Tuesday, June 23, 2015

Red White & Blue, DIY, Treats and More this 4th of July

Happy Independence Day!


Having a party, especially for a holiday, can rack up quite a large bill. That's why grasshaven has come up with some fun and inexpensive ideas, from recipes to DIY, that will make your party rock!


Patriotic Mason Jars : A DIY Project


 Pre-party DIY crafts are a blast! They get you in the party spirit and most of all, handmade decor looks awesome! This simple project requires three mason jars, red white and blue acrylic paint, a paint brush, and any additional decor to ones own liking. First paint two jars completely red, the other completely blue. Wait for them to dry and add the white stripes and stars. We used the jars to hold flatware for the party, but had to use a bit of tissue paper inside the jar to elevate the flatware. They can also be used as centerpieces with flowers inside, as lanterns with tea light candles, or as jugs to drink out of with a straw. Have fun and get creative!



Every Party Needs a Fruit Salad!



 It's true, every party is better with a fruit salad. In the spirit of the fourth, why not make it a red white and blue one! Simple enough! Chop red apples to squares or triangles, rinse red raspberries or strawberries and blueberries and mix together in a festive bowl or platter.


Dipped and Sprinkled: Patriotic Party Treats




Easy peasy treats for the party that everyone will love! Gotta have all the flavors: salty, sweet, and fruity. The pretzels and strawberries are the easiest: dip in melted white chocolate and set on parchment paper, add red and white sprinkles and let dry. The marshmallows get a bit trickier, but we have faith in you ;) Dip either end in the white chocolate and slip onto a skewer or toothpick. Sprinkle each end of the marshmallow with a different color and let dry sticking upwards so it does not smudge. You can use other people's hands to hold, or place into a jar as seen in the picture.


Red White and Blue Everything: last but not least, Patriotic Parfaits!



Simple and delicious treat to satisfy everyones sweet tooth at the party! In a clear glass (martini, margarita, mason jar, ice cream bowl, etc...) add a layer of raspberries, followed by a layer of cool whip, then blueberries, and cool whip one last time, then drizzle with raspberries and sprinkles! Add a spoon and they'll be gone in seconds.










Grasshaven Product to get your Party Stylin'




a. Red and White Checkered "Paper" Plates: 7.99 b. Red "Solo" Melamine Cup: 6.99
c. Blue "Solo" Melamine Cup: 5.99 d.+ e. Red and Blue Vintage LED Lanterns: 24.00
g. Melamine "Paper" Plate  Dinnerware: 5.75 - 24.45

Thursday, June 11, 2015

Summer Brings Picnic Perfect Conditions in Colorado


Tired of going to the same overcrowded places to enjoy a picnic? Whether its with your family, friends, or as a romantic getaway, escaping for a couple hours makes a huge difference. We've come up with a few of our favorite places to enjoy the outdoors for a day, hopefully with a bit less people and a lot more nature. 

1.Gross Reservoir

This spot feels remote but its only about 30 minutes from Boulder.  Gross reservoir is a mixture of wildlife and a pristine mountain lake.  Come up in the evening or do a sunrise picnic and you might even see moose or elk lazily near the water's edge.  http://www.denverwater.org/Recreation/GrossReservoir/

2. O'Fallon Park

With it's pine trees and stone chimney barbecue couldn't be more picturesque.  Bear Creek is close to the picnic area and hiking trails.  It can get busy on the weekends so save this beautiful spot for weekday getaways.  http://dayhikesneardenver.com/ofallon-park-trails/



3. Betasso Preserve 


Quite and under-discovered spots for an intimate picnic.  Your neighbors are generally the squirrels making this picnic destination a peaceful opportunity for lunching in nature.  Betasso preserve also has a shelter that can be reserved for a slight fee.  http://www.bouldercounty.org/os/events/pages/picnicshelters.aspx http://www.bouldercounty.org/os/parks/pages/betassopreserve.aspx

4. Red Rocks Park

Overlooking Denver, Red Rocks Park has a picnic area that rivals the views of most state parks. A short drive from Denver this destination features geologic wonders, breathtaking views and high energy concerts to make this a premium picnic destination. Hike around the megalithic red stones, visit the Visitor’s Center for information on the area and check out one of the many concerts while you picnic.  http://dayhikesneardenver.com/trading-post-trail-red-rocks-park/



5.Cathy Fromme Prairie


If exploring Colorado's other side is on your radar then the Cathy Fromme Prairie near Fort Collins not only pairs great picnic spots with an unadulterated Colorado prairie filled with blooming wildflowers.  Prairie dogs, birds and other grassland inhabitants scurry amongst the prime examples of Colorado wildflowers.   Picnic areas are located near the entrance to the trails so grab a bite and explore this grassland beauty.  http://www.fcgov.com/naturalareas/finder/cathyfromme 

Picnic Perfect  Gear from Grasshaven Outdoor: