“Entertaining is fun,” claimed decorating doyenne Dorothy Draper. We think it becomes even more thrilling when straw place mats edged in cheery pink are topped with basket weave-bordered dishes and a playful mix of contrasting plates. Block-print napkins pull it all together, and the gold-edged wings of yellow butterflies resting atop napkin rings are guaranteed to bring smiles.
Only the lightest of linens will do for this garden fête. Boasting lively stripes, a flirty ruffle, and sweetly stitched blossoms, an all-cotton tablecloth lays the foundation for a sprightly tablescape. Taking its cues from the finely appointed floral flourishes, a plump pink pillow transforms a wrought iron garden chair into a soft place to perch.
Before guests arrive, take a turn about the garden and gather armfuls of spring’s sweetest blooms for use in centerpieces or to scatter about the setting. Here, a heady blend of David Austin roses and white tulips mingles in an amethyst-inspired vessel etched with a botanical motif. When guests depart, why not use extra stems to send along a pretty posy tied with satiny ribbon to remind them of the afternoon?
Don’t let antique pieces languish in the back of a china cabinet. Pull out treasured heirlooms or favorite finds to lend character to the scene. A vintage buttery yellow pitcher looks fetching when paired with more modern tumblers adorned by white dots and a painterly mini butterfly clip. Call a woven tray into play to corral the drinkware. The natural textures add a touch of rustic charm.
Planters brimming with feathery ferns, fragrant herbs, and an array of colorful flowers accentuate a corner tailor-made for a friendly tête-à-tête. Oversize striped pillows piled in the classic Adirondack chairs mean secrets can be shared in complete comfort.
Sheltered beneath lacy leaves, a mother bird feeds her hungry chick, a precious reminder of the new life unfolding all around during this season of rebirth.
Nearby, a basket with a handle not only allows for gathering fresh-cut stems with ease, but when laden with a colorful mix of tulips, roses, and maidenhair fern, it can also serve as a more formalized arrangement. A dainty handkerchief finishes the scene with a flash of floral pattern.
Against a backdrop flush with ‘Peggy Martin’ roses, a second tablecloth is cleverly repurposed as a cover for a stylish wicker bench, topped with a matching lumbar pillow. Finished with a contrasting but complementary throw pillow and a favorite book, this enchanting lounge offers the perfect place for post-party relaxation.
