There is just something about gathering with friends in the spring sunshine that is so appealing, isn’t there? I was chatting with a couple girlfriends recently about getting our summer gardens started and one of them proposed that we share seeds. Our conversation was interrupted by the kiddos (doesn’t that always happen?) and I drove home reflecting on the unfinished conversation. A seed had been planted in my party-loving heart and over the following weeks, the idea for a garden and seed exchange party developed. The concept is this: everyone comes together for a little outdoor socializing, bringing with them some spring seeds and/or seedlings. A light brunch is served while guests plant seeds and divide up packs of starter plants, and then everyone heads home with a good variety of vegetables and flowers that they can transplant into their gardens when the ground is ready. Sounds fun, doesn’t it? 
I put together a garden and seed exchange party and I am SO excited to be able to share it with you today. I wanted to keep the theme of both food and decor light and fresh and garden-centric. Foods were easy to prepare in advance, and tableware was simple enough to use outside. With some basic gardening supplies, potted plants, and the stylish Chinet® Cut Crystal® line of products, I think I was able to achieve a classy, but casual feel for the party – perfectly in line with an adult brunch mixed with hands-on gardening.
Let’s start with the menu. Appetizers included shrimp ceviche, bruschetta, and chips with guacamole. The main course was a chicken chopped salad with cilantro-lime dressing. For dessert, we had chocolate mousse cookie crumb parfaits. Drinks included fruit infused water, and both an alcoholic and non-alcoholic spritzer. This menu worked really well with my effort to simplify and streamline the preparations. Ingredients such as tomatoes, lime, avocado, cilantro, and red onions were shared between the dishes which made grocery shopping a quick and painless process. By using Chinet® Cut Crystal® plates, short and tall cups, and cutlery, I had perfectly coordinated premium tableware, but also the added convenience of using disposable products right alongside our gardening projects! Perfect! I complemented the tableware with some galvanized tubs and trays and a modern black/white printed fabric – I think the whole look blends beautifully. The only dishes I had to clean at the end of the party were my salad plates and my pitchers! I love that!
For table centerpieces, I grouped small plants and herbs – this takes all of 30 seconds to set up and you’ve got plants ready to go into the garden beds when the party is over! Look for plants that are sold in the biodegradable pots – the earthy rustic pots will blend with your decor as opposed to the less attractive orange and black plastic containers that some plants are sold in. (You can alternately pot up some plants into the biodegradable pots -they are very affordable, but it will take a bit longer to set up).
On to the seed exchange portion of the party! This was so much fun to set up, I was actually rather disappointed no one was home to squeal with me when I stepped back to look at the finished potting station. I set up two main areas to highlight the gardening project – a plant collection area and a potting/planting area.
The plants were collected in and around this fun rustic box I found at Home Depot. I bought it because I couldn’t resist the easy button, but how simple would it be to build your own? Some chalkboard paint on the side of a plywood box – amazing! I think it’s fun to have a pretty arrangement from which to select your plants and I typically use both seeds and seedlings when I plant my garden, so this set-up was useful and also adds to the decor.
The potting station makes me smile. We have a tray for all the seed packets, and a jar filled with fertilizer. A large terra cotta pot holds soil and a large tray holds potting containers, labels, and pencils. So fun, right? I provided a variety of potting containers because I like to use different things for different purposes. Even though the Chinet® Cut Crystal® cups don’t have holes in the bottom for drainage, they work really well for keeping seeds in moist soil and it’s fun for my girls to be able to see the roots growing in the soil through the clear cups. Biodegradable pots work great for fragile seedlings like cucumbers that don’t typically transfer well for me and, therefore, can be plunked into the ground as is. I always like a lot of coordinated variety, so I really wanted to provide a little bit of everything so that my guests had their preferred planting and labeling methods available.
I couldn’t have been more pleased with how everything turned out – a huge thanks to the Chinet® Cut Crystal® brand for providing the perfectly coordinated tableware for this party. You can check out my “Outdoor Dream Party” Pinterest board here to see many of the ideas and recipes that inspired this party and also be sure to visit the Chinet® Pinterest Page here. For a chance to win a $100 Visa gift card and a Chinet® Cut Crystal® party pack, leave a comment telling me how you make your celebrations perfectly coordinated.Sweepstakes Rules:
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This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older. Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail. The notification email will come directly from BlogHer via the sweeps@blogher email address. You will have 72 hours to respond; otherwise a new winner will be selected.
