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10 Tips for Hosting a Spring Garden Party

Everyone loves an outdoor party, and springtime is a particularly wonderful season to host one. The garden is bursting with color, the weather is sunny and mild…why not celebrate the season with family and friends and host a gathering that is festive, fun, and oh, so pretty?

Creating a standout spring garden party should be an enjoyable experience, but it does require a bit of planning. So, to guide us through the process, we turned to Mary McCachern to share her best suggestions with us. McCachern creates dozens of tablescapes for her blog, Home Is Where the Boat Is, and after hosting numerous garden parties of her own, she has lots of ideas for how to make them special. Best of all, she believes in keeping it simple.

garden party ideas watering can tablescape — Photo courtesy of Mary McCachern

1. Location

Hot tip: You can throw a garden party even if you don’t have a garden! Select a spot in the backyard that is level and has room for tables and chairs. Define the party area with pots of flowers at each corner, or drape streamers over your patio. Make sure the area is completely dry, with no puddles or mud to mar the day.

2. Theme

Regardless of the occasion, your spring garden party will come together beautifully if you have a theme. “I love to follow a theme for a party, table, or event, whether it’s geared toward a holiday or a season,” McCachern says. She loves a springtime “Alice in Wonderland” tea party, Mad Hatter style, with antique mismatched teacups and odd clocks hung in tree branches or on the fence. Other themes to consider: garden fairies, May Day, English garden, enchanted April (Italian/Mediterranean villa), or your favorite spring garden flower, such as tulips.

Design the invitations according to your theme and consider dropping in a few dried flower petals in the envelope if you are sending via the post office.

3. Comfort

It’s so refreshing to sit outdoors with spring sunshine dappling through the trees. Ensure your guests’ comfort in simple ways they’ll really appreciate. If gnats or other pests want to join the party, set out bug repellent in personal-size bottles. McCachern also suggests citronella candles or tiki torches. “They help with bug control and also create ambiance,” she says.

Set your tables under shade trees; even in spring, the sun can wilt flowers, food, and guests quickly. No trees? Rent a few market umbrellas and a white canopy for the food area.

As the party rolls on, your guests may wish to gather in places away from the tables. McCachern likes to use colorful quilts both as tablecloths and as throws (with a few comfortable pillows) on patio furniture throughout the garden.

4. Light magic

A garden conjures magic in many ways. If your party is set for late afternoon or early evening, consider the visual magic of the glow of candlelight, fairy lights, string lights, and lanterns. Choose candles with fresh fragrance, such as lemongrass or lavender, to capture the essence of the garden. String paper lantern lights in pastel hues around a fence, gazebo, pergola, or porch.

5. Music

Playing your favorite music is one of those ideas that really personalizes your spring garden party. Think about the mood you want to set as well as the enjoyment of your guests and their tastes. Instrumental jazz and big band classics are always good choices, as are vocalists like Judy Garland or Ella Fitzgerald. Want a more artsy feeling? Play contemporary “coffee house”-style music or a mix of indie artists. Spanish guitar or chamber classical music creates a serene, timeless feeling.

6. Food & drink

Continue your theme wherever possible with the food and beverages you serve. A Mad Hatter tea party will, of course, have tea and English-style pastries, such as finger sandwiches and jam-filled cookies. For the fairy or May Day theme, offer up wonderful individual Bundt cakes and top them with miniature maypoles.

For a satisfying main course, pasta salads are ideal. Look for recipes using fresh vegetables and herbs. Combine berries, melon, and pineapple in a cut crystal bowl. Pass around chocolate-dipped strawberries for dessert.

For a cocktail party, serve refreshing beverages in mason jars, which have a casual, countryside appeal. Concoct a special mixed drink, such as this grapefruit lime paloma, that is just right for the season. Serve wine in personalized wine glasses with a floral theme, or offer wine glass charms that you can customize with any photos you choose. (These make great party favors, too!)

7. Table settings

From your tablecloth to your centerpiece, the table settings are the most fun. McCachern’s blog is full of whimsical, wonderful tablescape ideas, including this one for a casual garden party that uses decorative watering cans. Bring out smaller ones for individual tables, and cluster larger ones for the food table. Fill with blooms and continue the garden theme with antique flower-sprigged napkin rings and serveware.

For the enchanted April theme, look for cotton tablecloths with colorful Mediterranean, Turkish, or Moroccan patterns. Pair napkins with butterfly napkin rings in complementary colors. You can even lay down rugs and poofy pillows, inviting guests to eat picnic-style at a low table.

