Food, Glorious Food. A cooking party theme works for lots of different events and appeals to the chef in all of us.
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Cooking Theme Party Invitations
Choosing your invitation is the equivalent of the title of a paper … it sets the tone for the entire party! Party Idea Pros can’t decide whether we prefer one of the recipe card invitations or the Cooking Competition invitation offered by Tiny Prints, however there are lots of other great cooking theme invitations from which to choose. Here are all of our favorites …
This great invitation features a detachable recipe card so that guests can bring recipes for the guest of honor!
This great invitation features a detachable recipe card so that guests can bring recipes for the guest of honor!
Edit the “Thanksgiving Dinner” title to reflect your own “What’s cooking” theme
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Unfortunately, we can not link directly to these invitations. Simply click the links below and then search the description.
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Apron: 100 Personalized Invitations / Announcements
Studio Basics: Bridal Shower Invitations – Plaid Apron – Studio Basics
Cherries Apron and Chef Hat Birthday Invitations
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Recipe Kitchen Bridal Shower Invitation
Fun Cherry Retro Kitchen Bridal Shower Invitation
Fun Retro Kitchen Bridal Shower Invitation
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Edit the potluck title to reflect your own “What’s cooking” theme
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Remember you may need any or all of the following: : Save the Dates, Invitations, Let’s Celebrate Cards, Reply Cards Reply Envelopes, Stamps For Invitation, Stamps for Reply Card, Thank you Notes, Welcome Letter for Out of Towners, Directions, Menus, Thank you for joining us tags. (More concrete ideas and suggestions coming soon!)
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Cooking Theme Party Address Labels & Custom Embosser
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Cooking Theme Party Postage Stamps
Personalize your stamps by using Zazzle custom postage. Before purchasing any postage, please be sure to bring a complete invitation, including all inserts, to a local post office to determine exactly how much postage is required. If you decide not to customize, please do not mix stamps. It is better to add too much postage than a hodgepodge of mismatched stamps. You have spent so much time and money on every other detail, the difference in price is not worth giving a sloppy first impression.
Kitchen Magician Custom Art Stamp
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Remember you may also need to order any or all of the following: : Save the Dates, Let’s Celebrate Cards, Reply Cards, Reply Envelopes, Stamps For Invitation, Stamps for Reply Card, Thank you Notes, Welcome Letter for Out of Towners, Directions, Menus, Thank you for joining us tags. (More concrete ideas and suggestions coming soon!)
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Elegant Return Address
The custom embosser is all about sophistication. Now you can easily add some elegance to everyday stationery or as an elegant alternative to having your return addresses printed on your party invitation envelopes. They also make wonderful gifts. You will be surprised at how often you use your new embosser.
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Personal Party and Event Websites
Have you always wanted a friends and family web page? Set-up an event web site to improve communication, and keep your guests. informed This is a fun extra. If you are on a tight budget and have computer savvy friends and family, you might even want to save money by foregoing invitations and instead send invites via your website.
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Cooking Theme Party Table Linens
There are so many great options for a epicurean look just search BBJ Linen. Your choice will ultimately come down to a combination of what your room looks like and how daring you feel. My favorite combinations are listed below because they will compliment any of Party Idea Pros recommended party selections. You might choose to use a more decorative tablecloth and keep the accessories more simple or use a simpler cloth and create a personal style with all the “extras”
Persimmon Mini Check with Yellow or Persimmon Lamour Coordinating Linens and Napkins
Apple Green Mini Check or Cerise Mini Check with any BBJ Linen recommended combinations
Blue Check Chiffon (stick with the classic white coordinating linens)
White Bedford Lace for a classic elegant look
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Orange Dot Sheer, Yellow Dot Sheer, Lime Dot Sheer, Neon Dot Pink
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If you want to save some money, most venues will supply complimentary white or cream linens; either will work. Likewise, if you are hosting a cooking party at your house just about any color linen you have will be fine, in fact, place mats will also work great, and to tell you the truth, individual sheets of scrap booking paper work great and are adorable. Choose any solid colored paper or Spice Things Up with a kitchen/cooking pattern. If you are feeling creative and have lots of time, you can even create a layout highlighting your guest of honor. Alternatively, use your place mats as place cards by creating a page for each of your guests. Laminate it and tie with personalizedribbon for a complete favor anyone can enjoy. Or rather than make your own, just purchase these racing place mats.
