Italiano Al Fresco

We are official! Our kick-off event for Around The Table Nashville is complete! It was a true joy to spend the evening al fresco (well at least until the thunderstorm rolled in). For our first event we chose to gather our dearest friends. Around The Table is intimate and selective--we always want the conversation to be inclusive which is why we feel twelve is the best number.

The theme and menu were easy to plan. After spending last summer in Italy and seeing this amazing spread it was a must for the first meal to be Italiano! I will never forget the way the Italians share a meal--every inch of the table covered with delectable food and beverages. Each detail a pleasure to the senses.

Greeted with a hug at the door, our friends kicked off their shoes, a crystal glass of prosecco limencello cooler with mint and raspberry placed in their hands. Cocktails and happy greetings concluded once everyone arrived. Moving out onto the patio, each friend found their own name etched on place cards marked by wine corks.The organic Italian tablescape illuminated by candlelight, softened by rich burgundy floral decor. Friends circled around and after a brief thankful prayer began enjoying the evening meal. The first course included an antipasto spread with fresh bread and caprese salad.

Table Topics are incorporated into the evening as a way to facilitate and keep conversations flowing. One by one each member of the table is allowed the chance to read their respective question aloud with all friends chiming in with their authentic answers. Table Topics are lighthearted, conversation starters, a way for everyone to connect, engage, and get to know each other throughout the meal. My personal favorite is: "If you had to lip sync battle against Jimmy Fallon, what 2 songs would you choose?" Each friend busting out their favorite and most-loved tunes was absolutely memorable...my selection being Water Under The Bridge by Adele and Shut Up And Dance by Walk The Moon.

The entree's for the evening included a blend of Italian favorites, spaghetti e polpette and pollo alla parmigiana. For the non Italians that's spaghetti and meatballs with chicken parmesan. Rustic vegetables were also served as a light side. The spirit Around The Table was warmth relaxation. Rarely, if ever, do we let ourselves have a night off. A night off from our responsibilities as a wife, mother, roommate, partner, employer, employee etc. Being Around The Table for an evening allows the opportunity to enjoy...food, wine, beauty, and each other. What a joy it was to see the evening unfold from antipasto get to knows to dessert heart to hearts. We finished our time together with a trio selection of gelato, Italian chocolates and cookies, as each friend shared one thing about themselves they are proud of. Let's just say I was proud of each and everyone for being honest, gentle with themselves, and kind to each other. Sharing a meal Around The Table is rare for many of us...but truly taking a moment to compliment ourselves for who we are is even more extraordinary.

Looking back on Saturday night, we cannot help but feel an overwhelming blur of emotion. Thankfulness for friends who simply join us Around The Table. Gratefulness for those who give to help make it happen and abundant joy for the countless memories yet to be made. Around The Table Nashville is now official and we cannot be more ecstatic to share it with you!

What Are We Serving Next?

May is for Mother's. We will be celebrating with all the incredible mothers who've impacted us more than we can even begin to describe. More details to come. For more information about Around The Table Nashville please email us at aroundthetablenashville@gmail.com.