All About Home, Entertaining, Everyday Life, Fall, Food, Holidays

Embrace the Cozy Vibes: Fall Entertaining Ideas for the Hostess with Flair

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fall entertaining ideas

As the leaves change their colors and a crisp chill fills the air, there’s no denying that fall is the perfect season for gathering friends and family for some cozy, memorable moments. If you enjoy entertaining and making lasting memories, fall is your canvas to paint your gatherings with warmth, elegance, and style. With a sprinkle of autumn charm, here are some delightful fall entertaining ideas that will leave your guests ready to embrace fall.

A Harvest-Inspired Feast

fall entertaining ideas
A feast to welcome the season

Fall is synonymous with bountiful harvests, and what better way to celebrate this season than with a harvest-inspired feast? Transform your dining table into a rustic wonderland by adorning it with seasonal fruits, vegetables, and foliage. Incorporate earthy tones and textured linens for a cozy, farmhouse feel. Serve up hearty dishes like roasted root vegetables, butternut squash soup, and apple pie to tantalize your guests’ taste buds.

Wine and Cheese Tasting Soiree

fall entertaining ideas
Wine and cheese night

Elevate your fall gatherings with a sophisticated wine and cheese tasting soirée. Curate a selection of fine wines and artisanal cheeses with a fall feel, and let your guests savor the flavors and aromas of the season. Add a touch of elegance with crystal stemware and cheese boards adorned with figs, nuts, and honey. Encourage your guests to explore their palates while enjoying each other’s company.

Bonfire and S’mores Night

fall entertaining ideas
Nothing better than a bonfire and s’mores

For a more casual yet equally enjoyable fall gathering, host a bonfire and s’mores night. Arrange a cozy seating area around a crackling fire pit, complete with plaid blankets and cushions. Provide an assortment of marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers for the perfect s’mores. It’s a simple yet enchanting way to bring people together and enjoy the beauty of a starry autumn night. I love a bonfire night.

Fall Foliage Picnic

fall entertaining ideas
Enjoy a fall picnic

Take advantage of the stunning fall foliage by organizing a picnic in the great outdoors. Choose a scenic park or a picturesque spot in your own backyard. Lay out a vintage picnic blanket, pack a picnic basket with autumnal delights like cider, artisan sandwiches, and pumpkin muffins. Invite your guests to relax, unwind, and soak in the natural beauty of the season. Press flowers that you gather to remember the occasion.

Artisanal Cocktail Evening

fall entertaining ideas
Try a new cocktail

Turn your fall entertaining into an artful experience by hosting an artisanal cocktail evening. Set up a well-stocked bar with an array of spirits, bitters, and fresh ingredients like apples, cranberries, and cinnamon sticks. Encourage your guests to experiment with cocktail-making, and provide recipe cards for them to follow. It’s a delightful way to engage everyone and enjoy some handcrafted libations. Invite guests to share their favorite cocktail.

Pumpkin Decorating Party

fall entertaining ideas
You’re never too old to decorate a pumpkin

Get creative with your fall gathering by hosting a pumpkin decorating party. Provide pumpkins of various shapes and sizes, along with an assortment of paints, markers, and decorative elements. Let your guests channel their inner artists and create unique pumpkin masterpieces. Display the finished creations as a festive centerpiece.

Outdoor Movie Night

fall entertaining ideas
Watch a favorite fall movie

Transform your backyard into a cozy outdoor movie theater for a memorable fall evening. Set up a large screen, scatter blankets and cushions, and serve hot cocoa and caramel popcorn. Choose classic autumn-themed movies or let your guests vote on their favorites. It’s a wonderful way to relish the cool fall evenings while enjoying cinematic nostalgia.

Farm-to-Table Dinner

fall entertaining ideas
A fall feast to be shared

Celebrate the season’s bounty by hosting a farm-to-table dinner. Source fresh, locally grown produce and ingredients to create a farm-fresh menu that pays homage to the harvest. Decorate your table with wildflowers and wooden accents to capture the rustic charm of a countryside feast.

