FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: CHAMPAGNE ON ICE

Happy New Year darlings! Camille Styles here, with inspiration to help start 2012 on a festive note...

Just because the ball has already dropped doesn't mean the celebration's over. And let's face it: in an ideal world, every day calls for champagne. So, I'm embracing the chill of winter by throwing a little "champagne on ice"-themed fête in effervescent shades of gold and rosy blush. Set a table with flickering votives so the light bounces off metallic details, and now's definitely the time to don the most sparkly, glam frock you can get your hands on.

Craft an elegant centerpiece with a towering stack of champagne coupes (easily borrowed from a party rental co.) Not only does it look gorgeous, the arrangement makes it simple for guests to raise their glasses again...and again...

Raw oysters topped with champagne gelée are a swanky partner for glasses of bubbly. For another easy-breezy option, check out my guide to creating the perfect cheese plate. There's really nothing like a creamy stilton paired with the crispness of the wine.

Pale garden roses, orchids and champagne grapes are glam to the max when displayed in an ice bucket in lieu of a vase. Love the shimmering gold ribbon cascading down the side...

End the night on a celebratory note by inviting guests to uncork champagne confetti cannons. Hey, you might have some regrets during day-after cleanup, but in the moment, it'll be totally worth it. Hope you all have a lovely start to the year and find a little something to celebrate every day!

*images: {row 1} givenchy, elizabeth anne designs, virtual insanity flickr {row 2} martha stewart, canvas & canopy {row 3} 100 layer cake, bhldn {row 4} rrantiques, the glitter guide, taigan. party images from Martha Stewart Weddings.