Backyard Summer Dinner Party + $100 Giveaway to Layla Grayce

I know we started with dessert (if you missed the peach layer cake see it here), but I wanted to share the rest of the party details and recipes from a few weeks ago. I had to wait because my favorite home store, Layla Grayce, provided some beautiful products in exchange for a post on their blog. It just so happened that a couple of my girlfriends and I were throwing a dinner party around the same time Layla Grayce asked if I would create a post. This job definitely has its perks at times!

Holley was in charge of the appetizers and had the brilliant idea to make a DIY crostini bar. Guests loved creating their own crostini with a variety of spreads, cheeses and toppings. Easy and delicious!

This burlap runner took me about 5 minutes to make. I bought a long piece of burlap from the craft store, cut it into a 18" wide long strip, and pulled a few threads on either side to fray it. Holley, Ronda, and I divided up the cooking which made party prep so much easier. We served dinner family style which created a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

I tied a piece of twine around the gorgeous linen Pom Pom at Home napkins and tucked a piece of lavender in. These napkins are so super soft and I love that they are casual and elegant at the same time. I adore the matching runner set! The 12-foot party table was too long for them, but we use them on our dining table inside all the time. Though not good for the environment (and I DO feel bad about that), we went with disposable plates and "silverware" from Smarty Had a Party. We just didn't have enough matching place settings or time to clean up. So sorry classy party throwers of the world.

This Aidan Gray Decor Plate Stand made a stunning centerpiece when topped with jars and roses from our garden. This tray can be used to show off your favorite decor items. What would put on it? I'm thinking some pumpkins for fall (but not yet!!!).

We went with dishes that could all be prepared in advance and be served at room temperature to make things easy. Grilled summer vegetables served with the lovely Eclectic Hostess Serving Set were a big hit.