Not every occasion calls for a traditional crystal punch bowl.
For a punch bowl with pizazz, consider using a creative alternative. Not every party calls for the classic bowl. Themed parties, seasonal get togethers, baby showers and kid's parties call for something that fits the theme, the occasion or is less breakable. With a little thought, planning and adaptation, ordinary objects can make your punch bowl a memorable centerpiece for any refreshment table.
Kids Parties
Most moms wince at the idea of putting out the good crystal for a child's birthday party. Make the occasion special and memorable with a that fits the party theme and that guests will adore. Think about the chosen theme and choose an item that can be made into a drink service of sorts. For little ones that love dolphins, sharks or other sea life, fill a new, clean aquarium with blue punch and plastic sea critters. Cowboys and cowgirls enjoy being served from a metal bucket or galvanized trough wrapped with rope accents. Wrap an ice chest in party paper or fabric and tie a bow to the top to make it look like a present and little ones will love to serve themselves.
Outdoor Parties
Outdoor parties open up a world of possibilities for creative alternatives to the traditional punch bowl. Fill a plastic child's swimming pool with ice, bottled water and canned drinks for guests to grab during pool parties or cookouts. Ice-skating or outdoor cold-weather parties call for a molded ice punch bowl. Buckets filled with punch and floating fruit or edible flowers make for cute spring punch bowls. Line a new barbecue grill with a plastic tablecloth and fill with ice for a cute cooler at a barbecue.
Other Special Occasions
Carve a basket from a watermelon or pumpkin and use it to serve punch for summer or fall parties. Serve drinks or punch from a large stock pot for a cooking or baking party. Tie fabric or bows around a crock pot or other large bowl or bucket. Serve punch or drinks at a baby shower from a baby bathtub, complete with floating rubber ducks or small baby toys. Wrap stock pots or other large containers in fairy lights, tulle, ribbon and silk foliage for a wedding shower or other special occasion. Ice sculptures or drink fountains are a more expensive but creative alternative for fancy or formal occasions when budget is not an issue.
Special Considerations
Consider any alternative to a punch bowl carefully before use. the location, temperature and the amount of space available. Consider whether or not the item is safe to use to serve from, or will be near children, if applicable. Consider the availability of the object you wish to use as an alternative to the traditional punch bowl. Is watermelon in season and readily available if you plan to use a watermelon bowl or basket? Think about the guests you plan to have, and whether the object you intend to use is durable enough to withstand the inevitable bumps and brushes likely to happen. After these things have been considered and a choice has been made, think about having a back-up object available in case something goes wrong.
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