Fireside Book Club

fall entertaining ideas
A cozy fire and book club

Combine your love for entertaining and reading by hosting a fireside book club gathering. Select a captivating fall-themed book and invite your friends to discuss it over hot apple cider and cozy throws. It’s a wonderful way to engage in intellectual conversations while relishing the warmth of the season. I find that when the nights turn cooler I spend more time curled up on the couch with a good book in the evening.

A Grateful Gathering

fall entertaining ideas
Celebrate friendship

As Thanksgiving approaches, consider hosting a “Grateful Gathering” to reflect on the blessings of the year. Ask your guests to share what they’re thankful for and create a gratitude tree where everyone can hang their messages of appreciation. Serve a traditional Thanksgiving feast with all the trimmings to bring the spirit of gratitude to life.

Incorporate these fall entertaining ideas into your seasonal repertoire, and you’ll find yourself creating cherished memories with your loved ones while reveling in the beauty of autumn. Your fall gatherings are sure to be the highlight of the season, leaving your guests eagerly anticipating the next invitation to your cozy, stylish soirees.  I would love to know which one is your favorite.

profileUntil next week,

Carrie

All About Home, Beauty, Decor, Entertaining, Everyday Life, Food, Gardening and Outdoors, Wellness and Fitness

Embrace the Sweet Farewell of Summer: Tips and Ideas for Women 40-60 to Savor the Remaining Sunshine

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enjoy the last of summer

As the sun begins to cast its golden glow on late afternoons and the scent of blooming flowers lingers in the air, we find ourselves at the crossroads of summer’s end. For those of us who relish spending quality time with our loved ones, entertaining, and embracing the finer aspects of life, this transitional period offers the perfect canvas to create cherished memories. Here are some delightful tips and ideas to make the most of the final days of summer.

enjoy the last of summer, garden party
A cozy spot to gather

1. Intimate Garden Gatherings: With the balmy days still gracing us, why not host a series of intimate gatherings in your garden? Set up cozy seating arrangements with plush cushions and decorative lanterns to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Share stories, laughter, and delectable bites with your family and close friends, celebrating the beauty of togetherness amidst nature’s splendor.

enjoy the last of summer, sunset beach picnic
Enjoy the sunset at the beach

2. Sunset Soirées: There’s something magical about sunsets that cast a tranquil and contemplative mood. Invite your loved ones for a sunset soirée by the water, whether it’s a beach, a lake, or a serene riverside spot. Set up a picnic with gourmet cheeses, fresh fruits, and sparkling beverages, as you watch the sun bid its daily adieu with its radiant hues. Ask each guest to bring a favorite treat.

enjoy the last of summer, host a cooking party
Host a cooking party

3. Culinary Adventures: If you have a passion for cooking or exploring diverse cuisines, consider organizing themed culinary evenings. Invite your family and friends to be part of a delightful journey through flavors and cultures. From a Mediterranean mezze feast to an elegant French bistro-inspired dinner, these gatherings will not only tantalize taste buds but also foster engaging conversations.

enjoy the last of summer, paint party
Painting in the garden

4. Artistic Escapades: Unleash your creative spirit by organizing an outdoor art session. Set up easels, canvases, and an array of vibrant paints in your backyard or a local park. Create your own masterpieces while sipping on refreshing beverages and indulging in lighthearted conversations. This experience will not only ignite your artistic passion but also serve as a beautiful reminder of the fleeting beauty of summer. There are many art studios that will come to you for a class.

enjoy the last of summer, nature walk
Spend time in nature

5. Nature Walks and Picnics: Embrace the outdoors with leisurely nature walks in picturesque settings. Take your friends and family on a journey through lush trails, observing the changing colors of leaves and the harmonious symphony of birdsong. Pack a picnic basket with gourmet sandwiches, salads, and refreshing drinks to relish in a delightful al fresco feast.

