How To Throw A Farmer's Market Themed Cocktail Party

Every Saturday, my husband, daughter, and I go to the farmer’s market in downtown Palo Alto, CA.

I love everything about it: the explosion of colors, the smells, the tastes, watching as the fruits and vegetables change throughout the season, and saying hello to my favorite farmers. It’s truly a special place for me.

So when Shutterfly asked me to try out their custom home decor collection, I knew exactly what I wanted to do. I wanted to use the farmer’s market as my inspiration for a fun cocktail party.

Up until now, I’d only bought photo books from Shutterfly, so I was excited to discover all their customizable home decor. And what impressed me the most, aside from the large selection, was how easy it was to personalize each item, and turn them into one-of-a-kinds.

To get my party planning off the ground, I took a ton of photos with my iPhone on my next trip to the farmer’s market. Then I started customizing…

How To Decorate A Farmer’s Market Themed Cocktail Party

My first goal was to bring the spirit of the farmer’s market into my dining room.

I used the Shutterfly Design-a-Wall to create this three panel mounted wall art. I featured closeups of red and green heirloom tomatoes, purple plums, and green artichokes.

I was able to create these images in minutes, and I LOVE how they turned out! They looked so professional — you’d never know they were quick iPhone photos.

To make hanging easy, Shutterfly sent a handy paper hanging guide, complete with level, to make sure the photos were straight and perfectly placed. This was such a help and I was able to hang the photos in under five minutes.

Next, I made two custom photo pillows. I created one from a photo of gorgeous purple zucchinis, and another from vibrant flowers. I wasn’t planning on displaying the pillows under my photos, but when I randomly placed them there, I really liked how it looked.

I’m also big into surrounding myself with affirmations, quotes, and “power” words.

I believe we all create our own narratives, so why not make the words we surround ourselves with as strong and positive as possible?

I incorporated four of my favorite words in my decor: “Happy,” “Breezy,” “Cheery,” and “Jaunty.” My old dog, Gertie, used to have a jaunty walk, so that word is near and dear to my heart!

I also created a personalized burlap table runner with my four words written down the middle, and I created two custom pillows with the words “Happy” and “Breezy” on them.

Next, I personalized my glass decanter with the quote: “Wine a bit. You’ll feel better.” Seriously, what could be more apropos at a cocktail party? I thought it would make my guests laugh.

And I repeated my favorite words on four wine glasses. If we are all suggestible, as I keep learning, what a subtle way to coax my guests into having a good time.

Next I designed this “Let’s Eat” desktop plaque to place on my table. Close by, I displayed a bowl of fresh farmer’s market peaches. Again, my goal is always to create warm, welcoming, layered touches.

I personalized this cutting board with the saying: “Good food. Good life.” This is a quote I live by, and is my philosophy when entertaining.

I also personalized this glass jar with the words”Tasty Stuff,” and filled it with caramel corn, for a playful touch of sweetness.

And lastly, I designed this personalized serving tray using one of my sunflower photos. It added another bright pop of color, and I paired it with some real sunflowers for added punch.

I love how my party turned out, with its bold colors and whimsical details. Here are some more photos for you to enjoy…

Thank you, Shutterfly, for helping me create these beautiful, items with ease. And thanks for letting me bring my love of the farmer’s market into my home. You’ve made one girl very happy, cheery, breezy, and jaunty!

Cheers to a summer filled with good food and good friends!

If you want to give your home that stylish, personalized touch, check out Shutterfly’s Home Decor Collections. They make it so easy for you to create your vision!

This post is sponsored by Shutterfly, but all ideas, inspirations, and good vibes are mine!