Planning ahead is not one of my long suits. No, last minute spontaneity is my game, and more often than not it works pretty well. Sometimes it takes a couple of phone calls to make something happen, but rarely does last minute not work out particularly when the invite includes food!
While dinner is cooking away, I prepare the table, and there is usually something on it that gets me started. Here, it’s some of my trusty bottles filled with flowers from the garden. What would I do without them as they make a centerpiece so very easy. These are left from San Pellegrino beverages, and I find them perfect for grouping.
My table settings are generally simple and defined by color, pattern and a touch of whimsey, all combined here in the placemats and napkins.
Subtle hued dishes, one of my many sets gotten at TJ Maxx, are tonight’s choice.
Now, I could have stopped here, but I couldn’t resist adding these salad plates, each one different and suggestive of something that could have been created by Picasso! As I think about them, I can’t help but smile remembering the unexpected snowy day in Provence where an artist kindly opened his shop and let my daughter and me have a look. He definitely came out ahead!
Just as I was finishing the table, the placemats made me think of the little monkey bells sitting on a bathroom shelf. How could they not become part of what is turning out to be a very fun table!
Well, that’s it. Everything is about ready, and in a few minutes the doorbell will ring announcing the friends who we are lucky to have join us. I do love these last minute gatherings!
i so appreciate your visit and the comments you leave behind
Joining
Lulu's Musings 
Such a wonderful table set for you and your lucky guests….and love those plates from Provence..so nice of that shopkeeper to open the doors for you and your daughter…Yes, I can imagine he was grateful that he did!!
Love this setting outside! What pretty plates and placemats. Fun table.
so fun!!
Fun scape! Love the square base plates!
Loving your table. Everything has an artistic quality. I love the square plates and those salad plates are adorable, I really love them. Fun and artistic. Love it!
A very fun table indeed!
Thanks! I had fun putting it together.
How delightful! Those plates are fabulous!
I like them because they have quite a story.
Wish I was ringing your bell! I must tell you, the minute I saw those placemats, I instantly thought of those monkeys in your bathroom! When I scrolled down and saw you did too, I had a good chuckle 😅
Love the plates
Me too….thanks!
Linda, your tables are always lovely and inviting! The placemats are whimsical and set a wonderful mood! I know your friends enjoy placing their feet under your table where great conversation and food awaits them!
Such a pretty table. And very much looks like Provence! Thanks for sharing.