travel, food and a gypsy soul.
Every May 4th, my family celebrates the day we landed in the U.S.—what I like to call Shami Immigration Day. Regardless of where I’ve lived in the U.S., Chico, Denver, or Manhattan Beach, I’ve always celebrated by cooking our families favorite recipes for friends around us, and celebrating the incredible journey my parents and sister embarked on to become Americans.
Read MoreJanuary marked the beginning of this little experiment in community—and what better way to kick things off than with vision boards and pizza?
Read MoreNothing makes me happier than being surrounded by family, friends, and food. So when my birthday was coming up, I knew that was all I wanted. Since my sister would be in town, I wanted something intimate, not too expensive or labor intensive, that would allow us to really enjoy our guests.
Sharing a birthday with Halloween has always been a struggle. As a child, I was always disappointed when my friends would show up to my ninja turtle-themed birthday party dressed as princesses. So, we didn't want to underestimate the importance of setting a theme, minding the details, and DIYing a really special day. The vision was to host an intimate and magical bohemian backyard birthday celebration. With my Pinterest Board ready, and a strong team behind me, we got straight to work researching bohemian dinners, lunches, birthday parties, and the best ways to entertain in your backyard.
Here are some tips for throwing a killer backyard bohemian brunch:
Send paper invitations! Everyone loves snail mail, especially when it's not a bill.
And it gives your party a creative/personal touch.
Flowers for the table: Depending on the theme/season, find fresh flowers or props to line your table's center.
Comfortable seating: We used these Egyptian Poufs and pallets/burlap to create a rustic look on a low budget.
Bar Cart: Set out some champagne or a DIY station for your favorite cocktail, and let your guests serve themselves.
Charcuterie Boards: Not all parties need to be 3-course meals. Laying out charcuterie boards allows you to prepare ahead of time, and your guests to pick at their own pace.