8. Party decorations

Pick up the colors of your garden in your decorations. These may include garden flags, bunting, balloons, and props. Props can be anything that deepens the theme, from signage to accessories the guests can bring home. For example, a garden fairies party might have flower crowns created for each guest, hanging on the chair backs. For a May Day theme, create a colorful maypole at the center of your party, and top it with a cluster of fresh flowers.

A simple but most appreciated decorating idea is windchimes. Delight your guests’ eyes and ears with these beautiful outdoor musical instruments. The gentle tinkle of windchimes swaying from trees and patio eaves will delight guests and add natural “background music” to the event.

garden party ideas lemon vase arrangement — Photo courtesy of Mary McCachern

9. Floral décor

You can do so many things with fresh flowers! If you have a cutting garden, then by all means incorporate your own daffodils, tulips, and irises into the arrangements. Ferns, eucalyptus, and ivy are great for greenery. Fill in the gaps with purchased flowers and look for creative vessels. “I like to think outside the vase,” McCachern says. She uses vintage holders, such as watering cans, honey tins, and hat boxes, to complement her themes. Another pretty technique is lining a glass vase with cut lemons.

10. Favors

Keep your party favors natural and simple, in keeping with the outdoor joy of your party. Useful and memorable tokens will remind your guests of the lovely spring garden party you hosted. Some suggestions include: small vanilla-scented jar candles, wood personalized coasters, a tiny starter succulent plant, flower crowns, and personalized glassware.

All About the May Birth Flowers: Lily of the Valley and Hawthorn

As April showers pave the way for May flowers, nature unveils some of its most delicate and enchanting creations. Among the myriad blossoms emerging from the ground this time of year, two gems stand out as the quintessential flowers of May.

These blooms take center stage during the month, weaving tales of love, hope, and renewal. Whether adorning a bridal bouquet, gracing a garden, or simply brightening a room, these May birth flowers remind us to embrace the joys of the season and cherish the wonders of nature’s bounty.

What are the May birth flowers?

The May birth flowers are the lily of the valley and hawthorn.

Lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis) is a dainty perennial plant native to the cool temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Characterized by its bell-shaped, white flowers that hang delicately from slender stems, this plant exudes a sweet, intoxicating fragrance that heralds the arrival of spring.

The hawthorn (Crataegus) is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the rose family (Rosaceae). Known for its clusters of fragrant white or pink flowers and thorny branches, the hawthorn is commonly found in and around hedgerows, woodlands, and gardens.

What is the history of lily of the valley?

Lily of the valley appears in ancient Greek mythology with the story of the god Apollo. According to legend, Apollo fell in love with a beautiful nymph named Smilax. As Apollo pursued her, Smilax transformed herself into a delicate white flower — now believed to be lily of the valley — to evade his advances. Despite her efforts, Apollo continued to admire her beauty, and the flower became a symbol of his affection and eternal admiration.

According to Christian folklore, lily of the valley sprang from the tears of the Virgin Mary during the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, earning it the moniker “Our Lady’s Tears” or “Mary’s Tears.”

In medieval Europe, lily of the valley was often associated with May Day festivities, where it adorned maypoles and garlands as a symbol of spring’s arrival and the renewal of life. The flower also holds special significance in Scandinavian folklore, where it is believed to bring good luck and protect against evil spirits when carried on one’s person.

Bouquet of white flowers Lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis

What does lily of the valley symbolize?

With its pristine white blossoms and sweet fragrance, lily of the valley has long been regarded as a symbol of innocence and purity. The flower is also closely associated with love and devotion, symbolizing deep affection and devotion between partners.

Another symbolic meaning of lily of the valley is hope and happiness. As a harbinger of spring, the flower’s arrival signals the end of winter and the promise of new beginnings.

How to care for lily of the valley

Caring for lily of the valley requires a delicate touch to match the flower’s fragile beauty. Here are some essential care tips:

Sunlight: Lily of the valley thrives in partial to full shade conditions. Choose a planting location that receives dappled sunlight or shade for the majority of the day.
Planting: Plant lily of the valley rhizomes (underground stems) in early spring or late summer/early fall for best results. Dig a hole slightly larger than the rhizome and place it in the soil, ensuring the roots are spread out evenly. Cover with soil and water thoroughly.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During hot summer months, provide additional watering to prevent the soil from drying out completely.
Division: Lily of the valley tends to spread rapidly. Every few years, divide overcrowded clumps in early spring or late summer to rejuvenate the plants and prevent overcrowding.
Winter care: In regions with cold winters, apply a layer of mulch over the soil surface to protect the rhizomes from freezing temperatures. Remove the mulch in early spring once the threat of frost has passed.

