Entertaining on the deck in autumn

We are having the most beautiful September. Warm temperatures and lots of sunshine. It's very bittersweet - I love autumn but it's simply so fleeting.

We live on a small lake and it's this time of year all the permanent residents come out of the woodwork. Most people are back at work, boats and docks pulled in for the winter. But not us.

This Saturday we are planning a little neighborhood get-together. Appetizers and drinks followed by a tour of the lake on an early September evening.

I wanted to pretty up the deck a bit beforehand, so I put a tablecloth on the patio furniture bench and put a bit of burlap over top. I topped that with an old mirror (old and chippy) and put candles all around.

Aren't my Belgian Mums gorgeous!? After our summer pots were shredded by hail - these were a welcome replacement. Hubby brought them home one night (from Costco).

I've been busy this summer hauling home any kind of old wood "thing" I can get my hands on. When I saw this bench at our local country store I could not run to the counter and hand over my money fast enough! It's a handmade bench made from old wood - beautiful, heavy, old wood. There are moss and lichens growing all over it. It's so sturdy - it was such a great find!

Now, what to serve? I think it's going to be Brie topped with Vidalia Onion and Maple Conserve (recipe to follow soon).

Happy September Everyone! 

Happy Autumn!

Fun Outdoor Decor at Southern Hospitality, Happy Hour Friday at Craftberry Bush, Pity Party at Thirty Handmade Days, Inspiration Friday At The Picket Fence, Weekend Wrap-up at tatertots and jello