A Stylish Cookie-Exchange

Cookie
It started as a way to break the ice, 3+ years ago, when Paula Barton moved to her new suburban, Minnesota neighborhood. Now, it's a much-anticipated holiday tradition for Ladies of Woodhill. The event? Her stylish cookie exchange party. She invites the Ladies of Woodhill over to exchange cookes, sip a little wine + to catch up on some much-needed conversation.

Sunday will be Paula's 4th year in the making {+ her 4th invite designed with us :)}. We caught up with her recently to ask her about how she prepares for such an anticipated event + what's inspiring this year.

First, a little advice. What's your fool-proof tip to a flawless party?

"Keep it warm + inviting and don't worry about everything being perfect!" She likes to keep a nice variety of goodies, but doesn't think it all needs to be from scratch. "Some homemade things are nice, but so are some treats I've discovered other places throughout the year. The most important thing is to enjoy each other's company -- the food is secondary."

What's your key to flawless decor?

"I keep it classic. A lot of my decorations have sentimental meaning -- things I've collected over the years. I mix it in with new things and it balances, keeping the mood warm and inviting."

What's inspiring you this year?

"I steal shamelessly. I gather recipes from other get-togethers throughout the year. I am a sucker for any Cookie Cookbooks, I love Real Simple and other old stand-by Better Homes and Gardens magazines."

What's your favorite part of hosting? {Besides the YUMMY cookies..}

"I love having a chance to catch up with all of our neighbors. We spend so much time outside during the summer, during the warm months, but as the winter hits we need more excuses to catch up with one another."

 

A Bright + Bold Cocktail Party

Our lead trendsetter, Kara Kurth, is also quite the hostess. She's getting ready to throw her 5th Annual Holiday Party + we wanted to know how she keeps them coming back for more, year after year. Learn more.

The drink that can't go wrong

Cocktail3

 This year she's going festive with her drinks, with a little help from Oprah. Inspired by this recipe, Kara's guests' spirits will warm with Moscow Mule Cocktails. Her twist? Add a little rosemary to garnish, instead of mint -- makes a bit more festive.

Decorations that pop.
Decor
She's a trend-setter for a reason. She captures the season with festive elements, but adds her own flavor. A vintage reindeer, freshly gathered pine cones and bright + bold elements sprinkled in with her flock wreath and tiered platter. This party is her favorite excuse to pull out her favorite flatware. Bold, tiered plates {for yummy treats} + sparkling crystal, which adds the perfect glimmer her evening needs. 

Her ensemble, you ask?
Frock
Nothing less than polished. This hostess with the mostess, certainly looks the part.  From head to toe Kara will rock a flowing, fire-engine-red frock -- the best vest for moving quickly. Both for hosting + rocking the dance floor. 

So what keeps them coming back?
Secret
 Her parties are spontaneous + free-flowing. Her guests love the mysterious allure of what's going to happen each year. Will it be new refreshments? New games? New decor? The opportunities are endless + this trendsetter delivers {year after year}.