Lantern Party

We apologize for being a little incognito lately. I've been spending a lot of time over here; but, we're back with some great stuff to share.

Rachelle and I hosted a lantern party a couple of weeks ago at Mount Soledad to celebrate a forthcoming milestone in my life. The views were gorgeous and the company was splendid.

We served up delicious appetizers and a selection of fun mocktails.

 Pepperoni Pinwheels & White Bean + Kale Crostini

Meatball Canapes & Wonton Crisps

Tuscan Fresco

Pomegranite-Ginger-Chile Nojito

Ginger Splash & Orange Creamsicle



Our guests loved mixing and creating their own drinks. Not only were the mocktails a refreshing treat, but they also seemed to double as an enjoyable social activity. It added the perfect, lively little twist to the late afternoon event.

We were prepared for a massive lantern release at sunset; but, due to windy conditions we figured it would be best to release just one. It ended up being just as magical.

To Love and Be Loved

The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.

-Moulin Rouge

This is a favorite quote from a favorite movie of mine. I just love the depth of meaning behind this simple expression. I am convinced that the key to happiness in life is to love—to love yourself, to love others, to love the details of each new day, to love . . . love . . . love. Sometimes love comes quite naturally; often love is a choice or a perspective. Either way, love equals happiness in my book.

To me, Valentine's Day is a reminder that happiness is found when we love and accept love in return. It is a reminder to smile and to project love, kindness, friendship, and happiness to those around you, to yourself, and to the universe in general.

And when that love happens to be received in such a deliciously adorable little handmade mailbox (tutorial to come) that is never a bad thing in my opinion.

Sending you our love today and every day!

XOXO,

Steph 





Love in Bloom

Valentine’s Day is a beloved holiday for us both. So, this year we decided to share that love by hosting a lovely, French-inspired soiree. The theme was ‘Amour en Fleur’ (or ‘Love in Bloom’). From the charming atmosphere to the equally delightful company, love and happiness was most definitely in bloom.

The beauty of the dinner table seemed to create a French garden feel as we engaged in friendly conversation over a dinner of roasted cauliflower soup, sauteed Swiss chard and heirloom tomato salad, herbed fingerling potatoes, and honey-glazed chicken. For dessert, no one could resist the chocolate melting cake topped with almond whipped cream and fresh raspberries, accompanied by chocolate-mint herbal tea.

There were valentine bags at each of the guests’ seats, and we asked that everyone bring special valentines to share. The creativity was remarkable, and it was such a treat to have a darling envelope of goodies to take home.

From our hearts to yours, we wish you Amour en Fleur this Valentine’s Day!

About Us

Rachelle & Stephanie

As Henry David Thoreau so poignantly penned, “This world is but a canvas to our imagination.” We are two friends who enjoy discovering creative inspiration in the details of our lives. We believe that the beauty and uniqueness of art is found its imperfections.

Birchwood and Bloom is our lifestyle blog which will feature the things we fancy and the beauty we create—parties, décor, fashion, recipes, gardening, and anything else that sparks our interests. We are excited to have you join us in our adventure.