Pretty Southern

Tag: entertaining

  • Dressing Up Your Dinner Table

    Dressing Up Your Dinner Table

    As the summer heat presses on you may be more inclined to turn off the barbecue and move your hosting to the air-conditioned indoors.  Whether you are throwing a backyard fiesta or an elegant dinner inside, it is always fun to dress up your table a bit with flowers, beautiful dishes, and colorful linens.  Cloth napkins are an easy, affordable way to add some color and style to your table, just layer over a white tablecloth for an instant tablescape face lift.

    I love attending or hosting a good dinner party, complete with flowing wine and a seasonal menu, and I think paying attention to those little details can make all the difference in your dining experience.  Things like fresh flowers, name cards, and cloth napkins all say that you took the time to make your guests really comfortable.  Here I have rounded up some of my favorite cloth napkins in a variety of styles to match any occasion.

    graphic 1, 2, 3 natural 1, 2, 3 floral 1, 2, 3

    Any of these picks would really add a punch to your dining table and would set off the most simple white dishes and serving ware.  So put away the paper napkins and plastic utensils and play a little dress-up with your table!

    [author] [author_image timthumb=’on’]https://prettysouthern.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/KatHeadShot.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]Kat Kraszeski-Jackson is an art teacher, artist, and diy crafter living in Greensboro, NC. She loves sharing her favorite artists, projects, and creative inspiration here on Pretty Southern.[/author_info] [/author]

  • Celebrate July 4th with Southern Style

    Celebrate July 4th with Southern Style

    Let’s be honest, Southerners know how to host a party, barbecue, or a holiday event…and Independence Day soirees are no exception! But a true Southerner also knows how to throw a party with style, class, and true hospitality.  If you are hosting a Fourth of July party this year, I have pulled together some inspiration for throwing the quintessential southern summer get together.  (Clockwise from top left)

     

     

     

    1.    A striped sailor top gets added flair an oversized red poppy pin by EmersonMade.  This brand puts a fresh, modern spin on classic American style.

    2.   Whether in your backyard, at the pool, or at a local restaurant, any event you are hosting gets an instant face-lift with a printed menu. Create and print yours at home or use a local print shop and then place one at each seat for an elegant touch.

    3.    Paper lanterns and tons of outdoor string lights are a must for any outdoor summer party.

    4.    Simple and festive tomato-mozzarella mini sandwiches are easy to make and serve.  Add a patriotic ribbon to dress up these simple bites.

    5.   Another breezy outfit by EmersonMade, the pinstripe jumper will take you from pool to party in no time.

    6.   Setting the table will be quick and elegant with this red striped cotton tablecloth from Anthropologie.

    7.    Serve this watermelon cooler with a red-striped straw to keep guests cool.

    8.   End the day and keep the kids satisfied with these playful, bright blue candy apples, a fun take on a classic American dessert.

    No matter where you are hosting your summer party this Fourth of July make sure you show some true Southern hospitality by throwing a get together full of American style, tasty treats, and strong drinks!