An Engagement Celebration

I flew home Friday for a special weekend in Atlanta with my family.  Saturday we celebrated Royce and Erin's recent engagement.  They both recently graduated from Kennesaw State University and Royce popped the question on our Western Caribbean cruise a few short months ago.

Mom took the lead and planned quite an impressive party, complete with personalized decorations and an extensive spread of food.  The party was a great way to celebrate with both sides of the family and meet several of Royce and Erin's close friends.

Pictures of Royce and Erin over the seven years that have been dating  were placed about the house.

The soon-to-be bride and groom opened two engagement gifts prior to the start of the party.

They received a set of Tervis Tumbler drink glasses from Mom and Dad..
I gave them a  personalized wooden engagement sign that features important dates in their relationship.

Both sides of family as well as members of the bridal party attended the celebration.
It was great meeting everyone!

Joy (Erin's cousin), Erin, and Danielle (Erin's friend)

Dad and Royce man the grill

Bailey took part in the festivities for a short time

The deer made their appearance just as the party began and provided entertainment  to the arriving guests.

Mom finally gets to sit back and relax after several weeks of planning and executing party preparations.

The theme for the party was "Old Fashion Summer BBQ".

The menu featured:

• Fresh Squeezed Lemonade and Peach Tea

• Layered Taco Dip and Tortilla Chips

• Grilled Hamburgers and Hot Dogs

• An Extensive Topping Bar: Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Pickles (6 types!!), Pepper Rings, Sauerkraut, Ketchup, Mustard, Mayo, and BBQ sauce

• Hearty Potato Salad

• BBQ Baked Beans

• Summer Slaw

• Fresh Mixed Fruit and Creamy Dip

• Key Lime and Carrot Cake Cupcakes

The topping bar

Potato salad

Slaw

BBQ Baked Beans

Watermelon, Cantaloupe, Grapes, Blueberries, Strawberries

Lemonade and Iced Tea served in mason jars.
I loved the added touch of fresh fruit slices!

The whole spread!

Mom, you did a FANTASTIC job!  The party was perfectly executed and the food was delicious!
The personal touches made for a very special party for Royce and Erin.

Me and my "little" brother.  I can't believe that you'll be a groom on May 3, 2013!

What happened to  the days of sorting Halloween candy, playing soccer, pulling heads off Barbie dolls, and sneaking down the stairs on Christmas morning?  I guess we've done a little bit of growing up over the years! 

Congrats to Royce and Erin on your engagement!