Press: Yard Sale Finds & Mango Margaritas

This time of year, yard sales begin to slowly pop up in my neighborhood and when I see the streets sprinkled with “turn here” signs, my car just veers in the proper direction and my creative juices really get going.

For me, yard sales offer more than just the thrill of the hunt and big bargains. They are loaded with inspiration and creative supplies.

I collect vintage craft and cookbooks so my first stop at any yard sale is the book section. The odd recipe books that can be found always surprise me. Last year, I found a book that was filled with 52 recipes for making dinners with soda pop as the glaze.

Fabric is another passion of mine. If I don’t see a fabric pile, I always ask the yard sale host if they have any fabrics. Many times they do and just haven’t put them out yet. I have found some great vintage prints over the years. My best score was $10 for some vintage Pucci fabric that was in perfect condition.

Exploring the table of mismatched glass and china items can be inspiring. Chipped plates can be used for mosaics, chunky jars are great for storing small craft supplies, funky-shaped glasses are perfect for making soy container candles, and stemmed glasses can be used as an unexpected vase or for fiesta barware.

Last week, I scored some hand-blown margarita glasses for a buck! They are perfect for my delicious mango margaritas, and no fiesta would be complete without ‘ritas. This recipe is simple and always a party favorite.

If a “Mocktail” is more your speed, margarita glasses can be the base for a simple and stunning floral arrangement. All you need is a little floral foam and some cut flowers.

I like to use a handful of small flowers and a large flower for the center. This arrangement always looks great on a table as a centerpiece and is perfect for gift giving.

Begin by adding a small cube of floral foam to the center of the glass. Add moss around the edge for a decorative look. Fill the glass with water soaking the foam. Cut the stems of flowers to the appropriate length and place into the foam. Add details like party umbrellas and ribbons.

Next time you see the “turn here” sign, pull over and see what inspires you.

Emmy nominated Cathie Filian and Steve Piacenza created and co-host “Creative Juice” on the DIY Network and HGTV.

Mango Margaritas