The Dos and Don’ts of Spring Entertaining By Rachelle Mazumdar, Director of Weddings + Events, Style-Architects style-architects.com
NOTHING SAYS SPRING MORE THAN COLOR Whip out the brilliant hues that have been in hiding all winter long! They are sure to brighten up the party and set a playful scene.
BRIGHT BUZZ These hand-painted and glazed terra cotta Hive Vases are made to look like honeycombs. The brilliant hues are a perfect accent to fresh flowers or branches. Hive Vases, $24-$34, West Elm, westelm.com
MIX AND MATCH MODERN GLASSWARE WITH VINTAGE PIECES Combine your new and old pieces for an eclectic and fun look. The different patterns and styles will leave your guests intrigued by your creativity but will still appear cohesive. DON’T BE AFRAID TO USE TEXTURE Use serving pieces with different textures and materials. The depth and variety will catch your guests’ eyes.
SHIMMER AND SHINE Using traditional metalworking techniques, these hand-hammered metal serving pieces bring unique texture, shape, and reflection anywhere they go. Hammered Serving Ware, $5-$24, West Elm, westelm.com
LIGHTEN UP THE MOOD Take your outdoor entertaining well into the night by lighting up your backyard. French café-inspired string lights will create the perfect ambiance for your party! SPRING TULIP The elegant fluting shape and natural golden-honey tones of this set enhance the presentation of any salad. Tulip Salad Bowl, $149, Tulip Salad Hands, $39, WilliamsSonoma, williams-sonoma.com
PARTY ON Take your outdoor entertaining well into the night by lighting up your backyard. The lights, often seen in Italy’s piazzas, create ambiance and set the mood for your party. Party Globe Light String, $39, Restoration Hardware, RH.com
IMPLEMENT SOME SELF-SERVICE ELEMENTS You don’t need servers and passed drinks and hors d’oeuvres to wow your guests. A stylish self-serve drink dispenser goes perfectly with a relaxed, outdoor theme! PLAY WITH PATTERNS Step outside the box and take an artful spin on casual dining. Don’t frown on mixing and matching different patterns; it’s the perfect way to make a statement! STAY COMFY COZY Don’t be afraid to use your outdoor living space during those chilly spring nights. A sleek and stylish heater or an array of fun throws are perfect elements to warm up your guests!
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