A Bouquet of Edible Blossoms

Photographed by Albertine Ellinwood

We celebrate birthdays often at the magazine, as we enjoy creating and designing our party themes and incorporating the Gulf Coast Living design ideas. The latest event was held on March 8 for the birthday of our publisher, Christiane Francin. Two creative staff members, Romaine Purdy and Betsy Eno, designed the tablescape for this gathering. We felt the centerpiece, which showcases a basket of edible posies, was worthy of sharing with our readers. The sweet spring basket, with cupcakes baked and decorated by Betsy, is a showstopper and can be given as a gift not only for a birthday, but for any type of joyful celebration.

BACKYARD BEACH PARTY

Party around back...Come join the fun!

Written by Jami Wright

The Party!
Summer is just around the corner, so let’s celebrate with some fun in the sun! You can design a fantastic party even if you don’t live close to the beach. Just plan it in your own backyard!

Fabulously floral

Written by Betsy A. Eno

Alluring and captivating, flowers exude an elegant beauty that beckons to be displayed. With this in mind, we offer some unique design ideas to demonstrate how you can creatively showcase some of nature’s beautiful blooms.

A Cup of Elegance
A rose snuggled in baby’s breath makes a charming display when placed inside a teacup.

Color It Spring

Written By Betsy A. Eno

Shades of purple, pink and lavender, subtly accented with white, highlight these easy-to-do tablescapes. From simple and sophisticated to charming and whimsical, a few decorative elements are all you need to create a beautiful spring place setting your guests are sure to enjoy.

A Peep of Sunshine
A bright yellow chick perched atop silverware brings an unexpected pop of color to this table setting. The dark violet tulips and complementary-colored napkin add a striking contrast. When combined with small, lavender-speckled eggs that match the tablecloth and plate, these elements offer a vibrant spring design for the table!

Simply Spring

Capture the essence of Spring as you display some of nature’s delicate delights.
Here are some simple, but elegant ideas...

Tulips in Turquoise
Insert a piece of floral foam into a small flowerpot or container, and add enough water to dampen the foam. Carefully place the container upright in the center of the handbag of your choice, and finish by pushing the stems of pink, white and yellow tulips into the moistened foam.

EGG Extravaganza!

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To add a little bling to your Easter egg decorating this year, try spray-painting them gold! Then place the eggs in a twig-style basket to create your own golden egg nest. For a more subtle effect, hand paint delicate gold designs on each egg.