Thursday, August 18, 2011

{guest post} summertime chill from valley & co.

We're Aleah + Nick of Valley & Co. and we're so excited to be back guest blogging for our dear pal Chris while she enjoys some relaxation!

Summertime means so much to us. It brings back fond memories, sets the stage for new ones, and is a time where we can all really soak up so much goodness. Summery weddings and events are a joy to plan because we get to incorporate so much freshness and an abundance of lighthearted ideas, especially when pertaining to the menu and keeping guests cool. Here are some of our favorite ideas for creating a summertime chill during the Dog Days of Summer:
Frozen grapes are not only incredibly delicious and refreshing, but they're also so simple to make! We like to skewer them on festive toothpicks and stick them in the freezer for about an hour when we entertain at home. Welcome guests to your celebration with tray passed frozen grape skewers {both red and green} and set the tone for a breezy, comfy summertime bash. You could also welcome guests to their dining table with family-style bowls brimming with frozen grape tastiness.
Photo courtesy of Erin Unanue

Gazpacho shooters can be dressed up and made in a variety of ways. Serve up a fresh heirloom tomato gazpacho as an hors d' oeuvre for a late summer wedding or showcase watermelon or other fresh melon gazpacho for a sweet shot. No matter what type of chilled summer soup you serve, keep it simple and easy for your guests to enjoy in just a few sips. 
Photo by Frank Ross Photographic for Valley & Co.  

Palate cleansers are always a delightful gourmet touch at events. Present individual lemon sorbet in low ball glasses garnished with basil leaves in between courses to cool your guests down and refresh their palette. Watch their joy when they get to indulge in dessert before dinner!
Photo by Frank Ross Photographic for Valley & Co. 

These chilled ideas are effortless, yet are sure to impress your guests and taste scrumptious. How will you help cool your guests down at your summertime soirée?

Thank you so much for inviting us to Postcards and Pretties, Chris! We appreciate it!
valley & co. lifestyle blog 

14 comments :

  1. Right... I knew frozen bananas (since our trip and game at the Dodgers stadium) but frozen grapes: what a brilliant idea... It must be so refreshing. As for the gazpacho: LOVE IT... And in shot glasses - so cool...
    What a great lot of ideas here girls and guy!

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  2. Frozen grapes.... How come I didn't think of that...

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  3. very nice work done..
    I would like to share my blog with you for new idea's if you are planning your wedding in Goa for its detail you can visit: http://www.squidoo.com/goa-wedding-planner

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  4. love the way those desserts are displayed!!

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  5. frozen grapes are so delicious! and the idea of using them for entertaining? i approve.

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  6. Such lovely displays! They all look so delicious too!

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  7. Yum frozen grapes and wine. I love.
    xo
    www.theshortandthesweetofit.com

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  8. The frozen grapes is one we do, and we love them. All of the deserts look so good. Thanks for sharing such great idea's that will come in handy some day.

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  9. such great ideas for a summer wedding. we'll have to pass them on and hopefully someone will invite us to enjoy. fabulous pics too, nice job

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  10. frozen grapes...genuis!!! always love your tips.

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  11. You two are every where today! These look absolutely delicious-I'll hold onto this when SF gets warm in October!

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  12. Thank you all for the love - you are the best! Thanks again to Chris for having us! xo A + N

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  13. Frozen grapes sound fabulous!! And I LURVE lemon sorbet!! I bet you two are the consummate entertainers!!

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  14. Frozen grapes sound like the best thing ever! I also love gazpacho shooters in cucumber "shots" - delicious!

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