When it comes to Southern entertaining, the key is effortless sophistication. You want your guests to feel well taken care of, without feeling like you’ve gone to too much trouble. That means choosing the location, guest list, and menu are all important considerations.
We recommend serving your delicious dinner family-style, as it gives the meal a more communal feel. And when it comes to setting the table, remember that less is more. A simple tablescape with a few key pieces is all you need to create a beautiful outdoor dining experience. From fresh flowers in a hand blown vase to beautiful, lightweight linens, there are plenty of ways to dress up your table without going overboard.
The cocktail area is something that should not be overlooked. This is where your guests will go to mingle and meet each other. Consider serving a bubbly prosecco and crisp white wine to start. Followed by a full-bodied red in a beautiful decanter to serve your guests while dining. For other refreshing beverages, don’t forget the sweet tea and lemonade poured over ice in a tall High Ball glass.
For the menu, it is always nice to start with light hors d’oeuvres while your guests mingle and connect. We love to use fresh, whole foods in all of our cooking. For this Southern-Inspired menu a delicious spring salad sprinkled with fresh fruit would be a great star . The main course could be something as simple as braised chicken or shrimp & grits with a side of crunchy rainbow carrots. And of course, no Southern meal is complete without a delicious dessert! We recommend a classic peach cobbler or banana pudding.
Photo: clemaroundthecorner.com
And finally, don’t forget the music. Creating a playlist of your favorite springtime tunes is the perfect way to set the mood and get everyone in the celebratory spirit.
So there you have it! With these tips in mind, you’re ready to throw the perfect alfresco, Southern-style dinner party to celebrate Spring. Cheers!