I will be the first to admit my addiction to fresh flowers (see here, here and here), but I LOVE me a produce-based centerpiece. Yes, I’m talking apples, tropical fruit, even leafy greens— there’s room for all of it on my table. Produce has an innate ability to tie a theme together with color and flavor. Last month’s La Bella Vita setting was all about Italy, so what could be a more natural decor choice than lemons? Hosting a mimosa brunch? Scatter some oranges around the table for a correlated pop of color.
Moving beyond the contents of your fruit bowl, let’s talk herbs. Scents at the table are typically a big no-no for me. (A Warm Vanilla Sugar candle can really ruin the glorious smell of a roast chicken.) Herbs are the exception. They’re bright and fresh, and can be used to heighten the senses. Cooking with basil? Place some fragrant, potted basil on the table to get everyone’s appetite going. Mint, lavender and thyme are other favorites of mine. I even add them to flower arrangements because House of Lilac taught me well!
With fall just around the corner, next season’s produce offers so many fun textures. Pumpkins, gourds and maize are obvious choices, but consider kale and cabbage. They bloom similarly to flowers, but are a little unexpected. Bonus: they hold up beautifully. You can find them at most flower shops, and sometimes even at grocery stores.
A quick word on containers… This is a chance to mix it up! Ceramic bowls, wooden platters, baskets, canisters. Get creative! Feel free to ditch the container altogether and style right on the table. And play with height! I prefer lower arrangements for a more casual atmosphere, saving my pedestals and larger vessels for more elegant settings. Happy hosting, friends! Long live the fruit bowl!
