For centuries, the pineapple has been seen as a symbol of hospitality and welcome.
Legend has it that New England sea captains, who had travelled to the Caribbean, would spear a pineapple on their fenceposts to signal their safe return. The pineapple was an invitation to their friends to come visit, share food and drink and listen to tales of their voyage.
How perfect then, to use this symbol as the focal point of a “Welcome to the Neighborhood” dinner for our new neighbors. I’d been saving the pineapple cocktail napkins from Lettermade for something fun and this was it! They served as a focal point on our outdoor bar.
I kept the color palette simple by keeping the to the green, echoed in the fern plant, and the textured tray and chargers which mimic the rough exterior of the pineapple.
For the centerpiece, I filled a large dough bowl with 4 pineapples. Super simple. I thought of adding flowers, but that would have been too much. Just like dressing yourself…dressing your table is about what you put on and what you leave off. Sometimes less is more. As in impact. I wanted to emphasize the pineapples, so I let them carry the table.
Now, it’s time to welcome the weekend! What do you have planned?
Nicely done Elizabeth! You are right sometimes (depending on occasion less is more) and you did it perfectly here…love the natural wicker and the pineapple is such an elegant and welcoming motif.
Hope you have a wonderful weekend…….
I will be entertaining the whole family for my Dad's Birthday, may I borrow those napkins please?? Have a great weekend!
Love your tablescapes! Would also like to hear what you served your new neighbors. I am always on the hunt for new dinner party ideas.
Such a beautiful table, Elizabeth! You are the perfect hostess.
Teresa
xoxo
Such a beautiful table, Elizabeth! You are the perfect hostess.
Teresa
xoxo
Hi Elizabeth!
How have you been? I love this tablescape idea. The pineapple is a very classic symbol!
Have a great weekend!
xo
Sharon
I knew pineapples were a sign of hospitality but I didn't know WHY…thanks for enlightening me!! Your table scape is lovely…you really are an amazing hostess! Have a fabulous weekend! xoxo
Oh my gosh! I love it all! Just gorgeous and simple! I love the silverware and your silver champagne bucket. Just glorious!
You are definitely the hostess with the mostest! I love your suggestions and always take them to heart! I bet the new neighbors will love living near such hospitable people!
your taste is just beautiful and spot on…..as usual!
-Linda, NY
Pretty pineapples are so welcoming! Love your table and those fun festive napkin rings.
pve
You set the perfect table, Elizabeth (I have the same silver pattern). Just love the wicker with the silver and the pineapple is the perfect "welcome" to your guests!