What's the Occasion?

As you may have noticed, spring is here. The days are getting longer, the birds are singing flirtatiously and the mild weather is greening up the scenery. Add seasonal events like graduations and Mother's Day, and there's one conclusion that's pretty hard to escape: It's time to throw a party.

Whatever you're planning, this mostly make-ahead menu will suit the occasion perfectly. All of the elements are light, fresh and supremely adaptable—move the buffet to a different room or just change the table setting, and you'll be ready for anything from a best friend's bridal shower to a Sunday brunch for Mom.

Prepare your feast with this handy guide on what to make when.

Preview this memorable brunch menu.

Whether you're celebrating a graduation, Mother's Day or a bridal shower, Susan Spungen's light and easy spring buffet is the perfect flexible feast. Use this handy guide on what to make when.

Two Days Ahead

• Toast coconut and almonds for cupcake toppings.
• Make Lemon Curd cupcake filling, and Green Sauce for the salmon.

The Day Before

• Make base for Lavender Lemonade or brew the tea for the Iced Tea. Chill wine.
• Blanche vegetables for Chopped Spring Salad. Store in fridge in plastic bags lined with paper towels.
• Bake Vanilla Cupcakes.
• Make Vanilla-Bean Buttercream frosting and Chocolate Ganache. Refrigerate frosting; store ganache at room temperature.
• Prepare Puffy Mashed Potatoes and store in refrigerator.
• Poach Salmon Fillets and store in refrigerator.
• Make, but do not trim, Tea Sandwiches. Chill in refrigerator.

On the Day

• Finish drink prep for Peach Bellinis, Iced Tea or Lavender Lemonade.
• Set out cupcakes' toppings and fillings (Vanilla-Bean Buttercream and Lemon Curd for the cupcakes can be kept in refrigerator until an hour before serving.)

Two Hours Before

• Trim and edge Tea Sandwiches.
• Make dressing and arrange vegetables for Chopped Spring Salad.

One Hour Before

• Bake the Puffy Mashed Potatoes.
• Drizzle or toss Chopped Spring Salad with dressing.
• Set out Poached Salmon Fillets—they can be served warm or at room temperature.

Preview the entire memorable menu.