Once again I am
writing a column about hosting an extraordinary outdoor bash. Not a backyard
barbecue -- although you could serve ribs and barbecue chicken - but a small
formal dinner for close friends or family.
My editor is
rolling her eyes. Every year I do this column and every year summer passes
without anyone seeing the cool outdoor chandelier that I made in anticipation
of such an event.
My desire to host
such a party spawned following a trip to Napa Valley where even a lunch of
bologna sandwiches and red wine was a memorable event. Due in part to the
California countryside but also the details attended by the vineyard staff:
placing a rustic picnic table under an ornamental tree and setting the table
with white linens, crystal glasses and votive candles.
Whether you have
a large backyard or an apartment with a small balcony -- the key to this kind
of party is to let the natural elements set the mood and then expand upon that.
First, consider
where to dine. Under a tree is nice but only if the branches are high and out
of harm's way. A picnic table is great but you could also use a round card
table. A patio set would also work provided you kept the décor formal.
Once you've got a
spot pick a theme and run with it - using linens and placemats - as the canvas
for whatever picture you hope to create. Whatever you do don't forget the fresh
flowers.
"There is
something about flowers that instantly makes any gathering feel special,"
said a spokesperson from Pfaltzgraff. "Place several large sunflowers into
a vase for the center of the table - or trim the stems off your favorite blooms
and float them in a large serving bowl. For another simple centerpiece, line
several glasses or small bowls down the center of the table and place a single
blossom in each. No flower arranging skills required."
As the maker of
formal and casual tableware - Pfaltzgraff has no shortage of ideas for those of
us hoping to host an extraordinary outdoor affair. Their decorating staff also
suggests enhancing the mood created by your natural environment with themes
like alfresco created with decorations, lighting and tableware. Pfaltzgraff’s
Pistoulet dinnerware features colorful renderings of flowers, vines and
vegetables set against wide watercolor washes, which for example is reminiscent
of the light and colors of Southern France. For an Americana theme consider
using a red linen tablecloth with blue linen napkins wrapped with a whimsical
cowboy boot napkin ring. You could also gather the napkins with a piece of rope
but keep it formal with white china dishes. If you’d rather go country kick it
up a notch with a red-checkered tablecloth.
See why I’m keen
on such a party? There are all sorts of fun ways to do it. Below are a few more
ideas courtesy of the decorating team at Pfaltzgraff:
- Music plays a big role in setting the mood of any party. Be sure to keep it light and uplifting. However, keep it low enough so that your guests can carry on a conversation without shouting.
- The problem with having a party outdoor is some elements are beyond your control like the wind for example. A gentle breeze makes it cool but can topple centerpieces and peel off tablecloths. Use small bowls or serving pieces around the table to keep the cloth secure.
-
Another nice touch is to slip in dried flower twig or a long-stemmed rose insides the folds of the napkin along with your cutlery to keep the linens from blowing off the table.
- Incorporate earth elements such as pebbles, sea shells and fresh flowers in decorative bowls or glass vases.
- Look around the area and see if you can add lights to bushes, trees or decking. You might also use candles in luminary bags weighted with sand.
- For place cards use a Sharpie to write the name of each guest on a smooth stone. The stones make for organically chic place cards and memorable party favors.
“The secret to
great entertaining is to keep things simple,” according to the experts at
Pfaltzgraff. “Parties should be uncomplicated, easy and just as much fun for
the hosts as it is for the guests. Start with a simple menu and then get
everyone outdoors to enjoy the splendor of Michigan’s warm breezes, lush trees
and colorful flowers.”
Gina Joseph is a
reporter and columnist for The Macomb Daily. Send comments to
gina.joseph@macombdaily.com, follow her on twitter @ginaljoseph and visit her
beat blog at macomblife.blogspot.com.
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