I love reading the RealSimple blogs. A while ago, they did a post on using parasols as decoration for a bridal luncheon. I filed the idea away for later use, and now I find I need it since I will soon be hosting a shower myself. Instead of a bridal shower though, I am hosting a baby shower. I ordered some plain white parasols that I am going to decorate with yellow ribbon to suspend from the ceiling over the cake table. I think they will be a perfect complement to the shower’s rubber ducky party theme!

Parasols are also a great item to consider purchasing for your outdoor wedding reception. Pair them with some paper folding fans and your guests will be able to shade and cool themselves and remain comfortable during the event. If you’ve got kids at the reception, you can even have a table set up in the back with lots of decorating supplies and let them have fun decorating their own. This would be a great activity to keep them occupied during a long reception.