Throwing a purple party isn't as tricky as it may sound. Whether you're a seasoned veteran in the kitchen or a busy hostess who prefers the 'quick and easy' path, we've delicious menu suggestions for you. The important thing is to get your friends together, raise awareness and hopefully a few funds - and have fun!

• Purple punch
  
• Red chicory boats

• Beetroot cake
  
• Blueberry fairy cakes
  
• Cucumber and red grape sandwiches

• Roasted red onion salad with rocket
  
• Grilled aubergine and courgette with mozzarella and basil
  
• Pork fillet on braised red cabbage
  
• Apple and blackberry charlotte with brioche
  

• Cold roast chicken salad
  
• Baked purple fruits
  

Once you've fixed the date for your party order the goodies you need. The Lavender Trust has bags of fabulous fundraising stuff - posters, pins, ribbons, collection boxes and t.shirts. You can order the goods direct from the Lavender Trust. If you're holding a raffle, make sure you follow the rules of play


Give your home a purple look and feel. Give rooms a purple glow by swapping a normal bulb for a purple one. Adorn the table with purple flowers such as irises, purple freesias, lilac and of course, lavender. Seek out purple table decorations, napkins and candles. Dress in purple - if you haven't a purple top, try painting your nails purple, adding purple streaks to your hair or wearing a purple feather boa.