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Comments & Reviews
Lisa Brown says
I actually do not strive for coordination when entertaining, when it comes to setting the table; I like mismatched napkins, bowls, plates, goblets, etc., if find it more interesting to look at. I do like coordination when trying to get the food on the table at the same time so everyone can eat at the same time at the table.
Lisa Brown says
https://twitter.com/LuLu_Brown24/status/451003254634053632
Elena says
I plan ahead and make a list of the items I need
Elena says
https://twitter.com/ElenaIstomina/status/451024402377748480
stacey says
I figure out a color palette and go from there. Sometimes food is the centerpiece and sometimes it’s a theme. The seed exchange turned out beautiful. Love the casual elegance.
D Schmidt says
I try to make them perfectly coordinated with a lot of planning, referring to Pinterest, friends suggestions and a lot of shopping! Its often challenging but I like to think I pull it off. Disposable tableware makes things much easier because I can always co ordinate to achieve the look I want!
D Schmidt says
Tweeted
https://twitter.com/mummytotwoboys1/status/451087346511794176
Emily says
Love this! So eager for spring! I think white matches everything so most of my dishes are white, as are the only cloth napkins I own. 🙂
Mami2jcn says
I choose a color scheme and use different shades of that color.
Mami2jcn says
tweet–https://twitter.com/mami2jcn/status/451150580208369664
Erika says
I like to come up with some kind of theme, and find colors. etc. that go with that.
chambanachik(at)gmail(dot)com
heather says
I love to coordinate my celebrations perfectly by using the same colors in the flowers, balloons, napkins, plates and table cloths and wrapping paper too.
Michelle says
Once I have a theme, it all comes together pretty well!
~Michelle
Cindy says
So glad I read this! You have truly given me some great ideas and what inspiration.
And I as well like to go with a theme….then I am usually home bound! Hugs and blessings, Cindy
Charity says
That is a lovely party! I really love the idea of a seed exchange… I don’t currently have a garden but we are hoping to start one this year.
Since I’ve only ever thrown one party, I can only say how I coordinated things for that…I just started with a theme of pink and lace and went from there. =)
tara pittman says
I like to pick a theme for my party
tara pittman says
https://twitter.com/kj20082006/status/451589761635852288
courtney b says
i always choose a beautiful centerpiece with fresh flowers, nice napkin holders, and lots of pastel colors. because it’s spring!
courtney b says
tweet
https://twitter.com/MeandBells/status/451843744598224896
amy pugmire says
Neutral dishes and napkins are key for me. Then i can brighten up the room with other decorations like a bright floral center piece.
amy pugmire says
tweet
https://twitter.com/1amypugmire/status/451893048285229056
Amy @ The Nifty Foodie says
I usually use accents of colors throughout the decor to reflect the party’s theme vs. using nothing but party colors.
rachel says
I go for certain colors to convey the theme.
Heather S says
I love to add splashes of bold colors and patterns to a neutral pallet!
Heather S says
Tweet!
https://twitter.com/ScoomerBlog/status/452139251757355008
Susan Smith says
I don’t strive for perfect coordination when entertaining, when it comes to setting the table; I like my napkins, bowls, plates, placemats to have the same color palette.
Susan Smith says
https://twitter.com/susan1215/status/452516002073702401
One Frugal Girl says
https://twitter.com/OneFrugalGirl/status/452553382340075521
One Frugal Girl says
I buy solid colored napkins and other party supplies so I can use them for any occasion. Birthdays, showers, easter parties. The trick is not to be too focused on a particular event. Then the leftover items can be used for another time.
jessica holybee says
Divide on a theme early and shop the sales at party supple store .
Wanda McHenry says
Through the years I have accumulated the perfect decorations and accessories for the various holidays and seasons. I break them out every year and it’s enjoyed every year!
Wanda McHenry says
https://twitter.com/myfolly/status/453043139906121729
Lindsay says
mine are never perfectly coordinated, but i do try to pick a theme or colors and go from there!
mysweetiepiepie says
I usually key my decorations to my floral arrangements.
Jessie C. says
I make my celebrations perfectly coordinated by deciding the theme and focus first and goes from there. Colorful decor of dishes, flowers and natural elements are always helpful.
Jessie C. says
-https://twitter.com/tcarolinep/status/453374579260403712
Lauren says
Fresh flowers to reflect the season and occasion.
