Making the Table the 2nd Star of the Night

I have two lady friends who get together with me to cook some fabulous food.  We spend a week planning the theme and then picking the recipes we want to make.  The ladies always create stunning table settings.  Indoors, outdoors, we would make Ina Garten proud.

This past fall we had a great evening for our annual Farm Market Dinner on a crisp fall night on my porch.  The fire was part one of the table display.  The rest came together with things I had around the house.  I took a stroll through my yard to find fall foliage to place in a center piece and to spread around the table.  To keep things rustic I place candles in little Cast Iron Skillets and used mason jars for our beverages of choice.  I strung some Christmas lights above our heads and viola.  We had a wonderful table that matched our menu.

Now, what does that mean for you and YOUR dinner parties.  When each season arrives, there are a host of ideas for your table.  in the Spring, a brighter table cloth, just budding leaves from your trees, spring flowers blooming.  In summer, fresh herbs in vases, flowers, rustic tins filled with ice for your beverages.  When winter arrives, holly berries and evergreens make a nice touch with classic winter colors.  Whatever you do, have fun with it and do not over think it.  Have a great time and a great party!