Summer's Last Hurrah Tablescape and Cocktail

I have to admit, as much as I love fall, I'm having trouble letting go of summer.  I know- summer isn't officially over for another three weeks or so, but really, after Labor Day, it is for all intents and purposes, done. So tonight I decided to put together a beachy tablescape on the deck for dinner.

I've had these shell plates for years.  They were at T.J. Maxx (still are on occasion) and the backs read "Blue Skye".  I just love the detail on the salad plate. 

For the centerpiece I placed shells we have gathered over the years on a platter that looks like the plates, but is labeled Target.  I found a glass cylinder candle holder and tied some recycled raffia on it.  I then hot glued one of our shells to it.  I then added a candle and a string of pearls (when is it ever not time to add pearls?). 

What is a summertime dinner without a special cocktail? I found this recipe not too long ago and thought that now is the perfect time to give it a try.  Unfortunately, by cocktail time the skies had clouded over and we had a nice thunderstorm. I hated to have to move everything inside, but we desperately need the rain. 

I served the drinks on the multi-purpose  "Pier Tray" I talk about here.  This is really a pretty drink. For some reason the color is not as bright on the screen as in the photo, but the bottom is a bright cherry red (in fact, I think it should have a cherry garnish).  I found the original recipe at Fast Drink Recipes, but decided to adapt it to our tastes after sampling it. 

Bikini Martini

3 oz. coconut rum (the original recipe calls for 4 oz)

3 oz vodka

4 oz pineapple juice

2 Dashes grenadine 

Cherries (optional)

Combine the first three ingredients in a cocktail shaker.  When I make it again I am going to put ice in the shaker as well.  Shake firmly and thoroughly until the drink is frothy. Pour into glasses (with or without straining the ice) and drop a dash of grenadine into each drink. Garnish with a cherry. Makes two large cocktails.  Enjoy!

I thought I would leave you with one last picture of my tablescape that shows my supervisor and companion, Seamus. 

I will be linking up to Tablescape Thursday at Between Naps on the Porch . Stop by and see some gorgeous tablescapes! 

Thanks for stopping by today! 

~Cynthia