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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: BEYOND THE FRINGE

Happy March, m'dears! Camille Styles here, and I must admit that this month can be a bit of a challenge for us party planners...

Valentine's Day has passed, Easter has yet to arrive, and it's not quite warm enough to take our parties outdoors. I do love a challenge though, and I happen to believe that we can always find a reason to celebrate. I was particularly inspired by these shots of fluttering paper garlands and fringe-y tassels in the latest issue of Martha Stewart Weddings, and I used them as a starting point for today's "fantasy." 

Vivid shades of tangerine + papaya pop against pale peach and subtle grey, accented with touches of gold. I'm envisioning this for a birthday or bachelorette party where all your favorite girlies can don a pair of heels, pop open the bubbles and celebrate friendships!

Can you say festive? Branches strung with mylar & tissue tassels bring a sense of whimsy to the table, no flowers necessary.

I've got a major paper crush on these snipped-up invites stuffed with confetti. Get the sources here.

Specialty cocktails are even more special when accented with fringed stir sticks bursting with festivity.

Send guests home with candied citrus and coconut cookies, wrapped up in these colorful crafted boxes. Like little works of art, they're almost too pretty to open!

*images: {row 1} coral dress, confetti system garland {row 2} flowers, straws {row 3} cake, gumball machine, place setting, flowers {row 4} macarons, fringe garland, sofa. All fringe images from Martha Stewart Weddings.

FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: EXOTIC BOHEMIAN

Although it's still a bit early for backyard barbecues and poolside soirées, I'm craving a dose of brilliant color to break out of the winter entertaining doldrums. Camille Styles here, and today's fantasy takes a cue from the rich textures and dappled sunlight of exotic locales...

A rich palette of tangerine, cerulean & terra cotta recalls the spice markets of Marrakech, perfect inspiration for an early-spring get-together with a few good friends. Keep the bohemian vibe going by scattering poufs around low coffee tables that invite guests to stay and lounge awhile.

Continue the boho-luxe theme by incorporating a curation of interesting objets among brilliantly-colored flowers. Garlands of gerbera daisies draped offhandedly over chairs is an unexpected artistic touch.

The key to styling flowers for such a gathering is to keep it relaxed and nonchalant. Orchids cut to a shorter-than-usual length tones down any fussiness, and appear especially lush when bunched in distinctive handmade pottery.

Such a fête calls for exotic flavors that hint of warm-weather months ahead. This Greek-inspired saganaki combines grilled wedges of cheese with arugula and sweet plum. Hop over to Camille Styles to get the recipes for the rest of the exotic bohemian menu (including roasted beet salad with mint & tangerine-fennel pot de crème!)

*images: {row 1} the urban hippie, piaulin, jules bianchi, moroccan pottery {row 2} hostess with the mostess, karen mordechai, better homes & gardens, helen rawlinson's etsy {row 3} moroccan door, graham & green, karen mordechai, tulu. party images scanned from domino magazine & food and wine magazine.

FROM FANTASY TO FÊTE: VICTORIAN VALENTINE

Haven't quite embraced the romantic vibe of the season yet? Suffice it to say... today's post may not be your cup of tea. Camille Styles here, and this week's fantasy takes a cue from the girliest of all palettes in cotton candy, blushing peach and pearl.

It's the month of love, so why not get inspired to host a decadently sweet afternoon tea for your most-adored gal pals? Whether single or attached, let everyone indulge their romantic side by donning a frilly frock and whiling away an afternoon, laughing over macaroons & crumpets.

In the age of evites, a handwritten card sent to your besties will speak volumes of your affection. This vintage-inspired one by Rifle Paper perfectly announces the Victorian vibe of our fête.

Now's not the time for sensible eating, m'dears. Cake stands and lovely pedestals piled high with sweet treats serve as delicious centerpieces. Leafy ferns and blooming orchids add to the english conservatory vibe. Homemade macaroons sound a bit intimidating? Try this easy alternative for a just-as-pretty option.

Serve Earl Grey from a teapot that's feminine and refined. Every hostess should learn to brew a proper cup of tea, and this seller has an amazing collection of vintage pots.

Although I'm usually not much of a collector, I can never have enough cake stands and apothecary jars. Just ordered loads of gorgeous pieces from this fantastic source, and I'm sure they'll be making appearances at future parties for years to come. Check out the recipes for our full Valentine's Tea menu, including radish & butter tea sandwiches, pastel whoopie pies, & rhubarb meringue cake.

*images: {row 1} food fashion friends, 100 layer cake, australia entertains {row 2} fashion is a playground, absolutely ladylike {row 3} shannon jayne via joy de vivre, mary ruffle tumblr, martha stewart weddings, brookman harris {row 4} martha stewart, bruno marchioro flickr. party images from food fashion friends.