enjoy the last of summer, outdoor movie night
Fun with an outdoor movie

6. Al Fresco Cinema: Create a cozy outdoor movie night for your loved ones to enjoy beneath the starry sky. Set up a projector, scatter plush blankets, and cushions, and prepare a selection of your favorite classic films or heartwarming comedies. Don’t forget the popcorn and some decadent treats to heighten the cinematic experience. Ask guests to vote on the picture and show the top vote-getter.

enjoy the last of summer, spa day
Unwind with a spa day

7. DIY Spa Retreat: Treat yourself and your loved ones to a rejuvenating DIY spa retreat. Set up a tranquil oasis with scented candles, soothing music, and luxurious skincare products. Indulge in relaxing facials, massages, and soothing baths, allowing everyone to unwind and recharge before the hustle and bustle of autumn.

enjoy the last of summer, flower market
Explore a flower market

8. Gardening and Floral Delights: Engage in the beauty of nature by organizing a gardening day or visiting a local flower market. Encourage your guests to cultivate their green thumbs, sharing tips and techniques for nurturing plants and flowers. The colorful blooms will not only infuse your surroundings with beauty but also serve as a metaphor for embracing the various stages of life. Invite guests to bring a cutting from their favorite flower.

enjoy summer, party
Summer celebration party

9. Gratitude Celebration: Host a heartfelt gratitude celebration to bid adieu to summer. Create a meaningful ritual where each guest shares what they’re grateful for from the season and their hopes for the future. This introspective gathering will foster a sense of connection and optimism, setting the tone for the approaching autumn days.

As the days grow shorter and the warmth of summer gradually fades, these ideas offer a myriad of ways to savor the remaining moments. From cozy gatherings to artistic endeavors, each suggestion is designed to embrace the beauty of the present while looking forward to the beauty that lies ahead. So, gather your loved ones, create cherished memories, and bask in the sweet farewell of summer’s embrace.

profileUntil next week,

Carrie

All About Home, Decor, Entertaining, Everyday Life, Fashion and Style, Gardening and Outdoors, Lilly Pulitzer, Longaberger, Pond, Tablescapes

Easy Summer Living

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Summer is still going strong, and I plan to enjoy the easy summer living lifestyle for as long as I can. I really do enjoy all seasons(okay, maybe winter is not my favorite although I love decorating for the holidays)but summer just has that slower pace vibe about it. We all spend more time outdoors and enjoying the world around us. Summer should be carefree and easy.

 

For the last few years, I have pared down my summer decor with the theme of keeping it easy and breezy. In my entryway, I just swapped out the winter greenery from my blue and white vases with lemons and cherry blossoms. The yellow adds a pop of summery color against the classic blue and white combination. The pineapples also were added for summer. Of course, a little glow must be added. I brought out a rattan hurricane that gives off the perfect summer vibe. A few simple changes and you are welcomed with summer when arriving at our home. My dining room centerpiece stays fresh with the olive trees candles, and greenery. Simple, clean, and easy.

fresh flowers
Fresh from my garden

Nothing says summer like fresh flowers. I love putting together simple floral arrangements for my kitchen. Use any flowers that you have growing in your gardens. I have an abundance of hydrangeas, roses, and black-eyed Susans in my yard and I put them to good use. Keep your hydrangeas fresh by cutting them in the morning, setting them in a bucket of water for a few hours, and dipping the stems in boiling water for a few seconds. It does make them last longer. I love summer floral arrangements because they look better the less arranged they are—a little bit of a wildflower look.

pond
A place to relax and recharge

With all of the flowerbeds in our yard, I spend many hours outdoors. I think that it’s so important to spend a little time outdoors daily. In the evenings you can usually find me out walking. I love all the wildlife that I see on my walks, deer, turtles, bunnies, and dogs(hopefully no snakes).  Our pond is another place that you will find me spending time at. There is just something about the sound of water. Find something that you love and enjoy a little quiet time in nature. It really does soothe the mind and body.