Ashley H says
I try to coordinate the invitations to the decor as best I can.
cw says
I usually coordinate the food/drink around a theme, but I lack in decor….this party pack would help.
wild orchid says
I try to go with a certain theme and color scheme to keep things cute and coordinated!
Thanks for the chance to win!
wildorchid985 at gmail dot com
wild orchid says
tweet–https://twitter.com/WildOrchid985/status/456024073811034112
Eugenie says
I color coordinate napkins, tablecloth and flatware.
Erica Best says
i love to use colors the go well together
Erica Best says
https://twitter.com/purplelover04/status/457966551929745408
Kristen says
I love the garden theme…so pretty and perfect for the Spring!
I use white plates so I can accessorize with any color…often working off whatever flowers are in bloom locally.
Kristen says
tweeted
https://twitter.com/rubylorikeet/status/458425261407494144
Betty C says
I don’t strive for coordination. The food is the theme and just having friends and family together is enough.
Betty C says
Tweet – https://twitter.com/willitara/status/459376494439960576
Melissa M says
I usually turn to Etsy for help
Melissa M says
https://twitter.com/618mom23boys/status/459747410625839104
Kerry says
tweeted: https://twitter.com/KerryBishop/status/460029688140681216
Kerry says
I usually buy everything at one time and make sure they coordinate in the store. I love the Chinet though – looks so classy and would go with everything!
Natalie J Vandenberghe says
I’m afraid my celebrations haven’t been perfectly coordinated…I’m so impressed with your display! The menu (including the drinks) sounds delicious! and I’m certain my husband would enjoy a garden and seed exchange. Thanks for the great suggestions!
Natalie J Vandenberghe says
Tweet! https://twitter.com/lexiquin/status/460125449285160960
Janice Cooper says
I love using certain decorations and tableware depending on the holiday/occasion 🙂
Janice Cooper says
https://twitter.com/disneyfan40/status/460243883406802945
Cori Westphal says
I love this idea! Thanks for sharing! I’m not much good at coordinating special occasions, but I try to keep things deliberately mismatched, so it looks like I planned it that way! 🙂
coriwestphal at msn dot com
Cori Westphal says
Tweet: https://twitter.com/coriwestphal/status/460257127173332992
coriwestphal at msn dot com
Lee says
I coordinate invitations color scheme to the napkins & decorations.
Lee says
tweeted at
https://twitter.com/leedhowell/status/460662558312370177
Ashley Tucker says
I use colors that complement eachother.
Ashley Tucker says
https://twitter.com/ajoy1332/status/460815908051496960
Amanda Sakovitz says
I try to do a coordinated theme with fresh flowers and matching plates.
Amanda Sakovitz says
https://twitter.com/aes529/status/461141277112033280
sharonjo says
This is a very fun and clever idea! Those little dirt cup desserts are so perfect and adorable.
I think having a theme makes coordinating things much easier. Also I use all white plates and serving pieces and add colorful linens and glassware to suit the occasion/season. Thank you!
Debbie B says
I like to get color coordinated items which match my theme or occasion
Debbie B says
I posted a tweet:
https://twitter.com/bellows22/status/461324510491185152
carmen says
https://twitter.com/atlantagalknows/status/462286255313940480
carmen says
I love the colors aqua and green, so those are already used throughout my house so when planning events, I usually gravitate toward those colors as well, so I can make use of things I already have. I love that the Chinet options don’t clash!
Denise S says
I plan ahead and gather things way ahead of time.
lazybones344 at gmail dot com
Natalie says
I posted a tweet under twitter id yarbr012 : https://twitter.com/yarbr012/status/462682454265200640
Natalie says
I try to stick with neutral colors so that I can mix and match for different occasions. I coordinate the plates to match the napkins and the flowers. I keep a base set of grey/silver and beige items and then will buy a few items such as glasses or flowers that are brighter colors.
Ellie W says
I get ideas from the internet for themes and then coordinate everything to that theme or color scheme.
Ellie W says
tweet
https://twitter.com/eswright18/status/462687604584902656
Kiara says
I pick a color theme and have it coordinate with everything.
austma7@aol.com
Jimmy says
I pick one color and keep everything in some shade of that color.
Margaret Smith says
I try to stick to a color theme and decorate the table with a tablecloth, centerpiece and place settings in the same color theme.
Margaret Smith says
I tweeted: https://twitter.com/peg42/status/462747539419459585
Thanks so much.
