Throw a bridal or baby shower with a Mardi Gras-inspired menu and decor.
Mardi Gras is a large party with rich food, drinks and lively music -- one last night of indulgence before the Christian season of Lent begins. Though similar celebrations were held throughout history in many countries, modern-day U.S. Mardi Gras celebrations are centered in New Orleans. Draw inspiration from New Orleans' Mardi Gras celebrations to plan a one-of-a-kind shower for your family and friends to enjoy. Infuse Southern flavors into your shower menu and use the colors, motifs and traditions of Mardi Gras in your shower decor. Does this Spark an idea?
Breakfast Dishes
Southern breakfasts can include sausage gravy, biscuits, eggs, bacon, sausage and creamy grits. Though you might not be able to create an authentic Southern breakfast without any experience, you can use the flavors and ingredients of Southern cooking to influence your menu. Use traditional gumbo ingredients, such as andouille sausage, onion and green peppers, to make an oven omelet. Use buttery corn bread or flaky biscuits instead of toast or bagels.
Lunch Dishes
Use lunch dishes like fried chicken, "po' boy" sandwiches, and red beans and rice to supplement the breakfast items on your menu. Pick items that will complement the breakfast dishes you have selected. If you've gone for more traditional breakfast items, choose a spicy gumbo or seafood stew for an extra kick of southern flavor.
Dessert
Serve fresh beignets and hot coffee for dessert at your Mardi Gras brunch. Beignets are similar to a doughnut or a fritter, but are much smaller. The slightly-sweet pastry dough is fried in oil so that the outside is crisp, but the inside is soft. Serve the beignets with confectioner's sugar, fresh fruit or peach jam. Another dessert option is king's cake, which is commonly associated with Mardi Gras. Traditionally, a small plastic baby is baked inside the cake and it seen as good luck for the person who gets it in their piece. For your shower, you could substitute use a plastic wedding ring or baby bottle instead. Make sure whatever item you use is safe for baking before putting it in the batter.
Decoration
Bright, jewel colors like purple, gold and green should be at the heart of your Mardi Gras decorations. Use plastic bead necklaces and colorful masks to create centerpieces for each table. Hang streamers from the walls and ceilings. Spread plastic doubloons, Mardi Gras beads and flowers like magnolia blossoms on the tables. For extra entertainment, hire a jazz band or performers dressed as court jesters.
Tags: Mardi Gras, your shower, breakfast items, Gras celebrations, Mardi Gras celebrations