FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: PICNIC ON THE AMALFI

Since the moment Cassandra mentioned she was headed to Italy this summer, I haven't been able to stop dreaming of vino in Rome, shopping in Florence and most of all, long lazy days spent sunbathing on the Amalfi Coast...

Camille Styles here, and today's fantasy is totally inspired by the idyllic two weeks my husband and I spent in Capri and Positano on our honeymoon two summers ago. The incredible seafood, deep Mediterranean waters dotted with pristine yachts and sailboats, and the nautical-chic style of the jet-set as they escape the bustle of a bigger metropolis. A lovely little fantasy on which to base today's fête, no?

A sandy stretch of beach and a fun group of friends are really the only necessities for the success of this party. A lightweight folding table and swath of linen fabric are the base for a spread of fresh, seasonal dishes. On the menu? How 'bout a very Mediterranean cucumber, tomato & feta salad and this most-luscious marinated bean salad with grilled shrimp & watercress.

What to wear to such a summer get-together? A swimsuit of course, although a classic striped boatneck is a must to guard against the sea breezes when the sun begins to set.

Formal invites are not really necessary for a gathering this relaxed, but when the stationery is as charming as this by Mr. Boddington's Studio, you just might not be able to resist. The Wolfgang style is so fitting for an oceanic occasion with it's urchin-like pattern and inky blue script.

Arriverderci, Cass...we can't wait to hear about your adventures!

*images: {row 1} couple, bunting, compass escort cards {row 2} necklace, feathers {row 3} clementine place setting, capri, rope{row 4} map, invites, oyster, dress. all party images: roland bello. invitations: mr boddington's studio.

BACKYARD ENTERTAINING: WHITE + MOD

It's official. Summer is upon us in the Northwest and I'm so ready to host a little outdoor patio dinner party! In seeking some inspiration, I rediscovered this tabletop created by JL Designs, and I'm completely smitten...

Being a California girl, I am totally drawn to this mix of succulents and white modern accents - it couldn't be more reflective of the beach-meets-desert culture of SoCal.


Of course, no party is complete without a signature drink - whether your hosting 10 or 100! I think this one sounds particularly refreshing and the the little drink card is so perfect!


I love how much candlelight Carissa used along with the cafe lights...

Heavenly! Are you as inspired as I am for a little outdoor entertaining? Even if you only have a little patio in your apartment, there are ways to make it happen (I'm going to be shooting my own example soon!) I can't wait for late summer evenings around the table with good friends.


*photography by aaron young, paper elements by wiley valentine (love them!), and complete design by jl designs

HAPPY WEEKEND...

The temperatures are slowly rising around here... I think it's time for me to perfect my 'almost summer' style...

A Panama hat will be required. As will white-on-white... the jacket only necessary for the cooler evenings...

I can't wait to host my first outdoor dinner party of the season... must get the patio in entertaining mode!

And I'll definitely be adding some high shine accessories to the white-on-white look for a beachy glam vibe. What are your must haves for this summer??

Have a fabulous weekend everyone! Stay cool...

*images via malene birger, mi casa revista, and fgr

FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: ICE CREAM SOCIAL

Happy June, lovelies! Why not welcome summer with an afternoon of decadence at an ice cream parlour-inspired fête...

...and modernize it with pretty invites, feminine flourishes, and decidedly gourmet twists on traditional flavors? Camille Styles here, and this week's fantasy couldn't get much better, in my book: an entire party centered around rich, creamy combinations and colorful toppings to encourage creative mixing.


How gorgeous is this watercolored stationery from Fine Day Press? Scrawl the sweet details inside, and pop in the mail...no doubt many excited RSVP's will ensue!


A divided wooden box filled with marshmallows, sprinkles, coconut and other pastel-hued accoutrements makes a chic vessel for toppings. Place metal scoops in each bin and let guests go to town with their sundaes! (via eat drink chic.)


While picking up a variety of store-bought flavors is perfectly fine, there's really nothing better than homemade. Hop on over to camillestyles.com to discover a few of my favorite recipes for the yummiest ice cream, sorbet and popsicles.


A chalkboard menu adorned with fabulous script is such a pretty way to let guests narrow down their options. I also happen to adore those gilded vintage glasses for serving sundaes, don't you? (via 100 Layer Cake.)


Remember those little wooden spoons that came with individual ice creams back when you were a kid? These have the same nostalgic charm, and the colorful twine makes them party-worthy. Spotted via Ez, who smartly suggested using them as little gift tags or invite enclosures. Love!

*images: {row 1} dress, lucite cone holder, sorbet {row 2} drink flags, parlour sign {row 3} ice cream bowls, cameos, couple, ice cream cone {row 4} pink egg cups, ice cream sandwiches. strawberry ice cream, delectable deliciousness.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO WE!!!

Nope, that's not a typo. Because today is coco+kelley's birthday, and it's no longer just me around here - it's definitely a 'we'! Between contributors, all you fabulous readers, amazing interns, supportive friends, and fellow bloggers, I've had a lot of help in growing this blog and business in the past year. It's officially a team effort, and we're officially celebrating!