Spending more time outdoors also means we are eating light and quick meals. We spend most nights eating out in the sunroom. For Bob’s birthday and Father’s Day, he treated himself to a Traeger and we have been enjoying trying new recipes. Do you have a favorite summer recipe? I would love a new recipe.

Summer style is all about ease too. Most days you will find me in a comfortable Lilly dress. Perfect for summer. Add a pair of cute sandals and some colorful jewelry and your outfit is complete. It’s all about comfort and enjoying the season!

I hope you take the time to enjoy all that is left of summer.

profileUntil next week,
Carrie

All About Home, Decor, Entertaining, Longaberger, Tablescapes

Summer Dining Table Design

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summer table design

This year with doing so much traveling I decided to keep my dining table a little more simple. To be honest, I have been creating more simple designs lately. I have been drawn to more natural simple elements and designs.

My Longaberger basket has become the focal point for my table each season. It is big and beautiful. The olive trees were in the basket already and I simply added garland around it. The candles and fairy lights I left in for a soft glow. It looks so pretty at night. I love the wreath basket from Longaberger and keep it out all year long. For summer I just added a potted hydrangea for a pop of color.

I usually start with a table runner to fit the season. This bamboo design is perfect for summer. Keeping with my natural theme I kept the birdcages on the table this year. Normally, I take them down for the summer but this year decided to leave them out for the season. I like the change. A little touch of summer was added with mason jars and Emma Bridgewater bud vases.

summer table design
Summer place setting in style

My place settings were simple this year. I ordered these pink charges a few years ago and they are the first layer.  A placemat from Lucy Grymes is the second layer. I love the scalloped shape of these. My Juliska plates complete the look along with a seersucker napkin in pink.

What do you think? A simple summer tablescape.

profileUntil next week,

Carrie

Enjoy a complimentary guide and learn to decorate like a pro when you sign up for my newsletter full of exclusive content, tips, tricks, recipes, style, decor, and so much more.

All About Home, Beauty, Decor, Entertaining, Everyday Life, Fashion and Style, Longaberger

April Favorites

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April favorites, can you believe April is already here? So crazy. April was a busy month and I found some new favorites that I am excited to share with you. A little home decor, fashion, treats, and more. Enjoy.

tea box
Personalized for me

How cute is this tea box that Bob made for me? I love my tea and a personalized tea box sitting on the counter I perfect. I created this design and he engraved using his laser machine. Personalized pieces are a great way to add a custom look to the home. My favorite teas are ready to go!

longaberger & Paint& petals
Perfect for spring

Another favorite home decor piece is from the Longaberger and Paint&Petals collaboration. This is the bunny basket with a custom-designed liner with bunny ears attached. It’s adorable as a bunny basket but I plan to use it all year long. I tucked the ears in and now I have a new basket to use. Add a plant or flowers for a spring look, place utensils in it to use as a serving piece, pop a bottle of wine in it, there are so many ways to use this basket.

farmhouse fresh timescape
For glowing skin

FarmhouseFresh has been my go-to skincare line for a while now. I love a good micro derm but hate the rough abrasive feel of some of them. Timescape Micromazing face polish is incredible. In 2 minutes my face is smooth and polished without feeling like I scrubbed it with sandpaper.

palm beach sandals
A custom design

Spring means that it is finally time to bring out all of the cute sandals. I love this pair from Palm Beach Sandals. This pair was designed and custom-made for me. You can create just about any design that you can imagine with Palm Beach Sandals. I have a pair with flamingoes on them too, so cute. This year, I think that I am going to do a monogrammed pair.

cayla gray
Perfect summer scent

I love perfumes and have quite a collection of fragrances. When I find a local small business creating amazing scents, I must try them. Cayla Gray is a Scottsdale business and she creates so many unique scents. Water is my second purchase and it is a perfect scent for the warmer weather. I purchased Petals last year and it continues to be a go-to fragrance for spring and summer.

