Springtime Lunch {Swedish-Inspired}

It all started with a pretty Swedish tablecloth my Grandma gave to me at my wedding shower. This became the backdrop to my modern, yet lady-like, woodland flora-imbued Spring birthday lunch…to celebrate a few very special April birthdays.

I had prayed, pleaded really, for a warm and sunny Thursday as I was so hoping we could dine outdoors. Knowing full well the fickle Spring weather of this region and the dour forecast, I was happily surprised and blessed beyond my expectations with gorgeous warm sunshine, clear skies, and just a gentle breeze now and then.

Color & Shadows: Shades of springlike greens, cheery yellows, vibrant pinks, and a hint of blue were the order of the day. The abundance of shadows on all of my photos tell the tale of the sunshiny day.

The Menu: Ham & Broccoli Quiche, North Shore Wild Rice Salad, Fresh Fruit, and Rosemary Crackers with French Honey drizzled upon them. Bright lemon slices and S. Pellegrino sparkling mineral water imparted a little more European flair while poured into tree-trimmed glasses, perfectly fitting for my modern flora Swedish theme.

Ball of garden twine: I tied twine around each end of the table to hold the tablecloth in place...a good solution to a breezy day.

Rosemary crackers corralled in a vintage egg cup. Recognize those fluttery coasters? They were given to my guests as a little party favor. (Although I think it’s fair to say they were just as enthused about keeping their Pelligrino bottles to repurpose later as flower vases.) Dessert: Decadent Almond Bars topped with vintage cupcake toppers, each one was a different kind of whimsical-looking bird…another tiny take-home favor for my guests.Centerpiece: I combined pretty pink Hyacinths......with spiky, elongated mystery flora.

From the heart gift-giving: A beautifully hand-painted sign on an old piece of wood, a truly sweet piece of artwork......and aprons made from the fabric of vintage dresses...so, so clever & cute. What talented gals, don't you think? :)

Oh and yes, one of the birthdays was mine…I’ll be turning 30 next week. There. I said it. I really can’t believe it. But I also can't think of a better way to usher in my upcoming birthday. It was an absolutely lovely day.