Spring was in the air as we decorated and planned a dinner for 12 at an intimate alumni gathering for the Friends of University of Sussex.   We kept it simple with yellow linens, and a mixture of cut crystal and Depression Era glassware.  It was the flowers, though, that really put the “wow” factor into the table setting.

Local landscape designer and floral artiste, Andrea Muchin of Floribunda, has been creating beautiful floral centerpieces for as long as I have known her (which is a long time!).   I highly recommend calling her the next time you need that something special for your dinner table, birthday party, engagement shower, you name it.  She is also amazing when you need a quick “spruce up your front yard,” or can give you a totally new landscape look.  Check out Andrea at https://www.facebook.com/floribunda.net/info.

Her floral arrangements for this evening were the perfect accompaniment to a simple table setting and a fresh springtime dinner.

We designed the following dinner menu and wanted to make sure it was based on the freshest and most seasonal ingredients available this time of year.

Spring Time Dinner Menu for Twelve

Appetizers

Seared Ahi Tuna with Dijon/Wasabi Mustard – Goat Cheese & Artichoke Tartlette

First Course

Fresh Asparagus Soup with creme fraiche

Main Course

Cornmeal-crusted Sole with Mushroom & Caper Sauce

Potato & Turnip Puree

Roasted Seasonal Baby Vegetables

Market Hall Brazilian Cheese Rolls

Dessert

Lemon Tart with Homemade Whipped Cream

Have a wonderful Spring!