The first official day of spring is not until March 20, but that doesn’t mean we can’t start getting ready! This year, I have found myself more excited than ever to change seasons. Fresh flowers, light and bright recipes, and plenty of color are all ways I try to embrace the arrival of springtime. And not to mention, who doesn’t love a couple of extra hours of daylight?
I wanted to share something today that will hopefully inspire us all and provide beautiful ideas for spring entertaining to come! This tablescape was published in Southern Lady’s March/April 2018 issue. It is a feature that I can hardly flip past without stopping in awe of all of the gorgeous colors and little details!
Continue reading below for the full excerpt from this issue.
Styling by Tracey MacMillan Runnion
With the soft, dreamy feel of an Impressionist masterpiece, this tableau blooms with telltale signs of spring. A hand-blocked tablecloth in a pattern of coral stripes and roses imparts vibrant warmth under the towering trees of northern Georgia’s magnificent Gibbs Gardens. Small bouquets of Dutch irises, spray roses, azaleas, tulips, and blossoms from nearby dogwoods are tucked inside milk-white vases that line the table, mingling with amber glasses and fresh citrus. Golden butterflies flit across Herend’s Queen Victoria china as if ready to explore their beautiful environs. The butterflies’ joyful jaunt continues on salt and pepper shakers as well as a sugar bowl and creamer, completing the real-life work of art.
Styling by Tracey MacMillan Runnion
Styling by Tracey MacMillan Runnion
As surely as daffodils emerge from slumber to herald spring’s glorious arrival, dining alfresco will awaken the soul. There is nothing like a fresh carpet of grass underfoot and blooming trees above to feel resplendent and renewed. Whether it’s hobnailed milk glass brimming with azaleas, the sweet sentiment of “amour” etched in frilly script on stemware, or polished gold flatware glimmering in the sun, layering exquisite details adds to the reverie of a long-awaited season.