REAL STORIES: A Sophisticated-but-Laid Back Graduation Party in the Backyard

This stylish graduation party did take place in the backyard, but gone are the balloons and banners. Instead, colorfully “hot” flowers in red, hot pink, orange and yellow played well together with crisp white and natural wood for a stunning celebration under the stars.

[Photos: Tyler Boye]

A sensational sailcloth tent from EventQuip provided the light and airy summertime space for the celebration. Dozens of iron shepherd’s hook and lanterns dotted the landscape around the tent and along the walkways leading to and from the house. California rattan furniture groupings, mushy bean bags and cocktail tables were tucked along the existing terraces and out on the lawn for guests to enjoy throughout the casual evening of dining and dancing. Guests were encouraged to graze on food stations from Leslie Rosen Catering that included: classic sushi, Asian noodles and steamed edamame as well as a fun mini-taco bar with grilled Mahi Mahi, steak and chicken with fresh pico de gallo. Passed trays of lemon-basil martinis and minted-lemonade circulated throughout the crowd along with traditional hors d’oeuvres such as pigs-in-a-blanket, grilled lambchops and chicken quesadillas. An early Summer supper was served family-style on long feast tables laden with artisanal breads and bottled water. Cutting Edge DJs kept the dance floor hopping and the announcements short-but-sweet. Favorite desserts were served on wooden farm tables and included a large selection of homestyle cupcakes from Crumbs Bake Shop, organic frozen yogurt and gourmet ice cream sundaes. Seating areas surrounding multiple firepits were outfitted with the makings for s’mores: graham crackers, chocolate bars and marshmallows. And of course, no party would be complete without a coffee bar! Not one but two large coffee bars were offered to both kids and adults as the finishing touch on the evening. Coffee, cupcakes and bean bags under the stars on a gorgeous summer night just might be the perfect place to hang out with friends.