From hosting a garden gathering to creating a patriotic pavlova, here’s how to spend the long weekend and make it one to remember…
1. Host an elevated backyard BBQ
STAGE THE SCENE
When dining outdoors, location is key! Selecting a spot partially shaded by a tree is always sensible. We also love the idea of installing a gazebo. You could set up your drinks station in there to ensure refreshments stay ice cold.
FOUNDATIONS FIRST
A neutral colour scheme is the perfect blank canvas to build upon. Truly versatile, you can dress it up, or down, to suit the occasion. Whether you let the natural grain do the talking – our Coates Dining Table is simply stunning – or choose to add crisp white linen for a striking contrast, a beautiful base really grounds a setting.
TACTILE TOUCHES
For alfresco get-togethers, we love a more rustic aesthetic, so texture is a must. Layer our Lachlan Placemats under our elegant, Wiltshire Stoneware to ensure the warm honey hue really shines through. Our utensil holders also make a nice addition and can be used to display breadsticks, too.
Top tip: Our placemats are available in both round and oval to suit your table shape. We recommend the round style for big gatherings where space is limited.
CENTER OF ATTENTION
Now the foundations have been laid, look to nature for details that will elevate your table and make it one to remember. For this, there’s nothing like a showstopping floral arrangement, or a selection of bud vases… Just make sure to arrange them in odd numbers for an organic display.
Top tip: In honor of Memorial Day, why not select red and blue blooms to go along with classic white for a patriotic palette. Hydrangeas and Dahlias are a nice combination.
LAYER WITH LIGHT
Candlelight has the power to transform a tablescape, especially when outdoors. It sets the tone, and who knows… it may carry guests into the night! Add tapered candles for height, then dot tealights amongst the place settings for a magical shimmer as the sun starts to set.
PLATTERS TO PLEASE
Gatherings, however big or small, are all about sharing. That’s why our generous boards, trays and bowls have been designed so you can pass food around with ease. Ideal for charcuterie, fresh bread and more, they make serving effortless.
TIME TO TOAST
It wouldn’t be a celebration without raising a glass. From life’s simple pleasures to milestone moments, our vessels are always worthy. Our Ettie Flutes are calling out for bubbles, while our Bobble Bottom design is perfect for fresh lemonade.
2. Plan a homegrown menu
Celebrate the very finest the USA has to offer with locally sourced produce packed with flavor. May and June are peak growing season for asparagus, beets, bell peppers, tomatoes, peaches, blueberries and more! In addition to your traditional BBQ fare, why not add some colourful sides and a patriotic pavlova to finish the day off in style. We love how the raspberries and cornflowers tie in with the flag. Not to mention our Beet & Apple Salad, which also echoes the theme perfectly!
Maple Pavlova with Seasonal Berries
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
INGREDIENTS
Pavlova
5 ½ oz fresh egg whites (150g – about 5 eggs)
1 pinch of salt
½ tsp cream of tartar
1 ¼ cup caster sugar (250g / 9oz)
1 tsp white wine vinegar
1 tsp vanilla paste
1 tbsp + 1 tsp cornstarch
Maple Whipped Cream
5 tbsp maple syrup (75ml)
½ cup double cream (250ml / 8 fl oz)
1 tsp vanilla paste
1 tsp salt
Topping
Raspberries or other seasonal berries
Blue cornflowers or blue borage flowers
METHOD
1. Preheat oven to 275°F/ 140°C / Gas 1.
2. Trace a 6-inch circle on a piece of parchment and place it on a baking sheet.
3. Separate the eggs from the yolk, whip the egg whites, cream of tartar and salt together until medium-stiff peaks.
4. Drizzle in 1 tbsp of sugar at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl every now and then. Turn up the speed and whip until stiff peaks.
5. Fold in the vanilla paste, vinegar and cornstarch.
6. Add the meringue into the circle on the parchment. Use a spatula and create a dome shape with the meringue.
7. Bake for 60 minutes or until the meringue starts to turn a very pale tan color, then reduce the heat to 250°F/ 130°C/ Gas 1/2 and continue to bake for 45 minutes. Do not open the door at any point.
8. Turn off the oven and let the meringue sit in the cooling oven for at least an hour. Again, do not open the door.
9. Whip the double cream, salt, vanilla paste and maple syrup together, until the cream begins to stiffen.
10. Carefully place your pavlova on a serving plate before adding the maple whipped cream to the center. Finish with fresh fruit and edible flowers.
Plus, don’t forget to…
3. Curate a patriotic playlist
From Born in the USA to American Pie, there are so many songs to choose from.
4. Attend your local parade
Find your closest one and take the whole family to enjoy the festivities.
5. Tune into the Memorial Day Concert
Catch the 35th annual broadcast live on PBS on Sunday May 26 at 8pm ET / 7pm CT.