April, a little bit of everything. It’s that time of year to change up our decor, fashion, and beauty. I am ready for all things spring.

profileUntil next week,

Carrie

Enjoy a complimentary guide and learn to decorate like a pro when you sign up for my newsletter full of exclusive content, tips, tricks, recipes, style, decor, and so much more.

Shop my favorites below:

Longaberger pink basket

Farmhouse Fresh Timescape

Palm Beach Sandals

Cayla Gray

 

 

All About Home, Beauty, Entertaining, Everyday Life, Food

March Favorites

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march favorites

I really can’t believe how fast the year is going. It seems like just yesterday I was planning for our Christmas Eve celebration. I am happy that spring is finally here. Nothing makes me happier than bulbs in bloom, grass greening up, and longer days. Spring decorating is done. Everything is bright, cheery, and floral! I think by my March favorites you can tell that I was looking forward to spring. Enjoy!

faux tulips
Looks so realistic

I have seen everyone rave about the faux tulips from Amazon, and I had to give them a try. I love fresh flowers from the market, but sometimes there is little to pick from. Wow, I am impressed. They are made with a plastic/rubber mix and the texture is so natural. They can be bent and shaped too. My Mackenzie-Childs vase was perfect. It took me about 5 minutes to bend and shape them to create a casual arrangement. I like the look of tulips falling from the vase. There are so many other faux floral options on Amazon and I am going to pick up some hydrangeas for summer.

fentimans rose lemonade
A refreshing treat

Who doesn’t enjoy a refreshing drink on a warm spring day? A rose lemonade from Fentimans is even better. I found these at my local Target but have seen them randomly at other places too. Of course, they are also available online. I love flavored lemonade and this one is so pretty in the bottle too. Spring is finally here when you have a nice cold lemonade.

younique serum foundation
For a natural, flawless look

Serum foundations have become my new favorite. I don’t wear much makeup and rarely do on a daily basis. I want my skin to look like my skin only better. Younique Touch Serum Foundation has been my new go-to. My favorite way to use it is just to mix a little in with my moisturizer. A little really does go a long way.

aerin lilac path
A perfect spring scent

Aerin Lilac Path is still my favorite spring perfume. I’m not sure if that will ever change. Lilac Path has a beautiful lilac smell that does not smell artificial. It is light, airy, and perfect for spring. I have many perfumes from Aerin and each one is unique. Cedar Violet is still my favorite for winter too.

aembr secret garden
Natural and clean scent

Another favorite spring scent is Secret Garden from Aembr. This candle is exactly what it sounds like, a secret garden. One of my favorite bloggers and YouTubers, Kristina Braly started Aembr in her home. She wanted to create clean fragrances with only the best ingredients in small batches. These are all hand-poured, most of them by her too. She left the medical world to follow her dream of becoming a business owner. I love the story behind the brand as much as the brand.

As I said, March was full of anticipation for spring. I hope you give one of these great products a try. Let me know if you do, I love to hear your favorites. I hope you find time to enjoy all that March has to offer.

carrie kellyUntil next week,

Carrie

Enjoy a complimentary guide and learn to decorate like a pro when you sign up for my newsletter full of exclusive content, tips, tricks, recipes, style, decor, and so much more.

Shop my favorites below:

Amazon Faux Tulips

Fentimans Rose Lemonade

Younique Serum Foundation

Aerin Lilac Path

Aembr Secret Garden

 

All About Home, Beauty, Decor, Entertaining, Everyday Life, Fashion and Style, Holidays, Holidays, Longaberger, My Favorites, Wellness and Fitness

October Favorites

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october favorites

October favorites, I can’t believe that I am already writing October. How fast has this year gone? I will admit that I have already started holiday planning and shopping. October is always an in-between month. The weather can be warm, cold, or anywhere in the middle. It certainly has been here. I fell in love with a new jewelry line this month, a favorite new book, a new beauty tool, and more. Enjoy this month’s favorites.

