As planning is underway for hosting this year’s Easter celebration, I have pulled together a few favorite ideas which include everything from preparing your home to keeping little bunnies busy.
An Easter “Hello!”
Sweetly colored outdoor decor is popping up around the neighborhood. Rainbows of color, whether in egg form, ribbons or florals are perfect for the wreath on your front door. A friend arranges yellow tulips in a thin planter basket, adds bright green moss and hangs it on her front door with a black and white striped ribbon. Here is an example from Country Living in burlap and metal. As a housekeeping note, remember to wash all the pollen away from your front porch, front door urns, the backyard deck and the sidewalk leading up to your home. Don’t forget to swap out your winter mat for a cheery spring “welcome.”
A Spring Centerpiece
Simple is often best. This striking centerpiece from Tulipina caught my eye on Pinterest – all you need is a french wire basket, eggs from the grocery store and some fresh flowers. She opts for geranium leaves and sweet peas. If your decor preferences are a little more modern or minimalist, a cactus egg centerpiece in a sleek planter might make your heart sing.
A Joyful Repurpose
I have a collection of cake stands and serving trays and use them on a regular basis. Turn something in your closet into something even more lovely. Freshen up your votive candle trays by adding pastel eggs every few spaces, or skipping the candles altogether. Mason jars can be customized an assortment of ways. Fill them with jelly beans and add some twine or use chalky pastel paint to monogram or personalize to your heart’s content.
Busy Bunnies
For kids, grandkids and other family friends, have options to keep them entertained and excited.
Afternoon activities (pick two or three, I like them all!):
- Dying natural eggs: A simple decorating kit from the grocery store is a staple. With the help of social media, this tradition has taken a new shape.
- Painting cardboard eggs: Popular blogger and artist Alisa Burke takes painting eggs to another level, but the activity can be modified to suit all ages. She also has a tutorial on how to marble plastic eggs.
- Making woodland creature eggs: Add some personality to your eggs with cardboard paper, sharpies and paint (craft instructions).
- Frosting sugar cookies: Use food coloring to offer a palette of frosting options or decorate with tiny candies.
- An Easter egg hunt: Keep treats safe for children with food allergies and designate an area for toddlers so that everyone is able to participate.
- Origami bunnies: Good Housekeeping posted a free template for this darling craft.
A Basket Full of Joy
One of the best parts about Easter baskets is the personal touch. For good friends and daughters who have left the nest, think about adding something unexpected to their baskets. I have had fun tucking away favorite coffee shop gift cards, pretty spring coasters and a pink and gold Vera Bradley tassel. Wine, chocolate and a mini potted plant are other ideas for adults. Don’t forget your husband or a significant other. They may not show it, but they enjoy being remembered on Easter as well.
More Sweet Treats
If you are looking for something over the top but not too complicated for dessert, the Food Network has a coconut bunny cake recipe (and video). Another idea is a carrot-shaped cake from Betty Crocker.
Easter Etiquette
As you host your Easter gathering, your goal is to build a sense of warmth and community for your guests. The sugary confections and festive decor are fun, but the hope is to enjoy your time together as you celebrate traditions that will build a lifetime of memories.
Happy Easter,
Diane
For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow Diane on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter. Buy her new book, Modern Etiquette for a Better Life.
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Instagram