Spring: It’s Lemonade Time!
BY PAT BURNS
Spring has sprung! This is the time to embrace longer days and the warmth of more sunshine; enjoy the sights of new lime green leaves bursting from trees branches, smell the sweet scent of blossoms filling the air, and sip lemonade on the front porch. Spring is also the season to bring family and friends together to celebrate this time of renewal.
When entertaining I like to create a tablescape and theme that reflects either a holiday or the time of year. And, personally, I enjoy Easter ideas. But, this year, I wanted all things lemon. And, everybody knows the saying, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” Everybody but me, that is. I say, “When life gives you lemons, make a tablescape!”
Starting with the discovery of lemons featured on the salad plates of Williams & Sonoma, I knew these plates would be perfect for a chic lemon décor theme. Williams & Sonoma also had an exquisite matching table runner with lemons on branches and a few strategically placed bees which created the backdrop for a springtime showcase. The place settings were framed with green ginkgo leaf placemats which I found at TARGET.
This attractive table called for the use of my sterling silver flatware and candelabras. They called for some polishing, too. I must admit, it’s not my preferred thing to do on a Saturday morning. However, playing one of my favorite music stations on Pandora, helped this task go quickly. Afterwards, seeing how shiny everything looked, I can honestly say the polishing was not only necessary but also worth it.
For the floral centerpiece I selected mums, gerbera daisies and hydrangeas. I incorporated whole lemons, secured by wooden chopsticks, adding more beauty and life to the table. Including sliced Meyer lemons to the vase-within-a-vase was the final touch for this sunny centerpiece. Wanting to involve as many of the scenes as possible, I used lemon scented votive candles.
When the company arrives they’ll be welcomed with a lemon drop martini while listening to Peter, Paul & Mary singing one of their iconic songs, “Lemon Tree.” Continuing the lemon theme, I’ll prepare a green salad with a homemade lemon vinaigrette. The main course will be a simple yet delicious pasta dish tossed with lemon, lemon zest, shrimp and asparagus. And, of course, to finish this lemon palooza menu, serving lemon bars for desert is a must. Thinking about all these yummy lemon treats makes me hungry. I’m even puckering up a bit!
Whether you decorate your dining table with bunnies and colorful candied eggs or lemons galore, GRAND Magazine wishes everyone a lighter more joyful spring to celebrate this time of renewal.
In case you didn’t see the link above, to listen and see “Lemon Tree” performed by by Peter, Paul & Mary, click on this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X2GuwDfXlHk
Lemon Vinaigrette https://www.loveandlemons.com/
Lemony Shrimp and Asparagus Spaghetti https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a46840/lemony-shrimp-and-asparagus-spaghetti-recipe/
How to Make the Best Lemon Drop Martini
The key to the best lemon drop martini is balancing sour and sweet. Click here for tips for making it.
See more of Pat’s beautiful tablescaping here & here
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Pat Burns is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Orange County Children’s Book Festival; a Celebrity Journalist, Film Reporter, the author of Grandparents Rock®. Also, a happy grandmother of four.
Read more from Pat here
