Artichokes And White Hydrangeas

Artichokes, such a funny vegetable! But absolutely delicious, and in a very unique way... beautiful. This week's tablescape pays homage  to the... ARTICHOKE!

I wanted to capture the natural and organic feel of the Artichoke in this week's table. The patio table is set for al fresco dining and  simple, clean and earthy elements were used.

Brown rattan chargers lay the groundwork for each place setting.

The plates are stacked in a white, green, white layer. The white plates (HomeGoods), have a deeply embossed band with just a hint of brown rubbing to enhance the detail.

The green salad plate (Marshall's) has a simplier band design, but mirrors the brown rubbed embossed look.

These fun faux artichokes hold votive candle glasses. They can be used to light up each place setting. Another whimsical use would be to fill them with dips, mayonaise, spreads, etc. and use them on the table or on a tray with veggies, chips, and other dippables!

I LOVE this easy breezy tablecloth and matching napkins! It is the lightest weight cotton.  The stylized vine motif is enclosed by a complimenting green border. The linens are from Ridgefield Home and I bought them last winter at (of course) HomeGoods. Don't you think that HomeGood''s should sponsor my blog? I am almost their best advertisement!

Each napkin is tucked between the plates. This is a much more relaxed napkin placement that I don't use too often. But I think it is the perfect choice for this laid back table.

Brown marbleized handled flatware (HomeGoods) continues the earthy essence of the table.

Celadon green bowls stacked on white mismatched plates wait for dessert...homemade lime sorbet and key lime shortbread cookies (look for these recipes in an upcoming post)! Even the spoons are ready! I love to display my dishes on the table. They not only look lovely, but are a little preview of what is to come.

A fresh set of napkins are ready for the dessert course.

Big fluffy white hydrangeas in a white ironstone vase makes a centerpiece that is as easy-going and crisp as the rest of the table.

Flanking the hydrangeas are large white artichoke globes. I borrowed them from my study where they are employed as bookends. They continue the artichoke theme and pick up the white color of the vase and large bowl.

A large white ironstone bowl (local antique shop) filled with REAL artichokes will be used later to make steamed artichoke with a lemon aioli dipping sauce. Just thinking of it makes my mouth water! But for now they are part of the tablescape!

The Menu:

Steamed Artichokes and Lemon Aoili Dipping Sauce

Balsamic Marinaded Flank Steak On Skewers

Grilled Corn On The Cob With Butter

Panzanella Salad

Lime Sorbet With Key Lime Shortbread Cookies

Prosecco

Coffee