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for 6-10 people
With summer in full bloom, it’s time to take advantage of the natural backdrop in your
own yard. Your garden is the perfect setting for an evening dinner
party.
 
Cut out a card size
piece of paperboard, cover with a piece of floral wrapping paper or
fabric, cut out a smaller square of solid color paper and glue down
(glue stick works best) on the floral backing. Write out a simple
dinner invitation to your guests on the solid paper middle. Tie the
invitation with a satin ribbon and mail out in a colored envelope.
Use a combination of tasteful citronella candles to line the pathway from your home to
the table. The smell will keep the bugs away but will not create a
perfume cloud around the space you are eating. For light on the
table use a dozen or so tiny tea lights.
 Place a table on
your patio or grass. Cover with two mix and match table cloths in
the same color story. This could be a floral cloth and a contrasting
plaid cloth in the same aqua family. Arrange some fresh cut flowers
in a pitcher and place in the middle of the table. Scatter flower
petals across the table top and set the table with vintage inspired
place settings. Light tea lights just before your guests arrive.
 
Since summer is the
time for fresh ingredients, take advantage of local fruits,
vegetables and cheeses. A pitcher of sangria with sweet and tart
fruit can be made the night before. Serve a cheese and olive
platter, a couple of cold salads that can be made ahead of time, and
grill fresh veggies and fish when your guests arrive. The grill
always makes a fun place for people to gather and share in the
dinner preparation. For dessert… keep that grill going or light a
tiny campfire. Toasted marshmallows, chocolate and gram crackers are
not just for kids. S’mores are ooey, gooey and a delicious way to end
an evening. |
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