3 interesting facts about lily of the valley

Despite its alluring appearance and intoxicating fragrance, all parts of the lily of the valley are highly poisonous if ingested.
The scent of lily of the valley is often described as floral, with hints of honey and citrus, making it a popular choice for fragrances, candles, and toiletries.
In France, lily of the valley is customarily given on May 1, a public holiday called La Fête du Muguet (the French’s version of May Day), as a symbol of good luck and happiness.

Best May birth flower gift ideas

Lily of the Valley Gold Pendant

Thanks Candle

What is the history of the hawthorn?

According to Celtic mythology, the hawthorn was regarded as a symbol of protection and associated with the Otherworld, the realm of the gods and spirits. It was believed to serve as a gateway between the mortal world and the divine.

The plant also features prominently in the legends of the faeries and the Sidhe (pronounced “shee”), the mystical beings of Celtic folklore. It was said that the faeries would gather beneath the branches of the hawthorn on moonlit nights, bestowing blessings or mischief upon those who encountered them.

In Christianity, the hawthorn was often referred to as the “May Tree” or “May Blossom,” and was linked to the celebration of May Day and the feast of Beltane, which marked the beginning of summer. Some historians also believe that hawthorn may have been used to fashion the crown of thorns worn by Jesus Christ during his crucifixion.

Today, in some regions, it is still customary to decorate maypoles and garlands with hawthorn blossoms during May Day festivities.

What does the hawthorn symbolize?

One of the most prominent symbolic meanings of the hawthorn is protection. In various cultures and traditions, the hawthorn has been revered for its purported ability to ward off evil spirits, lightning strikes, and negative energies.

The hawthorn is also closely associated with themes of love and romance. In Celtic folklore, it was believed that couples who met beneath the branches of the hawthorn would be blessed with enduring love and happiness.

The hawthorn is also associated with:

Transformation and spiritual growth (due to its association with the Otherworld and the mystical realm of the faeries in Celtic mythology)
The arrival of spring and renewal of life (due to its inclusion in May Day celebrations)
Resilience and endurance (due to its thorny exterior and ability to thrive in diverse environments)

Red hawthorn (Crataegus) berries and green leaves in a hedgerow

How to care for the hawthorn

Hawthorns are not the easiest trees to grow, so it’s imperative to give them the proper care. Here’s how best to do it.

Sunlight: Hawthorns prefer at least six hours of direct sunlight per day, so choose a planting location that receives full sun to partial shade.
Soil: Hawthorns can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils, but sandy loam or loamy soils are ideal.
Planting: Plant hawthorn trees in the early spring or late fall. Dig a hole that is slightly wider and deeper than the root ball of the tree. Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil, backfill the hole with soil, and water thoroughly.
Pruning: Pruning is best done during the dormant season, in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Avoid heavy pruning during the growing season, as this can stress the tree.
Pest and disease management: Hawthorn trees may occasionally be affected by issues such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, or aphid infestations. If this occurs, take appropriate measures to manage them, such as pruning affected branches or applying organic pesticides.
Winter care: In regions with cold winters, protect young hawthorn trees from frost and freezing temperatures by wrapping the trunk with tree wrap or burlap.

3 interesting facts about the hawthorn

The berries of certain hawthorn species are eatable and are used in jams, jellies, and syrups.
Those berries, as well as the leaves and flowers, are also valued for their purported cardiovascular benefits. They have been used in herbal remedies and tonics to treat conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and digestive disorders.
Hawthorn trees are known for their longevity and can live for several decades, with some specimens surviving for over a century.

How to Cultivate Self-Compassion

When you’re grieving, every day feels like National Grief Awareness Day. But did you know the United States actually has such a designated day? It’s on Aug. 30 and was established in 2014 by Angie Cartwright, who had experienced enormous grief stemming from the loss of her baby sister, newlywed husband, and mother. The day’s mission is to encourage open and honest communication about the various ways in which we cope with loss and bereavement, and to remind us all to support those we know who are grieving.

In a recent “Light After Loss” Facebook Live episode, Modern Loss’ Rebecca Soffer hosted a discussion with mindfulness coach Annie Pearson about the importance of self-awareness and self-compassion in grief, along with some easy-to-do grounding exercises.

Here are some key takeaways from their conversation.

