Bob's Bistro

As if we haven't been doing ten million things in preperation for the holidays, Bob, decided that it was time for another Bistro. Of course our original intent was to have it in October but time just got away from us. So instead we just hosted it last weekend. Five days before Thanksgiving! It was probably one of the best parties we have ever given. Everyone was so relaxed. That had a lot to do with the fact that the hosts were also relaxed. This time we had fewer people and one less course to serve. We also planned food that didn't take so much time at the party for us to be cooking in the kitchen. The night was absolutely beautiful, and the food.... it was so seriously delicious!

-M.

Bob's Bistro!

So, as everyone knows, my husband and I love to cook and entertain. And for years our friends and family have been happily feasting on Bob’s great dinners. However, providing dinners on such a grand scale can get pretty pricey! In order to insure the continuation of good dinners, our friends have been trying to get us to have a ‘restaurant’ night at our house where we would charge each couple to attend. Well, finally we did it!

We just hosted our first “Bob’s Bistro” dinner party Saturday night. It was incredible! The music, the food, conversation, and wine were wonderful, and we couldn’t ask for more beautiful weather! Of course, true to my nature, I did everything last minute. And I do mean everything. You would think owning an invitation shop, I would have pre-ordered my invites…. wishful thinking!! But, the good news is that they turned out great and it is proof that you can do great things not only spur of the moment, but on a budget as well! Here are some pictures of our fabulous night along with ideas for you to plan your own dinner party!

*Invitations were sooo easy!! I layered 3 pieces of cardstock ($.17 each) and used Stickles glitter to enhance the printed design on invitation and rsvp. The envelopes were $.30 and $.35 each and rsvp $.15 each!

I had the white tablecloths already, I purchased the blue 'toppers' at JoAnne's for $2.99/yd!
(I just cut a square for each table - no sewing)
The white citronella candles were from TJ Maxx - very inexpensive!
To further reduce costs we used our dining room chairs instead of renting.

I picked up the flower bouquets at Trader Joe's for $9.99 each table! Screaming deal!
My sister suggested using the leaves from our tree for placecards! Perfect!

The chef extraordinaire!

(mingle, mingle, wine, wine!)

Yummy Menu! (again with the stickles and $.17 cardstock!)

Okay, seriously! I only got pictures of 2 of the 5 courses!!
Note to self: Don't try to host and be the photographer of your own event!