Jungle Love

The hush-hush surprise proposal was planned for weeks. Now that the cat (leopard?) is out of the bag, we can share the tablescape that we did for my nephew and his new fiance's engagement party! 

This was no ordinary proposal.  The question was 'popped' on top of the cliff in Miller's Bay, overlooking  the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Accessible only by water, they boated across the lake while snowflakes swirled and the temperature hovered at 32 degrees.  This girl is a trooper in my book!

Nephew Mitch and his lovely fiancee, Stephanie
 Animal magnetism!

We decided to use a "love birds" theme, so the cast iron bird sculptures and candelabras were pressed into service.  A quick clip art search resulted in the banner.

We chose an animal print theme for the party, using complimentary and contrasting textures and finishes. From the rustic, earthenware napkin rings and seagrass chargers to the
high gloss plates and goblets, we wanted a lot of texture and action.

Tortoise-shell wine goblets finished off our jungle themed table, as well as
leopard print shades for the chandelier.

And, because we were really celebrating, the menu was a fresh salad with pears and a tart cherry vinaigrette, grilled Filets Mignon, lobster tails, and a shredded zucchini/carrot medley.  

For dessert, a caramel chocolate ganache tart with a shortbread crust.  

Seagrass chargers and earthenware napkin rings - consignment shop scores
Architectural chargers - Pottery Barn
Zebra dinner and dessert plates - Pier One
Leopard salad plates - Steinmart
Flatware - Pottery Barn
Tortoise stemware - Pier One
Napkins and placemats - personal collection

Thanks for joining us for our jungle love post!  K and K