The season for entertaining is upon us, and the desire to gather and spend time leisurely with family and friends is probably at an all- time high. How do we gather gracefully and safely in this current climate? At Southern Muse, we have missed our events, celebrations and gatherings as much as we know you have, and now that the weather has warmed up, we're excited to be able to spend more time with everyone (safely of course). Being outside with the fresh air is the best place to gather and successfully social distance (just put the outdoor chairs and furniture six feet apart and you are probably good), so we wanted to share a few tips to help you with entertaining. 

When selecting the food, using individually made and prepared items is always a good idea, but especially now. Skewered fruit, veggies and cheese will reduce the number of hands touching the items. Boozy Popsicles are a fun idea as well. With some pre-planning, the food can serve as part of the décor.  

Tomato Tulips Recipe

Boozy Popsicles Recipe

Disposable plates, utensils and cups that come in different bright colors and patterns will address the safety concerns but will add color while also creating a theme to your party. Using plastic flex cups would be a great party favor and perhaps add a touch of humor to the occasion (we all have seen the funny sayings on the cups). Another great idea as well as a fab party favor is using the plastic freezable wine and drink glasses (a staple at Southern Muse).

 For your tablescapes, add citronella candles and candles in non-breakable containers (like our Lux Fragrance 3 Wick  Bough Bowl Candles). These are pretty and will keep pesky flies and mosquitoes away as well. Keep the decorations simple: tin cans wrapped with ribbon or raffia and filled with flowers are very simple. but can make a grand statement. 

Use different size cans, ribbon and flowers to co-ordinate with the colors that you have decided to use for the day.  At the end of the event, you can give them away as your guest go home.

You don't have to sacrifice style or creativity in order to remain safe during your social distancing outdoor events. Just remember to keep it simple (and add a basket of masks, bug spray, sunscreen and hand sanitizer for your guest to use as needed!)  

Metal and Glass Votive Garden Stake, $12

Stoneware Pineapple Serving Dish, $34

Crudite Platter, $37.50

Wicker + Glass Chip and Dip Tray, $49

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