As the days begin to warm and the light lingers a little longer, we find ourselves craving afternoons that unfold slowly.

The kind that start with a simple plan and end with stories shared around the table.

Italian culture has always inspired the way we gather. It is less about perfection and more about presence. About food, conversation, sunshine and taking the time to enjoy where you are.

Here is our guide to creating your own dreamy afternoon celebration as we step into the warmer months.

Choosing where

The setting sets the tone.

In Italy, life is lived outdoors whenever possible, and we love bringing that same mindset home. A garden, a courtyard, a balcony or even a quiet corner of the backyard can become the perfect place to gather.

Think olive trees, soft greenery, fresh air and natural textures. Linen that moves in the breeze, sunlight filtering through leaves, flowers just beginning to bloom. Let the environment do most of the work.

Setting the table

When it comes to the table, there is no single right way.
Sometimes we love keeping things simple. Neutral linens, natural tones and letting the food become the centrepiece. Other times, we lean into the joy of Italian celebration with beautiful crockery, layered textures and a sense of abundance.

A soft white tablecloth paired with handcrafted ceramics, glassware that catches the light and pieces chosen to be used, not saved. All of our table styling favourites are available both in store and online, ready to become part of your own gatherings. Here are a few of our favourites:

Riva Crab Ceramic Plate - Ivory/Green	Francis Ceramic 4pc Serve Set
Deli Oval Ceramic Platter	Deli Round Ceramic Platter

Adding natural touches

Once the table is set, a few thoughtful details bring everything together.
A simple vase filled with rosemary sprigs or olive branches. Herbs tucked into napkins. Fresh greenery scattered lightly along the table.

These small touches add scent, texture and a feeling of ease, as though everything has been gathered straight from the garden.

Food at the heart of it all

Food is always at the centre of an Italian afternoon. It brings people together and invites everyone to slow down.

For aperitivo, we love keeping things relaxed. Antipasto boards layered with seasonal produce, good cheese, crackers and olives in oil. Light seafood fritto, fresh fruit and vegetables, whatever is in season and close at hand.

It is less about following rules and more about sharing what you love, generously.

No afternoon gathering feels complete without something warm from the oven. For our recent celebration, Chloe baked a simple rosemary focaccia that quickly became the heart of the table.

Soft inside, golden on top and finished with olive oil and sea salt, it is perfect for tearing and sharing.

You can find the recipe from the Cooking With Ayeh website. 

Something to sip

For drinks, we keep things classic.

Aperol spritz feels synonymous with Italian afternoons, bright and refreshing. Limoncello over ice for the warmer days. A beautiful bottle of wine shared between friends. Or simply mineral water with a wedge of lemon.

And if hosting feels like too much, remember that aperitivo can be just for you. A quiet moment by the pool, a good book, a small antipasto plate and the afternoon sun.

However you choose to gather, we hope this season brings warmth, ease and time well spent.

With love,