JULY | AUGUST 2019 73Garden
Luncheon
FOOD & ENTERTAINING
Easy Does It: Entertaining
writer PATTY ROPER
photographers KATE CLEARY AND BONNIE DICKERSONEnjoy some time with special friends in the shade in the garden.
BLUE & WHITE
nvite a few friends over in the afternoon to enjoy a plate of de-
licious and easily prepared salads in the shade of the garden.
This dear friend’s garden is truly a masterpiece and is her own
creation. Not only did she design it, she also plants, prunes, weeds,
and tends it. And she has also shared her talents with many others
over her lifetime. She has encouraged and helped too many people
to count, and I am one that she has blessed and mentored with her
talents.
The table, covered with a blue and white chintz cloth with large
floral bouquets and ribbons, is set under magnificent, mature trees
with greenery and beautiful blooms in every direction. It is a feast for
all the senses with birds and butterflies every where.
The simple centerpiece is a few blue hydrangea blooms in an an-
tique Italian urn. The place settings are layered with beautiful blue
and white floral plates and simple glass chargers with thin gold bands
that allow the blue and white chintz tablecloth to peek through. Nap-
kin rings are wide blue ribbons tied into large bows with a single blue
delphinium stem peeking from each.
As ladies enjoy visiting in the garden setting, a plate is served
featuring Shrimp Pasta Salad, crisp asparagus with a creamy Dijon
sauce, fresh seasonal fruit, mini Caprese salads on skewers, and
light-as-air Sour Cream Biscuits with cool, sweet tea. A light and
beautiful French dessert of puff pastry with lemon cream and fresh
raspberries delights everyone.
And of course, the dear friend with the amazing garden sends
each guest home with a unique plant to enjoy in her garden! MI