Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or attending one, there are several key elements necessary to creating a magical dinner party. Fortunately, many of them are abundantly available: longer days and warmer nights. Moonlight, the chirping of cicadas, fruits and veggies spilling from the garden (or the grocer’s shelves). Half of the work is already done for you, leaving just the meal planning and the decor (and the music, don’t forget the music!). When we think of summer dinner party menus here at Nanz & Kraft Florists, we’re inspired by the season’s easy elegance, its relaxed polish. Put down a platter of grilled chicken or salmon, a heaping bowl of salad, crudite and charcuterie that showcase summer’s meats, cheeses and fruits. The flavors should be bright and light, palette-cleansing and citrus-forward. And you know what? We think your florals should be too.

What you need is a double-stem orchid (phalaenopsis, to be precise) posing in your party space. A Touch Of Luxury is suggestive of summer’s easy sophistication and its sultry nature. These artful, delicate blooms make a gorgeous complement to the feast you’re offering, and the bottle of Sonoma Cutrer that comes along with them helps set the tone even more. This piece could work perfectly at your bar area.

An orchid arrangement is a no-brainer when it comes to creating a polished dinner party this summer. Besides, you’ll get to keep it and enjoy it long after the party is over.