Sea Inspired Picnic || Entertaining

When summer rolls around, I am always in the mood for a little soiree inspired by the ocean. We live close enough to the beach that we can head down whenever we please for a cocktail, date night, or shopping trip, but that isn't the case for all of us. So I wanted to share ways to throw a seaside bash, minus the trek to the coast.

As I always do, I started with a few key pieces to ground the table. Everything else would just be extra and to add more interest to our basics. Since most of our summer entertaining is done outdoors, I wanted to set this up picnic style. You could recreate this on layered rugs on a deck, in the grass or on a low table inside if the weather isn't cooperating.

A long piece of voile was dipped into bright blue watercolor and draped along the center of the table. Beatriz Ball pieces were then layered on top to create the centerpiece, place settings and favors. I loved the way the bright silver popped against the white and blue. It also added an interesting contrast to the otherwise rustic details.

A selection of fresh summer recipes were served including a yummy peach salad that I will share soon and Bloody Mary's with crab legs as garnish.

Inside a large oyster bowl, I added simple white candles and a collection of seashells. Tuck in a few blooms and some tea lights to finish of this airy centerpiece.

Away from your table, set up a bar that allows guests to mix up a cocktail. I pre-made the Bloody Mary's to sit in the organic pearl ice bucket. Pre-mixed cocktails don't have to be boring! I set out the vento tray with fun additions to garnish your drink.

These adorable little crabs were attached to each favor. They're napkin weights that the guests would take home but the also made a perfect piece of décor while sitting at each place setting! If you were hosting on a breezy day, a few of these would keep napkins or lightweight picnic blankets around your outdoor setting in place.