Why is it important to create an ongoing sense of awareness about our grief?

Once we are aware of how we are feeling — and it’s important to check in with yourself on a regular basis — we can start to give ourselves what we need to move through a difficult moment in the best way possible. If we ignore these feelings or what our body is telling us, this feeling won’t go away by just pretending it’s not there. Some of this has to do with allowing ourselves to be uncomfortable, but difficult things will seem more manageable once we name them out loud. (A tip from Pearson: The phrase “Name it to tame it” works for her!)

How do we deal with ‘future worry’?

It’s natural to spend time ruminating about what happened in the past or what might happen in the future, but it’s a lot more helpful to focus on what’s happening now. Mindfulness exercises are meant to help you ground yourself and be present in the moment. And the best part: They’re easy to learn and use anywhere.

3 exercises to help anchor ourselves in the moment

1. Belly breath (also called the “three-part breath”)

This exercise helps us expand our lungs and take in more breath.

Breathe in through your chest, rib cage, and belly. Pause, then breathe out through your belly, rib gate, and chest.

2. Focus on the sounds

This exercise is a great step for beginners who are nervous about trying meditation.

Instead of trying to meditate by ignoring the sounds around you, change your focus so that you start to really listen to those sounds. Begin with the sound that is farthest away and name it without judgment (a dog barking, street traffic, etc.). Continue listening to the sounds closer to you, naming and labeling them without judgment, until you get to the sounds of your own breath and heartbeat. Listen to and name everything. Then, open your eyes, listen again, and see what you notice.

3. Finger touch meditation

Repeat a chant or affirmation as you touch each finger to the thumb on its same hand (index finger touches thumb, middle finger touches thumb, etc.). For example, you can use “I am peaceful” or “I am OK.”

This article was authored by ModernLoss.com, which offers candid conversation about grief and meaningful community throughout the long arc of loss.

10 Magical Facts About Unicorns

As humans, we are always on the lookout for a little magic. Taking a foray into the realm of the supernatural is both fascinating and exhilarating, whether it’s fanciful daydreams or a deep dive into a fantastical world of mythical creatures.

And there is little debate over which magical animal is at the top of the food chain (figuratively speaking): the unicorn. This unmistakable horse-like being features a single spiraling horn on its forehead, making it impossible to overlook.

facts about unicorns with a unicorn flying above the clouds

10 fascinating facts about unicorns

1. Unicorns are earthbound

That’s right: Despite possessing beauty and power that seemingly defy the laws of our universe, unicorns call our humble Earth “home.” While we’re happy to share our space with such majestic creatures, they do set a pretty unrealistic standard for us earthlings.

2. Unicorns are small but mighty

While a unicorn may be large in stature next to a common human, among beasts, it’s quite diminutive. You should never underestimate these horned horses, though, because they are powerful enough to bring down an elephant. (We think they’d probably just get along and be friends…)

3. They are solar powered

If you happen to stumble upon a unicorn in the forest, you won’t see it munching grass; that’s way too mundane. They actually use their horns to absorb the sun’s light and convert it into energy.

4. Those iconic horns have a name

A unicorn’s horn is called an “alicorn” and is said to contain magical healing powers.

facts about unicorns with a unicorn in the forest

5. You’ll have to hike if you want to find a unicorn

Unicorns are rumored to live deep within forests (preferably enchanted ones), so you’re unlikely to ever see one. Of course, you should still stay vigilant the next time you take a stroll through the woods.

6. Unicorns stick together

Typically, unicorns live in groups of four to five, making them communal creatures. While we’ve never had the honor to enter the inner unicorn circle, we’re sure the conversation is top-notch.

7. They’ve been around a long time

facts about unicorns with a unicorn with purple eyes

In the Middle Ages, unicorns didn’t necessarily symbolize fantasy: While still magical, they represented grace in the age of castles and knights.

8. They’re multi-hued

Like normal horses, unicorns come in a variety of colors, each as vibrant and beautiful as the last.

9. Unicorns tend to have blue or purple eyes

As with coat colors, other eye colors are possible, but most unicorns have either blue- or purple-colored eyes.

10. They are magical beyond belief

Speaking of color, if you manage to lay hands on a white unicorn, you’ll receive a special gift — eternal happiness.

Whether you’re on a quest to find a unicorn, just hoping you stumble upon one by accident, or are simply happy to see them in your imagination and on the big screen, there’s no denying that these mythical creatures are inspiring.

