celebrate | in the small gatherings

A few of us gathered yesterday for my sister Christina's 29th birthday.  We planned a simple menu and decor and focused on being creative with and making much of the little things.  

It is intimate and simple occasions like this that I treasure the most.  Friends helped with the menu and brought healthful dishes, the decor was simple yet sophisticated, balloons floated gently, and Edith Piaf sang softly in the background.   

The menu included fresh vegetables and fruits, kale salad, raw cheese & crackers, carrot apple muffins, truffles, pumpkin bars, deliciously rich chocolate mousse, and seasoned almonds.  The almonds were a hit; we seasoned them with the perfect blend of sweet and spicy using a secret ingredient: homemade Trinidadian hot pepper sauce.  I'll be posting some of the recipes soon!

These photos capture of few of our favorite elements: heaping silver dishes, warm oranges mixed with the cool silver and whites, and signs of a successful party - empty serving dishes and well burned candles.

Hope you enjoyed this glimpse into our cozy afternoon.

till tomorrow,
Rebecca