There’s something magical about gathering and dining with friends on a warm Summer evening. I love living on our lake because the ambiance and breeze it provides makes al fresco dining even more magical. VIETRI, the beloved Italian-inspired dinnerware brand, asked me to co-host an al fresco lakeside dinner this June. I knew it would be a night to remember.
Inspired by the Amalfi coast, we started with a lemon theme. VIETRI’s Tavola tablecloth has a gorgeous blue scallop edging that tied in beautifully with the Tavola Lemon placemats we used. Outdoor dining should be easy and doesn’t need to be fussy and VIETRI’s melamine Lastra collection brings that to life. With their simple white color, they’re easy to use for any occasion. They are dishwasher safe and good for dinners with little ones. And so are their Superglass wine, coupes and lowball glasses. I purchased some of my favorite flowers from our local Trader Joe’s. They were white, green, and yellow. I used VIETRI’s new Hibiscus vertical fluted vases. I also used their classic Hibiscus bud vases in green and white.
The Florida rain clouds gathered overhead as we set up the table prior to the party. The catering team, VIETRI team and I conferred quietly, debating whether or not the weather would hold. As small light mist descended upon us, we made the call to move the cocktail hour inside. We enjoyed the Hugo spritzes inside while the rain spritzed outside. The VIETRI cookbook that inspired all of the dishes from tonight’s dinner sat behind the grazing station.
The rain clouds passed in true Florida fashion. The weather permitted us to head down to the lake for a true al fresco dinner. The heat had left with the rain clouds and a beautiful breeze greeted us as we sat down. Each guest received a gift of VIETRI Limoni paper napkins. They also received an Amalfi inspired tin candle from local darling, Rifle Paper Co.
The weather did try to make a second run, forcing us inside to finish our second courses. But, we prevailed, finishing the evening up lakeside with a plate of tiramisu. The sun started setting over the lake next to us. We turned up the music on our Spotify “Al Fresco” playlist (get it here). We enjoyed each other’s company as the night came to a close.
