Summer is a glorious season that allows us to sit back and relax, plus take the time to enjoy the blue skies, sunshine, and most importantly our backyards. Below, you will find some ideas that we wanted to share with you, so you could possibly convert your outdoor space into a Provencal Escape for family and friends.

 

 

The Team at Helping Hand Concierge 

Create a menu that includes traditional flavors of this particular region of France. Remember to keep it simple, yet exotic. For example, start off with a homemade pizza that includes the following toppings - goat cheese, roasted red peppers, and fresh basil. Continue with a mixed green salad and drizzle some Herbes de Provence salad dressing overtop. Watch your guests savour each bite. Continue with a main course, and then finish with a delightful dessert. At HHC, we enjoy serving French vanilla ice cream with a lavender shortbread cookie. Yes, it is quite yummy.

 

Offer a signature drink that will truly "wow" your guests. Try to offer a beverage that may be served with or without alcohol. During the summer season, lemons are definitely a key ingredient that you may use to help create a refreshing drink, which will surely tantalize each taste bud.  

 

Fresh lemonade is very easy to make, plus you may add other flavors to enhance this tart fruit. For this type of party, we like to add lavender, however, we have also used strawberries or raspberries for extra color and zing. To transform this drink into a cocktail, add about 2oz. of lemonade to a shaker, include some ice, 1oz. of lemon vodka, and a splash of lime juice. Shake well and pour into a cocktail glass and accent with a candied lemon peel. Voila!

Set up a table or two that will accommodate your guests comfortably. Cover each table with a white tablecloth. Set your table with white plateware, silverware and clear glasses. Place upon each plate a periwinkle napkin with a white ribbon tied around the middle, plus a sprig of lavender in the center of each bow. Then create a magnificent centerpiece by adding some fresh greens and sunflowers to a galvanized watering can.

 

  

Purchase some clay pots and plant some fresh herbs. Rosemary, Thyme, and Lavender are some of our favorites. Once completed, place them strategically around your garden. Before guests arrive, spritz the herbs with water, so their natural aromas will positively influence everyone's senses. By the way, these aromatic pots also make great party favors for your guests, too.

Feel free to contact us with any questions regarding these ideas.

 

We can be reached at 1-877-908-HAND.

 

Sincerely,

 

"Our Focus is on Your Needs."