Turn this Shoot into a Soiree {Vogue}

I was so inspired by the amazingly gorgeous “French Open” photo shoot in Vogue’s October 09 issue, all about drama, simplicity, and that signature elegance embodied by the French. The goal is to capture a bit of that je ne sais quoi to create a chic fall party… I’m envisioning a special birthday, a glam wedding shower, or a wine & cheese tasting to ring in autumn.

White script on a black envelope is stark & unexpected.  The French have a certain way of doing everything so stylishly, yet appearing to never try too hard.  For a simple invitation, I’d scrawl the details on a gorgeous white card, pop it in a black envelope & send it on it’s way.

What’s more French than wine & cheese?  This is the perfect opportunity to introduce unique pairings with wine, fruit, breads & crackers, chutney… the options are endless.  Choose an assortment of cheeses (soft, firm, fresh, aged) and give your guests a pen & paper to note their favorite combinations.  The best part for the host is that there’s no cooking involved!

Clueless about what cheeses to serve with what accompaniments?  LOVE this cheat sheet that makes suggestions on out-of-this-world flavor pairings.  Copy these combos on little signs for the tables so your guests can try them all.

Floral arrangements should be lush, monochromatic, & effortless.  An all white & green color palette is classic, and using glassware, pitchers, & teacups as vases lends a bit of vintage charm.  Be sure to label each cheese with a pretty sign… doesn’t this spread look like a Dutch still life?

What to wear to such a fete? I’d keep the outfit super simple, and then layer strands of pearls in black & white, à la Coco Chanel.  So chic!

End the night on a festive note with baby bottles of pink champagne and French confections like macarons, meringue kisses, & raspberry mousse.  Get all the sweet recipes from Cannelle et Vanille.

Images: French Open Shoot, Vogue; Calligraphy, Neithersnow; Cheese & Tables, Leesa O’Reilly via Kim Vallee; Cheese Pairings, Real Simple; Hydrangeas, Atlanta Bartlett; Cheese Display, Martha Stewart; Pearls, The Green Vase; Champagne, Ritzy Bee; Dessert Table, Cannelle et Vanille.