We all know May and June mean it's graduation time for a new class of scholars about to embark on the next chapter of their lives. Needless to say, a great graduation party is the perfect way to celebrate such a milestone. But what's better than a graduation party? How about a joint graduation AND birthday party! That's exactly what we did for a recent client event in Playa del Rey, CA. And since June also means the beginning of summer, the party had the feel and look of "fun in the sun" - from the pretty summer yellow linens to the menu design.

The party was set up in the client's backyard. As we've mentioned before, backyard parties are always an art form to us as we come in to consult on the best setup and layout that makes for the best guest experience at your party. The color scheme of the event was summer yellow so we set out linens in that color on all of the tables. We took advantage of the backyards beautiful focal points like the gazebo and lush landscaping by using them as natural backdrops for our displays and stations. In addition, there was beautiful painted mason har centerpieces around the dining tables filled with vibrant yellow gerbera daisies. The client also used their outside bar for all-yellow candy bar station complete with gray chevron goodie bags! We designed each display with a lot of rustic elements, including: small and large chalkboard signs, eclectic mix of wooden crates, large copper pans, and mason jars for drinking glassware.

For the menu, I really wanted to come up with something that captured the essence of a fun summer party in the outdoors. We started off with refreshing tray passed bites that had a little bit of something for everyone. We also created two stations for guests to enjoy - one was an "International Cheese & Charcuterie Display" and the other was the more interactive "Carnival Fry Station" in which guests chose their favorite decadent fair treats and saw the Chefs fry them fresh right there to enjoy. For beverages, we set up a display of ice cold lemonade, lemon-cucumber mint water, and assorted juices and sodas.

Check out all the fun and delicious details: