Entertaining Archives - French Country Cottage

7 simple decor ideas for New Years Eve

Courtney — Wed, 27 Dec 2023 10:57:00 +0000

Can you believe it is almost a new year?

New Years Eve is a time for reflecting on the year and looking ahead to a new one. And today while I am knee deep in cleaning- I am also thinking about NYE decor and menus and just what glittery outfit I might be wearing.

Okay, aside from my glittery rhinestone covered cowboy boots which I just might have to wear- I will be most likely cozy in my wearable blanket snugglie by the fire haha. We don’t usually go out and do anything big on NYE- it is usually a night of It’s A Wonderful Life and relaxing.

But whether you are hosting a gathering or that snugglie is calling your name too- tossing it back to 7 festive and fun ideas for NYE today.

It is a time where set goals and dreams and make a plan to work towards them.

I will be sharing a few thoughts about the year in review and what I am dreaming about in the coming year soon- today it is all about ringing in the new year with a festive party.

And if you are like me- you are running on fumes after all the busy- so it is also about keeping it simple and easy without sacrificing any of that style.

#1. Repurpose Christmas garland

No need to toss that garland and come up with something new.

Christmas greens garland works just as beautifully for a NYE table setting as they do on the mantel.

Simply lay it down the center of your table and add flowers and glitter for a festive touch.

#2. The Midas Touch

Gold is always a good thing- and especially when it is on the table.

I am obsessed with that little bit of elegance even the tiniest bit of gold adds.

For NYE- think party hats, gold rimmed plates and stemware for a bit of the Midas touch.

#3. Festive bar cart love

Bar carts are great- they hold all the extra bits like glasses & drink stirrers

and they are a one stop place to fill your glass.

To dress them up a bit for the holiday- look around and see what you can repurpose from Christmas.

For this look, I draped an extra piece of fresh garland on the bar cart

and added a few picks and holiday greeting signs.

#4. Flickering Candles

From mercury glass votives to vintage brass candlesticks to wax drips covering the table-candles are always great for ambiance.
I love those tapers all covered in drippy wax but if you aren’t going to be right at the table- think safety first. Especially if your garland is a bit crispy.
So forget the real candles and use led candles to be safe.

#5. Twinkle lights

Background lighting is so great for adding ambiance where ever you set a table

and is often an overlooked detail. Indoors- tack some twinkle lights on the wall or a mantel and outdoors think of the trees and other spots you can add them.

#6. A Treat Table

A side table is perfect for setting up as a drink and treats table.
Stack your glasses and treat plates and create a pretty little spot in just a few minutes.

#7. All Things Glittered

For an added touch of glitz and glam- add picks for messages and garlands that are covered in a bit of glitter or metallic foil. And tuck in a few baubles as well.

NYE has a lot of Christmas ambiance included since it is so close- and use that to your advantage and bring those silver and gold baubles into play.

Stay tuned for some NYE table inspiration coming your way.

Shop the Look

Balsam Hill is having an After Christmas up to 60% Off Sale right now- AND you can use FCC50OFF for an Extra $50 off $300.

Champagne Flutes on bar cart above and my Fireplace Village is on Sale for just $119 right now

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7 Tips for a beautiful Thanksgiving Table

Courtney — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 11:33:00 +0000

Today is all about inspiration for a beautiful inspired Thanksgiving table. I am sharing a favorite from the past that all started with an oak tree and pile of leaves.

Thanksgiving Table Tips

Sometimes a pile of fallen leaves is just a pile of fallen leaves… and sometimes it is the inspiration behind a simple and beautiful Thanksgiving table setting.

I wandered out into the front yard last week and stared at the farmhouse table under the oak tree

that was completely covered in oak leaves.

As were the chairs. And the entire patio.

And instantly, I was inspired to set the table and take a few photos.

Because…that is what normal people do when they see a patio covered in leaves right?

I was thinking autumn. Thanksgiving.

Something warm and cozy and fall-ish.

And so I played for a bit- and decided to share a few tips for setting an

inspired table for Thanksgiving.

5 style ideas for an Inspired Thanksgiving table

Thanksgiving Table Ideas- Think outside the box

#1. Think Outside the Box…or just think outside

Most folks think of Thanksgiving tables inside in the traditional dining room.

Which is totally fine- it is called a dining room for a reason-right?

But when thinking of an inspired place to host Thanksgiving- think outside.

Whether you are in the country or in the city-

take a look at what is just outside your door – but with a fresh look.

Weather permitting of course and I realize that not all areas of the country will be able to be outside hosting a gathering in November- but if you are in one of those areas that can- it is a perfect time to set up.

That old palm tree in the corner

the rustic shed or even the fence that separates you from your neighbors-and that oak tree that is a nuisance with all those leaves that drop- but that also looks so inviting-

those all can be great backdrops for an inspired setting.

My husband was going to rake the leaves off the patio

and I asked him to wait until after I set the table here.

Thanksgiving Table Ambiance – Light up the Night

#2. Light up the night

One of my favorites for any setting- the twinkles.

Bring on those candles

I like to use 2 or 3 different sizes – but keep them cohesive in the color and glasses containers.

And of course- those string lights.

Above the table, along the fence, on the porch and patio- they are great for adding everywhere.

Keep it Simple

#3. Keep it Simple

Because, Thanksgiving is full of warm laughs and warm food

and a messy kitchen with a sink piled high with dishes…

so keep the place settings simple.

Simple white dishes or a single plate rather than 4 layers.

Mismatched stemware

and grab that collection of silver flatware that is stashed away-

and leave it tarnished. A little scandalous- I know! haha.

Your table doesn’t need to have pristine stacks of elegant china, polished silver and 3 glasses for each place setting to be elegant.

Go Bold & Beautiful

#4. Go Bold

A super simple idea for giving your table a completely different look with just a quick change

is to swap your usual stemware for a bold colored glass.

Whether vintage or new- they completely change the look of the table instantly.

Add Simple Elegance

#5. Add simple elegance

Whether you choose an elegant place setting on repeat,

a lovely bouquet of specialty flowers

or add a delicious touch to the table with velvet linens- simple elegant touches

create a warm and cozy feeling and with a touch of luxury or grandeur.

Think velvet- or elegant ruffled linen for your cloth.

Set up several smaller tables

#6. Set up Several Smaller Tables

Create some space in between each other by setting up several smaller tables for families to dine at. Several tables on the lawn or on the porch under the overhang can be quite charming with matching flowers and pretty settings.

Create Unique Place Cards

#7. Create Unique Place Cards for each Guest

Place cards always make a table feel extra special- and creating something special for each guest is a fun thing to do.

You can incorporate a beautiful flower to take home, a small gift or even something special like a mini box of chocolates or ornament for their Christmas tree.

These simple Reindeer ornament place cards are so fun and easy to make.

More about these Here

For more ideas about

Inspired Entertaining – grab a copy of my book Inspired Gatherings-

I hope this helps give you some ideas for setting an inspired table for your guests this Thanksgiving

For More Thanksgiving Table Ideas

Thanksgiving Turkey Centerpiece idea

5 Easy Ideas for Autumn Centerpieces

Bold & Beautiful Style for Autumn Tables

Softer Side of autumn table

And Don’t miss the Balsam Hill Black Friday SALE – everything is Up to 50% OFF and use my coupon COURTNEY2023 to save an additional $35 off $350 or more

Thank You

And I want to say -thank you to You, For reading the blog and saying hello. For supporting my books and always offering kind words. For your friendship. I am thankful for you and am so glad you are a part of our community.

Have a beautiful Thanksgiving everyone.

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Elegant Outdoor Halloween Table setting

Courtney — Fri, 21 Oct 2022 13:00:00 +0000

Elegant Halloween table

Spooky or elegant for Halloween? I tend to lean towards the elegant side for sure.

But today for Friday Favorites- I am playing a bit with some ‘spooky’ as well

and it is all about a moody elegant table setting.

I started out thinking about setting a simple halloween table.

With just a few bits and baubles that said ‘ghosts and goblins’

but in a subtle way.

I wanted some deep dark elements- like drippy black candles

And some glam elements as well- like those gilded candlesticks, goblets and chargers.

I brought out a touch of copper

and those vintage brass goblets for a little more pizazz

and down the center of the table it was nothing but simple.

Dried flowers and greens in soft sage colors

And added a few ravens for a touch of spooky.

I kept the lighting moody with just candles and those string lights

And used rich dark fruits like plums, grapes and figs

for a bit of deliciousness in the decor.

Shop the Look

A simple not so spooky and a little bit elegant halloween table.

So excited to be joining these friends who are sharing a peek at their halloween decor today.

Ella Claire | French Country Cottage | So Much Better with Age | Sweet Rose and Wren | My Sweet Savannah

Inspired by Charm | Happy Happy Nester | The Wicker House | Zevy Joy | Nina Hendrick Design Co.

Paint Me Pink | Brooklyn Limestone | Clean and Scentsible | Twelve on Main | Happy Housie

Finding Silver Pennies | Nest of Posies | A Burst of Beautiful | Lil’ Luna | A Blue Nest

Sagehill Cottage | Taryn Whiteaker | Town and Country Living | Tattered Pew | Live Laugh Rowe

Kelly Elko

Happy Halloween decorating.

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5 ideas for copper when entertaining

Courtney — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 15:30:00 +0000

It is all about entertaining over here this summer. And today is about using the beauty and charm of copper in entertaining.

Copper in Entertaining

You probably already know that I have an affinity for backyard gatherings. I love that you can work ahead on them over several weeks. Planning, tweaking and refining your ideas. And as you get closer- you can move and tinker with your settings. Another favorite thing? You can easily incorporate those indoor elements from your house- just bring them on outside. And you can use everyday items in a different way- like copper pots and pans on the table.

So for the month of August- I am going to share all kinds of ideas for inspired entertaining at home. Tips, tricks, wild hair ideas- you name it.

And today it is alllll about copper love.

Whether that is on the table, for cooking or for accents. Those rosy tones bring a whole new level of goodness. Here are 5 unique ways to bring a bit of that beauty to your next get together.

Copper Flatware

Did you even know that was a thing? I didn’t until I bumped into this set of delicious copper flatware. Just like gold flatware- copper adds that element of richness with a bit of pop.

Large Copper Pot for a big statement

I love big flower statements… whether that is a whole lot of flowers or an eye catching vessel- or both. One of my favorite vases are to use buckets and big containers like that for flowers- and this one is right on that same ideas-but with the added dazzle of copper.

This is a big soup pot filled with ranunculus and peonies- and it is pretty much perfection with the mingle of the the bold rich copper and soft blush and pink for me.

Copper Stemware

Another one of those ‘who knew’ finds- these martini glasses have the perfect amount of copper to add that elegant & unique touch to the table.

Mix with other copper elements like tumblers and stemless wine glasses for a beautiful touch.

Copper Moscow Mule glasses as vases

Copper pots used in centerpieces

This is such a simple way to bring those copper pots out of the kitchen- these pots are simply used as bases for the cloches- you can either set something right inside the pots and pans- or reverse them if you have flat handles and the pot will lay flat. Just position them so that the handles are tucked out of view with the flowers in the centerpiece.

Such a simple way to bring a touch of beauty to the table- grab those not in use copper Moscow mule mugs and fill them with flowers. Use several of them marching down the center of the table for a copper filled dainty centerpiece.

Shop the Look

*affiliate links

Those are 5 simple ways to use the beauty of copper outside of the kitchen in entertaining. Which is your favorite?

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Inspired Entertaining- the secret to a 15 minute beautiful rustic cake

Courtney — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 08:09:00 +0000

I am obsessed with blackberries.

Rustic Cake

The other day I found a whole bunch of fresh blackberries ripe for the picking. And so, an easy, simple, inspired and deliciously delightful entertaining idea popped up. Spilling the beans on my go-to ideas for entertaining and serving with style and let you mingle at the party without being in the kitchen half the time.

And today, we are talking desserts. As in Rustic Cakes. I know I have shared rustic cakes a gazillion times over here- they are definitely some of my favorites. And in the winter, baking layer after layer is a good thing and warms up the house a bit. But in the summer? That over does not like to come on too often. So, I have a simple secret to keep this cake amazingly easy and no bake for those hot summer days. This is a 4 layer delicious cake stacking with frosting and topped with berries and blooms. And that only took about 15 minutes to make. Seriously.

It is a freshly baked cake. With freshly made not from a can on the shelf frosting and topped with fresh fruit. So what is the catch? We will start with a trip to the supermarket.

The Secret

Did you know that at the bakery at many of the well known grocery stores across the country- you can purchase ‘layers’ of cake that are unfrosted? Yes indeed. And a tub of frosting that they just made that morning. Just go to the bakery department and ask.

So I picked up 4 layers of white cake at $2 a layer. And half a tub of white frosting for $7.

Now it is debatable if the frosting would be cheaper in the pre-made full of who knows what cans but honestly, this frosting spreads like butter. Really does go on much easier so it is worth the extra to me.

Start by stacking the first layer- then chunk a bunch of the frosting on it and repeat, repeat, repeat until all your layers are in place. Then you want to frost the top and pull your knife or spreader around the sides of the cake until is smooth in between and barely frosted. Be careful about pulling up crumbs.

Note- it does not look pretty the whole time- but it will.

Smooth the top making sure to keep the edges simple and rounded as you go. Once that is wrapped up you will have the start of your rustic aka naked cake.

Enter those fresh picked berries.

You can of course use store bought berries-just make sure they are fresh rather than frozen. You don’t want a whole mess of blackberry juice all over your cake as they thaw.

I also clipped fresh herbs and flowers to use. I used sage, catmint and lavender with small baby roses. Note: Key for safety when using flowers and greens on your cake is to make sure they are safe. Do some research ahead of time and a tip is to stay with herbs you know you are eating. If you aren’t using safe, pesticide free flowers, make sure to place a plastic disc layer in between them and the frosting. (you can find these at a bakery) And of course, don’t let anyone eat them. Another option is to use faux and not worry about it.

I layered the sage and mint to create a simple decor on half of the top of the cake and then tucked in just a few lavender sprigs, topped with blackberries and blueberries and created a 3/4 decorated look on the top of the cake.

For the garland – more fresh herbs tucked up against the cake around the base and on the platter for serving. You can also tuck in fresh greens or faux leaves for oomph. Then add your berries, blackberry branches and leaves.

I decided I also wanted a few roses but the ones at the store were too large. So I clipped a couple of the minis off our rose bushes and added 2 of them as a finishing touch.

You can also dip your berries in sugar for a bit of sparkle.

A Few Tips- I like to add sprigs of berries on the vine but they are thorny so make sure to clip the thorns before doing so and keep them as decoration (not on the top) so that no one eats them.

Wear gloves and shoes to avoid ouchies while picking berries.

Make sure to wash, dry everything before putting on the cake and that everything you are using is organic. (no pesticides)

And that is it. Simple, easy to make, pretty presentation and delicious.

Shop the Look

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5 Tips for Easy summer entertaining

Courtney — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 09:00:00 +0000

It is all about easy summer entertaining over here – and that means inspired easy summer entertaining also.

Today for Friday Favorites- I am sharing 5 tips for making those everyday meals feel like they are a special occasion. Even on a Tuesday.

Set the table

I know this sounds like such a simple, basic suggestion. But you know… even when we know how to dine like the good old days- where we pass the food around the table – how many times do you fill your plate in the kitchen? I know we are guilty of taking the simple approach often. But if you want to make an everyday occasion feel special- set the table. Bring out those formal elements and mingle them with the informal and serve the food on the table just like you do during a holiday.

Gather from the garden & the kitchen

If you haven’t been out and don’t have fresh flowers in the house- step outside and see what inspires you. Even a bunch of greens can be perfect – plus you do a little trimming at the same time. Some of my favorites to bring in for the table- mints, spirea, fern, branches of any kind and good old boxwood and ligustrum.

And you can also forage through the fruit and veggie baskets in the kitchen for adding a bit of charm to the table. Peaches, figs, plums, oranges and persimmons are some of my favorites scattered along the center for a bit of oomph.

Add a bit of ambiance

Another somewhat everyday kind of suggestion- but when was the last time that you added candles to the table and dined by candlelight? For many- it was probably a special occasion. But one of the things I love about candles is that they instantly make that everyday dinner feel like a special one. And a bonus- candlelight makes everyone look better. Which after all the crazy that has been going on the past couple of years- is Definitely appreciated over here! haha.

Find an inspired place to set a table

It doesn’t have to be an elegant location or even one that you would normally think of. You can place a dining table nearly anywhere that you can think of – as long as it is safe and accessible. And in your yard- think outside the box.

How about that spot under the big tree in the backyard, by the pool or garden shed dressed with twinkle lights, on the path that leads to the garden- and even right in the garden area? Inspiration is everywhere – you just need to look for it sometimes.

Entertaining at home and having it feel ‘inspired and like a special occasion can be so much fun. Especially right now when things are a unsettled and we are looking for an adventure or a getaway- creating that get away in your backyard is a great thing to do to inspire your whole family.

And if you are looking for more ‘Inspired’ ideas for gatherings- like this table set in a barn in a vineyard and the table at the lake above- you can find these and many more ideas in my book ‘French Country Cottage Inspired Gatherings’.

Shop the Look

Sharing a few favorites – just click the photo to shop both high and low options. (affiliates)

Hope this helps inspire some easy summer entertaining! Happy Friday Favorites all!

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How to Create a Delicious autumn Cheese & Fruit Board

Courtney — Tue, 20 Oct 2020 10:00:00 +0000

Delicious cheese and fruit boards are some of my absolute favorite things things to create for date nights and for a simple treat for family and friends.

And they are so easy to put together. Basically, load up some of your favorite cheeses, fruits and even a bit of sweets on a big platter – and enjoy. This is from a chapter in my book Inspired Gatherings– here are few of my favorite things to include for a delicious And beautiful board for autumn.

Start with your fruit

I love to start with fresh fruit- you can use what is in season or your favorites- I like to add grapes, apricots, figs and berries. When it comes to adding a touch of autumn- think seasonal. You can also add roasted squash and other elements to help bring in the seasonal feeling.

Tip: I love to incorporate blackberries and apples or pears for autumn.

Layer the cheeses

A few favorite cheeses are Irish Cheddar, Brie and Tuscan Herb, feta and goat cheeses with cranberry or fig. Layer & arrange slices of each cheese in several areas of the board- and don’t forget forks or knives for placing and spreading on crackers.

Tip: Bring out those rich cheeses for autumn- think Blue and Roquefort, Aged Parmesan and delicious Brie and a berry stilton.

Scatter various crackers & a bit of preserves

Seed crackers and simple table water crackers are always good choices- but you can use any type of hearty crackers that you like. There are some absolute delicious rosemary crackers that I love to use as well for a bit of seasonal flavor.

Tip: Favorite crackers are always a good thing- in several types and flavors. Then mix in a delicious honey for topping and also a little cup of preserves.

Add a few handfuls of favorite nuts

Marcona almonds are always delicious on a cheese board- but you can use pecans or walnuts, hazelnuts or other favorites.

All about the olives

My husband is a huge greek olive fan- so we have them on repeat on the boards. I love to pick up the olive and feta mix at our local market. I tend to snaggle all the feta- he takes the olives. Kind of like that nursery rhyme I suppose. haha.

