Summer Entertaining: The Swing-Top Bottle

                
Every once in a while a reader or twitter follower will ask me if I have a day job (yes, I do) and if so, what do I do?  Am I chef (no) or do I work in a restaurant (no)?  I let them know that I am an events coordinator, which leads to wondering where I work (a catering company) and what type of events I plan (any kind that requires a caterer). 

I've also been asked for a few ideas on how I would put together a special meal or what kind of platters I would use to serve a certain type of food.  Simple emails really, but ones that have got me thinking...wouldn't it be fun to combine my day job with my blogging love and create a "Summer Entertaining" series? One post each week dedicated to an element of warm-weather celebrations.  Don't worry...each post will still have a "family" focus (I won't dish on corporate lunches or venue rentals) and will be something that you may be able to use for an upcoming social soiree.

 
So, first up...my new favourite must have item for summer entertaining is the swing-top bottle.  I love the idea of serving water from an old glass bottle instead of a plastic pitcher (think Brita).  But the beauty of the swing-top is that it is re-sealable which makes for easier use and storage.  I had this item on my list for antiquing this year, until I popped into Ikea and found them for less than $3 each!  I scooped up a few, and here are some ways in which you can make use of these when you're playing host this season:

• Fill the bottles with water and place out on a table with an assortment of fresh herbs, citrus slices and berries. Allow guests to create their own "flavoured waters" by adding a few items to their glass and topping with chilled water.
• Set-up a "bar" with an assortment of beverages in these simple bottles - lemonade, sparkling juice, pink lemonade or your favourite pre-made cocktails. They make the drinks look pretty and are a great addition to a Canada Day BBQ (red and clear drinks only) or a family reunion (Grandma Rose's favourite Gin and Tonic).
• Fill up the bottle with homemade iced tea or lemonade and make a favour for a baby or bridal shower. Create a simple label and attach a copy of the recipe to the bottleneck with twine or ribbon.
• Host a cooking or canning party and make your own vanilla, flavoured vinegars or liqueurs like lemoncello. Store the creations in these pretty bottles.
• Allow kids to make "magic potions" with these bottles.  Set-out assorted oils and vinegars as well as fresh herbs and washed edible flowers and allow them to create an assortment of tasty concoctions.  This might be fun for a summer garden or science themed birthday party.

Come back next Wednesday for another installment of the summer entertaining series.

Comments

[Rachel]

Neat! If only Ikea were closer. Can't wait to hear what other ideas/suggestions you have.

[Cheri]

Yay! You found some! So cheap too. I love your ideas for usage especially for vinegar and vanilla. Perfect!

[Jan Scott]

I did find some!  I looked and looked and lo and behold they were at Ikea.  Im heading back for more this weekend to use for a party in hosting in the summer.

[steel water bottle]

These bottles are beautifully elegant. I think I've seen some on sale in Ikea but I'm not sure. The idea is a cute one! :)

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