Join Allison Bottomley as she explores summer trends and reveals some of CCNYC’s favorite dishes, décor, and tricks of the trade.

Summer is a great time to spend time with friends and family celebrating the lighter things in life. At Creative Concepts NYC, we plan events all year long, but we can’t help being inspired by the elements of summer.

To get the ideas flowing, here are some of our favorite takes on summer get togethers.

The Americana Barbecue Summer is the season of barbecue and purposefully playing up the inherent kitsch this American tradition is quite fun. Bite-size burgers, pigs in a blanket, and a faux-lemonade stand are some of the ways we love to play with this theme.

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lemonaid Stand (AOL Event)

French Picnic Get out the gingham! Picnics are a relaxed way to get your family and friends together and outside. We like the idea of a French-themed picnic with quiche, galettes, and clafoutis—all items that that can be prepared ahead of time and served at room temperature. So, check out these recipes, throw on the gypsy jazz, and head in the park. check out  How to plan a picnic !

Mini Quiche

Galettes

Movies Under the Stars-There is nothing more cozy than cuddling up with a loved one in front of a movie, but when the weather is so nice who wants to spend two hours inside?  We suggest moving the view outdoors mixing the feel of a rooftop party with the excitement and comfort of watching a movie. At CCNYC, we love the movie theater theme. Popcorn and candy displays  keep your party simple and fun. We also recommend making these cute popcorn floral containers for a festive décor.

Candy Station

Popcorn Floral

Fiesta Brunch- Piñatas and mojitos anyone?  Ole’! A Latin twist to a traditional barbecue is a great way to add flavor to your summer. We love to change up traditional barbecue for tacos, mini quesadillas, and arepas. Check out this recipe for a great take on Chile-Braised Pork Shoulder Tacos.

Piñata Scape

Mini Fish Taco