Thursday, August 30, 2012

A Perfect Surprise Birthday-Taco Party

There are very few perfect parties.
Why? because something always goes wrong. Maybe you forgot the dip, an extension cord, ran short of ice or the sprinklers came on without warning. But last Saturday ... nothing like that happened.

The party was perfect.


First  the guest of honor was surprised. This is good because when you plan a surprise birthday party everyone is thrilled when the honoree is actually surprised! Next, the guests were genuinely nice. It's a pleasure having a part of an occasion when a big gathering of family and friends are eager to make it a special.

Lovely setting for a summer party!





The hostess (so sweet you can forgive her for having the most beautiful home in town and talent for decorating it) chose the "perfect" invitations.

A fresh and happy yellow in a hue that was ideal for a casual summer patio party.
The late August afternoon is very warm and balmy 85F, but no one seems to mind. With the sun comes big blue skies, lush lawns, sundresses and long evenings with cool drinks and lots and lots of friends.






Touches of, yellow, crisp white, and a little country were built into the presentation. Everything came together to compliment the relaxed backyard setting.


For dinner service we took advantage of the great new grill and bar island for the buffet.  The menu was family friendly, everyone loves Mexican! 


                                                    




We assembled "street style" tacos  from seasoned grilled steak and chicken freshly cooked on the new grill and filling the air with a delicious aroma. The tacos were served with fresh salsas, home made traditional side dishes, and  appetizers.
Fresh Ideas Events,Tacos Party










 Surprise Party Mexican Menu
 for 70 guests

Jalapeno Cheese Ball with Crackers
Fresh Seasonal Fruit Platter
Crab and Green Chili Cheddar Dip
Red Corn Tortilla Chips

Grilled Vegetable Salad with Cilantro Dressing
Steak and Chicken Tacos
Cheese, Lettuce, Sour Cream, Cilantro, Onions, Pico De Gallo, Limes, Green and Red Salsa 
Mexican Rice
Pinto Beans with Sofrito
Tortilla Chips

Dessert
Beautiful Home Baked Cookies and "Pie in a Jar" 
Made by a family friend

Fresh Ideas Event Services, Party Fruit Tray
Crab, Green Chili and Cheddar Dip, from Cook like a Caterer, page 57
Jalapeno Cheese Spread, Cook like a Caterer, page 62


 Recipes and more, Cook like a Caterer, Party 
 Sized Recipes for Entertaining
 Renee Weir-Fontes 

Carne Asada Steak Tacos, Cook like a Caterer, page 140

Self Serve Lemonade and Beverage Area

Grilled Vegetables for Salad, Cook like a Caterer, page 97












"To me, every hour of the day and night is an unspeakably perfect miracle"-Walt Whitman