Secretary of the Interior

Dreaming of the perfect party?  Try taking the inside... out!

Inspired by my favorite colors, textures, and elements from home, I created a lovely dinner party by utilizing what I had and taking it outdoors. I consider this party the ultimate swift and easy design improv. In fact, I really believe some of the best parties can come together in an impromptu fashion. The challenge of doing something quickly and with resources you have on hand can be really fun and have a fabulous effect!
 

1. Peonies spell perfection! This color is simply scrumptious and the fragrance is sublime!  
2. Oh how I adore turquoise and gold. Reminiscent of the sea and sand.  
3. Brown and white is a reoccurring theme throughout the house. Don't you just love this sassy zig zag by Madeline Weinrib Atelier?
4. Mango Tango!  Oh so refreshing... lemonade mixed with sweet mango and mint. Ahhhhh!
5. Ok, I confess. I have a design crush on Jonathan Adler. This gorgeous gazelle retails at $150. I found mine at Homegoods for $39. What an unexpected, but chic centerpiece!
6. You know I love white and texture, texture, texture! I created outdoor "rooms" for the party with seating from inside. Really beautiful!
 

Speaking of tables... In a matter of minutes my dining room had made it's way to the lawn. Out came the vintage china with it's beautiful aqua hue. No plastic cups for this party—only the crystal would do. A simple white linen table cloth served as a crisp base for the geometric runners made from scrap fabric. This was a quick no-sew project done in a flash by cutting the fabric with pinking shears and pressing the sides under. As always, I love the balance of old and new! Large votives with a wicker base served as flower vases for our hot pink peonies and our piece de resistance... The stately gazelle takes our table from sweet and romantic to eclectic and chic.
 

Details details! I think we could all agree that ultimately, as a hostess, you dream of enjoying your own party. Having food that is prepared in advance and simply pulling things from your home makes that truly possible. So how did I do it? Time for Dinner made it ever so simple to focus on making things pretty while the aroma of lemon artichoke chicken and chocolate fudge pie wafted through the house. A console table served as an outdoor buffet for our delicious menu. The entire evening was a perfect marriage of formal and casual from dining to decor. So take advantage of the beautiful summer weather and prepare an impromptu party under the open sky. It's as easy as heating the oven and taking the comforts of inside... out!