bronwen jewelry
Jewelry for the active lifestyle

Bronwen jewelry has become a new favorite of mine. I first came across it at the boutique I’m working at, and the pieces are so pretty. My favorite part is that they are designed by an active woman looking for jewelry to hold up to workouts, outdoor activities, swimming, sleep, water, and just about anything else you can think of. These pieces are designed to leave on and stay beautiful. I have been adding to my collection often.

longaberger holiday shop
Longaberger Holiday Shop

It’s never too early to start shopping and planning for the holidays. The Longaberger Holiday Shop is full of baskets, pottery, glassware, ornaments, and much more to make the holiday season a breeze. I ordered the mittens basket which is the inspiration for this year’s staircase design. I also added a few mini baskets and an ornament to my collection. Baskets are an easy way to decorate and organize a beautiful holiday table. I use many of my baskets for our annual Christmas Eve event.

spooky snack mix
Spooky snack mix

We were having a Hocus Pocus dinner and movie night and I was looking for a fun and spooky treat to serve. Snack mix, it’s always a favorite and easy to change up for any season, holiday, or theme. For this spooky snack mix, I combined Bugles, pepitas, microwave kettle corn,  and dried cranberries. I melted some white chocolate to drizzle over it and then added candy corn and M&M’s. It was delicious and a big hit!

jade roller
A must for your skin

I recently started using a jade roller, and OMG why have I not been using this? I have been using it every night after I apply my serum and the results are immediate. My skin looks smooth and my product is absorbed even better into my skin. I also love the cooling sensation on my skin too.

daily book of sunshine
Morning inspiration

I start every morning by writing in my journal and with a little inspiration. I came across this book on Amazon and picked it up. The Little Book of Daily Sunshine. It’s bite-sized pieces of inspiration to start the day. Many of these little nuggets will get you thinking and I am always looking for ways to be more positive and inspired.

I hope you enjoyed my October favorites. The rest of the year is going to go even faster. Make sure to stop and enjoy it all!

Until next week,

Carrie

Shop my favorites here:

Bronwen Jewelry

Longaberger Holiday Shop

Jade roller

Little Book of Daily Sunshine

 

All About Home, Decor, Entertaining, Holidays, Longaberger, Tablescapes

Longaberger Holiday Shop

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longaberger holiday shop

I have been waiting for this all year, the Longaberger Holiday Shop. I love all seasons, but somehow decorating for the holidays just seems different and special. Each room has a different style and theme, and I enjoy creating a magical experience for my family and friends. We host Christmas Eve at our house complete with games, crafts, gifts from Santa, food, and so much fun. I look forward to it all year long!

longaberger holiday shop
Sure to grab attention
longaberger holiday shop
Beautiful hand-woven ornament

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Longaberger has been a part of my holiday traditions for years. I have collected holiday baskets and they stay displayed year-round. The traditions and memories behind these pieces are so special to me. Longaberger is a company rich in American history and tradition. I hope to pass these things down to my family and know that they will bring back happy memories of holidays past.

longaberger holiday shop
A Norman Rockwell Christmas
longaberger christmas shop
Winter fun

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This collection is incredible and the weavers really outdid themselves. Baskets shaped like mittens, who would have thought? I ordered the green set and they are the inspiration for this year’s staircase design. Tree skirt baskets, Norman Rockwell ornaments(is there anything more American than Norman Rockwell), glass pieces, and so much more.

longaberger holiday shop
A new take on a traditional piece
longaberger holiday shop
Trim the tree with a handmade piece

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Longaberger really is a lifestyle that I fully embrace. Family, friends, and home are the most important things to me. I am so excited to add new pieces to my collection and create my Winter Wonderland. I am happy to help you find the perfect Longaberger piece for you or a loved one and add a little Longaberger Lifestyle to your home!

longaberger holiday shop
A unique tree skirt
longaberger holiday shop
Traditional red

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Until next week,

Carrie

Send me an email here: pinespplesandmonograms@gmail.com

Visit the Longaberger boutique here: longaberger.carriekellydesigns.com

All About Home, Decor, Entertaining, Holidays, Longaberger, Tablescapes

Fall Dining Room Makeover And Decor

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fall dining table decir

Fall is finally here, and as much as I love summer and summer decor, I was looking forward to decorating for Fall. I always like to focus on a few key areas for impact and build on my decor from there. The dining room is always my first spot to decorate. I try to change it or do something a little different each year.

