A Birthday Brunch inspired by Paperless Post

Sarah Sherman Samuel

The folks at Paperless Post are starting the conversation about parties (one of my favorite subject matters), so when they asked me to "plan" my ideal milestone gathering, my mind immediately went to my favorite weekend pastime: brunch. Since I have a winter birthday, I don't often get to have alfresco celebrations, but an outdoor brunch is the perfect soiree for a friend's big—or small—birthday, bridal shower, or just for an excuse to gather with pals and celebrate spring.

Paperless Post

Sure, a Facebook event will get people to the party, but let's adult here and send some real invitations to make it special. Don't worry, you don't have to adult too much and lick any envelopes, but Paperless Post has a ton pretty birthday invitations that let guests know exactly what the theme/formality level is for the event.

Apartment Therapy

The next important touch is flowers. For spring, my favorite "arrangements" are loose, in-season blooms. Gather up some mismatched containers (mason jars, old bottles, cleaned-out candle votives all work) and pick up about 10-15 loose stems at the flower shop. Cheaper, and much prettier, than grabbing grocery store arrangements.

Extraordinary Events

Being a host is fun but it's also important to enjoy the party. That's why I love self-serve set-ups. A mimosa bar is perfect for brunch. Just set out a few different juices, some champagne bottles and sliced fruit and let guests concoct their own cocktails.

Happy Wed

Same goes for the food! If you can set-up a little station near a plug, do it hotel style and leave out batter in a pitcher (for easy pouring) with different fillings—blueberries, chocolate chips, etc. For a birthday gathering, I love the idea of these cake batter waffles. Okay now seriously friends, who has a birthday coming up so I can throw this party? Happy celebrating!