Give the gift of unicorns

You’ve got your fill of facts about unicorns. Now it’s time to look for whimsical unicorn-related gifts. There’s no need to go beyond the rainbow or traipse through an endless enchanted forest. From bouquets bursting with colors to unicorn-themed treats, we have unicorn gifts for every occasion.

unicorn facts Rainbow Unicorn Party Pack — Rainbow Unicorn Party Pack

30 Messages to Write in a Graduation Card

Graduating from college is a major achievement, one that marks the end of an era and opens a world of exciting opportunities. So when you sit down to craft the perfect message for a graduation card, you want to get it right.

Whether your grad is earning a degree or a professional title, their hard work and dedication deserve words of recognition. If you’re not sure about what to write, we have plenty of ideas for you, from formal messages to inspirational quotes.

Tips for graduation card messages

First, recognize that any kind of graduation is a huge milestone, and acknowledging it as such can bring joy and excitement to the recipient. The special student in your life is about to enter a new phase in life, so warm wishes are a must. A simple “Congratulations!” is fine, but considering everything they’ve gone through to get to this point, providing them with words that are a little more supportive or inspiring is warranted.

A photo of graduation messages with a blank graduation card

“Focus on the message, avoid clichés, and try to be authentic and personable,” says Maryanne Parker, etiquette expert and founder of Manor of Manners. She says it also makes sense to focus on the exciting and challenging adventure that lies ahead. “Express confidence in their desire to excel. Remind them that every great journey begins with the first step.”

In general, be encouraging and enthusiastic when writing out a graduation card, as positive words can go a long way. While ready-to-use graduation quotes are easy, a personal message that shows the giver put real, genuine thought into it can be truly memorable for the graduate.

“Many times, our messages express the emotions we feel at that very moment,” Parker says. “This leaves the recipient with beautiful, unforgettable, and meaningful memories.”

No matter what kind of graduation you’re celebrating, the heartfelt expressions below will get you started on helping the grad in your life go confidently in the direction of their dreams.

Casual graduation messages

What a ride it has been! You should be very proud of yourself. Hats off to you!
Fulfilling your dreams is one of the most satisfying experiences in life. Congratulations! I cannot wait to see what life has in store for you!
Here’s to your next adventure. May it be as awesome as you are.
What an impressive achievement! This calls for a celebration. Congrats, grad!
May your cap fly as high as your dreams. Congratulations!

A photo of graduation messages with a female graduate

Formal graduation messages

Congratulations on your well-deserved success.
Here’s to a bright future. Congratulations!
Warmest congratulations on your graduation.
Be bold, be courageous, be your best. Congratulations!
Congratulations on your graduation, and best wishes for your next grand adventure.

Encouraging graduation messages

Following your dreams requires dedication, passion, and sacrifice. We can’t wait to see you accomplish everything you set out to do.
Congratulations on your graduation. Your next adventure awaits, and we’re excited to see where it leads you. Nothing can stop you now.
Today is one of the most amazing moments of your life. Congratulations!
Never stop growing, exploring, learning, and challenging yourself.
Graduation isn’t the end of a long journey but the beginning of a beautiful one. Start each day believing in yourself, and watch the magic happen.

Best graduation gift ideas

graduation messages Congrats Succulents — Congrats Succulents

graduation messages You Are Fearless Sweets Box — You Are Fearless Sweets Box

graduation messages Engraved Navigator Compass — Engraved Navigator Compass

Funny graduation messages

Good looks, brains, lots of heart, and now a degree? You’ve got it all! Congrats!
The tassel was worth the hassle! Congratulations!
You deserve all kinds of high fives and hugs! Congrats, grad!
I lost a bet. You graduated.
Cap, gown, it’s going down! Congratulations!

A photo of graduation messages with graduates raising their caps in the air

Inspirational graduation quotes

“That clock you hear is the sound of your own heart. Sink your teeth into this life, and don’t get let go.” — Lin-Manuel Miranda
“You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backward. You have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future.” — Steve Jobs
“Don’t be afraid. Be focused. Be determined. Be hopeful. Be empowered.” — Michelle Obama
“If you want something you’ve never had, you must be willing to do something you’ve never done.” — Thomas Jefferson
“We do not need magic to change the world; we carry all the power we need inside ourselves already. We have the power to imagine better.” — J. K. Rowling
“The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.” — Mark Twain
“The most effective way to do it is to do it.” — Amelia Earhart
“It’s hard to beat a person who never gives up.” — Babe Ruth
“The best way to predict your future is to create it.” — Abraham Lincoln
“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” — Mahatma Gandhi