While summer is all about sun, fun and being out and about…autumn is full-fledged permission to hunker down indoors and think cozy thoughts. With cooler weather and a stream of holidays, the fall months are designed for gatherings with family and friends. Without the use of a pool (built-in entertainment) or an outdoor space, you may be wondering what to do with a bunch of people inside your house. We’ve got a few ideas up the sleeve (of our new, cute cardigan).

 Sometimes the best ideas are old ones! Is anyone else obsessed with that design show with the Brady Bunch ‘kids’?! I know it’s got me wistful for a simpler time. So, let’s get nostalgic and plan your next bash!

DIY Popcorn Bar Guide

 WHAT’S THE OCCASION?

– Birthday

– Kids Slumber Party

– Mom’s Night Out

– Holiday Crafting

–  Family Movie Night

–  It’s Finally Fall!

 SET THE SCENE

 Hello Retro.

 This theme appeals to guests of all ages and is great for connecting the generations. It’s easy –just think back to what you enjoyed as a child. I remember how exciting it was to watch my mom make Jiffy Pop on the stove. The foil would expand, getting bigger and bigger until – POOF!  We’ve got an updated way to evoke those old-school vibes – a popcorn bar! Everyone’s favorite snack becomes interactive when you turn it into a DIY buffet. I made one for my daughter’s 18th birthday and it was a big hit. I discovered gourmet popcorn and yummy flavorings from family-run, Dell Cove Spices & More. I was pretty intimidated to pop my own corn (hello, that’s why we have microwaves), but they made it so easy. And, I got to relive that “Jiffy” moment with my daughter and her friends! To tie in the party colors, we used non-toxic gold paint on the tops of the seasoning shakers. We realized these flower bouquet cones also double as cute popcorn holders!

Dell Cove has a FREE helpful guide with everything you need to know to create your own popcorn bar. Bonus: you’ll also get cool printable labels and signs to personalize your décor. Their wonderful staff was a great resource when I was planning Giana’s party. 

DIY Popcorn Bar Guide

SPARK THE FUN

 Unplugged. 

 MTV knew what they were doing. When you’re planning activities for your event, think LOW tech. Instead of a PlayStation or VR goggles, put out classic games like Monopoly, Trivial Pursuit, Sorry and, if you want hilarious photo ops, Twister! 

 The best way to get guests engaged (and off of their phones) is to give them something to do. Set up a table and help bring out their inner artist. Pick crafts that can be completed during the party time frame. For a sleepover, decorate pillowcases with fabric markers or attach our colorful beads to a canvas tote. Make it seasonal by gathering pretty leaves and turning them into a piece of art. We have cool ideas for making jewelry, sequin ornaments and even breaking out the colored pencils and crayons to COLOR. I did a Movie Night theme for my daughter’s party, which paired perfectly with the popcorn bar. We also played board games, made jewelry (of course!), munched on popcorn and enjoyed sugar-rimmed mocktails. Don’t worry, Dell Cove’s colorful sugars also work for grownup drinks. a.k.a. Mommy juice! If you’re having a kid-free gathering, create a Retro Beverage Bar with classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Gimlet and Amaretto Sour. Are you feeling groovy yet?

 We hope you are inspired to unplug, go old school and make forever memories with a Crafts + Popcorn Bar Party!

 Peace & Love,

Stacee

 We want to see your version of a fall retro bash! Share the jewelry crafts you made, your tantalizing Popcorn Bar and those sugar-rimmed drinks! Tag us on social media @hellodragonflyfun.