Tonight was our annual Holiday Dinner party for a few of our closest friends.  I am enjoying Christmas more this year than any I can remember and that has a lot to do with the fact that I decided several weeks ago that I was going to be sure and do all those things I always say I will but never do! So far I have baked cookies with my daughter, gone shopping with my mom, had friends over for dinner and next week we are having cocktails for the neighbors! I am so proud of myself for actually keeping the promise to appreciate those we love and the important things in life.

I also think the fact that I am so inspired by my holiday decor this year, is making me more inclined to follow through with my intentions! And I had a blast deciding on the look for my dinner party tonight! I love pink, it is just one of my favorite colors ever! And I thought how fun and unexpected it would be to incorporate pink into my holiday table scape…so I did!  My guest and I all think it was just charming but I will let you decide what you think for yourself. It was a wonderful compliment to the fresh greens and Granny Smiths that adorn my garlands!

Pink roses, lisianthus, green berries, pine and cedar filled my arrangment.  Perfect green cymbidium orchids added the perfect final touch!

I had a fun treat for the guests. And since I work in most of their homes, I knew the perfect ornaments that would compliment each!

I LOVE my Dransfield and Ross Chinoiserie Place mats in avocado green! And they work so well with my Marc Blackwell Cabana Stripe service plates and my Wedgewood White China!

And another favorite details, is my starburst green and mirrored napkin rings also from Dransfield!

To make the night extra special, we hired Randy, the Sous Chef from Ferneau, our favorite local restaurant, to prepare the meal.  We began with tomato bisque, followed by a fresh pear and gorgonzola cheese mixed green salad topped with spiced pecans. Next was fillet of beef with Ferneau’s house demi-glace over smashed potatoes with roasted asparagus.  And to top if off we had crispy chocolate pie with fresh berries and creme for dessert.  Our wines for the evening were Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, New Zealand (one of my favorite whites) and Von Strasser Cabernet Sauvignon. Both excellent compliments to the meal!!!

Chef Randy preparing the salad, and for a couple of guests who don’t love greens, he made beautiful shrimp cocktails!

My guests and me!

Me with the hubby!

And a hint of pink in the living room! Pink Peonies and stock, so pretty!