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Just a note on chair covers: chair covers may not be necessary if the chairs supplied are fairly neutral and in ok condition. In fact, I tend to not use chair covers at any of my personal parties. Having said that, if your budget permits, the overall look of certain rooms is enhanced if chair pads are used. Match your cloth.
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If you are having a fairly large party, don’t forget to include your place card table, your gift table, buffet tables, and any ceremonial tables when determining your linen count. Also, if you chose to use more ornate linens, do not use them for the cocktail hour; they will have a greater impact as your guests enter the dining room.
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Cooking Theme Party Centerpieces
These colander centerpieces are absolutely perfect for a cooking theme party. If your budget allows seriously consider adding these great Arte Felguerez cooker sculptures to your table.
Todd Oldham Kiss the Cook Harvest Colander (no longer available)
Todd Oldham Midsummer MomentsColander (no longer available)
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Although none of these great centerpieces are currently available but we decided to keep them here to serve as inspiration just in case you decided to DIY.
Berry Beautiful™ (no longer available)
Culinary Kisses Spring Colander (no longer available)
The Berry Best™ for Mom (no longer available)
Taste of Italy (no longer available)
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DYI
Recreate the above discontinued Todd Oldham creation by buying a colorful colander to use as a vase for assorted greens, flowers, or even vegetable and fruit. Cut the stems short and skip the vase, if given an option. Skip the flowers altogether and fill with foods from your pantry
Calypso Basics 3-Quart Colander
Calypso Basics 3 Quart Enamel On Steel Colander, Purple
Calypso Basics 3 Quart Enamel On Steel Colander, Pink
Calypso Basics 3 Quart Enamel On Steel Colander, Turquoise
Calypso Basics 3 Quart Enamel On Steel Colander, Orange
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Sample Bouquets
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Now Make It Move
These centerpieces are just too darn cute to stay still. Place them on this revolving base to add movement and pizzazz to your table.
Lots of options …
Rotating Display Base with Mirror Top and Mirrored Mosaic Sides
Large Rotating Display Base Has Mirror Top And Will Hold Up To 44 Lbs.
Rotating Display Base with Mirror Top and Lighted Center Uses AC or Battery Power
Rotating Display With Mirror Top And Color-Changing Lights Enhances Your Favorite Collectibles
Rotating Display Can Hold Up To 8 Lbs. and Will Run Up To 3 Months on a Fresh Set Of Batteries
Rotating Display Can Hold Up To 2 Lbs.
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Each revolving centerpiece base requires 1 D Battery.
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Fun Cooking Theme Party Table Decor
Includes over 960 double-sided 1″ photos mingled with 1/2″ and 3/4″ colored accent pieces. Choose up to 10 of your favorite photos of the honored gardner. For the 3 accent colors, Marcia recommends: Azalea Shimmer, Fairway Shimmer, and Sapphire Shimmer
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Cooking Theme Party Napkins and Napkin Rings
Party Idea Pros has found the perfect napkin ring to add that special touch to your table.
Measuring Spoon Set Stainless Steel (inexpensive)
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Consider using dishtowels or tea towels rather than traditional napkins.
Print Dishtowels
Jardin Dishtowels Set of 5 by tag
Nantucket Dishtowels Set of 2 by tag
Bar Mop Dishtowels Striped – Set of 3 by tag
Bar Mop Dishtowels White – Set of 3 by tag
Jardin Dishtowels by tag- Beets
Jardin Dishtowels by tag- Grapes
Jardin Dishtowels by tag- Peapod
Jardin Dishtowels by tag- Tomatoes
Jardin Dishtowels by tag- Oranges
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Cooking Theme Party Place Cards and Place Card Holders
A culinary party theme lends itself to so many options, Party Idea Pros could not choose just one best option, so here are a few choices we call the best of the best … One more thought — party favors can double as place cards when combined with a place card tag or can be used as small tokens of thanks when a thank you tag is attached.
Rolling Pin Recipe Card Holder
Replace the recipe card provided with one of your own. Print your guest’s name and table number on one side and a favorite recipe on the other
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Classic Place Cards
Personalized two tone place cards
Use a fine point or paint marker to write your guests’ names on your place cards.
