The other day, I set a table up in the woods for my husband and I for our anniversary dinner. I brought out some of my favorite simple blush dishes, gold glasses and velvet napkins and then lit the candles and arranged a bouquet of my favorite flowers for the table.
My husband cooked one of our favorite dinners- zoodles & vegetarian chicken parmesan and we sat and enjoyed our special anniversary dinner up by the barn this year.
Graduations, birthdays & anniversaries are among many special occasions that are being celebrated a bit differently this year. While big parties & travel or the usual go to ways to celebrate might not be on the agenda – we can create a special moments and memories right in our own backyard to celebrate those occasions.
Think Outside
A special occasion might make you think of balloons, confetti and a overindulging in delicious desserts. I tend to think of flowers, twinkles and ambiance- and the great outdoors.
Set a table up in the backyard, under that big oak tree or that quiet spot by the garden. In my new book- that was the idea behind it- creating an inspired gathering. Finding inspiration everywhere and pausing to soak it up- to set a table or a picnic in the middle of anywhere and enjoy.
Gather from the garden
If you don’t have fresh flowers on hand- you can order something special to be shipped- many stores are delivering flowers.
But you can also just look outside your door & see what is growing and blooming in the garden. Of course any beautiful flowers you might find- but also look at greenery. Mint, rosemary, branches from a tree- all things you can use to create a charming arrangement. And then put those clippings in a unique container for a special touch or even scatter on the table.
A bit of Magic
Twinkle lights, twinkle trees, twinkle anything… those twinkle lights add that magic. I like to run the string lights above a table- but if you are doing something without branches above- you can string lights along a fence, in a tree in the distance or even right on the table.
Candles
Layers of ambiance is what I am talking about with candles. I love to use candles on the table -and a tip with candles is to vary the heights. While a dozen of the same type of candle can make a beautiful impact on the table- staggering those candles at varying heights and styles creates interest and sends more warm light. Always be mindful of safety when using real candles- and use faux if it isn’t safe.
Mood Music
I am a big fan of Sonos – those little speakers that have huge sound and play anywhere and everywhere. So I love to grab one of them for a little music where ever we are. But you can also simply put a favorite play list on your phone and tuck your phone right by the table somewhere. One of our favorites currently on repeat is Best of Mumford & Sons playlist on Amazon Music. So. Good.
Get your fancy pants out
I wore a black dress, my denim jacket and a favorite pair of boots while setting the table. And my husband put on his fancy shoes (aka- not tennis shoes or flip flops) and a button shirt. And we felt darn fancy for the first time in a couple weeks as we sat down at the table.
Just because you are at home celebrating doesn’t make it a robe, slippers and messy bun event. I mean, no judgement if that is what makes you happy. But just putting on something other than my jeans and workout clothes and getting dressed up for dinner made it feel like it was more special.
Simple Moments say a whole lot
Those simple moments- the ones where you put an extra amount of thought or energy into creating- those are what make the memories and last. It isn’t about the gifts – it is about the gift of making someone feel special. And those (some would say) old fashioned ways of celebrating that we have been doing more of recently- are really wonderful in so many ways.
Whatever occasion you are celebrating- it is still a special occasion to be celebrated. Set up a zoom call with friends and family, cook a favorite meal and set a special table & create beautiful memories for someone special. You might find a new favorite way to celebrate everyday occasions as well.
Happy Thursday All.
cindy says
Honestly you take the most gorgeous photos. Your anniversary sounded heavenly! Who did the cooking?
Courtney says
My husband!! He loves to cook- he made one of our favorites. Zoodles with faux chicken parmesan. 🙂
Teri Sutton says
ARE YOU VEGAN? iF SO, FABULOUS AND i WILL ABSOLUTELY BUY YOUR BOOK. wILL SHARE IT ON fACEBOOK TOO. cROSSING MY FINGERS.
Courtney says
We have been vegetarians for over 25 years 🙂
Bettie says
Beautiful and sPecial!
Courtney says
thank you!
Penny says
My anniversary is coming up, Courtney, and while I don’t have beautiful trees to sit under, I do have a nice backyard with a pool and a waterfall! You’ve got me thinking! I could certainly set up a table and do something special. thank you for the inspiration!
Courtney says
That sounds like it would be so lovely!! Happy Anniversary!
Laura says
A girl after my own heart! I love beautiful, romantic table settings, especially outside! Can’t wait to see you book.
Courtney says
Thank you Laura! Outside tables are my favorites for sure!
Liz says
Courtney, my hubby and I are planning on celebrating our 4th anniversary next month and I was planning on arranging the exact same thing, a special romantic setting. I plan on making this a night we will always remember. Especially since its going to be in our 1st new home. Right under a huge oak tree! …WINK…WINK!
Ps. Happy anniversary to you both.
Courtney says
Love that! Happy Anniversary to you too!
Melanie says
We had a busy weekend at Hammersky and your book was getting passed around..all were inspired. We are almost out!!
Courtney says
Oh that is wonderful!! So glad you everyone likes it and that you had a fabulous weekend at the winery!! xo
Barbara Chapman says
Happy belated anniversary to you and your Husband, Courtney!!! Love this post and the beauty of your garden (and the lights!)…
Happy summer and I love your new book,
Hugs,
Barb 🙂
Courtney says
Thanks Barbara! Hope all is well with you and yours!
Eileen says
I purchased your book recently and it will become one of my favorite coffe table books. I love the cover and the quality of the pages. Silky!! I’m very visual and am soaking in all the beautiful photos. Very nice!!
Courtney says
So great to hear that you like it Eileen!! Thank you!
Debra says
Al fresco ala French Cottage= A Dream… Your soirees are sooo appealing.
Kathleen says
Happy Anniversary, Courtney! Best of best, always.
Your blog is so inspiring that I am going to do something special for my boyfriend’s birthday in just a few days. Valentine’s Day will be the chaser.
I am so happythat I stumbled upon your website/blog a few years ago I have used the last year to reorganize the house to be cozy and comfortable, and your ideas were always there for me. Thank you.
Deborah says
Love your posts!
When I click to order your “new” book, I get the one from 2020??
Courtney says
Hi Deborah, this is an older post that was updated but it looks like the link isn’t updated. You can find my new Christmas book here: https://amzn.to/474ujew