September Transitions, Italian Style

Early September in North Georgia marks the end of summer, but not really the beginning of fall. I think of it as a transitional month, sharing the characteristics of both seasons.

Temperatures are still warm (if not downright hot!) and all the trees are still bedecked with the deep green leaves of summer. Well, except for the cherry trees, which didn't get the memo.

This in-between season gave me the idea to put together a table with colors that tend toward what I think of as an Italian style. The dishes, although melamine, are patterned like many examples made in Italy.

 

 

 

 

Sunny colors suggest southern Italy. The pale yellow napkins somehow enhance the vibrancy of the placemats and dishes.

Greens shading into blues in an ombré effect on the goblets reinforce the idea of transitions.

I like the mellow warmth of the brass candlesticks and the stained table, left bare except for the placemats.

In the center are the first of the asters I found at the local nursery. They have been temporarily placed in a blue ceramic pot for an easy centerpiece. The napkins around the flowers are hiding the plastic nursery pot -- and the fact that the nursery pot is a bit taller than the ceramic one.

The flowers will soon be whisked away and planted in the pots on the deck, where we'll be enjoying them for a few months.

Coordinating serving pieces are waiting on the buffet.

My assistant, Jake, was caught lying down on the job!