One of my favorite ways to spend time with friends is to have them for dinner. I enjoy sharing food, lively conversation and laughter, and that is something sorely missed during months of isolation.
Now that friends have been vaccinated, I can’t wait for treasured times around the table to renew. Any such occasion begins with setting the table, always my favorite part of entertaining. Seldom are my tables what I’d call fancy. Rather they are designed to be warm and welcoming as well as a means of acknowledging my fondness for the people who will gather round.
As so often happens, there are flowers or a collection of pieces on the table that serve as a starting place. Here, alliums paired with mint leaves show off in simple bottles atop a yellow runner and provide inspiration for what happens next.
I couldn’t resist complementing the purple and yellow with a few of my favorite things like these patterned plates and for salad pieces from a set of midcentury cranberry dishes.
These goblets also add touches of color as well as remind me of my grandmother who had the same ones. I found these some years ago in an antique shop and have looked for more ever since. Though not designed for wine, they will be used for that purpose at this table. We’ll have to remember though to not be overly generous with pours!
Each napkin is a different color proudly displayed with an accordion fold.
The table is done, good smells come from the kitchen, wine is chilled so all that remains is for the door bell to ring announcing the arrival of friends. It’s good to return to what seems so familiar.
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Lulu's Musings 
Love the napkins! Yes, entertaining is such a joy!
A lovely table, friends all together again with great food coming out of the kitchen. Who could ask for anything more for a wonderful evening.
You always show your creative spirit with your tables. I love the alliums with the mint!
And now lilacs have been added to the mix! Only problem is I’ve discovered they make me sneeze.
I’m sorry…why exactly would you not be overly generous with pours?🍷🍷🍷🍷😁
Mint leaves! But, of course!🧐 I don’t know why I’ve never thought of that!🤷🏽♀️ Lightly fragrant, pairs well with food, not overwhelming, and actually very pretty with its color and texture. I’m growing 2 kinds this year, so I’m sure it will find its way into a few arrangements. Thank you!
So glad you’re able to welcome friends back around your very graciously hosted table. Enjoy!
I have such an abundance of mint that I have to find things to do with it. I can’t believe how much has come from one little sprig!
It’s wonderful, isn’t it, when everyone gets vaccinated and we can get together again!
I am so grateful to be able to gather again.