Bridal Shower in Carlsbad

I planned and hosted Kien’s bridal shower this past weekend. I like how everything turned out. Most of the guests were happy.  We decided to have the party at Kien’s community club house, which included tables, chairs, and kitchen. One of Kien’s bridesmaids handmade the invitation.

For lunch, I hired 220 Catering to design the menu and cater the event. David Fouts designed a light lunch menu (vegetarian friendly) which blew my mind. All for about a very affordable price. The food was awesome, I loved the shrimp and mushrooms. I highly recommended 220 Catering for your next event. David Fouts is amazing. Here’s the menu:

TORTILLA SOUP
GAMBAS AL AJILLO:
Shrimp with Garlic, Paprika, Red Pepper Flakes, and Parsley
CHINESE CHICKEN SALAD:
Assorted Greens, Crispy Wonton Skins, Grilled Chicken, and Candied Nuts
CATALIN MUSHROOMS:
Whole Mushrooms Roasted and Tossed With Garlic and Parsley
BROCCOLI CRUNCH:
Broccoli, Candied Cashews, Red Onion, and Bacon in a Light Dressing
PENNE PASTA SALAD:
Penne Pasta with Fresh Mozzerela, Arugula, and Roasted Peppers

We didnt want to spend too much money on decorating the place, so our friend Laura bought some spider orchids from Trader Joe’s and made these simple centerpieces. The flowers worked well on the yellow and gray tablecloths I rented from Arcadia Party Rentals, along with utensils, water glasses, and soup bowls. For the favors, we gave out See’s Candy individually boxed KeyLime Truffles. I added the K for ‘Kien’ with melted candy waffers (you can get from Michael’s). Kelly took the pictures. Olga and Nataya brought the drinks. Kien supplied the prizes.

What would a shower be without games!? We played 3 games: 1. How well do you know the bride, 2. Purse Scavanger, 3. Toilet Paper Wedding Dress. The first two games were ice breakers. In the 3rd game, the ladies got together and made gorgeous TP gowns. The models did a little catwalk and the designers have to introduce the gowns, give it a brand, and explain the style and inspiration. It was fun. After the games, we had passion fruit cake from Extraordinary Desserts.

Enough blabbing, I know you want to see pictures. Here they are: