Summer is the perfect time of year to invite friends over for an outdoor soiree. In the Summer you don’t always have to make it a formal affair. It’s the little things you do that make a world of difference when it comes to a last minute get together. Honestly, the table came together effortlessly. The bottles of the Ecco Domani Pinot Grigio were stunning. Acclaimed designer Zac Posen created the labels on the bottles and I based the entire design of the tablescape around the simple beauty of the stunning color scheme. I chose a black and white table linen from St. Frank and paired it with green and white flowers.
The lunch was a combination of fresh roasted artichoke hearts and a salad with watermelon, heirloom tomatoes, and feta cheese. I try to make the majority of my summertime meals from produce I buy at the farmers market. Each Sunday we walk to our neighborhood farmers market and what happens to be in season is what we eat. When it comes to recipes I’m constantly turning to our food editor, Amanda – she always knows how to combine the perfect combination of ingredients to make incredible dishes. For this particular alfresco retreat I wanted a few stand out dishes that would pair perfectly with a light and refreshing drink – in this case with Ecco Domani’s Pinot Grigio for the lunch and their Prosecco with dessert.
After the delicious lunch in Natalie Bowen’s gorgeous studio backyard, we lingered a little longer and sipped the Ecco Domani Prosecco – which worked perfectly with our dessert of fresh fruit and chocolates. This was the perfect mid-day break to a busy weekday. I honestly need to do this more often!
Check back later today for the recipes that Amanda created so that you can prepare the same summertime retreat for your friends!
This post is a partnership with Ecco Domani. All opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting sponsored posts that keep Sacramento Street doors open.
Photos by Emily Scott, Food by Amanda Frederickson for Sacramento Street | Table Linen and Pillows from St. Frank Textiles