One party I have always wanted to host is an ice cream social, complete with endless flavors and a topping bar. Doesn’t it just spell summer F-U-N? Not like I haven’t had a reason to hold one with two treat loving kids, but recently the perfect opportunity presented itself.
A friend of ours was heading out of town and offered for us to stay at her house while she was away. Let me just tell you, this home is no ordinary home. It is complete with a trampoline, tennis court and pool. Talk about a kid’s heaven, so there was no doubt we would be moving in short term.
Once this happened, I knew I had to take advantage of the space and amenities. It worked out great that the time coincided with the first birthday of my blog so with little time to plan or organize, I decided to throw a little party to celebrate.
On a summer Friday afternoon, I invited some wonderful local moms with their kids and hosted what I called a “Treat Yo Self” Ice Cream Social and Pool Party. The weather cooperated, and in the sunshine everyone enjoyed some yummy food and goodies and it didn’t take long until many were in the pool.
Before indulging in treats, we were lucky to have pizza from local favorite, Rocky Mountain Flatbread. They were kind enough to provide a sampling of their wonderful selection of flatbread pizza, made with fresh, organic ingredients. From “Sun-dried Tomato and Goat Cheese” to “Country Harvest” to the ever popular “Four Cheese”, most pieces were gone quickly after being served. It was all washed down with a signature strawberry lemonade.
Thereafter, it was time for everyone to enjoy a variety of sweets. The dessert table featured kettle corn, donuts and mini ice cream cake pops. I also bought store bought ice cream sandwiches and simply added sprinkles and made Rice Krispie treats shaped like popsicles.
And as expected, the hit of the party was the ice cream and toppings bar. On a recent trip to a local pie shop I was introduced to Betterwith Ice Cream. Made locally with farm-fresh, traceable cream and no preservatives, I knew it was the perfect choice for the party. And hello, how cute is the branding and packaging?!? We had a variety of their flavours from “Strawberry” to “Cream” to “Salted Caramel”, all of which were enjoyed by guests young and old.
The toppings bar was placed on a bench so the children could reach and participate in creating their own sundaes. I took clear plastic cups and dipped each candy melts and sprinkles. The toppings ranged from fruit and cookies to sprinkles and gummy candies. Chocolate and caramel sauces were also served up, and of course, you couldn’t forget the whip cream.
I didn’t want to have guests leave empty handed. I reached out to the fabulous momprenuer who is the genius behind Plum Polka Dot. Christina creates on trend party favors and accessories that are simply adorable. For me she did up custom ice cream and pastel hair ties/bracelets. I paired them with other treats in my signature pink color.
Thanks to all that came to celebrate my first year of blogging, and even more, a huge thanks to my family who have supported me from day one. Here is to another exciting year for “This Sweet Happy Life”.
Photography: My City Photos and Events
