Cedar Hill Farmhouse

updated COUNTRY FRENCH

Party Prep – Chinese Lanterns

By 19 Comments

Since we knew the wildflowers would be stellar this year, we offered our ranch as a location for Mr. CH’s office annual office party.  They liked the idea so it’s “Game on!”  Is it possible for my response to be Yay and Yikes at the same time?

Mr. CH thought it should be no big deal, something I should be able to throw together in a few days, just call a caterer and set up some extra chairs, right?  WRONG!!  Doesn’t he know better by now?  I’ve been working on this party for weeks now.

One of the first things I did, was buy some Chinese lanterns.  My daughter and I set them up one night in secret, then invited the family down for a private preview. Of course I couldn’t leave you out, so come on down, and take a look.

I started out with just white ones.  (TEST #1)

My daughter found the whites one to be too boring, you know, not festive enough.  So, I bought more…this time in color.  (TEST #2)
I bought these at World Market.  I was looking for lanterns with batteries, since there’s no electricity down here at the creek.  They came in sets of 4, I think.
I think she was right, the color added some excitement to the mix.
I can’t explain it, but there is something so peaceful and relaxing, and yet exciting about being down here after dark with these wonderful lights.  I also turned on my twinkle lights.  I did a post on them here.

It reminds me of how exciting it was my first night in Paris.

I know that sounds odd, but it’s just… MAGICAL, for lack of a better word.

Perhaps the right word is ROMANTIC.  Yes, maybe that is it.

I also bought a lantern on sale at Ballards’ for a little more light.
Honestly I didn’t want to go inside.  The sound of the creek splashing over the rocks resonated in the background, while my daughter played some soft Celtic music on her ipod.
I’m not sure if guests will want to leave early to get on the road before dark or if they will want to stay for awhile, and come down here.  Either way, I think you know where I’ll be.

Comments

  3. Judy says

    I can see why you’d never want to leave…it looks so pretty and peaceful.

    I’ve seen those lanterns at World Market and have always wanted to buy some…I think I’ll pick up a few and have my own “party”

    Judy

    Reply

  4. Karena says

    Anita the Chinese Lanterns are so beautiful. I can see how they set the mood for the evening!

    Please come visit to enter the amazing Cross Bottle Giveaway!

    xoxo
    Karena
    Art by Karena

    Reply

  6. Bliss says

    I’m coming Anita, and I’m bringing my sleeping bag because I’m staying all night! Awesome, and I agree with the colored lights too, just something more party like. You will take more photos yes?

    ~Bliss~

    Reply

  9. Ginger Zuck says

    Love, love, love the lanterns! I can hear the peacefulness now!! Everyone is going to enjoy this so much, they will want to move in!! LOL Have a fabulous weekend.

    Reply

  12. Charm Bracelet Diva says

    Now THAT’s an office party! The lanterns are fabulous and I’m sure they’ll all want to stay much too long (sorry???)! Celtic music rules in my house so I’d love to sit and just listen, too. Enjoy, and relax if you can!

    xoxo
    Kathleen

    Reply

  19. Shannon@Cozy Home Scenes says

    You sure know how to throw a party, Anita! I know everyone will have a wonderful time partying in that peaceful area. The colorful lanterns were a great idea for giving a festive look. Thank you for showing your party site at my party. ——– Shannon

    Reply

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