20 Inspired Ideas for Your Inauguration Brunch

My Drap Disposable Cotton Napkins. These are perfect for when you want to step up your party game from regular paper napkins but without the hassle of washing your set of good linens. They come in a roll, like paper towels, and you can just tear them off! I’d choose their Lipstick Red or Midnight Blue for the Presidential theme.

Paperless Post invitations. A notch classier than generic electronic invitations but without the cost or post office hassle of paper ones. You can customize everything from colors to fonts and they arrive in your guest’s inbox like a real envelope that they open up. A cute touch. I’d cheat and use a design from their 4th of July selections!

Modern Balloon Bouquet. Instead of your typical party decorations, opt for one big, awesome bunch of balloons, like these by Geronimo Balloon Troopers. Not only will they be a conversation piece, but people will have fun posing with them in photos. Your event will be blowing up Instagram in no time.

Foodie Party Favors. I’m a big fan of foodie gifts. Sending your guests home with a token of food Americana is a delicious and wholesome gesture. Fill small jars with apple pie spices {Jamie at My Baking Addiction has an easy peasy recipe} or gift little bottles of your favorite BBQ sauce – mine is the traditional red sauce from Williamson House.

Drink Markers. These have become almost ubiquitous at parties these days. Have yours stand out from the rest with these Dapper Drink Markers (have you noticed that mustaches are all the rage nowadays?) You and your guests will feel distinguished and very presidential rocking these ‘staches.

Something for the Kiddos. The good thing is that they are easy to please. Make their day by showing them the good ol’ “I’m Just a Bill” Schoolhouse Rock video on YouTube. They’re sure to get a kick out of it (and maybe even learn something in the process).

Blueberry Sangria. So pretty to look at and so simple to make. Recipe via Sandra Lee, the originator of one of my most favorite concepts: semi-homemade.

Shrimp and Grits. This quick and easy recipe from Paula Deen is a flavorful addition to your brunch menu. I make two sets of grits: one with and one without cheese to accommodate dairy-sensitive diets.

Pomegranate Mimosas. It ain’t a party without a little bubbly. These fit right in with your red, white, and blue theme and your guests will thank you for supplying them with their daily dose of antioxidants. Recipe via Heidi Klum.

Ham and Cheddar Buttermilk Biscuits. Every good brunch needs a good bread. Add ham and cheese to the mix, and you’ve got a winner! I’d double the recipe to be on the safe side.

Watermelon-Feta Salad. A delightful way to lighten up the menu from the queen hostess herself, Martha Stewart.

Chocolate Chip and Candied Bacon Pancakes with Nutella Maple Syrup. Oh yes, that’s right. Every brunch menu needs a headliner! This combo of chocolate, bacon and nutella will have your guests talking {and eating}.

Lemon-Lavender Cake. The perfect brunch bread. Goes nicely with the post-meal coffee and tea. Recipe via Fudge Ripple.

Party Planning Checklist. Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t be! This party planning checklist from Real Simple will help you through the details (I always forget the flowers!).

Thank You Cards. Every gracious hostess sends her guests a note to thank them for coming. With their vibrant colors and fun designs, my new go-to source for stationery is Effie’s Paper by Kalyn Johnson.

Red, White & Blue Candy Bar. Imagine the fun you could have with this! Red licorice, white gumdrops, blue jellybeans – it’s a Congress of candy! For more candy buffet ideas, check out How To Cook That.

Hostess Outfit. Any seasoned hostess will tell you that the key to the perfect hostess outfit is something that looks pulled together but that is comfortable and easy to move around in. Allow me to also suggest something in a darker color or with a pattern that won’t show a splatter of two! A flattering dress like this one from Top Shop is always at the top of my list. I’d add a statement necklace (with red in it!) to complete a look the First Lady would approve of.

Flag Wreath. What better way to greet your guests? It’s almost as official as having the Secret Service at your front door. This DIY wreath will add a dose of whimsy to your front door (and the kids can help you make it!) = 2-for-1!

Smooth Tunes. Every good get-together needs mood music. For soulful beats that your guests will want to bounce to, download Luke James’ Whispers In the Dark album. {note: not all tracks are rated PG}

Patriotic Mani. I confess, the real reason I love this manicure is because it reminds me of Wonder Woman. Which is apt, considering how amazing your brunch is going to be! See the tutorial via Varnished.