Stephanie V. says
I let one of the kids pick the color scheme each occasion = makes it fun!
tvollowitz at aol dot com
Katharine Davis says
I tend to buy everything in shades of green and blue with some violet to mix, they all tend to blend nicely and pull a look together
K Anne says
I like to pick out a printed plate and then I will buy the matching paper napkins in different solid colors
Anastasia says
I take the easy way out and let the Party Story lead the way. They always have coordinating decorations, plates, cups and more. Sometimes, I mix and match with similar designs, just to give it a little bit of a personal touch 🙂
Anastasia says
Tweeted 🙂 – https://twitter.com/Enter_Now/status/462890750850519040
Cynthia C says
I usually choose a theme and try to color coordinate table linens, dishes, centerpieces and favors.
Cynthia C says
Tweet
https://twitter.com/clc408/status/462908435781009409
Kimmy Ripley says
I love prepping for parties… especially my daughter’s birthday parties. I get a lot of inspiration from Pinterest. It takes me a long time to gather all of the items.
Joseph Stowell says
Wow, great fixings! However, for me, the perfect coordination is family and friends—an eclectic bunch!
mickeyfan says
I rarely do coordinate! However, I prefer neutral colored dishes so that I can add pops of color with linens and flowers.
Stephanie Galbraith says
We pick a theme and work together to achieve it.
paige chandler says
I choose a theme and use 2 colors for the flowers, decorations and serve ware..
Barbara Montag says
Spring and summer months I focus on yellow & green with a touch of red.
To fill in the empty spots I visit thrift shops!
You can find all kinds of amazing things there.
thank you
Barbara Montag says
Tweeted
https://twitter.com/JalapenoMama/status/463036213960511488
Debbi Wellenstein says
I do not strive for coordination when entertaining. I have been known to use Halloween napkins at Easter, because the Halloween napkins were on clearance! My sister, on the other hand, made a very cute table presentation with cheap opaque glasses bought at the dollar store, and added tall decorations and flowers to make cute vases.
John Stetson says
I’m afraid my guests are forced to make do with what they get. I’m just not a very coordinated host.
Denise B. says
I just try to keep everything the same color scheme.
Cathy Truman says
I choose a theme and match the napkins, plates. cups and I make a special centerpiece to match,
I like to find some cute items at the craft store to make up gifts to give the guests.
Lee Mckoen says
I always like to change with the holidays and seasons , so I usually look in magazines or pinterest for Ideas
Erica C. says
I pick two colors or a theme and just stick to it!
Neiddy says
I get inspired by all the great ideas I find on pinterest and/or blogs and I plan my occasions based on those but I also like adding my personal touch
Sarah Hirsch says
most of the kitchen items, dishware and serving pieces that i own are the same colors, so it is easy for me to coordinate.
Neiddy says
tweet -https://twitter.com/neiddy_ruiz/status/463371926853779456
Lauren Olivia Wood says
I set my dining table with a themed matching set of linens and tableware, along with a beautiful centerpiece. I plan a themed menu and have a strategic guest list.
Carmen N says
I often go for mis-matched items (even plates), but I usually stick with one main color and only a couple of coordinating colors
Carolyn Daley says
We like a theme that goes with the occasion. For example, we have some plates with balloons on it to celebrate birthdays. We match the napkin colors and other decor around the colors of the themed plates.
maria cantu says
I don’t coordinate. I don’t know why it just isn’t one of my talents.
Daniel M says
usually from a site that offers themed groups
Bruce says
My wife does the planning
Jacob LaFountaine says
I don’t really coordinate anything. Time consuming
HilLesha says
I choose a theme (i.e. nautical) and draw inspiration from blogs, magazines, and Pinterest. 🙂
Cody Anderson says
I like to match the tablecloth with flowers and food that is being served.
Sue Barney says
I like to pick a fun theme and coordinate my dinnerware and centerpiece :0′
joni says
I always choose a theme first. I look for most of the decorations on-line.
joni says
https://twitter.com/smilekisses/status/463567446323257344
joe gersch says
i cooordinate with a color theme
Kim H says
I coordinate by occasion theme first. Flowers are a mus!! ky_grandma40@yahoo.com
Karen Drake says
I coordinate everything by making use of the red theme I already have, I buy red flowers and red flowered napkins, add some ribbons as napkin holders and I have a lovely table.
Francine Anchondo says
i pick a theme and organize.
Shauntea Crutcher says
I try to find bright and cheery colors to add to my décor.
Mary Withrow says
I always pick a theme and go from there. The best part of having a party is the decorating and baking!
