My search for the perfect invite was initially unsuccessful, so I asked the honoree to send some favorite photos of the happy couple. I used one of the photos to create a custom invitation on Shutterfly. It was less expensive and more personal than the other invitations that I found, and they fit the theme perfectly.
I trolled Pinterest for decoration inspiration, and found tons of great ideas. I wanted to make sure that the decor reflected the theme but I also wanted to keep the cost down, so many of the decorations were either homemade or borrowed. I outfitted the front door with a simple burlap wreath.
I made a garland for the mantel out of paper bag flowers, scrapbook paper pennants, and sisal rope and I used popcorn kernels, split peas, and red kidney beans in hurricanes to jazz up pillar candles.
Since it was a couples shower, we wanted to have substantial food that would satisfy the guys. We decided to go with pork and chicken barbecue with all the fixins' - baked beans, corn on the cob, and potato salad. I borrowed a burlap running to use under the spread, and found some last minute inspiration in BHG to identify the various barbecue sauces.
For munchies, we had some BLT dip w/ crackers and veggies. BLT dip is so easy - mix equal parts mayo and sour cream, add some bacon bits and small diced tomatoes (drained), and add salt & pepper to taste. Good and done! I also picked up some caramel corn that I served in a tall, pretty glass container. Our local popcorn shop will dye the popcorn to match your particular occasion, but since caramel corn is the perfect fall color I went with it as is. It looks great displayed in an apothecary jar or other pretty container.
For dessert we had pie rather than cake, since I associate pie with fall/winter. The bride-to-be requested something chocolate, so I went with my Fudge Bottom pie. I used a premade crust to keep it simple, there's no baking involved, and it was as easy as pie (pun intended).
Fudge Bottom Pie
1 bag of chocolate chips
1 1/2 c half & half
1 box instant white chocolate pudding mix
1 c whole milk
1 c heavy cream
2 - 3 tbsp powdered sugar (or to taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 graham cracker pie crust
Combine chocolate chips and 1/2 c of half & half in a sauce pan, and melt the chips over low to medium low heat. Stir continuously while melting. When the chips are fully melted, pour the chocolate mixture into the bottom of the pie crust.
Combine the remaining cup of half & half and 1 c whole milk with the pudding mix, and mix until the right consistency for pudding. Add this on top of the chocolate mixture.
I use a Kitchenaid with the whisk attachment to make the whipped cream for the top. Pour 1 c heavy cream into a chilled bowl, add the powdered sugar and vanilla, and whisk until peaks form. This is the third and final layer, and I just spread it out on top with a spatula.
I recommend chilling the pie overnight (at least four hours if this isn't possible), and then serve. It's rich, so cut small pieces. I promise you'll love it!