Weekend Reads {10.3.13}

Well, big things are happening here this weekend. Not only are Rob and I off for a weekend getaway to our favorite oyster town, Apalachicola, we are also going to be experiencing the fun of Tropical Storm Karen. While that eliminates the plan of walking the streets and taking in the cute little shops, it doesn't stop us from having a good time and enjoying the amazing food at some of our favorite restaurants. However, some are not as lucky and will be spending their weekend locked up inside simply waiting for the storm to pass. And, as we all know, the best way to pass the rain is to throw a party. I've posted many times in the past on throwing a great hurricane party, but this time I want to share some of my favorite fall inspired parties posted this week. Hopefully these will spark ideas for your own fall get togethers or inspire a weekend of fun for those stuck waiting out the rain! Have a great weekend and be sure to follow me on Instagram for pictures from the stormy weekend of fun!

1. Chili Supper from House of Earnest

2. Pumpkin Carving Party from Real Simple

3. Oktoberfest from Martha Stewart

4. Food Theme Parties for Fall from Celebrations at Home

5. Halloween Movie Night Party from Tom Kat Studio

Color Me {Whiskey & Cigars}

It's hard to believe that it is already October. It seems like just yesterday we were complaining about the blistering heat while enjoying it at the same time. Now, cooler weather has set in and fall activities are in full swing. We are enjoying spending time outside on the back deck just relaxing with a good book or stack of magazines. It has been so nice that we actually went and bought a picnic table this past weekend and ended up sitting out there most of the day Saturday and Sunday. The weather was gorgeous and I couldn't have planned a better way to spend the days. While sitting under the pine trees, I started thinking about R's birthday that will be here in just over a month! For the celebration this year, he has decided he wants to spend it doing some of his favorite things, sitting outside smoking cigars and drinking whiskey. Clearly, I have turned this into the theme and plan on mixing up a few whiskey cocktails, creating a cigar bar, and serving up his favorite chocolate chip cookie cake. With planning now in full swing, I decided to share my inspiration board for the celebration with you today in hopes of inspiring your own fall gatherings and winter birthday get togethers. Whether they be just for fun or parties with meaning, I hope you try and incorporate some of the masculine influence of the whiskey and cigars party into your affair.

Have a great Monday!