I launched coco+kelley in May of 2007... which means we're heading into our 5th year around here with some very exciting plans. We'll start by adding a few more contributors, moving into offices by the end of the summer, giving the blog a little facelift, and bringing you more original shoots produced in collaboration with some very talented Seattle friends. Are you excited yet?? I hope you'll continue join me along the way!

Thank you for being a part of this incredibly journey! Who knew when I started this blog four years ago what it would be today? I couldn't be here without all of you!

*images via unkown, {this is glamorous} and paul costello

FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: CHIC COUNTRY PICNIC

"Summer afternoon - summer afternoon...the two most beautiful words in the English language." -Henry James

Camille Styles here, and I wholeheartedly second that sentiment...is there anything lovelier than a leisurely picnic in May that stretches into evening hours? Especially if it happens to be a romantic picnic for two, like the fantasy board I designed for today's guest post. A muted palette of olive and caramel reflects the natural surroundings; lots of rustic wood elements add a touch of rustic style and are a perfect foil to a feminine frock that's required attire for such a rendezvous.

The key to a great picnic? A chic picnic basket, of course! A wicker hamper is a classic choice that oozes summer nostalgia.

Pack it full of treats that are easy to eat, and transport well. These almond, elderflower and lime travel cakes are totally finger-friendly, and even better when served on mismatched vintage china. It's not exactly practical...but sometimes prettier is worth it.

Craving something savory? This picnic bread is even better when made the day before so that all the flavors (figs & cheddar!) can meld together. Wrap it up in parchment and tie with a bow made of twine.

A few extra pieces like rustic wood trays, exotic throw pillows and a vintage quilt to sit on complete the cozy set-up. An ipod loaded with folksy favorites, and a bottle of bubbly are all that's needed for a picnic that turns into an evening under the stars.

*images: {row 1} provencal picnic; bay leaf place setting; key invitation, communcal table {row 2} carafe, peaches, flowers {row 3} olives, winery reception & wedding cake, picnic {row 4} picnic, couple. All other party images: food fashion friends.

POOL DAYS

I've decided if I can't actually lay by the pool all day (now that the sun is finally shining!) I'd like to at least surround myself with aquamarine and dream about it...

What better color to add a splash of for summer? I want to upholster all my outdoor furniture in the 'Pisces' pattern from Schumacher, serve fresh summer salads on this dinnerware, and fill up the hobnail pitcher with delicious sangria! Casual summer days call for slouchy shorts and plenty of pillows to lounge on. Of course, the summer nights call for a little color too - and I think this luxurious clutch is just the thing.

Now... where's my pool boy...

DELICIOUS DESERT COLORS

So, completely loving this pattern from the Korento collection at Iittala...

The colors and illustrations remind me of spring in the desert - bold bursts of orange and green against a blue sky in an otherwise dusty backdrop. I'm so inspired to create a tabletop full of succulents stemming from this palette!

FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: VINTAGE PALM SPRINGS

Camille Styles here, and I must confess I'm having a bit of a Palm Springs moment...

This spring, I can't seem to get enough of the punchy retro flair that defines the desert locale, so I created this inspiration board in shades of grass green, lemon and tangerine for a mid-century look that pops! So how to turn this fantasy into a fête? Just take an entertaining lesson from designer Trina Turk, and throw a cheerful poolside barbecue complete with grapefruit-campari cocktails & tangerine sherbet!

Set a sunny table with geometric prints - these embroidered linens are from the designer's own line. A bright bunch of yellow & orange pincushion proteas are an unexpectedly chic centerpiece.

The best way to keep a dinner party fun? Keep the menu simple, and use a quirky collection of unexpected serving pieces. Here, chocolate-almond cookies are nestled in vintage glass bowls next to scoops of tangerine sorbet. Check out all the recipes (like arugula + lentil salad with goat cheese) right here.

Isn't this house to-die-for? Thanks to its resemblance to a luxury liner, it's nicknamed the "Ship of the Desert..." and obviously these partyin' guests aren't looking to jump ship any time soon!

*images: {row 1} coasters, lanterns, succulents {row 2} bicycle waiter, table number {row 3} pool chairs, cocktails, yellow centerpiece, palm trees {row 4} citrus compote, acapulco chairs, linen napkins. all party images by coral von zumwalt for martha stewart living.

MONDAY, MONDAY...

Happy Monday!! I hope you all had a fantastic weekend - I finally decided to take a little time off to enjoy the holiday with family and friends, and today I'm playing catchup...

Maybe you're doing the same?? While you're at it, why not check out my premiere sponsors, like the fantastic resource for gorgeous furniture pieces, Interior Connector, the lovely Laura Trevey at Bright, Bold, Beautiful, and the Rug Store NE where they have tons of beautiful pieces to chose from for those of you in the UK - all definitely worth a visit!

And yes, that's my Easter tabletop above - it turned out quite fun with a bold green tablecloth, gingham runners, and playful tulips and jellybeans for loads of color. Definitely a departure from traditional pastels... I may never go back to those. Here's to a new week!

FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: GARDEN PARTY

Hi sweets! Camille Styles here, with a fantasy (and fête) inspired by the romance of this flowering image that Cass posted last week...

With visions of garden parties dancing in my head, I designed a mood board in shades of peony, raspberry and rose. Yes, it's feminine...but wouldn't such an effusive mix of flowers make even a tomboy embrace her girly side?

Your grandmother may have used a full set of perfectly delicate china, but a mismatched array of floral prints set on a linen blooming with color is a decidedly more modern (and fun!) approach.

This decadent cake, layered with blackberry jam and mascarpone, makes a perfectly spring centerpiece with a few bunches of fuschia carnations. Yes, carnations can be chic when gathered in low, tight monochromatic bunches. Hop on over for the luscious recipe for Sugar-and-Spice Cake.

Dorothy really wouldn't be able to resist a plate of poppy-shaped lemon cookies. Just like the flower, they're colorful, happy and dotted with poppy seeds.

Cocktails deserve a flowery finish, too! Freeze edible orchids, nasturtiums and pansies in an ice tray filled partway with water, then use them to make every drink totally party-ready.

*images: {row 1} dress design decor via coco+kelley, rebecca thuss, martha stewart weddings {row 2} alexandra grablewski, martha stewart weddings {row 3} cannelle et vanille, chelsea fuss, coach {row 4} snippet & ink, martha stewart weddings, cannelle et vanille, martha stewart. All other images from may issue of martha stewart living, scanned by camille.

FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: CITRUS BRUNCH

Camille Styles here, with bits of inspiration for a citrusy spring brunch! In honor of the lovely forecast, I'm planning to start the weekend early with a relaxed get-together full of zingy citrus flavors. Our mood board in shades of lemon + cream takes a similarly carefree attitude...

 Don a flowy goddess dress and set a table on the lawn with cheerful ranunculus & laid-back succulents. Spend an afternoon nibbling on bundt cake & sipping cappuccinos with a gaggle of girlfriends, soaking up the first blissfully sunny day of the year.

Blend a batch of limoncello champagne cocktails, and garnish with sprigs of fresh mint for a bright and bubbly way to toast the season.

Monochromatic bunches of yellow tulips, gerbera daisies and daffodils are so sunny; stark white vases keep the look thoroughly modern.

Serve foods in keeping with the color palette for a table that's as visually appealing as it is delicious. An asparagus tart with prosciutto pairs and a spring vegetable frittata are a snap to prepare, and make perfect brunch-y nibbles.

Finish off the feast with this stunning meyer lemon pastry; a true celebration of citrus! Set it on a cutting board right on the table so guests can help themselves along with a pretty bottle of sweet dessert wine. But be forewarned; this party just might flow right into dinnertime...

*images {row 1} chris benz resort, a creative mint, elizabeth anne designs {row 2} table, martha stewart weddings {row 3} heath ceramics, jose villa, anna williams, macarons {row 4} anna williams, frolic via snippet & ink, erin hearts court. InStyle Parties, Style Me Pretty, Martha Stewart.

LET'S (POOL) PARTY

Hello lovelies!! I'm running around High Point again today (day two!) and already I've seen so many fun things to share with you (soon, soon!). But, in honor of the fact that the sun is shining to the tune of 80 degrees, I'm thinking maybe it's time for some summer dreaming...?

Like the makings of a fabulous pool party, perhaps? Flirty little striped sandals, cocktail tables meant to follow you wherever you go, designer ping pong paddles, and graphic napkins to set the scene. Not a bad start, right?

FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: ARTY PARTY

Happy spring, all you gorgeous c+k readers! Camille Styles here, with today's "fantasy" that proves I'm dreaming of a season brimming with brilliant color...

Why not throw a party that takes a cue from the vivid spectrum of a painter's palette? A canopy of hand-cut garlands, packages tied with rainbow yarn, and pantone-inspired place cards are perfect inspiration for a fête that's full of little surprises.

Bold color is even more jaw-dropping when placed against a stark white background. This particular scene is set in a photography studio, although any warehouse space would do the trick just fine.

A monochromatic background shines when bursting with pops of color, like these multi-hued glass vases that serve as a modern alternative to a floral centerpiece. Such an occasion most definitely calls for a menu with a few surprises: meyer lemon soufflés reveal a deliciously creamy center when cut. Check out the recipe for these, and the rest of our Arty Party menu here.

Is this not the most clever way to assign seating? Black painters' tape laid artfully on painted concrete provides sharp contrast in black and white, inviting guests to settle in and take their seat on the floor. (Don't forget to throw lots of pillows around for those who prefer a bit of cushioning!)

Multi-hued glass vases are an artsy alternative to flowers on the table. I'd love to collect one of these in every color!

*images: {row 1} french colours poster, garland, tickets, crudites {row 2} pastels, cake {row 3} rainbow dress, knitted gift, garland, colored sugar {row 4} party horn, cake, pantone seating cards, rainbow chairs. All party images scanned by me from food fashion friends.