Nothing like the first sunburn of the season to suggest that summer is almost here! When everything is bright and lush, the sun is shining and there is not a cloud in the sky, it’s time to get outside and rejoice. Whether that means planting in the garden or tidying up your green space, why not kick off the summer with a cheerful Garden Party. This can be anything from a luncheon on the lawn to sparking up the grill and flippin’ burgers; the important thing here is that we are dining in the great outdoors.
photo credit: evening outdoor dining
photo credit: outdoor dining
With that first glorious weekend of heat and sunshine, out come the flip flops, summer dresses and sunscreen. Time to set up your patio oasis, and infuse it with some of the fun neon colors of the season. The more inviting and comfortable your space is, the more time will be spent enjoying it.
photo credit: Crate and Barrel
Surround your party with things that make you happy and remind you of summer. A light, effervescent cocktail might be one way…
photo credit: strawberry basil mojito
Nothing says summer like the smell of fresh cut grass and brightly colored flowers. Here are a couple of cute and simple table centerpiece ideas interspersed with colorful flowers, butterflies and other summer inspired odds ‘n’ends…
photo credit: garden party centerpiece
photo credit: simple floral table arrangement
Eating makes everyone happy! Your menu can be seasonal and light, taking advantage of fresh new flavors coming back to the market. I am really loving quiche right now, and individual sized everything is a fun trend that works great for informal get togethers.
photo credit: vegetarian mini pizzas, zucchini, mint and feta mini quiche
Welcome back watermelon!! We missed you. I think you are going to taste fabulous and very refreshing reinvented in a salad this season…
photo credit: cubed watermelon salad, watermelon, jicama, feta salad
I know it’s summer, and a party and everything, but it is still a little early on in the season for me to bust out the frozen desserts. Call me old fashioned, but I don’t start craving gourmet popsicles and ice cream until at least June. However, strawberry are featured front and center at the market of late, and these little meringue-topped strawberry lime tarts are the perfect finale to a breezy outdoor meal.
photo credit: strawberry lime tart
Welcome back summer and let it inspire you. Enjoy!
photo credit: garden party inspiration board
Featured Image ~
photo credit: pinterest