Rustic tones, bold flavors, and casual California style converge in Sonoma County. Hosting a Sonoma Supper gives you license to bring the outdoors inside or to plan a delicious meal under the stars.

Pay homage to the natural warmth of California’s wine country by way of rugged earthenware and wooden table settings, organic twig- and branch-themed flatware in bronzes and copious stemware for wine tasting. A color palate comprised of greens, browns and reds will invoke the spirit of the earth and vines. When it comes to food and table settings, abundance and color are key.

Start with gorgeous bowls of mixed roasted nuts and plates of dried apricots, figs and pears. The main course should be served family-style on generous platters that can be casually passed among friends.

Hearty multigrain breads, local meats and cheeses, and rustic seasonal vegetables like bright bell peppers, corn, zucchini, eggplant, heirloom tomatoes, multi-colored chards, fresh fragrant herbs and big leafy salad greens will all communicate the season’s bounty. Include multiple wine glasses at each place so that vintages and courses can be deliberately paired.

Seek out beautiful candleholders and other table décor that communicate a pastoral theme. Natural materials, such as carved stone or wood, either organically formed or in specific shapes will express a welcome earth-bound connection.

Your guests might enjoy a course or two that can be served entirely without silverware, further reflecting the organic nature of the party. Bring on the artichokes and juicy baby lamb chops!