Entertaining Center

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The Food Channel

Spring is the season for backyard barbecues, picnics in the park ... and weddings.

No matter what type of ceremony is planned, family and friends are involved in a variety of events before any "I Do's" are recited. One such event, the wedding shower, is no longer just for ladies, and the themes go beyond traditional. Some couples host backyard fiestas or re-create a scene from "The Great Gatsby" or from a recent romantic comedy.

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The Food Channel

Recipes courtesy of Chinet

This recipe for Miami Yellow Fin Tuna Salad would make an excellent main dish choice. Most of the preparation can be done before guests arrive and the grilling can be part of the party, as something for the guys to do.

To accompany the grilled tuna with salad, try one of these delicious salads.

The Watermelon and Cantaloupe Salad with Mint Vinaigrette can be served in a carved watermelon. The mint vinaigrette adds an extra bit of freshness for a spring afternoon.

The Avocado Stuffed with Chicken Salad is not your typical chicken salad. This recipe has shallot, red pepper and chives to add some kick. Served in an avocado, guests will be impressed with the presentation.

For more information, please visit www.foodchannel.com.

Provided by

The Food Channel

Recipes courtesy of Chinet

A new trend in wedding showers is creating a signature cocktail for the bride and groom that is a reflection of their personality and tastes. Fruit-flavored iced teas could be available for those who prefer nonalcoholic drinks.

When guests arrive, why not greet each one with a glass of Celebration Punch. Its mixture of champagne, orange juice and fresh fruit makes it ideal for a warm spring day.

For more information, please visit www.foodchannel.com.

Provided by

The Food Channel

Part of the traditional wedding shower are the games, which are usually enjoyed by few — and especially not by the fellas. The following fun activities, though, are sure to entertain all of your guests.

In The Nearly-Wed Game, the bride answers questions about their relationship ("Who paid on the first date?"), which the groom has responded to on audio or video tape earlier. After the bride responds, someone plays the clip with the groom's answer. It would be fun to include other guests in the game and have a panel of players.

For Vow Mad Libs, print out traditional vows, leaving blanks for nouns, verbs and adjectives. The host asks each guest for a corresponding word and then the bride reads "her" wedding vows. You could also do a Mad Lib Vow for the groom and have a mock ceremony using the vows!

Just remember that wedding showers can be fun with new ideas and fresh ingredients. Cheers to the bride and groom!

For more information, please visit www.foodchannel.com.