Sun-Kissed Blues
Summertime cottage entertaining is more delightful than ever before.
BY HANNAH STRANDBERG
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRET GUM STYLING BY CLAUDIA REESE
Ready to trade your dollar-store party goodsfor a sophisticated mix of color, pattern and texture? Home décor expert and Ciao Newport Beach blogger, Claudia Reese, spills her best tips and tricks on how to throw the ultimate summer get-together with poise and style.
DIY MAKEOVERS. “Seating under the olive tree is always a cozy experience”, Claudia says. Both the benches and table were secondhand finds that Claudia turned into DIY successes. She used reclaimed wood boards to make a rustic top for the table.
SPACE SAVERS. Trying to save space? Claudia doubled the built-in workbench below her she shed window as a beverage station. “Sliced limes served in a large seashell remind us that it’s summer!” she says. She serves cold fruit juices in vintage glass carafes with strawberry garnishes.
BEAUTIFUL FOODS. The charcuterie board and brightly-colored cherries provide appeal to both the eyes and appetite.
GET CRAFTY. Claudia used real seashells and starfish as bottle toppers. What a delightful surprise for thirsty guests ready for a swig of freshly-squeezed lemonade.