Parties with a Twist

With warm weather around the corner, calendars are booking up fast with family and friends ready to get together and celebrate once again. Whether your party is big or small, take it up a notch with these out-of-the-box entertaining ideas — many of which can be done outdoors so you can bask in of one of the best seasons Upstate New York has to offer.

Luxury Picnics

Who said picnics have to be limited to a blanket and basket? Take your brunch, bridal shower, birthday party, or even proposal to the next level by hosting a luxury picnic. These can be held in the comfort of your own backyard or in any outdoor space. Start with a location, theme, and color palette and build from there with a focus on pulling each and every detail together. “Location is everything and having a specific vision helps,” says luxury picnic expert and co-owner of Posh Picnics, Avery Fisher. Some of her favorite events have been held in unique settings such as those with a waterfront view, nestled near a historic waterfall, spaced out in an open park or even situated at a local flower farm.

Avery recommends getting ideas from Pinterest or Instagram, then working on the details to bring your vision to life. Add to the experience by bringing in local vendors to provide fresh flowers, gourmet food, and fun activities that your guests are sure to enjoy. From light snacks, charcuterie platters, dessert boards and sparkling beverages to seasonal flowers and activities, entertaining in this unique and fun setting can be truly special. These beautiful, Insta-worthy table settings not only enhance the occasion but make for easy sharing and brag-worthy photos that will inspire those who see it to incorporate a little flair into their next meal or gathering.

Vintage Rentals

With the pandemic putting many large weddings and events on hold, couples are turning to smaller, more intimate gatherings to tie the knot. But that doesn’t have to mean boring or bland. By keeping an event small, you can actually pay more attention to every detail and experience your guests will have, making your celebration unique. Rebecca Duda of Quaint Rentals, a Buffalo-based vintage furniture rental company often advises her clients to do just that. Frustrated by cookie-cutter entertaining and inspired by the fresh take she saw in events out West, she began her collection to give couples in Western New York elegant, alternate options for their special day.

“Small gatherings allow people to be really creative and plan an intimate experience,” Rebecca says. “Many couples are holding weddings in their backyard or other open spaces that allow guests to feel more comfortable, which also allows for a blank slate when it comes to style and design.” Create the feeling you want by incorporating a mixture of furniture and other accessories within a certain theme or style. She recommends creating small nooks or vignettes throughout your space to create a beautiful backdrop and give a special or unexpected spot where guests can enjoy the party and relax. Even small touches—like swapping out typical folding chairs for vintage seating or incorporating a one-of-a-kind piece into your big day—adds a touch of charm that enhances any wedding or event.

Slumber Party Glamping

Many parents are searching for something special to celebrate their child’s birthday or to bring back social gatherings with friends. An elevated slumber party does just that by incorporating fun activities with Pinterestinspired décor. Transform a space in your home to create a magical and memorable experience with teepees, matching bedding, accessories, lighting, and customized activities all centered around a theme.

“Think about the kind of feeling and vibe you want for your event and then translate that into your décor and space,” says Britt Cunningham. Britt is the co-owner of Little Bird Party Co., a luxury slumber and spa party company that specializes in creating memorable slumber parties for their clients. The best part is that elevated slumber parties aren’t only for children. They are great for all ages and types of events, including birthday celebrations, bachelorette parties, even a special ladies’ night. “I think people want to reconnect more than ever and give each other memorable experiences rather than presents,” Britt told us. “It is great to see my client’s reactions once the space is transformed. You can see the magic through their eyes for that moment!”

This indoor “glamping” can also be held in one’s backyard. No longer restricted to nothing but woods, a fire, and a tent, glamp in style by bringing family and friends together to experience a more luxurious way to enjoy the great outdoors. Named for being a more glamorous way to go camping, “glamping” has become a popular way to experience nature. Take camping to the next level by adding features such as a mattress, bedding, décor, lights, balloons, music, a movie projector, and more. This style of hosting can be a fun, casual way to celebrate or just spend time with loved ones close to the amenities you enjoy at home.