this weekend the spooky decor went back in it's box and the brainstorming began for fall decorations. one thing i've been neglecting for a while and have promised myself i will not anymore, is our dining room table. it used to be something decorated seasonally but has turned into another form of storage as of late. it should be somewhere we enjoy meals with friends and family now that backyard bbq's are coming to an end.

celina mancurti generously sent me some of her fun linens to play around with just in time for my table update… and a cozy little date night! i love a good mix of patterns, so the playful stripes and illustrations she sent in the perfect fall color way were just my style.

we don't get really fussy with the settings unless it's for a big christmas dinner or special occasion, so i loved that these linens were a nice size to use as placemats or napkins.

cocktails were served and a simple cheese plate prepared (our favorite starter for any weekend meal!). i added a simple pinecone to each setting and a centerpiece of bushy hydrangea.

it's finally starting to feel a little like fall around here and i am so excited to get in the mood to host more simple dinner get togethers just like this! i sure do love our outdoor parties, watching sunsets and sipping margaritas… but there is something about cooking a warm meal and enjoying wine with friends around a candlelit table that just makes the fall so cozy and fun.

i hope you all enjoyed your weekend as well!

[ thanks again to celina mancurti for the linens! check out her etsy shop here ]