Don’t forget the sweets

Chunks of dark chocolate almond bark, hazelnut milk chocolate, white chocolate- depending on your choice of wine. Perfect little treat to enjoy after nibbles.

You can find more tips in my book Inspired Gatherings

and don’t miss what my friends are sharing today.

Jalapeno Popper Dip with Bacon by Ella Claire & Co. | Artichoke Dip by Boxwood Avenue | Caramelized Onion Dip by Inspired by Charm

Marshmallow Yam Bites by Zevy Joy | Fruit & Cheese Board by French Country Cottage | Pineapple Onion Cheeseball by Handmade Farmhouse

The post How to Create a Delicious autumn Cheese & Fruit Board appeared first on French Country Cottage.

Inspired Gathering in a Golden Field

Courtney — Thu, 17 Sep 2020 13:00:00 +0000

This photo shoot in this beautiful golden field was one my favorites in Inspired Gatherings.

It was one I had planned since first coming up with ideas for the chapters. And it was one that I had to find THE perfect field for. You see – not all fields are created equal. I had a list of what would make it perfect.

A golden field- meant late summer or early autumn styling in California- and it needed to be a golden field surrounded by beautiful mountains and trees. This field where we took the photos was the one I had in mind from the start. It is one that I have loved since I was a child- the field with the mountains all around- a dream and there has always been something about it that inspired me.

A secret behind this shoot?

We set up and photographed this table just hours before leaving for 2 weeks vacation. We loaded up the truck with the table, chairs, cloths, food, etc. and after dropping Sweet Pea off with my daughter- and then set up and took the photos.

I was pretty much in awe of the beauty the whole time- and if we weren’t leaving for vacation the next morning- I would have loved to have come back and shoot again to get even more photos.

Remember vacations? And travel in general? And gatherings without worrying?

I hear you… and one day we will be back to all of that good stuff folks- but for now – staying home and staying safe is where we are- and so- how about some tips about being inspired right at home?

Today we are talking about this photo shoot- but also how you can create a similar feeling right in your own backyard.

Hint: You don’t need a field to set a beautiful summer field inspired table that is beautiful. Here is a quick video with a bit of the behind the shoot.

Styling tips for a field of dreams table- without the usual ambiance

There are a few simple tips to make this table feel so magical. It was different than the others in some ways- there was no electricity- so no twinkle lights. And you might notice that the candles are not lit also. That is for fire safety reasons.

Color Palette

When planning a table in a field- think of muted sun-bleached colors as accents. I brought along some of my favorite pale vintage dresses and linens to really play up the golden grasses and warm sunset glow.

Tip: Think about the color palette that nature is providing for the shades and colors to incorporate.

Vintage Inspiration

Another tip is to think vintage. This table setting has a lot of vintage inspiration included- from the plates and flatware to the stemware. Vintage just seems to fit that field table setting vibe for me.

Simple Texture

I am a Big texture girl. I love it in the house and outside the house.

One of my favorite things about this table was using this crocheted bedspread as a cloth. It adds so much charm and a very ‘bohemian’ feeling to the table.

Tip: Think outside the box when it comes to tablecloths- they don’t have to be formal cloths to be perfect. Bedspreads, quilts, blankets- even simply just favorite fabric will do.

Flowers

The secret to these flowers is that they are grocery store flowers that were made into a beautiful custom arrangement.

The takeaway here is- you don’t need expensive designer flowers to create a stunning centerpiece.

I picked up several bunches of various blooms and greens at a stop on the way to the field. I simply went with the colors that inspired me and what I felt would stand out against that golden backdrop. These rich colors were perfect- I removed the ones that didn’t fit and added in the others I felt did. And when they were all mixed them together- they created the most beautiful autumn bouquet.

Tip: Look at those grocery store flowers in a different way and see what you can mix and mingle for a custom look.

