Contributor Post by Eva Jorgensen of Sycamore Street Press.

While I'm not very skilled in the hostessing arts, I'm lucky enough to know people who are. My friend Veeda recently threw a garden tea party in honor of another friend's upcoming baby, and it turned out so lovely I just had to share!




Instead of the normal baby shower games, Veeda asked Cindy of Scherensnitte to teach everyone the art of paper cutting.


Homemade strawberry jam for party favors. Yum!



couple drops of red food coloring (optional)


In a food processor, puree the strawberries. Set aside. (You won't be using all the puree, so keep this in mind before you add the strawberries to the frosting.)

Using an electric mixer with a paddle attachment, beat together butter and salt in a bowl on medium speed, about 5 minutes. The butter should be light and creamy. Decrease the speed to low and gradually add in the confectioners' sugar.

Next, add in 1/4 cup of the pureed strawberries (reserve the unused portion for another use, like throw them in your next smoothie) and also the vanilla. If you want to enhance the pink color, you can also put in a few drops of the red food coloring. Mix until all the ingredients are incorporate.

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Veeda is the author of a fantastic food blog, White Lotus Cooks. Check it out to see more of her cooking adventures.

All images by Brendan for White Lotus Cooks