This wreath I purchased at a craft fair and I think it is perfect in this space. It really brings out the fall colors in the room. I may leave it out all year too. My corner table got a little makeover for fall too with just a few key pieces.

I started with my Longaberger placemats and napkins. The fruit pattern is the same pattern on my valances and border so it coordinates perfectly. I love the pop of blue in the pattern too. The place settings are also from Longaberger from years ago. The place setting is simple with the white pumpkin and acrylic word again in the pop of blue.

The center of my table always has the beautiful tray that Bob made me. I love using it as a focal point and building from there. My Emma Bridgewater hurricane is always a favorite each season. I added the wine cooler, fall floral display, and smaller Bridgewater vases to the tray.

fall dining room decor
A beautiful tray to group items

The olive trees line the rest of the table, and I love the natural look these add to the design. The design was finished with candles from Rae Dunn, glass pumpkins, and acorns and pumpkins. The design did not take too much time, and I think it brings in the fall feel to the dining room. Happy decorating!

Until next week,

Carrie

All About Home, Decor, Entertaining, Food, Longaberger, Tablescapes

Summer Celebration Lunch

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ladies luncheon

Summer is almost over and I thought it was the perfect time to get a couple of my closest friends together for lunch. We have all been so busy this summer and needed to catch up. Summer has gone by so fast, hasn’t it?

I always like a theme. I think that makes it so much easier to plan around. Wanting to keep it casual, I chose an easy summer theme with flowers and bright colors. My garden is in full bloom so I picked some hydrangeas, black-eyed Susans, and roses to use in my centerpiece and decor. Quick tip for making hydrangeas last, cut them in the morning, put them in a few inches of water for a few hours, and dip the cut stems in boiling water for a few seconds. Your hydrangeas will last so long! I love paper goods and Lucy Grymes has become a new favorite. Her patterns are so cute and I love the vase wraps. These wraps turn any container (even a simple drinking glass) into a pretty vase. I went with the bamboo-style wraps to coordinate with a floral placemat that reminded me of Lilly. Quick and easy centerpiece and table decor.

I went with my trusty old favorite Entertaining with Longaberger book. This book is about 20 years old and it continues to be my go-to for entertaining. I picked a sparkling lemonade recipe but switched out the flavor to lavender. I love lavender. A charcuterie board started the afternoon followed by an overnight marinated vegetable salad and chicken sandwiches with a carmelized onion-apple relish. That relish was delicious. The dessert consisted of a strawberry daiquiri bundt cake from Dockside Market. Dockside Market is a partner of Longaberger and created this flavor specifically for our Horizon of Hope campaign. I also displayed the cake on the Moser Glass small cake stand from Longaberger. The color is perfect and neutral enough to coordinate with any style and decor.

Entertaining does not have to be complicated or stressful. I always set the table the night before to save time the next day. I also find setting out all of the platters, serving pieces, and utensils the night before so helpful too. This ensures that I am not searching for something the day of. I always like to send my guests home with a small goodie too. This time I found little bottles of the lemonade wine I served and added a burlap bow to the bottle. A bath bomb in a cute box makes a lovely gift too. What could be better than wine and a bath bomb? I think that makes for a perfect evening.

We had a perfect afternoon catching up. Sometimes a day with good friends is really what you need! Honestly, just spending time together is really the most important thing!

Until next week,

Carrie