Most of these photos are outtakes that didn’t land in the book- but you can see all the photos that made the chapter in Inspired Gatherings

Sources:

Table- The Bella Cottage,

Crystal glasses – Vintage

Chairs- Vintage from Re-store

Crochet bedding- Shabby Chic

Don’t miss the settings that my talented friends are sharing today!

Ashley | The Handmade Home

Jen | City Farmhouse

K risten | Ella Claire Inspired

Bre | Rooms For Rent

Jeanne | Jeanne Oliver

Happy entertaining at home all.

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How to Create a Wine Country Inspired Harvest Gathering

Courtney — Wed, 16 Sep 2020 13:00:00 +0000

This time last year, we were standing in the middle of a vineyard in the wine country working on a chapter for Inspired Gatherings.

This particular table was inspired by the beauty of harvest season in the wine country. When the grapes are full and heavy and the vines and leaves turn a delightful golden yellow.

This shoot was also quite special because it was at my brothers home in Calistoga. My husband and loaded up the truck with table setting elements, folding chairs and a few buckets of flowers and headed up to the wine country for an overnight stay right on the vineyard.

Since it was September- we were all about harvest inspiration. From clipping grapes from the vines to wrapping fresh baked brioche with paper. There was an abundance of delicious food for the shoot- it was hard not to nibble while working.

My twin nieces Elodie and Willa were my right hand girls. They just turned 7 – something you might not know about them is that they were micro-preemies – they were born super early and weighed just 1 lb each. They spent months in the NICU before they came home.

When they got home from school- I had so much fun showing them how to take style and take photos for the book while we worked- and they helped set the table and made sure that all the photos I was taking in the vineyard looked good.

How to Create a Harvest Party

This setting was inspired by the vineyard it was set in- but you can create a beautiful harvest party right in your own backyard.

Harvest parties are inspired by harvest season. The fruits and veggies that have been growing all year are finally ready for harvest and enjoying the rewards of the work with a celebration or gathering is a fun way to come together.

I am sharing a couple of tips for what we used for the centerpiece and details that can easily be used wherever you decide to set up your own harvest party. A picnic on the lawn, a table in the backyard or even right in your own dining room- an inspired gathering can be anywhere you are inspired to set up.

Centerpiece Elements

I mixed fruit and greens on the tabletop. The squatty peaches were in abundance at the market- along with fresh figs- and I loved the rosy tone they have.

I wandered into the vineyard and clipped fresh grapevines and grapes- but you an use any fresh greens and table grapes just as easily.

The Flowers

Natural welcoming elegance- to me that is what the wine country embodies. So I used a vintage bucket for the flowers and a mix of fresh market finds.

White roses, Craspedia, Stock, Baby Eucalyptus and a few grape vines tucked in.

The Food

There is nothing like fresh baked bread dipped in fresh ground peppered olive oil for nibbling on. So lots of artisan breads long with several different cheeses and crackers.

Sweets on repeat. Another good thing in my book. We had some sweet treats to enjoy after dinner- mostly fresh baked fruit filled pastries. Favorite wine country casual dinner would have veggies like artichokes or eggplant. Pasta or squash. And bread and vino. And of course a rich dessert.

Creating a beautiful gathering inspired by harvest season at home is something that is fun and easy to do. Think about pumpkins and the other flowers and foods of the season. Use those inspirations to create your own beautiful gathering with your family. You can see more of this setting and more in my new book Inspired Gatherings

Don’t miss the gatherings that my friends created this week that are inspired by gatherings in the book- and stay tuned for another Behind the Gathering tour tomorrow.

KariAnne | Thistlewood Farms

Beth |Home Stories A to Z

Leslie | My 100 Year Old Home

Jenn Rizzo | Jennifer Rizzo

and stay tuned for another post tomorrow.

The post How to Create a Wine Country Inspired Harvest Gathering appeared first on French Country Cottage.

Some of My Favorite Drippy Wax Candles

Courtney — Mon, 31 Aug 2020 15:11:01 +0000

What is it about those beautiful dripping candles on the table that we all love so much?