Set of 5, Sharpie Markers in Assorted Colors, Fine Point
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Cooking Theme Party Favors
A culinary party theme lends itself to so many party favor choices. Party Idea Pros could not choose just one best option, so here are a few favors we call the best of the best … One more thought — party favors can double as place cards when combined with a place card tag or can be used as small tokens of thanks when a thank you tag is attached.
Fill your spice jars or salt and pepper shakers with an assortment of the always elegant Jordan almonds. Each 14 oz bag contains approx. 125 almonds. Alternatively, any of your own favorite candies will hit the spot Of course, you can never go wrong with homemade treats or hometown specialties:
Mini candy jar salt and pepper shakers
Jordan Almonds (14 oz bag Assorted Colors)
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“Grate Shopping” – Pink Mini Grater Favor Gift
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Personalized Cookie Mix Favors
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Sweet Little Cupcake Lip Gloss
Sweet Treats Collection Cute Cupcake towel favor
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“Truly cut out for each other” — Perfect favors for a cooking theme bridal shower or engagement party
Jean M™ Shell Cookie Cutter Favors
Jean M™ Butterfly Cookie Cutters
Use a fine point or paint marker to write your guests’ names on your place cards.
Set of 5, Sharpie Markers in Assorted Colors, Fine Point
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What’s Cooking Theme Party Candles
Most venues supply tea-lights and holders but if yours does not, consider purchasing some. The play of light makes a difference. Place at least three on each table
Tea light candles (20 pack)
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Serving Ideas
“Hearts Awhirl!” Laser-Cut Cupcake Holders (Set of 50)
“Seashells” Laser-Cut Cupcake Holders (Set of 50)
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The Little Extras for your What’s Cooking Party …
Sometimes Party Idea Pros comes across an idea or a site which might provide that little extra something you are searching for …
These mini brownie pops and individual present cheese cakes work nicely as a “goodbye” gift placed on a table for you guests to grab as they walk out the door.
Individual present cheese cakes (visually fabulous but over the top expensive)
Set of 5, Sharpie Markers in Assorted Colors, Fine Point
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Party Give-Aways
Just an idea — definitely not essential! Order some gift cards as prize give-aways or hide them in a few pairs of socks as a special surprise. Many popular merchants and denominations available.
Access to award-winning indie and foreign films.
Film Movement brings the film festival to your home
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Cooking Theme Paper Goods
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Cupcake Carousel 10 inch Plates
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Cooking Theme Party Beverage Napkins
No matter how formal or casual your party, horse racing theme beverage napkins will get your celebration off to a festive start. Choose one style or mix and match all styles to add a bit of punch to your cocktail hour. Order 5-6 napkins per guest figuring everyone has 1-2 drinks, and 3-4 appetizers each.
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Kitchen Crafts Shopping List Beverage Napkins
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Printable Games for your Cooking Party
Fruits and Veggies Imagine That!
Healthy Living!
Healthy Expressions
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Out of Town Guests
Party Welcome Gifts
Occasionally, great friends and loving relatives will fly or drive long distances to be able to celebrate with you. Welcome them in style with these lovely gifts. Be sure to include 2 water bottles.
Water Bottles & Personalized Labels
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New!
We love these welcome gifts tailored to your event location!
Design your own city gift basket
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Hotels & Transportation
Just like Expedia but better!
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Rental Car Reservations
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You may want to consider providing transportation for your out of town guests, especially if they are older and uncomfortable driving in a unfamiliar city. For our first big bash, we provided transportation to and from all events for the out of towners. Admittedly, thereafter we were much less generous . If interested in exploring this option, Limostars will provide free, no obligation quotes by vendors in many areas throughout the country.
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Freshening Baskets/ Emergency Kits
Buy an elegant platter to display sample sized essentials. Place in powder rooms.
Vegetable Garden Design Serving Tray
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First aid kit, Tylenol, Advil, hairbrush, comb, bobby pins, concealer, lip gloss, mouth wash, hairspray, stain remover, antacid, tampons and sanitary pads, sewing kit, clear nail polish, nail polish remover, nail file, mints & hard candies, hand lotion, and dental floss
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If you don’t have the time or patience to make your own, consider ordering a complete basket delivered to your home, ready for the big event.
