FEATURES

IN THESE ECONOMICALLY CHALLENGING TIMES, WE STILL WANT—AND NEED—TO HAVE A GOOD TIME. SHIRAZ EVENTS' (shirazevents.com) SHAI TERTNER HELPS YOU MAINTAIN YOUR USUAL STANDARD OF STYLE FOR SUMMER ENTERTAINING WITH A NEW-FOUND BUDGET.

Set a relaxed, easy mood with bossa nova. Besides the traditional artists, try something new like Bossa N' Marley, Bossa N' Roses or Bossa N' Stones. The bossa nova interpretations of these familiar songs from Bob Marley, Guns & Roses and the Rolling Stones are great for lounging or for background dinner music.

Get hungry guests in the mood for dinner with a simple and delicious appetizer. Wrap wedges of fresh figs with prosciutto and set up on a beautiful tray.

Combat the summer heat with a Brazilian caipiriñha bar complete with a colorful selection of fruit. Your guests will enjoy customizing their own signature cocktails. Pick up fresh fruit from a local produce stand and toss in some exotic selections from your grocer.

SHOW YOUR TRUE COLORS—USE FUSCHIA AND ORANGE AS ACCENTS IN TABLECLOTHS OR FLOWERS TO SET A PLAYFUL MOOD

Add centerpieces to your table by trekking outside to your garden. Cut fresh, green leaves or flowers and place individually in a bud vase or in small arrangements. Repetition on a long table looks expensive and makes a bold statement. Candles provide flattering, romantic lighting.

Your guests will appreciate a menu with familiar and healthy foods. Lobster is currently at its cheapest price per pound. Serve a lobster pot pie as your main course for a taste of familiar decadence.