wine & dessert party

last week over at faded charm i posted a teaser for my wine & dessert party.  thanks for coming back over this week to see the results.

 this is hands down one of the easiest parties i throw.  let's break it down step by step. 

setting the dessert table:  start with a white table cloth (or in my case a sheet...love using sheets, they are large, inexpensive and can be thrown in the wash easily).

 next i layered on some lace.  these are actually curtain panels.  use what you've got! 

next gather all the display dishes you'll be using.  place them on the table.  sometimes it's helpful to add a labeled post-it note to each dish so you'll know what goes where.

 i made these food markers out of small wood photo frames, candle cups, and some stain.  i used black card stock and a white pen to look like a chalkboard.  you can also use chalkboard contact paper, but i just can't write that small /nice with a piece of chalk.  so i opted for this idea instead.

 don't forget to add some height to your display by using a basket, some books, or a box. varying the heights makes it pleasing to the eye.

 here i used a wood box to corral the plates and napkins.  just adding layers and visual interest.  a tray would also work...again, use what you have.

 the flowers in the galvanized bucket are fake. but i added some real sticks from the backyard.  helps to make it appear real.  i like the height that they add to the table.

the picture that i have hanging on the wall is always there.  i just took a dry erase marker to it and added the XO's and the word LOVE to work it into the display.  after the party, simply wipe away.

 i made and hung tissue paper flowers from the ceiling.  easy, cheap and so quick to make.  i think they add to the party atmosphere.

 and finally, add all of your desserts to the table.

 cupcakes...

 regular and chocolate sugar cookies....

 chewy chocolate cherry bliss bars....

all homemade and looking lovely and yummy.  guess i forgot to take a full photo of the table with the desserts, but you get the idea.

it really takes no time to set a dessert bar up like this (minus baking time!).  treat your friends to something special and invite them over for wine & dessert.

Happy Valentine's Day!  i'm linking up again to Faded Charm for White Wednesday.  AND to the Valentine link party at Dear Lillie blog.