In the Basket – Women (1 – 50 guests)
In the Basket – Men (1 – 50 guests)
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Sign in Boards & Books
Sign in boards and books have become a staple at many celebrations. If you wish to allow your guests to leave a special keepsake message consider creating a board for your party entrance or simply provide a beautiful book to commemorate the occasion. We here at Party Idea Pros prefer sign in books. They are easier to store and less likely to collect dust in the basement or garage.
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Sign In Boards
Canvas print (20×30) Sign in Board
Use a digital picture … be sure to chose a large white border. Hot glue measuring spoons, recipe cards, or even small spice bottles or fresh spices around the canvas.
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Sign in Books
This personalized name keepsake book is beautiful and a less expensive alternative to a sign in board. Choose your color and follow the instructions. You might also want to customize your book with the guest of honor’s photo.
The Knot Colored Silk Guest Book – Scarlet
The Knot Colored Silk Guest Book – Gold
The Knot Colored Silk Guest Book – Navy
The Knot Colored Silk Guest Book – Fuchsia
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Photo Albums
Remember this special day for many years to come. Absolutely create an digital memory, but there is still an ease and something special about actually handling a photo album.
Silver Guest Book – Engravable
These three-in-one memory albums also make terrific personalized gifts, with room for the recipient’s name or date of birth. Each classic album has multiple cover space for photos, including two 3″ by 6″, two 3″ by 2 ½”, and one 5″ by 3″ images. The silver and wood album can hold up to 64 photos, at a 4″ by 6″ size, and features a hidden tray with multiple compartments for storing birthday trinkets and mementos.
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Memory Insurance
This might also be a great opportunity to create “memory insurance.” Contact Scantastic Photos to preserve your cherished memories. They will scan, digitize and organize all your photo boxes and albums. Ask to speak with Liz and tell her Marcia sent you!
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Party Clothing, Shoes, and Accessories
Not sure what to wear? Nothing is easier than buying on the internet. Whether you need a sun dress for a beach party or an elegant suit to take you to the White House, you can find it online. Avoid parking hassles and over bearing sales people. Shop any time of the day or night. Generally companies make returns easy, if the item doesn’t fit or you just don’t like it. Order online today and receive that perfect something at your doorstep in just a few days!
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For Custom T-shirts
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Jewelry
Party Idea Pros generally does not highlight jewelry but we recently came across a chic new designer who whose unique gemstone collection is a perfect way to memorialize this special day or for that matter, any day:
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“Gemstones are the spirit of the earth frozen in time. For thousands of years, gemstones have been treasured for their power to heal, energize and inspire. The design, stones and metal all empower you. The artful combination of these elements reflects your spirit and is yours forever.” Tamara Alter
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Our favorite collection of Tamara’s is her Healing Hearts collection, created in honor of Tamara’s dear sister Stefanie who passed away at the young age of 43, after a brave and courageous fight against Ovarian Cancer. All profits from the Healing Hearts collection goes to The High Heals Foundation whose mission is to raise funds to develop methods for early diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer and aid in the discovery of a cure through research, advocacy and education.
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Neckties
There are many pages of handsome ties for your day at the races: Zazzle
Chef or Cook Novelty Gag Gift Tie
Kitchen Magician Retro Cooking Art
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Kitchen Magician Personalizable Cooking Art
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Party Idea Pros has put together an entire page devoted to Adorable Aprons – check it out!
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Books
Joy of Cooking: 75th Anniversary Edition – 2006
Mastering the Art of French Cooking, Vol. 1
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Big Birthdays: The Party Planner Celebrates Life’s Milestones
Easy Entertaining for Beginners: You Can Throw a Fabulous Party, from Holiday Fiesta to a Romantic Evening for Two
Bon Appetit Celebrations Deck: 50 Recipes for Special Parties and Happy Holidays All Year Long
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Party Basics for New Nesters: More Than 100 Fresh Ideas for Holidays and Every Day
America Entertains: A Year of Imaginative Parties
Barefoot Contessa Back to Basics: Fabulous Flavor from Simple Ingredients
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Make the Day Last a Year
Don’t let this memorable day fade away with the setting sun. The next day, when all is still fresh, log onto Shutterfly.com to create photo books, memory calendars, and even photo thank you notes or create a 5×7 photo card announcing the day, time, and location of your next celebration.
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Party Hearty!
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