strong and lasting, the options were endless in creating the perfect perfume blend for you. It was a lot of trial and error but they ended up (hopefully) creating a scent they can still enjoy months from now.
The afternoon wrapped up with fresh spun Twirl Cotton Candy and mini swag bags filled with Le Grand Courtage Brut Champagne and Rosé and Twirl Tubs.
I am so grateful for the new faces that experienced a Toast & Twirl Workshop and past attendees who come back season after season. My hope is that we always get together for a fun, colorful, crafternoon filled with food, laughter and fun. Will I see you at the next one?
Another special thanks to ALL of our vendors and sponsors. It would not be possible without you! I highly recommend these companies as EXCEPTIONAL resources for your next event or gathering!
1111 Studewood, Palace Party Beverage Company, Jim Benton Houston Catering, Stacy Anderson Photography, Amanda Bee Florals, Lavish Linens, Twirl Cotton Candy, For the Love of Charcuterie and Le Grand Courtage!
Happy Valentine's Day 2020 friends!
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