Get Creative With Your Summer Entertaining

It's summertime! And that means it's time for pool parties, BBQ's, beach picnics and gatherings of all kinds. Of course we all know that the food is the center of attention at any party, but it's the decor that really gets people talking. You can make your summertime get-together even more fabulous with a great table setting. Here are some great ideas to make your summer gathering a memorable one.

Scallop Placemats and Napkins

For those little touches that always leave a lasting impression, decorating a table top is the place to start. Summer always gives off a beachy vibe, but throwing some sea shells and sand on a table doesn't hack it! Try adding cute coastal placemats that have simple, yet elegant ,designs. If you have a plain wood table, you can use placemats and napkins as an opportunity to add a pop of color. Bright blues and greens with hints or browns and sand colors are sure to give off this great beach feel!

Sea Life Napkin Rings

Other simple but creative ideas for your table setting might be to use beachy napkin rings. Simple yet chic! It's always fun to have a variety as well. Make a game out of it. Have everyone randomly seat themselves at the table and whoever chooses the setting with the pre-chosen (but surprise) napkin ring, get's a prize! If you have a regular get together, change up the designated winning item each time. It keeps guests guessing and having fun at the same time, not to mention all while admiring your beautiful table setting!

Everyone knows a great party has great drinks. Make your drinks even more fabulous with decorative wine glasses. These days, everyone is drinking their favorite drink out of their new favorite glass. And plus, it's always more fun drinking out of a pretty glass than a plain one.

Shoreline Hand Painted Wine Glasses

If you are really looking to step up your game when it comes to your summer entertaining, try looking for a new set of dishware. Whether you are hosting a four course meal for the Captain of the Queen Victoria, or having a lunch in with the girls at your coastal cottage by the shore, the right dishware help you go from ordinary to extraordinary!

Regardless of the of occasion, there are endless ways you make your summer gathering a memorable one. Of course the best way of all is the company that you keep!

Al Fresco Dining Has Never Been So Stylish

California is famous for its luxurious coastlines and the mild weather that graces the state almost year-round. And while the rest of the country looks forward to the few short months each year when they can entertain outdoors Californians are lucky enough to be able to celebrate outside all year long.

In Italy, dining outdoors has long been embraced as a relaxing way to unwind after a long day. So do as the Italians do and take advantage of the gorgeous surroundings by gathering your closest friends for a stylish evening of dining al fresco.

• Make the decor divine. Whether you are entertaining on the beach or in your own back yard, it's simple to add some pizazz to your surroundings. Colorful paper lanterns cast a warm glow once the sun goes down. Small, stranded lights also enhance the mood. String them in trees or around a deck to add glimmer and ambiance to your setting.
  You can also use serving dishes to enhance your outdoor coastal decor. Colored ceramic dishes with bold patterns are an easy way to add flair to your table. Don't be afraid to mix and match colors. Red and yellow dishes on a royal blue tablecloth may seem hodgepodge in a dining room, but in an outdoor setting, this look imparts an eclectic, funky charm.
  
• Master the art of mood music. Get creative with your music selection. Consider tailoring the music around the type of cuisine you are serving. For an Italian meal, play an assortment of Italian opera compact discs. To keep the mood light and playful, you can't go wrong by enhancing the outdoor theme with reggae music. Or get your guests involved by inviting everyone to bring their favorite CD to the party. Set your disc player to shuffle so that everyone's music selection gets playtime during the meal. It's a simple way to incorporate each person's personal style.
• Create a stylish menu. Eating outdoors lends itself to fresh, easy-to-prepare foods. And you can add flair to any basic dishes with just a few additions.
  For an Italian meal, a tomato, basil and mozzarella salad is always a crowd pleaser. Drizzle chicken and fish with olive oil and lemon for a fresh, light flavor. And dust colorful veggies with Italian seasonings to bring out their natural flavors.
  

Whatever you serve when dining al fresco, remember that it is easy to infuse any outdoor setting with glamour by adding a few small touches. Every selection you make will reflect your personal style. And in the end, nothing says style like dining underneath the stars.

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