I recently hosted a dinner party to share with my nearest and dearest all the stories and photos I brought back from my amazing trip to Scotland! Traditional Home joined me for the preparations, and the story is in the magazine this month. They’ve also included photos and recipes of the event on their website.

And, today, I discuss more about the decor for the event (including how YOU can create a Fall Feast that’s vibrant and fresh), over at my friend P. Allen Smith’s blog. Don’t miss it!

In Designer MBA last week, we talked for a moment about how to work smart at a photo shoot, and it occurred to me that YOU might be interested in a behind-the-scenes peek at what it takes to pull off an event like this, when it’s going to be captured on film. So I pulled together some progress shots for you.

Of course the lighting had to be just right!

And the Palette Catering staff was busting a move in the kitchen! They were fabulous, as always! They helped me re-create this shortbread: a recipe I picked-up on the trip!

And the flan…to die for!

The all-green centerpiece really amped-up the decor!

These favor pouches were a special treat for my guests, and the tag echoes the stagshead motif that’s incorporated throughout the decor!

Whew! These photo shoots take more work than you might think! At least after it was all said and done I had the chance to sit down and enjoy the fine meal and the great company!

Xo,

p.s. For more on styling your home for parties with a keen designer eye, join me at Camp Tobi Fairley for Design A to Z, November 7-9! It’s a 26-step crash course in the basics of design. You won’t want to miss it! See what people are saying about Camp Tobi Fairley events here!