Everyone that knows even the bare minimum about me can tell you I love Autumn. With all my heart. Maybe it’s because I was born at the end of October, but it’s in my blood. The colors, the changing scenery, the food (pumpkin, mushrooms, nuts!), gold afternoon light, wool sweaters, thick socks and warm drinks. Even the grey and moody days. I love it.
When Aline and Merel asked me to style an Autumn lunch for De Groene Meisjes I accepted quicker than you can say ‘it’s raining cats&dogs’. The briefing was short and perfect: autumn, casual, nature, but nothing too cliche. I knew just where to go with this. Warm tones, mixed with some faded greens and natural materials. I used some fall branches for decor and added some depth to those oranges with dark blue berries. My goal was elegance, not pre-school craft time.
Merel invited some friends over, to enjoy delicious food (by Picknick and Provamel) & organic wine, have a good time, laugh and talk about simple tips for a more sustainable lifestyle. A greener life doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated, it’s about small choices. Like shopping local, cook seasonal, share stuff instead of buying new, use natural make-up, take the bike and eat vegetarian. With so many great veggies and alternatives, you would almost forget to buy meat&fish in the first place!
Lacking inspiration? Feel free to ask me for recipe tips! :)
As you can see, gatherings don’t have to be huge and extravagant, they can be small and simple. You don’t even need a special reason, spending time with people you like, love or want to get to know better is reason enough! Have everyone bring their own food, invite a caterer or pick up some small dishes at a deli. Just pay a little extra attention to the decor to make your friends, family members or co-workers feel special and happy to be there.
You can always contact me if you are planning a gathering of your own. I will make sure your guests will leave with a memory that lasts!
♥ Anne
photos by Aline Bouma