Tonight a few girlfriends are coming over for dinner and Bible Study. It’s an informal group so the meal does not need to be fancy nor does the tablescape, but I enjoy making each gathering — big or small, formal or informal — comfortable and welcoming for my guests.

I planned the menu this morning. We’ll be having:

• Brie and some of my favorite crackers to munch on as the gals arrive
• Orange Chicken and Mixed Greens Salad for dinner
• Barefoot Contessa’s Lemon Yogurt Cake for dessert
• Paringa Sparkling Shiraz

The weather is hot today, so I like the idea of serving something lite. To me, citrus flavors are so refreshing and combined with the sparkling wine (this particular bottle I’ve not tried before so we’ll see how it is…) I think it will be a refreshing but satisfying meal.

I set the table earlier today so everything will be ready when my friends arrive.

 

 

Floral centerpieces are such an easy way to add color and splash to an informal table. The floral palette in this arrangement is fairly neutral so it both complements and adds to the neutral table set with linen hemstiched napkins and a runner.

So with the table set, the cake made, and the chicken marinating, I think we’re on track to have a great meal tonight. And it can’t come soon enough… I am getting hungry!