Mary Withrow says
I tweeted here: https://twitter.com/MaryWithrow1/status/463741524770295808
Thank you
Shanna says
I plan ahead, keep everything organized, and lots of searching for ideas online
=)
RICHARD HICKS says
Depending on the holiday, I have color coordinated napkins, plates, flowers, and knick knacks on the table.
RICHARD HICKS says
https://twitter.com/ardy22/status/463786396998569984
tina reynolds says
I pick a theme, make a list and then go from there
tina reynolds says
https://twitter.com/eaglesforjack/status/463821473702883328
kjasus says
i pick a color scheme and decorate with that color!
kjasus says
https://twitter.com/raggammuffin/status/463839111996911616
Sky Evans says
I coordinate using a planner.
Sky Evans says
https://twitter.com/SkyShyskyk/status/463850335916670977
Shannon says
Lovely!! I stick with a color theme but don’t do it too matchy!!
Shannon says
https://twitter.com/Shiebs24/status/463859969930981377
Kayla says
I plan around my color scheme.
Beverly Metcalf says
I love to decorate my table, especially for the holidays. I usually start with a tablecloth and napkins that fits the occasion and then add other decorations, such as flowers or candles. I love your great seed party idea and your decorations are so pretty. Thanks!
Krissie says
I find napkins, plates, cups, and decoprations that match the color scheme of whatever party theme I’ve chosen!
Califkitties @ aol.com
Crystal F says
I usually go with a theme and buy all the products of that theme. Thank you!
tracey byram says
I use the good china that I inherited from my mom and add fresh flowers.
linda says
I don’t really coordinate. I just startpulling out my different sets of china, flatware, linens and flea market treasures and layer, add and subtract till I get a fell I love. Speaking of love: a seed exchange party!! On my calendar for next spring!
madrockclimbr aT GMAIL DOT COM
linda says
https://twitter.com/madrockclimbr/status/464062899313319937
tweet!!!!
Abel. says
Whatever the occasion, I go as far as matching color theme in plates cups and cutlery.
Christian Alejandro says
My girlfriend and I choose a them, and then we stick to it with all things we buy. Matching is easy once we’ve decided on a theme.
Christian Alejandro says
https://twitter.com/lexbaylor27/status/464079392335867904
Valeen N says
I love to go to the fabric store and get fabric for a tablecloth, and napkins. I also love to coordinate with fresh flowers and of course, matching plates, napkins, etc.!
Jacqueline Weiskopff says
I haven’t planned a party in a few years as I am relocating to another state and trying to sell my primary home. However, I’m in the mood to put together a great party. You provide alot of great ideas!
Carolyn G says
I always have a themed party because it helps me focus on the event.
Lucy Cromas says
This site is so inspiring! Thanks.
Kathy Pease says
I am no Martha Stewart but I do try to match the plates,napkins and table cloth. We are not real fancy around our house. A nice center piece always adds a nice touch 🙂
Thomas Murphy says
I make occasions perfectly coordinated by matching colors.
Thomas Murphy says
https://twitter.com/thomasmurphy40/status/464116803355308033
susan smoaks says
I make my special occasions perfectly coordinated by going with a simple clean look. I try not to over do it. it keeps things neat and orderly.
Kathy Pease says
https://twitter.com/klp1965/status/464114190123163649
Sarah L says
I don’t think I’ve ever had a coordinated dinner party. I like white napkins and my white dinnerware. Other than that, I’m no Martha Stewart.
Thanks for the contest.
Laurie Emerson says
I first like to start with a theme and then start co-coordinating. If it is a summer party I like to use plates, glasses, paper napkins and decorations which have a summer feel to them, especially floral and beaches. I do the same for most of my celebrations and always have music playing in the background which go perfectly with the occasion.
Linda G. says
I choose a theme and color and plan around that
Sand says
I ask friends and family for help to keep everything tidy.
Sarah L says
https://twitter.com/slehan/status/464153071614836736
Jean F says
We throw an annual Valentine’s Day party, and Everything is red! Dinnerware, cutlery, serving pieces, glasses
Tabathia B says
I usually have a outdoorsy theme using a tin bucket as a cooler and mason jars for drinks
tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com
Tabathia B says
https://twitter.com/ChelleB36/status/464179806951600128
tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com
Veronica Garrett says
After selecting a theme it is easy to coordinate perfectly by color.
Gianna says
I make a plan and stick to it.
Becky Richied says
I love to plan ahead and look around to get things as cheap as possible without making it look like so.