Festive Chinese Lanterns

Two years ago, I discovered Chinese Lanterns.  Sure, I'd seen them before in magazines and restaurants, but I'd never really gave them a second thought.

I've been really busy over the last couple of years having big parties to mark major milestones in the lives of my family members.  My back patio needed some punch to make the party more festive.  Balloons where out of the question since my backyard gets FULL SUN and the heat pops the balloons as they heat up and expand!!!  So...Chinese Lanterns caught my eye.  At first, I just bought little ones from Target.  I mixed the lanterns with fabric to add color, texture and interest to my back patio.  I was amazed after the first time I did it.  It looked so festive, I loved it!  
I hung the lanterns from my patio top, but you can hang them from trees, umbrella's, put them on sticks and "plant" them all around the garden and they are handy inside as well.  You can hang them from the ceiling or use them to decorate a table.  At first, I thought they were only used if you were having an Asian theme, but quickly found that they  go with any style.  They are super simple to use.  They unfold accordian style and you just stick a metal straightener in the center and viola!!!  The first couple of times I hung them, I just used twine.  I've learned if you use fishing wire, the wire is invisible and they look more like they are just floating in space.  You can use them over and over again.  You just take out the metal bracket and the lantern collapses and you tuck them away until you need them again.  

They come in all colors, shapes and sizes.  I often buy from a company called Luna Bazaar.  But, last year I found great fun colors in the dollar bin at Target, or at Joannes, etc.  That's why when I saw these...I had to have them!!!  These 6 lanterns are actually two sets of three that I purchased at Rogers Gardens and won't they go perfect with these...
I bought these napkins and tablecloth at Rogers with the second half of my Mother's Day present.  My kids know me so well!!!  One thing I've learned is you have to be open to buying for a holiday way, way, way before that holiday is even a thought in your head!