Set beneath olive trees and scalloped umbrellas, this Amalfi Coast inspired luncheon brought the essence of coastal Italy to the hills of California. Produced by Be Inspired PR in collaboration with Urban Palate, the morning celebrated community and culinary artistry. Every detail, from the vibrant tablescapes to the sun-drenched setting, embodied la dolce vita, beautifully captured by Sanaz Riggio Photography.
Hosted at Cielo Farms, guests were transported to Southern Italy through a design bursting with fresh ingredients, colorful florals, and effortless al fresco charm.
Under the Tuscan (California) Sun
The afternoon at Cielo Farms unfolded under scalloped white umbrellas and olive trees overlooking the hills, a picturesque nod to the Italian countryside. The theme, “Ciao Bella,” came to life through a vivid palette of tomato reds, basil greens, and creamy neutrals that tied the entire event together. From the tablescape to the floral design, every element felt like a morning on the Amalfi Coast.
‘La Tavola Perfetta’ (The Perfect Table)
Premiere Rents provided the natural wood tables and woven chairs that grounded the design in organic elegance, while Thistle & Oak Floral Co. brought the vibrancy with loose, garden-style arrangements. Red ranunculus, golden poppies, and cascading greenery filled blue-and-white patterned vases, creating a lively contrast against textured linens and green glassware. Each place setting featured a chic mix of casual Italian charm and modern sophistication.
Paper That Pops
No detail was overlooked, thanks to Rue Paperie, who designed the tomato-forward stationery suite that became a signature motif of the event. Playful “Ciao Bella” menus, striped signage, and custom name cards tied the day together. The cohesive branding carried through the event signage, welcoming guests to the tablescape and the Italian-inspired experience that awaited them.
Around the Table
The luncheon gathered some of Southern California’s top wedding planners for an afternoon of connection and culinary artistry. Urban Palate treated guests to a family-style meal that showcased their signature blend of hospitality and inventive flavor. With Be Inspired PR’s creative direction, the vision board came to life from the outfits to every detail on the plate.
Amalfi Coast Inspired Flavors
Every dish from Urban Palate was crafted to bring the flavors of Southern Italy to life. The meal began with a trio of antipasti — crispy frittura di paranza with lemon caper aioli, grilled octopus with crispy soppressata and roasted fennel, and a refreshing mozzarella di bufala salad featuring heirloom tomatoes, stone fruit, and opal basil.
For the main course, guests were treated to a family-style primi e secondi inspired by the coastal towns of the Amalfi Coast. Hand-rolled ndunderi di Minori, delicate ricotta dumplings, were paired with savory Italian sausage and tomato sauce, while pasta al limone e zucchini offered a bright, citrus-forward complement.
Heartier fare followed with tagliata di manzo, a perfectly grilled zabuton steak served over wild arugula with aged balsamic, and pesce all’acqua pazza, poached sea bream in a fragrant broth of heirloom tomatoes, garlic, and thyme, finished with grilled focaccia.
The meal concluded on a sweet and aromatic note with torta caprese al limone e rosmarino, a delicate almond and rosemary cake topped with limoncello cream. A menu so artful and balanced, it felt like a journey through the Amalfi Coast itself.
A Sweet Italian Ending
To end on the sweetest note, The Butter served up a crowd-favorite Italian classic, Affogato. Guests indulged in scoops of vanilla bean ice cream topped with a shot of fresh espresso, a delicious and nostalgic nod to the café culture of Italy.
Between the breathtaking setting, exquisite design, and delicious culinary touches, this Amalfi Coast inspired luncheon was a true celebration of creativity. Every vendor brought their artistry to the table, literally, resulting in an event that captured the essence of summer in Italy without ever leaving California.
Loved this Amalfi Coast inspired luncheon? Keep the inspiration going with this Nostalgic Summer Garden Party.
