real parties: shades of white

Simone from Beach Vintage sent this lovely white party my way. It was held for her daughter’s 4th birthday and is so beautifully clean and elegant. The paper lanterns paired with vintage china are the perfect setting for an afternoon tea, and while she added a seaside touch by using flowers & shells, it would also feel just right as a winter party with snow and crystal ice.

{more details and images via beach vintage}

If you’d like to submit an original birthday party for consideration, e-mail me at birthdaygirlblog{at}gmail.com. (And remember, it's not all about the kids... parties thrown for friends & family are just as much fun to feature!)

chocolate peanut butter pie

I made this peanut butter pie recipe for my book club last weekend and it went over so well that it was gone before I remembered to take a picture. Luckily I found a similar recipe at the Pioneer Woman so you can get the idea of what it should look like (though apparently she had the same problem). I highly recommend it for a party... a total crowd pleaser, but a little goes a long way... it’s super indulgent!

{image via the pioneer woman}

Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie

Ingredients
-4 cups chocolate wafer cookies
-2 sticks butter, melted
-1 cup creamy peanut butter
-1 (8-ounce) package softened cream cheese
-1 cup powdered sugar
-1/2 can condensed milk
-8 ounces fresh whipped cream (or Cool Whip)
- garnish: crushed peanuts, chocolate shavings

Directions
Crust:

Crush the cookies in a food processor.

Pour melted butter over the top and stir with a fork to combine.

Press into pie or tart pan and bake at 350 degrees for 5 to 7 minutes, or until set.

Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.

Filling:

Beat the peanut butter, condensed milk, powdered sugar and cream cheese in a mixer until smooth.

Add in the whipped cream and beat until smooth, scraping the sides as needed.

Pour filling into crust, evening out the top with a knife or spatula.

Chill for at least an hour before serving.

Garnish with crushed peanuts & chocolate shavings if desired.