Evoke the serenity of a shoreline setting with a waterside backyard gathering that brings the best of land and sea together with treasured family and friends.
Scenes From The Sea
Set a table for this summertime gathering that borrows from the beauty of the beach. For the place setting, whimsical designs reminiscent of summer blooms and rolling ocean waves get a sophisticated spin from sleek, modern lines.
Traditional navy and white linens anchor the tablescape, while the raw beauty of a piece of driftwood evokes cherished memories of walks along the shoreline. Graceful air plants mirror the untamed natural beauty of sand dune grasses, and freshly clipped foliage in a striking vase highlights the splendor of the backyard setting.
For a finishing touch, a textured hors d’oeuvres platter catches the eye like summer rays dancing on the water; a simple birchwood pedestal echoes the wooden accents sprinkled throughout the scheme.
Fresh Take
As beloved friends gather for this casual affair, serve savory bite-size delectables made to eat as you chat. Flaky phyllo cups cradle dollops of hummus and homemade olive salad, while crostini are layered with Lemon-Basil Ricotta and vine-ripe tomatoes roasted to perfection.
Sail into a main course of succulent shrimp and summer vegetables, a seasonal pairing with a nod to the sea.
A spinach and arugula salad tossed in herbaceous lemon vinaigrette and topped with buttery croutons is a bright complement. And as the sun sets over this poolside oasis, stemless glasses of velvety cream accented by tart berries and crumbly cookies offer a hint of sweetness to end the alfresco fête.
Recipe Development and Food Styling by Rebecca Treadwell Spradling
Styling by Tracey MacMillan Runnion
Photography by John O’Hagan
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