Those drips of wax rolling down the candle and onto the candlestick creating layers of beautiful colors of wax one on top of another. All telling a little bit of a story of evenings and special moments past.

The funny thing about drippy candles?

Have you noticed that Almost ALL candles are advertised and sold as ‘Dripless’ candles? It is actually not easy to find those candles that don’t say that.

So, then I thought that maybe I was one of the only crazy people out there who loved those wax drips so much. But- every time I share a photo- I always get a ton of questions about how to get the candles to drip so beautifully. Honestly, I don’t do much- they kind of create those beautiful intricate wax drips on their own. But- a couple things I have noticed today.

So I first discovered the easiest way to get the candles to look so.darn.good. while I was setting up and working on a table setting outdoors. One of the first things I do when setting up the centerpiece is to light the taper candles if they are new. I don’t want tall candles that look like I just picked them up at the store. I want different heights and goodness on the candles that look like they have been enjoyed many times already.

So when using brand new tapers- I set them in the candlesticks and light them while I work on the place settings to give them a bit of time to burn down a bit and look less ‘shiny’ & ‘new’. And oftentimes- they will drip just like they do.

Something I am asked about all.the.time. What about the table top? How do you protect it from the wax?

Tip: If you don’t want wax on your tabletop- layer a piece of parchment paper or the like on the table BEFORE placing your candlesticks on it. You can also use a small plate, flat breadboard or platter, etc. & set your candlestick on that to keep the wax off the table as much as possible.

When the breeze blows

One particular day while I set up the table- there was an ever so very slight breeze- not enough to blow the candles out & they were not unattended so I wasn’t concerned while working right there- but I noticed that they were dripping exceptionally well for some reason. Right on down the side and onto the candlestick and layering up just perfectly. So I do think that if you were to ‘blow’ on them while setting up- you might be able to get them to start to drip a bit.

The other way I have noticed they drip nicely is when they are simply not placed in the holder 100 straight. Just a tad off – they will start off with a nice roll that will build when you light them again. * Be Careful not to have too off straight.

Again- protect your tabletop if you are concerned- they will splash right on down to the bottom of the taper holder and your table.

Safety First- ALWAYS

And another reminder of course to mind safety first and always when lighting candles for your table or anywhere.

Do not ever leave them unattended.

And don’t leave them burning off straight, or for too long – or use them when it is windy and dry outside.

You will notice in my new book- there were a couple of stylings where we had candles on the table- but did not light them- even though they would have made the photo even more amazing. It simply wasn’t safe to light them and even when trying to get THE perfect photo for or ambiance- safety always comes first.

How about favorite candle colors?

Ohhh I have a bunch of them.

Blush, taupe, grey, white, ivory, Burgundy, even black… the list goes on. I think basically the only ones I don’t love are the brightly colored candles- they just don’t mesh with my style.

One of the candles in my book that so many of you have asked about where to find- is actually currently available in very limited quantity in my shop I am super excited to have been able to secure some stock of them before they were discontinued.

These are 7″ chunky tapers in a delicious French Mauve Rose color. They are full color through out- rather than just layer of color on the outside of the candle- and European made candles.

I am currently taking orders first come, first serve in my shop. I have very limited supply coming so if you want some go grab them.

I also have a handful of these charming herb & flower mason jar candles available- they are leftover from a sample order from a handmade candle vendor and various scents.

Favorite Places to Buy Candles

I shop several spots for taper candles. One of my favorites is HomeGoods- and if you want to shop online you can try TjMaxx.com – they may have some.

You can also find candles on Amazon– I have several varieties in my Amazon Shop that might fit what you are looking for. (affiliate links)

The Dollar Store often has basic whites taper candles- they work if you are looking for simple candles.

Hope this helps answer some of your questions-see you tomorrow for a closer look at a favorite shoot from the book- and delicious apple pie recipe.

Find my new book featuring some of these candles HERE (affiliate)

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