Simple Explorer Party

Life is funny sometimes.

Our great explorer party didn’t go exactly as planned, but it somehow ended up being our favorite party ever. Although there were more than a few moments where it felt like it might have been doomed from the get-go, in the end it was low-key, low-stress, lots of fun, and pretty much perfect in every way.

We had intended, as you may recall, to go camping with one other family to celebrate Princess’ 7th birthday. We secured the date months ago and even had the perfect campsite all picked out.

And then it rained. And rained. And rained. And rained. Every. Single. Day. For weeks.

In the end the campsite was completely flooded and it was just to wet to go.

So we went with plan B.

A simple cookout at home and a daddy-led nature scavenger hunt in the backyard which was pretty interesting for the adults too. That husband of mine sure knows a lot about plants! Plus, thanks to all the awesome disposable dinnerware & cookware provided by Chinet, cleanup was a snap too.

The decorations were incredibly simple–a paper plate banner, recycled map table runner, & some vintage suitcases & a globe–and since I already had everything on hand, it was super thrifty as well! I also printed some explorer labels, punched them out with my trusty scalloped circle punch, then used them as cupcake toppers, napkin tags, and to embellish the potato salad cups.

This post was underwritten by Chinet. All opinions are mine. Chinet offers a wide range of high quality, disposable dinnerware, bakeware, cups, napkins, & tablecloths. Check out www.MyChinet.com for more fun party ideas, recipes, & craft projects, and to score a $1.00 off coupon on your next Chinet purchase!

*   *   *

Have you ever had a party or gathering turn out unexpectedly wonderful? What happened?