When Laura Umansky decided to host a party at her home in Houston, the goal was to celebrate the fabulous warm weather with a few of her favorite female entrepreneurs. Though they’re all quite busy, it was the perfect excuse to relax and reconnect with friends. The best way to do that is with fresh cocktails and a healthy menu you don’t feel guilty indulging in!
Each woman brought something special to the event. Courtney Paddock, party planner extraordinaire and founder of Little Coterie, dreamt up the tablescape, theme, and colors. Karen Johnson, owner of Goodie Rentals, brought the outdoor bar — a piece handmade by her husband! Kerry Kirk, interior design photographer and sole proprietor of Kerry Kirk Photography, snapped photos. Kelli Bunch, a caterer and owner of KB Table, was the chef behind the delicious menu. Also in attendance was Amy Margolin, the owner of M&M Lighting, a Houston lighting store that Laura often sources from.
Speaking of lighting, in the breakfast room is a gorgeous light fixture from Hudson Valley Lighting. (Specifically, it’s Martyn Lawrence Bullard for Corbett.) Laura is a brand ambassador for HVL, and chose the handmade piece for its juxtaposition of a natural element, like rattan, against a more industrial element, like brushed nickel. It’s unexpected but works so well!
On the table is a unique tablecloth, designed by Laura herself. Made from two different Revolution Performance Fabrics sewn together, it’s a durable piece that makes entertaining a breeze. (You could spill wine all over it and it would just bead up and blot away.)
Both inside and out are beautiful blooms provided by the incomparable Maria Maxit, a Houston florist known for her brilliant arrangements. The bright colors complement the menu perfectly, like the pink peonies that match the watermelon palomas to a T. Check out the entire food & beverage list below, and see more details in the slideshow!
MENU:
SPECIALTY COCKTAILS:
Watermelon Paloma
Rimmed in pink Himalayan salt & sugar mixture and garnished with a watermelon wedge bamboo skewer.
Homemade “Agua Fresca” Style Popsicles
Colorful & vibrant Mexican popsicles presented on chilled acrylic trays.
FOOD:
Mini Shrimp Tostada
Garnished with watermelon radish and micro cilantro.
Coconut Cup Ceviche
Citrus marinated, coconut milk flavored white fish ceviche. Displayed in a coconut halve, and garnished with vibrant edible flowers & herbs.
Mini Mexican Street Corn “Elote” Skewers
Garnished with special spice blend and sprinkled with cotija cheese. Garnished with chopped parsley and lime wedges.
Chips & Dips
Salsa roja, salsa verde & guacamole. Served with mix of plantain chips and presented in baskets lined with colorful linens.
