Throw a Fiesta

Do any of you use The Nest website? They have all sorts of things on there. It's mostly articles and forums geared toward newlyweds, with topics like home decor, fitness, money, travel, crafting, food, fashion, etc... They send out newsletters too and I recently got one featuring party ideas for a fuss-free fiesta. Here's the party plan.

Send a bold invite to get your guests in a fiesta mood. They suggest an online invite to keep it easy, but if you're a paper freak then go for a great printed invitation (below invite by Boatman Geller).

Serve 'ritas on the rocks. As soon as guests, arrive put a cold margarita in their hand.

Make a create-your-own-chalupas buffet. Or DIY nachos, tacos, fajitas. Have fun with it! Check out The Nests collection of Mexican recipes here.

Throw in a fun curve ball. No one's too cool for a pinata!

Play Latin tunes. Download high-energy hits from the Gypsy Kings and Santana.

Set the mood with lighting. Slip a votive in a colored paper bag with pebbles or sand, and presto: lounge lighting that will last all night!

Use creative serve ware. Try something original by using cactus or palm leaves for a no-cost serving platter.

End with tequila tasting. Use a quality tequila (one that's made from 100 percent agave - your hangover-free guests with thank you the next morning!) Ole!