As nature on Martha's Vineyard flirts with summer, the urge to entertain, to celebrate and to bring the freshness of the new season with us to the indoors grows as the days lengthen. 

The Island's Early Bloomers
As fir and holly are to the winter holidays, so forsythia and pussy willow are to  spring time celebration. On Martha’s Vineyard, ancient stands of these early bloomers, heavy with flowers that beg to be bundled into generous bouquets, provide obvious and opulent centerpieces for special days and every day.

Making the Most of March
The winds that sweep the Island throughout April resulted in a bumper crop of branches out of which spring centerpieces can be constructed.   Spray painted white or used in their natural state, their interesting shapes add interest to a display of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths.

The Colors of Sunshine
Taking stock of what Vineyard shops are offering to brighten tables this spring, look for lots of sunny pastels - particularly buttery yellows and creamy whites.  Using these ‘neutrals’ as a base, it’s easy to add event-specific accents for any springtime occasion. 

Its All About Flowers
Forced bulbs of crocus, hyacinth and daffodils – available through florists for those of us who’ve not planned ahead - can be grouped to create a beautiful tabletop garden. Enhance what the natural world has to offer with some white tea lights between the containers to add some twinkle to twilight dining.

Or, decorate a spring-time table with small pots of herbs that can be planted out as soon as the soil warms sufficiently.  Not only are the variegated colors pretty to look at but the scents make up for a lack of the same in many spring flowers.

 An Island spring brings with it so much to celebrate, be sure to get out and enjoy!